Indonesia: essential apps and practical travel tips
During our two months in Indonesia, from Sumatra to Bali via Java, Lombok and Komodo, we discovered several tips to make getting around and everyday life easier. Apps, cash withdrawals, SIM cards and transport: we share our practical tips to prepare for your trip and avoid unpleasant surprises.
Which apps should you download in Indonesia?
Grab: to book cars, motorbike rides with drivers and food deliveries, especially in Bali and major cities.
Gojek: the local alternative to Grab, useful for comparing ride prices and delivery options.
WhatsApp: to contact accommodation providers, private drivers, guides and dive centres.
Google Maps: to navigate, find restaurants and read reviews. Remember to download offline maps before heading to remote areas.
Access by KAI: to check timetables and book trains in Java. We used it during our trip and found it very handy.
ATM Fee Saver: to find ATMs and compare withdrawal fees and limits for your bank card.
How to pay and withdraw cash in Indonesia?
The local currency is the Indonesian rupiah (IDR). Cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants and tourist shops, but always carry cash, especially for small eateries, markets and less-visited islands.
With our Revolut card, we preferred BNI and Maybank ATMs, which did not charge us withdrawal fees. Always use ATM Fee Saver to compare fees and withdrawal limits before choosing an ATM. Conditions can vary depending on the bank and your card: also check the fees shown on the ATM before confirming.
Finally, decline conversion into your home currency when offered by the ATM and always choose to withdraw in IDR.
Which SIM or eSIM should you choose in Indonesia?
We used Telkomsel throughout our two months in Indonesia. Its main advantage: with the MyTelkomsel app, you can buy additional data packages directly, without going back to a shop. Simply bring your passport when buying a local SIM.
An eSIM such as Airalo is another convenient way to get online as soon as you arrive, but compare its prices with local plans.
How to get around Indonesia?
To explore the different islands, we often chose to rent scooters, which we found almost essential for travelling independently in many areas. Make sure your licence and insurance cover riding there.
For longer journeys, we used shared or private buses and minibuses, especially to reach towns, accommodation or ports. Some transfers were also included in our organised excursions.
In Java, trains are an excellent alternative. We took one between Yogyakarta and Malang and booked through Access by KAI.
Between islands, you will mainly travel by ferry, fast boat or plane. Leave enough time between connections, particularly because of weather conditions.
What mistakes should you avoid in Indonesia?
- Not carrying enough cash: on some smaller islands, ATMs are scarce or out of service.
- Underestimating journey times: in Bali, even a few kilometres can take a long time because of traffic.
- Renting a scooter without checking your insurance: make sure you have the appropriate driving licence, valid insurance and a helmet in good condition before hitting the road.
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