But before you start dreaming about Bali's beaches or Komodo's dragons, let's talk about something a bit less exciting but equally important: roaming charges in Indonesia. Don't worry, we've got your back with all the info you need to stay connected during your travel.

Are There Roaming Charges in Indonesia?

Yes, there are roaming charges in Indonesia if you're using your home network's SIM card. When you land in Jakarta or Bali and turn on your phone, it'll likely connect to a local Indonesian network. If you start using data, making calls, or sending texts without a specific international plan, you could be in for a nasty surprise on your next bill. But no worries, we'll show you how to avoid these charges and keep your connection smooth and affordable.

When Do Roaming Charges Apply in Indonesia?

Roaming charges kick in as soon as your phone connects to an Indonesian network and you start using its services. This means the moment you turn off airplane mode after landing, you're potentially incurring charges. Whether you're checking your email, uploading that perfect sunset pic to Instagram, or calling home to say you've arrived safely, all these actions can trigger roaming fees. Even receiving calls or texts can cost you in some cases. It's important to be aware that these charges can add up quickly, especially if you're streaming videos or using map apps to navigate the bustling streets of Jakarta.

Roaming Fees and Charges in Indonesia

Disclaimer: Prices and plans are subject to change. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

We've compiled an overview of roaming and carrier fees for Indonesia:

EE (UK): [1]

• Making a call: £1.80 per minute

• Receiving a call: £1.80 per minute

• Sending a text: 60p per text

• You'll need to purchase a data add-on upon arrival

Vodafone (UK): [2]

• Making a call: 60p per minute

• Receiving a call: 36p per minute

• Sending a text: 8p per text

• Internet: 12p per MB

O2 (UK): [3]

• Making a call: £2 per minute

• Receiving a call: £2 per minute

• Sending a text: 50p per text

• Internet: £7.20 per MB

Orange: [4]

Orange Holiday Indonesia package limited to 14 days for €24.99:

• 10 GB in 4G/LTE

• Calls NOT included

• Messages NOT included

Movistar (Spain): [5]

• Internet: €12.10 per MB

• To Spain or local numbers: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• To other destinations: €4.83 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Receiving calls: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Sending SMS to any destination: €1.21 per SMS

• Sending MMS to any destination: €4.84 per MMS

KPN (Netherlands): [6]

• Internet: €2.50 per MB

• Making a call: €1 per minute

• Receiving a call: €0.50 per minute

• Sending a text: €0.30 per text

Rogers (Canada): [7]

• $15.00 per 10 MB

• $0.75 per text

• $3.00 per min

• or $15.00 per day - Pay the daily fee and use your own plan (Maximum 20 days per billing cycle)

Telstra (Australia): [8]

$10 AUD per day for "International Day Pass"

• 2 GB data

• Unlimited calls/SMS

Verizon (USA): [9]

• $2.05 per MB

• $1.79 per min

• Travel Pass: $10 per day to use your own plan

T-Mobile (USA): [10]

• $5 per day: 512MB data, unlimited calling

• $35 for 10 days: 5GB data, unlimited calling

• $50 for 30 days: 15GB data, unlimited calling

These figures give you a ballpark idea of what to expect, but remember, they're approximate and can fluctuate. It's always a good idea to check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in Indonesia

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce or eliminate roaming charges during your Indonesian adventure. Read our guide on how to avoid roaming charges for more information.

• Buy an eSIM to get flexible, affordable connectivity.

• Turn off data roaming in your phone settings before you leave.

• Use Wi-Fi whenever possible in hotels, cafes, and restaurants.

• Consider buying a local SIM card upon arrival in Indonesia.

• Use messaging apps like WhatsApp or Skype for calls and texts over Wi-Fi.

• Download offline maps before your trip for navigation without data.

Roamless eSIM: Your Perfect Travel Companion in Indonesia

Speaking of smart solutions, let's talk about how Roamless eSIM can make your Indonesian journey smoother and more cost-effective:

• No Speed Throttling: Enjoy the full speed of local networks without any artificial slowdowns.

• Pay-as-You-Go Flexibility: Only pay for the data you actually use, perfect for spontaneous trips.

• Funds Never Expire: Your balance stays valid, so you can use it on your next adventure.

• Multi-Country Coverage: No need for separate plans as you island-hop across Indonesia.

• Local Network Speeds: Experience the same fast connections as local users.

• Easy Activation: Get connected in minutes with a simple QR code scan.

Check our eSIM Indonesia page before planning your travel. You can also check our guide on the best eSIM for Indonesia for more information. With Roamless eSIM, you can focus on exploring Indonesia's rich culture and stunning landscapes without worrying about connectivity or unexpected charges. It's travel tech that works for you, keeping you connected and your budget intact.

Sources:

[1] https://ee.co.uk/help/mobile/roaming/roaming-costs/countries/indonesia

[2] https://www.vodafone.co.uk/help-and-information/costs-and-charges/travelling-abroad

[3] https://www.o2.co.uk/international/using-your-phone-abroad

[4] https://travel.orange.com/en/buy-a-sim/offers/indonesia/esim

[5] https://www.movistar.es/tarifas-moviles/roaming/#Indonesia

[6] https://www.kpn.com/mobiel-abonnement/bundels/buitenland.htm#bundels_tarieven

[7] https://www.rogers.com/mobility/roaming#searchbar

[8] https://www.telstra.com.au/international-roaming#eligible-destinations

[9] https://www.verizon.com/support/international-services-pricing/

[10] https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans/unlimited-calling-data-pass