Get 3–5 GB from BNE SIM before you leave home. When you land at DPS, turn on your phone and you’re online instantly. No queues, no airport booth, no stress. BNE uses international networks so it bypasses Indonesia’s IMEI blacklist completely.
Step 2: Get XL at Your Hotel
Once you’re settled, buy the XL Tourist eSIM for 45,000 IDR (~$2.80). They now accept credit cards. This gives you 14 GB of fast local data AND unlocks your phone’s IMEI for 90 days. Top up anytime you need more.
Total cost: ~$8–12 for 17–19 GB. Compare that to Airalo’s $25 for 10 GB.
The BNE eSIM is your safety net — it works the moment you land, gives you time to get to your accommodation, and means you’re never without data. The XL eSIM is your main connection for the rest of your trip.
IMEI: Bypasses the blacklist entirely (uses international network)
Why you want it: Data the moment you land. No fumbling with local eSIMs at the airport. Buy before you fly, activate on the plane.
Our take: Not the cheapest, but the peace of mind is worth it. Have data from the second you step off the plane. Use it as your backup while you set up XL.
Coverage: The best network in Indonesia. If you’re heading to remote islands (Nusa Penida, Gili Islands, Flores), Telkomsel has the most reliable coverage.
Our take: 5x more expensive than XL for 50% more data. Worth it only if you’re going seriously off the beaten path.
What they do: Handle everything for you — eSIM activation, IMEI registration, WhatsApp support in English
Our take: If you don’t want to deal with xl.co.id/esim-tourist yourself, BaliEasy is a legitimate local service based in Canggu. You’re paying for convenience, and they deliver it. Visit BaliEasy →
Our take: Solid app, easy setup, but you’re paying 9x per GB compared to XL. Every blog recommends Airalo because they earn $3–5 per sale. It works fine — it’s just expensive.
Our take: If you genuinely need unlimited data (streaming, hotspotting for a group), Holafly works. But most travellers don’t need unlimited. 14 GB from XL lasts most people a full month.
Indonesia has an IMEI blacklist. If your phone isn’t registered, Indonesian cell towers will block it from connecting. Sounds scary, but it’s easy to handle:
Tourist eSIMs (XL, Telkomsel) automatically unlock your IMEI — no paperwork needed
International eSIMs (BNE, Airalo, Holafly) bypass it entirely — they use overseas networks
Only matters for stays over 90 days if you’re using the XL tourist eSIM
For most travellers, this is a non-issue. Buy the XL tourist eSIM and your phone works for 90 days. Done.
