Data roaming in Indonesia: Costs, plans, and alternatives
Data roaming in Indonesia can be costly. Compare roaming costs and see how to stay connected abroad for less with an unlimited data Holafly eSIM.
Data roaming is a default way to stay connected when traveling abroad. Indonesia roaming data costs vary depending on your mobile provider, with some carriers charging over $10 per MB.
That means, using it for a 7-day trip could easily exceed $1,000 in roaming charges if you don’t control data usage, leaving the door open for other options.
This guide explains typical data roaming costs in Indonesia and how options like a travel eSIM can help you save money on your trip.

Data roaming costs in Indonesia
For travelers from the US, data roaming in Indonesia can cost between $5 and $50 if your carrier is T-Mobile, Verizon, or AT&T.
If you’re traveling from Australia, daily roaming passes typically range from $5 AUD to $10 AUD with providers such as Optus, Telstra, and Vodafone AU.
Here’s a closer look at what these carriers offer:
Roaming costs in Indonesia for US travelers
Provider | Roaming pass | Pay-as-you-go |
---|---|---|
T-Mobile roaming in Indonesia | $5 to $50 for up to 30 days with up to 15 GB of data, unlimited text, and calls | Use roaming passes |
AT&T roaming in Indonesia | $12 daily with unlimited data, text, and calls | $3/minute, $1.30/text, $10.24/MB |
Verizon roaming in Indonesia | $12 daily with unlimited data, text, and calls | $1.79/minute, $0.50/text, $2.05/MB |
Note: T-Mobile Experience plans include built-in roaming for Indonesia at no extra cost for up to 15 GB of high-speed data, and unlimited at lower speeds.
Roaming costs in Indonesia for AU travelers
Provider | Roaming pass | Pay-as-you-go |
---|---|---|
Optus roaming in Indonesia | $5 AUD/day for 5 GB and unlimited texts and calls | $1.50/minute, $0.50/text, $1/MB |
Telstra roaming in Indonesia | $10 AUD/day for 2 GB and unlimited texts and calls | $4/minute, $0.75/text, $3.00/MB |
Vodafone AU roaming in Indonesia | $5 AUD/day to use your local allowance | $1/minute, $0.75/text, $1/MB |
International data costs are among the highest for travelers, with Indonesia roaming data charges often far exceeding local rates. Using mobile data abroad without a plan can quickly lead to excessive fees
Get unlimited data for less in Indonesia with Holafly
Even though data roaming sounds like the standard option to access internet in Indonesia, it’s often expensive for travelers from the US and Australia.
That’s why using an eSIM is a better alternative to roaming. Holafly eSIM for Indonesia is one of the best options available.
It costs just $3.90 USD per day (or $5.90 AUD per day) and includes unlimited data. You’ll also get up to 500 MB of hotspot data daily, 24/7 customer support, and quick activation on both Android and iOS devices.
How to avoid roaming charges in Indonesia
Using an eSIM is the first option to avoid roaming charges in Indonesia, but there are some additional money-saving tips to consider.
- Use a local SIM card: Using an Indonesia SIM card s a great low-cost option if you have an unlocked phone. Prices range from about $2.70 to $42.20 USD for 30-day plans, with up to 80 GB of data and a limited number of calls and texts.
- Travelers can also choose eSIM roaming Indonesia options, which make it easy to stay connected without high carrier fees. Although physical SIM cards can still be bought, most now choose modern eSIM plans.
- Turn roaming off: If you have a carrier-locked mobile phone and can only rely on roaming, turn it off to avoid surprise international roaming fees while traveling.
- Rent a pocket WiFi: A great way to get mobile internet in Indonesia on multiple devices is to get a pocket WiFi, but costs can easily exceed $100 USD per week. Holafly Plans are an alternative, as you can get a monthly plan for $64.90 with unlimited data, unlimited hotspot, and coverage in 170 destinations.
- Rely on free WiFi: Public WiFi can help you save money, but it’s not always safe. For reliable internet access, use it only for simple tasks like checking maps, using messaging apps, or sending short updates. Avoid logging into private accounts or handling sensitive work.
- Download offline maps: To reduce mobile data use, consider downloading maps before leaving your hotel. These offline maps are handy in areas with weaker network coverage.
Indonesia roaming vs. eSIM for Indonesia
Indonesia roaming is available with most major international carriers, but it’s often more expensive than using a local SIM card or eSIM. But you don’t have to rely on this option alone, especially if you have a carrier-unlocked eSIM-compatible phone.
Choosing the right eSIM plan for Indonesia is far more flexible than roaming, especially for longer trips.
With an eSIM for Indonesia, you can enjoy unlimited data and reliable performance across local Indonesian networks. Holafly also offers multiple eSIM plans, so you can pick the one that matches your travel length and budget.
One major advantage is multi-country coverage. Instead of buying new physical SIM cards in every destination, Holafly gives you seamless cellular connectivity across 170+ regions. This ensures both convenience and reliable coverage as you travel.
Holafly Plans include unlimited data, unlimited hotspot use, and 24/7 customer support, making them smart solutions for travelers who want flexibility, security, and simplicity while abroad.
Visiting other countries in Asia? Learn how much data roaming cost there:
FAQ
Yes. International roaming in Indonesia works with carriers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Optus, Telstra, and Vodafone, but costs can be significantly higher than local options. Many travelers find that international use is limited compared to the flexibility of an eSIM.
Yes. International roaming in Indonesia is expensive. A single MB can cost over $10 for specific mobile carriers, which is expensive compared to options like an eSIM. In addition to data, you should also consider hidden costs such as fees for making calls or sending texts while abroad.
Yes. SIMs are widely available at airports, convenience stores, and mobile shops. Plans are affordable and often include large data allowances, though ID may be required at purchase. On the other hand, you can get an Indonesia eSIM in minutes.
Turn off mobile data or switch your phone to airplane mode when you don’t need connectivity. You can also disable automatic app updates, which consume data in the background, and rely on WiFi for navigation. The smartest way is to get an Indonesia eSIM