Best Bali eSIM Recommendations for Travelers from The UK

For travellers from the UK heading to Bali, the most straightforward way to stay connected is to set up a local Indonesian eSIM before you arrive.

By preparing it in advance, you can go online as soon as you land, without queuing at the airport or dealing with expensive roaming fees from your UK provider.

Using a local eSIM also gives you an Indonesian +62 number, which makes everyday things much easier, from booking rides and ordering food to staying in touch with your hotel or villa host.

Getting everything installed ahead of time means you can step off the plane and be connected straight away, with no hassle.

Telkomsel eSIM by BaliEasy

For visitors from the UK who want a straightforward and dependable connection, the Telkomsel eSIM by BaliEasy stands out.

Rather than routing your data through international networks, it connects directly to Telkomsel, Indonesia’s leading operator.

This means more consistent coverage not just in popular spots like Canggu or Ubud, but also in quieter areas across the island and beyond.

Telkomsel is widely known in Indonesia for its reliability, which is especially helpful if you’re using maps, working remotely, or keeping in touch with friends and accommodation hosts.

You’ll also receive a local +62 number, making it easier to use services such as Grab or Gojek for transport and food delivery.

As this is a local Indonesian eSIM, it works only within Indonesia.

Holafly (Roaming eSIM)

Holafly is often chosen by UK travellers who like the idea of “unlimited” data while abroad. The pricing is simple and easy to understand, which can be appealing.

However, these unlimited plans usually come with a Fair Usage Policy, meaning speeds may slow down after you’ve used a certain amount of data. Hotspot use is often restricted as well.

While it’s convenient, those relying heavily on mobile data may notice the drop in speed over time.

Yesim (Roaming eSIM)

Yesim offers both fixed data and unlimited-style packages, giving some flexibility depending on how you plan to use your phone.

Setup is quick and user-friendly, and performance is generally fine for everyday use like browsing or messaging.

That said, as with most roaming eSIMs, speeds can vary, and Fair Usage limits may apply.

For longer stays or heavier usage, it can work out more expensive compared to local Indonesian options, often with less data included.

Airalo (Roaming eSIM)

Airalo is popular among UK travellers visiting several countries on one trip, as it allows you to switch between destinations easily through its app.

It’s a practical option if Bali is just one stop on your itinerary.

In Indonesia, however, performance can differ depending on the specific plan and network used, so it’s worth checking details before purchasing.

Some plans offer fixed data, while others promote unlimited usage, but these may still include speed restrictions under Fair Usage terms.

Jetpac (Roaming eSIM)

Jetpac is another roaming provider that suits travellers moving between multiple countries. It offers flexible plans and a simple activation process, which is helpful for short stays.

In Indonesia, it connects to several local networks, including Telkomsel, helping maintain coverage across different regions. If you plan to use hotspot sharing, it’s best to check the terms of your chosen plan, as limits can vary.

Unlimited vs Fixed Data eSIM Plans

When choosing an eSIM, you’ll usually see two types of plans: unlimited and fixed data.

Unlimited Data (with Fair Usage Policy)

“Unlimited” sounds appealing, but most plans apply a Fair Usage Policy (FUP). After using a small amount of high-speed data, your speed is reduced.

• What happens: Speeds drop (sometimes to around 1 Mbps)
• Impact: Slower maps, buffering videos, poor video calls
• Common with: Roaming eSIMs like Airalo, Holafly, Yesim, Jetpac

Fixed Data Plans

You get a set amount of data at full speed, with no throttling.

• What happens: Full 4G/5G speed until data runs out
• After that: Simply top up and continue at full speed
• Benefit: Stable and predictable performance

Why Fixed Data Works Better

For things like navigation, remote work, or booking rides, a consistent connection matters. Fixed data avoids unexpected slowdowns, giving you reliable speed throughout your trip.

Telkomsel eSIM by BaliEasy uses fixed data, so you stay on full speed until your quota is used, without sudden drops in performance.

Roaming eSIM vs Local eSIM

Roaming eSIM

Roaming eSIMs are services provided by international companies like Airalo, Holafly, Yesim, and Jetpac.

These eSIMs connect to local networks through foreign providers, rather than directly through the local network in your destination.

The service works by routing your data through international networks, which may offer convenience but come with several disadvantages:

• Higher latency: The connection may take longer to establish because it goes through multiple international networks.
• Limited speeds: The data speeds can be throttled, especially after a certain usage threshold, making it less suitable for high-demand activities like video streaming or video calls.
• Frequent switching between operators: Your connection might switch between different networks, leading to inconsistent service quality and possible interruptions in connectivity.

Local eSIM

In contrast, local eSIMs, such as the Telkomsel eSIM by BaliEasy, offer a more direct and efficient connection to the Indonesian network, which provides:

• More stable coverage across Bali and Indonesia, even in remote areas.
• Faster speeds and lower latency, ensuring smooth browsing, navigation, and communication.
• The added benefit of a +62 Indonesian number, which is vital for local services like transportation apps (Grab, Gojek), food delivery, and other communication tools.

BaliEasy’s eSIM operates as a local Telkomsel line, giving you a more reliable, stable, and faster mobile experience in Bali.

Unlike roaming eSIMs, it ensures fewer disruptions and consistent speeds, making it the best choice for travelers seeking seamless and uninterrupted connectivity.

This local connection eliminates the drawbacks commonly associated with roaming eSIMs, providing a much more practical solution for staying connected during your trip.

Key Tips for UK Travellers Using eSIM in Bali

• Install before leaving the UK: Set up your eSIM at home while you have stable internet to scan the QR code. Activate it once you land in Bali.
• Check device compatibility: Make sure your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM. You can dial *#06# to confirm an EID is available.
• Value and pricing: Local plans are generally much more affordable, often costing less than £1 per day, with better data value.
• Manage your settings: Keep your UK SIM active for SMS or banking codes, but set the eSIM as your main line for mobile data. Turn off roaming on your UK SIM to avoid extra charges.
• Data-focused usage: Most eSIMs provide data only, so use apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime for calls and messages.
• Coverage matters: Choose a plan that connects to a strong nationwide network, especially if you plan to explore beyond main tourist areas.
• Activate on arrival: Once you land, enable the eSIM and turn on data roaming in your phone settings to start using mobile data.