Best eSIMs & SIM Cards for Indonesia | Telkomsel, XL, Airalo, Holafly, and More Compared

Choosing the best eSIM while building your life in Indonesia.

Arriving in Indonesia for the first time whether for work, long-term living, or an extended stay often comes with a long checklist. Finding a place to live, adapting to the local culture, and navigating daily life are all part of the process. One of the most immediate and essential needs, however, is staying connected. Reliable mobile data is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity for navigating cities, ordering transportation, working remotely, and staying in touch with family and colleagues abroad.

Indonesia offers a wide range of mobile connectivity options, from traditional physical SIM cards to increasingly popular eSIM solutions. For expats, digital nomads, and long-stay travelers, choosing the best eSIM for Indonesia or Bali can feel overwhelming. Providers such as Telkomsel, XL, Tri (Three), Indosat, Airalo, Holafly, and even travel platforms like Klook all offer different advantages depending on your length of stay, budget, and data needs.

This article explores how these providers compare, helping you decide which option suits your lifestyle best, whether you are landing in Jakarta for work, settling in Bali, or traveling across multiple cities in Indonesia.

Also read: A Complete Guide to the Cost of Living in Jakarta for Expats

Indonesia’s Mobile Network Landscape

Indonesia is a vast archipelago with thousands of islands, which makes network coverage an important factor when choosing a SIM or eSIM. Telkomsel is widely recognized as the strongest provider in terms of coverage, especially outside major cities and tourist areas. XL and Indosat follow closely, offering competitive speeds and good urban coverage, while Tri is often favored for its affordable data packages in metropolitan areas.

For expats living in Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, or Bali, most major providers will perform well. However, if you plan to travel frequently or live outside city centers, network reliability becomes even more critical. This is one reason why many users compare Telkomsel eSIM options with international eSIM providers such as Airalo and Holafly.

1. Telkomsel eSIM

Telkomsel is often considered the gold standard for mobile connectivity in Indonesia. It offers extensive coverage, stable speeds, and reliable performance across the country. For expats who prioritize reliability over price, Telkomsel eSIM Indonesia is frequently seen as the safest option.

Using a Telkomsel eSIM in Bali or Jakarta gives you access to strong 4G and expanding 5G networks. The downside is that Telkomsel’s plans are usually more expensive than other local providers, and the registration process can feel complicated for newcomers. Indonesian regulations require SIM registration using passport details, and while Telkomsel stores and airport counters are helpful, the process still takes time.

That said, for long-term residents or professionals who rely heavily on mobile data for work, Telkomsel’s consistency often outweighs the higher cost. Many expats who settle in Indonesia eventually switch to Telkomsel after experimenting with other providers.

2. XL eSIM

XL offers a more budget-friendly alternative while still maintaining solid performance in major cities and popular destinations. XL eSIM Indonesia plans are attractive for expats who want a balance between affordability and speed. Coverage in urban areas such as Jakarta, Bali, and Yogyakarta is generally strong, though it may be less consistent in remote regions compared to Telkomsel.

For expats working remotely or using mobile data primarily in cities, XL can be a practical choice. The setup process is relatively straightforward, and data packages are often generous for the price. XL is also popular among younger users and professionals who are cost-conscious but still demand reliable connectivity.

3. Tri and Indosat eSIM

Tri, also known as Three Indonesia, is well known for offering competitive data pricing. An eSIM Three Indonesia option can be appealing for expats staying in urban areas and looking to minimize costs. Data speeds are decent, and packages are often generous, but coverage can be inconsistent outside city centers.

Indosat eSIM Indonesia sits somewhere between XL and Telkomsel in terms of price and coverage. It performs well in many parts of Indonesia and continues to improve its infrastructure. For expats who want a local provider without paying Telkomsel-level prices, Indosat is worth considering.

Both Tri and Indosat are best suited for expats who already know where they will live and work, rather than those planning frequent travel across different regions.

4. International eSIM providers (Airalo and Holafly)

International eSIM providers have gained popularity because of their convenience. Airalo eSIM Indonesia is one of the most commonly used options among travelers and short-term expats. The biggest advantage is simplicity. You can purchase and activate the eSIM before arriving in Indonesia, avoiding queues at the airport or mobile stores.

Airalo offers competitive pricing and flexible data packages, making it a strong contender for those searching for the best eSIM for Bali or Indonesia during short stays. Performance depends on the local network Airalo partners with, which is usually reliable in major areas but may vary in rural locations.

Holafly eSIM Indonesia and Holafly eSIM Bali are particularly popular among digital nomads because of their unlimited data plans. For users who rely heavily on mobile data for video calls, cloud work, and constant connectivity, Holafly’s unlimited packages can be appealing. However, speeds may be throttled after heavy usage, and hotspot sharing is often limited.

Holafly tends to be more expensive than Airalo, but the peace of mind that comes with not worrying about data caps is a strong selling point for many expats.

5. Klook SIM cards and eSIMs

Klook is better known as a travel booking platform, but it also offers SIM cards and eSIM options for Indonesia. Klook Indonesia SIM card and Klook eSIM Bali packages are often bundled with airport pickup or delivery services, making them convenient for first-time visitors.

Pricing is generally reasonable, and activation is straightforward. However, Klook’s offerings are typically designed for short-term travelers rather than long-term residents. Data packages may not be as flexible or cost-effective for expats staying several months or longer.

Choosing the Best eSIM for Living in Indonesia or Bali

The best eSIM for Indonesia depends largely on how long you plan to stay and how you intend to use your mobile data. Short-term visitors and digital nomads often prefer Airalo or Holafly for their ease of use and immediate activation. Those staying longer or working full-time in Indonesia usually gravitate toward local providers such as Telkomsel or XL for better stability and value over time.

If Bali is your main base, most providers perform well due to strong infrastructure in tourist areas. The best eSIM Bali option often comes down to whether you value convenience or long-term cost efficiency.

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Reliable connectivity does not stop with a good SIM or eSIM. Where you live also plays a crucial role in your daily digital experience. Stable Wi-Fi, comfortable workspaces, and a location that supports your lifestyle all contribute to a smoother transition to life in Indonesia.

This is where platforms like Rukita quietly make a difference for expats. By offering fully furnished coliving spaces and apartments in strategic locations, Rukita helps remove many of the logistical challenges that come with relocating. High-speed internet, flexible rental terms, and a community-oriented environment allow expats to focus on work and daily life rather than setup and maintenance.

In the end, staying connected is about more than choosing the best eSIM or SIM card. It is about creating a lifestyle that supports your work, mobility, and sense of belonging. With the right provider and the right home, Indonesia becomes not just a destination, but a place where expats can truly settle in.

Want to find a comfortable, modern, and strategically located coliving or apartment to stay in? Rukita offers many kinds of colivings and apartments that you can rent to live a more comfortable life.

Don’t forget to download Rukita app via Google Play Store or App Store or visit www.Rukita.co. Follow Rukita’s Instagram account @rukita_indo, Twitter account @rukita_id, and TikTok account @rukita_id to get the most recent information and other interesting deals!