Travel plans shouldn’t be interrupted by connectivity issues. Below is a concise guide to troubleshoot your Airalo eSIM in Bali and alternatives if nothing else works.
Quick Fixes:
- Toggle Airplane Mode on/off and ensure Data Roaming is enabled.
- Manually update your APN to Telkomsel’s settings.
- Reinstall the Airalo eSIM profile and restart your device.
Why Your Airalo eSIM Might Fail in Bali
- Improper Activation
If the eSIM profile didn’t install or activate correctly, your phone won’t register on the network. - Carrier Lock
Phones sold with a carrier plan are often locked, preventing third‑party eSIMs from working outside that network. - Outdated OS or Firmware
Older software can introduce bugs or compatibility issues. Always update to the latest version before travel. - No Coverage / Weak Signal
Bali’s most remote beaches and rural areas may fall outside Telkomsel’s optimal coverage zones. - Data Exhaustion
If you’ve used up your plan’s data allowance, the eSIM will simply stop working until you top up. - Incompatible Device
Some older or budget phones don’t support eSIM technology at all, even if they show a “SIM” slot
Common Error Messages & What They Mean
- “No Service” / “Searching…”
Your phone isn’t locking onto Telkomsel’s towers, often due to incorrect APN or disabled roaming. - “Activation Pending”
Airalo’s backend hasn’t confirmed your device location in Bali. This can happen if GPS/location services are off. - “Profile Installation Failed”
The eSIM package didn’t download properly. Corrupted download or insufficient storage can be the culprit.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
1. Verify Activation & Compatibility
- In Settings → Mobile Plans, make sure the Airalo eSIM shows as “Active.”
- Check your model against Airalo’s compatibility list in the app.
2. Enable Data Roaming & Location
- Settings → Mobile Networks → Data Roaming = On.
- Settings → Location = On for three days post-arrival to satisfy network detection.
3. Update Your OS
Settings → About Phone → System Update.
4. Manually Configure APN
- Settings → Mobile Networks → Access Point Names.
- Add a new APN with:
Name: Telkomsel
APN: internet
MMSC: http://mms.telkomsel.com
MMS Proxy: 10.1.89.130
MMS Port: 8080 - Save & select this APN .
5. Reinstall eSIM Profile
- In the Airalo app, remove the existing profile.
- Download and install it afresh, then restart your phone .
6. Reset Network Settings
- Settings → System → Reset Options → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
- Reapply steps 2–4 afterward.
How Long Does Airalo eSIM Activation Take?
- Profile Installation: Under 5 minutes once you tap “Install.”
- Network Provisioning: 5–15 minutes if you’re already in Bali with roaming and location on.
- Early Installations: If you install before arriving, it can take up to 3 days for Airalo to detect you in Indonesia.
Alternatives & Workarounds
- Local Physical SIM
Buy a Telkomsel SIM at the airport or local kiosk (approx. IDR 100k). Just insert and top up. - BaliEasy eSIM
Get guaranteed Bali coverage with our Telkomsel-powered eSIM, no region locks, easy KYC, and 24/7 local support. Explore plans at esim.balieasy.com - Portable Wi-Fi Rental
Rent a pocket Wi-Fi device at Ngurah Rai Airport for group travel without individual SIM hassles.
When & How to Contact Airalo Support
- In-App Chat: Fastest response; attach screenshots of Settings > About Phone and your APN page.
- Email: support@airalo.com with your Order ID, device model, OS version, and error screenshots.
Summary
There are six common reasons why your Airalo eSIM might not work in Bali: activation issues, carrier lock, outdated software, poor network coverage, running out of data, or your device not being compatible. If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and you’re still having problems, it might be time to consider switching to a local eSIM.
If you’re a traveler in Bali, it’s important to know that using a local eSIM often comes with extra benefits – like a local Indonesian phone number. This makes it easier to register for essential apps like Gojek for food delivery and transport, or shop on platforms like Shopee and Tokopedia.
Many travelers choose the Telkomsel Bali eSIM from BaliEasy, which offers reliable island-wide coverage, lower prices, and a local number that works for Indonesian apps like Gojek.
👉 See BaliEasy’s Telkomsel eSIM plans here
Not sure how to get the BaliEasy Telkomsel eSIM with a local phone number? We’ve written a simple guide to help you through it: 👉 Learn how to get a Bali eSIM with a phone number
Still want to try Airalo eSIM for Bali? 👉 Get Airalo Indonesia eSIM here