travel card idr

5 Best Travel Money Cards for Bali in 2024

Navigate Bali with Ease Using the Ideal Travel Money Card

Bali, Indonesia's enchanting island known for its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and vibrant cultural scene, is a paradise for Australian travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're surfing in Uluwatu, exploring the temples in Ubud, or shopping in Seminyak, having the right travel money card is essential.

In Bali you are likely to pay for accommodation, food and entertainment as well as withdraw cash from ATMs with your card. So which is the best travel card to take with you?

Best 5 Travel Money Cards for Bali in 2024:

• Wise Travel Card for the best exchange rates
• Revolut Travel Card for low fees
• Travelex as the best all-rounder
• ING One Low Rate Platinum Credit Card   for no international transaction fee
• HSBC Everyday Global for best debit card for ATM cash withdrawals

Wise Travel Card - Best Exchange Rates

• 40+ currencies available
• Best exchange rates globally
• One of the lowest conversion fee on the market
• No international transaction fees
• No annual or monthly fees
• Extremely low costs to send money overseas

Fees and limits

• Cross currency conversion fees are between 0.24–3.69%. AUD to USD, EUR or GBP was 0.42%, which is one of the lowest on the market
• Free cash withdrawals up to $350 every 30 days. However after that, Wise Card charge a fixed fee of $1.50 per transaction + 1.75%
• Daily ATM withdrawal is $2,700
• Issue up to 3 virtual cards for temporary usage
• It takes between 7 to 14 business days to receive your card
• Can be used wherever MasterCard is accepted

Read our Wise Card Review

Using the Wise card in Bali

You can use the Wise card all across Indonesia including Bali . You can convert any currency into Indonesian Rupiah and preload the card. Alternatively if you don't have a Bali money balance on the card, when you use it, the card will convert the currency which is loaded, each time you use it.

The Wise Card works just as well in Bali as it does in Australia, the UK or the US. Most places in Bali will accept payment from the Wise card.

Revolut - Low Fees

• 30+ currencies available
• One of the best exchange rates globally
• No annual or monthly fees for standard membership
• No initial card fee
• Instant access to a range of cryptocurrencies
• No fee ATM withdrawals up to A$350, or 5 ATM withdrawals, whichever comes first, per rolling 30 day period and 2% of withdrawal amount (minimum charge of A$1.50) after that
• Exchanging currency on the weekend can incur a 1% mark-up fee
• Fees on international money transfers were introduced in April 2021.
• Can be used wherever Visa is accepted

Read our Revolut Card Review

Using the Revolut in Bali

The Revolut Travel Card is one of the best debit cards to use in Bali.

It offers over 30 currencies at a great exchange rate, which is the cheapest rate globally. However if you exchange currency on the weekend you can incur a one-percent mark-up fee. In addition they have introduced fees for international transfers. Finally if you use ATMs frequently this is not the card to use due to the fees.

Travelex Money Card - Best Support

Key features.

• Unlimited free ATM withdrawals
• 24/7 Emergency Assistance
• Initial and replacement card are free
• Lock in up to 10 currencies
• Minimum load of $100 and maximum load of $100,000
• Can be used wherever Mastercard is accepted
• Fees include a $10 closure fee, $5 for an additional card and $4 inactivity monthly fee.
• While Travelex don't charge ATM fees, some ATM operators may charge their own fees.
• Currencies that can be loaded are AU$, US$, EU€, GB£, NZ$, TH฿, CA$, HK$, JP¥, SG$
• If your card is lost or stolen you can access cash in your account through Moneygram or Western Union agents, with no charge
• Boingo hotspots offer free wifi and you can look at their number of free hotspots per country on this map

Multi Currency Travelex Travel Card Review

Using the Travelex Money Card in Bali

The Travelex Money Card is a good all-rounder no matter if you are heading to the bustling streets of Seminyak or experiencing the tranquility of Ubud.

You can use it to take money out of the ATM, for merchant purchases like restaurants and even for online shopping in foreign currency. While the exchange rates aren't as good as the Wise or Revolut cards, the support network if the card is lost or stolen is very good. This attribute can be quite practical when immersing yourself in the rich Balinese culture.

ING One Low Rate Credit Card

• No annual fee
• No international transaction fees on purchases
• Up to 45 days interest free on purchases
• Lowest cash advance interest rate of 11.99%
• Use instalment plans to pay off your purchases over time at a lower interest rate

• 11.99% interest rate on purchases
• $6,000 minimum credit card
• Make payments from your mobile with pay with Apple Pay and Google Pay
• International ATM fee and Foreign currency conversion fee are waived when you deposit $1,000 into your Orange Everyday each month, and make 5+ card purchases that are settled. Otherwise they are the higher of 3% or at least $3
• Put repayments on auto payment each month to pay the minimum balance or full amount

The ING One Low Rate credit card for travel is a great option to take for your next overseas trip as it has one of the lowest interest rates with no international transaction fee on purchases. These two features alone will save you lots of money abroad.

In addition, it has no annual fee, offers 45 days interest free on purchases and it offers the one of the lowest interest rates for cash advances. Finally, it's super versatile. You can make payments from your mobile with Apple Pay and Google Pay.

HSBC Everyday Global Travel Card - Best Debit Card

• Great exchange rates
• No fees at ATMs to withdraw cash
• No initial card, closure, account keeping or monthly fees
• No cross currency conversion fees

• 10 Currencies can be loaded are JPY, USD, AUD, EUR, GBP, CAD, NZD, SGD, INR and CNY (currency restrictions on CNY)
• No maximum balance for any currency
• Very competitive exchange rates on all currencies when you have currencies already loaded on your card
• ATMs within Australia need to be HSBC and overseas they need to display a VISA or VISA Plus logo, not be be charged fees
• Earn 2% cash back when you tap and pay with payWave, Apple Pay or Google Pay for purchases under $100.
• Daily maximum ATM withdrawal is $2,000
• Fraud protection covered by Visa Zero Liability

The HSBC Everyday Global Travel Card is a good option to take overseas and to spend money with no international transaction fees, international ATM fees and monthly fees.

There is no maximum balance on currencies held and a 2% cash back incentive when you tap and pay under $100.

Editorial note: We may not cover every product in this category. For more information, see our Editorial guidelines .

Choosing the right travel money card for bali.

Selecting the most suitable travel money card for your trip to Bali involves looking at several important features that can enhance your travel experience. Here’s what to consider:

• No Foreign Transaction Fees: Choose a card with zero foreign transaction fees to save on every purchase in Bali.
• Competitive Exchange Rates: Ensure your card provides close to mid-market rates to maximize your spending power.
• Reliable ATM Access: Choose a card widely accepted at ATMs across Bali, providing you with easy access to cash when needed.
• Robust Security Features: To keep your funds safe, select a card with strong security measures, such as chip and PIN technology and temporary lock capabilities.

Using Your Travel Money Card in Bali

To maximize the benefits of your travel money card while in Bali, keep these tips in mind:

• Inform Your Bank: Notify your bank of your travel dates and destination to prevent any security blocks on your card.
• Understand the Fee Structure: Familiarize yourself with any fees for ATM withdrawals or currency conversions to manage your expenses effectively.
• Carry a Backup: Always have a backup payment option, such as a second card or some Indonesian Rupiah, to cover you in case of emergencies.

Managing Your Finances While Traveling

Effective management of your finances while exploring Bali can help ensure a stress-free holiday. Consider these strategies:

• Budget Carefully: Establish a daily spending limit to help manage your finances without missing out on what Bali has to offer.
• Monitor Your Spending: Regularly check your card’s app or online banking to keep track of your expenses and stay aware of any charges.
• Take Advantage of Perks: Utilize any additional benefits your card may offer, such as discounts on activities, dining, or accommodations, to save money and enhance your travel experience.

Which debit card is best for Bali?

The best debit card for Bali charges no international transaction fees and offers market exchange rates on currency conversion, this is the Wise Multi Currency card. It has no set up costs, no ongoing costs or fees for inactivity.v

How can I carry money to Bali?

It’s not advisable to carry too much money into Bali, while there is no limit on the amount of foreign currency you bring into Bali, it’s better to only bring enough for 2 days.

Should I take cash or a card to Bali?

You should take both cash and a card to Bali. A travel money card is better than cash for security reasons and that in most places in Bali you can pay with a card. No one can access your cash unless they have your 4 digit pin. If you lose your travel money card you can quickly report it lost or stolen to stop unauthorised transactions. Cash is better for tipping, on transport and in markets.

Does Bali take debit cards?

Yes Bali does take debit cards especially those linked to Mastercard or Visa, less so with American Express. Most debit cards issued in Australia will work in Bali and it’s best to advise your bank that you are travelling to Bali before you leave so they don’t cancel your card while you are away. Debit cards work in a similar way to in Australia, tap and pay or punch in your digits and pay. Always accept the local currency when the DCC screen appears to save money.

Which currency is accepted in Bali?

The currency in Bali is the Indonesian rupiah . They have 6 banknotes called rupiah and 5 coins called sen. The most common notes you’ll probably be dealing with are the blue Rp. 50,000 banknotes or the reddish-pink Rp. 100,000.

ASIC regulated

Like all reputable money exchanges, we are registered with AUSTRAC and regulated by the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC).

S Money complies with the relevant laws pertaining to privacy, anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism finance. This means you are required to provide I.D. when you place an order. It also means the order must be paid for by the same person ordering the currency and you must show your identification again when receiving your order.

•   Argentina
•   Australia
•   Deutschland
•   Magyarország
•   Nederland
•   New Zealand
•   Österreich
•   Singapore
•   United Kingdom
•   United States
•   繁體中文 (香港)
•   简体中文 (中国)

5 Best Travel Cards for Bali

Getting an international travel card before you travel to Bali can make it cheaper and more convenient when you spend in Indonesian Rupiah. You'll be able to easily top up your card in USD before you leave the US, to convert seamlessly to IDR for secure and flexible spending and withdrawals.

This guide walks through our picks of the best travel cards available for anyone from the US heading to Bali, like Wise or Revolut. We'll walk through a head to head comparison, and a detailed look at their features, benefits and drawbacks.

5 best travel money cards for Bali:

Let's kick off our roundup of the best travel cards for Bali with a head to head comparison on important features. Here's an overview of the providers we've picked to look at, for customers looking for ways to spend conveniently overseas when travelling from the US:

Each of the international travel cards we’ve picked out have their own features and fees, which may mean they suit different customer needs. Keep reading to learn more about the features, advantages and disadvantages of each - plus a look at how to order the travel card of your choice before you head off to Bali.

Wise travel card

Open a Wise account online or in the Wise app, to order a Wise travel card you can use for convenient spending and withdrawals in Bali. Wise accounts can hold 40+ currencies, so you can top up in USD easily from your bank or using your card. Whenever you travel, to Bali or beyond, you’ll have the option to convert to the currency you need in advance if it’s supported for holding a balance, or simply let the card do the conversion at the point of payment.

In either case you’ll get the mid-market exchange rate with low, transparent fees whenever you spend in IDR, plus some free ATM withdrawals every month - perfect if you’re looking for easy ways to arrange your travel cash.

Wise features

Wise travel card pros and cons.

• Hold and exchange 40+ currencies with the mid-market rate
• Spend seamlessly in IDR when you travel
• Some free ATM withdrawals every month, for those times only cash will do
• Ways to receive payments to your Wise account conveniently
• Manage your account and card from your phone
• 9 USD delivery fee for your first card
• ATM fees apply once you've exhausted your monthly free withdrawals
• Physical cards may take 14 - 21 days to arrive

How to apply for a Wise card

Here’s how to apply for a Wise account and order a Wise  travel card in the US:

Open the Wise app or desktop site

Select Register and confirm you want to open a personal account

Register with your email, Facebook, Apple or Google ID

Upload your ID document to complete the verification step

Tap the Cards tab to order your card

Pay the one time 9 USD fee, confirm your mailing address, and your card will be on the way, and should arrive in 14 - 21 days

Revolut travel card

Choose a Revolut account, from the Standard plan which has no monthly fee, to higher tier options which have monthly charges but unlock extra features and benefits. All accounts come with a smart Revolut card you can use in Bali, with some no fee ATM withdrawals and currency conversion monthly, depending on the plan you pick. Use your Revolut account to hold and exchange 25+ currencies, and get extras like account options for under 18s, budgeting tools and more.

Revolut features

Revolut travel card pros and cons.

• Pick the Revolut account plan that suits your spending needs
• Hold and exchange 25+ currencies, and spend in 150 countries
• Accounts come with different card types, depending on which you select
• All accounts have some no fee currency exchange and some no fee ATM withdrawals monthly
• Some account tiers have travel perks like complimentary or discounted lounge access
• You need to upgrade to an account with a monthly fee to get all account features
• Delivery fees may apply for your travel card
• Fair usage limits apply once you exhaust your currency conversion and ATM no fee allowances
• Out of hours currency conversion has additional fees

How to apply for a Revolut card

Set up your Revolut account before you leave the US and order your travel card. Here’s how:

Download and open the Revolut app

Register by adding your personal and contact information

Follow the prompts to confirm your address and order your card

Pay any required delivery fee - costs depend on your account type

Chime travel card

Use your Chime account and card to spend in Bali with no foreign transaction fee. You’ll just need to load a balance in USD and then the money is converted to IDR instantly with the Visa rate whenever you spend or make a withdrawal. There’s a fee to make an ATM withdrawal out of network, which sits at 2.5 USD, but there are very few other costs to worry about. Plus you can get lots of extra services from Chime if you need them, such as ways to save.

Chime features

Chime travel card pros and cons.

• No Chime foreign transaction fees
• No ongoing charges for your account
• Lots of extra products and services if you need them
• Easy ways to manage your money online and in app
• Virtual cards available
• You'll need to inform Chime you're traveling to use your card abroad
• Low ATM limits
• Cards take 7 - 10 days to arrive by mail

How to apply for a Chime card

Here’s how to apply for a Chime account and order a travel card in the US:

Visit the Chime website or download the app

Click Get started and add your personal details

Add a balance

Your card will be delivered in the mail and you can use your virtual card instantly

Monzo travel card

Monzo cards can be ordered easily in the US and used for spending in Bali and globally. Monzo accounts are designed for holding USD only - but you can spend in IDR and pretty much any other currency easily, with no foreign transaction fee. Your funds are just converted using the network exchange rate whenever you pay or make a withdrawal.

Monzo doesn’t usually apply ATM fees, but it’s worth knowing that the operator of the specific ATM you pick may have their own costs you’ll need to check out.

Monzo features

Monzo travel card pros and cons.

• Good selection of services available
• No foreign transaction fee to pay
• No Monzo ATM fee to pay
• Manage your card from your phone conveniently
• Deposits are FDIC protected
• You can't hold a foreign currency balance
• ATM operators might apply their own fees

How to apply for a Monzo card

Here’s how to apply for a Monzo account and order a travel card in the US:

Visit the Monzo website or download the app

Click Get Sign up and add your personal details

Check and confirm your mailing address and your card will be delivered in the mail

Netspend travel card

Netspend has a selection of prepaid debit cards you can use for spending securely in Bali. While these cards don’t usually let you hold a balance in IDR, they’re popular with travelers as they’re not linked to your regular checking account. That increases security overseas - plus, Netspend offers virtual cards you can use to hide your physical card details from retailers if you want to.

The options with Netspend vary a lot depending on the card you pick. Usually you can top up digitally or in cash in USD and then spend overseas with a fixed foreign transaction fee applying every time you spend in a foreign currency. You’ll be able to view the terms and conditions of your specific card - including the fees - online, by entering the code you’ll find when your card is sent to you.

Netspend features

Netspend travel card pros and cons.

• Large selection of different card options depending on your needs
• Some cards have no overseas ATM fees
• Prepaid card which is secure to use overseas
• Manage your account in app
• Change from one card plan to another if you need to
• You may pay a monthly fee for your card
• Some cards have foreign transaction fees for all overseas use, which can be around 4%
• Selection of fees apply depending on the card you pick

How to apply for a Netspend card

Here’s how to apply for a Netspend account and order a travel card in the US:

Visit the Netspend website

Click Apply now

Complete the details, following the onscreen prompts

Get verified

Your card will arrive by mail - add a balance and activate it to get started

What is a travel money card?

A travel money card is a card you can use for secure and convenient payments and withdrawals overseas.

You can use a travel money card to tap and pay in stores and restaurants, with a wallet like Apple Pay, or to make ATM withdrawals so you'll always have a bit of cash in your pocket when you travel.

Although there are lots of different travel money cards on the market, all of which are unique, one similarity you'll spot is that the features and fees have always been optimised for international use. That might mean you get a better exchange rate compared to using your normal card overseas, or that you run into fewer fees for common international transactions like ATM withdrawals.

Travel money cards also offer distinct benefits when it comes to security. Your travel money card isn't linked to your United States Dollar everyday account, so even if you were unlucky and had your card stolen, your primary bank account remains secure.

Travel money vs prepaid card vs travel credit card

It's helpful to know that you'll be able to pick from several different types of travel cards, depending on your priorities and preferences. Travel cards commonly include:

• Travel debit cards
• Travel prepaid cards
• Travel credit cards

They all have distinct benefits when you head off to Bali or elsewhere in the world, but they do work a bit differently.

Travel debit and prepaid cards are usually linked to an online account, and may come from specialist digital providers - like the Wise card. These cards are usually flexible and cheap to use. You'll be able to manage your account and card through an app or on the web.

Travel credit cards are different and may suit different customer needs. As with any other credit card, you may need to pay an annual fee or interest and penalties depending on how you manage your account - but you could also earn extra rewards when spending in a foreign currency, or travel benefits like free insurance for example. Generally using a travel credit card can be more expensive compared to a debit or prepaid card - but it does let you spread out the costs of your travel across several months if you'd like to and don't mind paying interest to do so.

What is a prepaid travel money card best for?

Let's take a look at the advantages of using a prepaid travel money card for travellers going to Bali. While each travel card is a little different, you'll usually find some or all of the following benefits:

• Hold and exchange foreign currencies - allowing you to lock in exchange rates and set a travel budget before you leave
• Convenient for spending in person and through mobile wallets like Apple Pay, as well as for cash withdrawals
• You may find you get a better exchange rate compared to your bank - and you'll usually be able to avoid any foreign transaction fee, too
• Travel cards are secure as they're not linked to your everyday USD account - and because you can make ATM withdrawals when you need to, you can also avoid carrying too much cash at once

Overall, travel cards offer flexible and low cost ways to avoid bank foreign transaction and international ATM fees, while accessing decent exchange rates.

How to choose the best travel card for Bali

We've picked out 5 great travel cards available in the US - but there are also more options available, which can make choosing a daunting task. Some things to consider when picking a travel card for Bali include:

• What exchange rates does the card use? Choosing one with the mid-market rate or as close as possible to it is usually a smart plan
• What fees are unavoidable? For example, ATM charges or top up fees for your preferred top up methods
• Does the card support a good range of currencies? Getting a card which allows you to hold and spend in IDR can give you the most flexibility, but it's also a good idea to pick a card with lots of currency options, so you can use it again in future, too
• Are there any other charges? Check in particular for foreign transaction fees, local ATM withdrawal fees, inactivity fees and account close fees

Ultimately the right card for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

What makes a good travel card for Bali

The best travel debit card for Bali really depends on your personal preferences and how you like to manage your money.

Overall, it pays to look for a card which lets you minimise fees and access favourable exchange rates - ideally the mid-market rate. While currency exchange rates do change all the time, the mid-market rate is a good benchmark to use as it’s the one available to banks when trading on wholesale markets. Getting this rate, with transparent conversion fees, makes it easier to compare costs and see exactly what you’re paying when you spend in IDR.

Other features and benefits to look out for include low ATM withdrawal fees, complimentary travel insurance, airport lounge access or emergency cash if your card is stolen. It’s also important to look into the security features of any travel card you might pick for Bali. Look for a card which uses 2 factor authentication when accessing the account app, which allows you to set instant transaction notifications, and which has easy ways to freeze, unfreeze and cancel your card with your phone.

When you’re planning your trip to Bali, bear in mind that cash is still a primary payment method, and many merchants and public service providers won’t accept a card. You’ll want a travel card which allows low cost cash withdrawals so you’ve always got some IDR in your pocket - and you can also keep hold of your card as a convenient back up in case of emergency too. Choose a card with no ongoing fees and no inactivity costs, so you can use it for your next trip abroad to get the most possible use out of it.

Ways to pay in Bali

Cash and card payments - including contactless, mobile wallet, debit, credit and prepaid card payments - are the most popular ways to pay globally.

In Bali cash is a very popular payment method. While you may find cards are accepted in major hotels and chain stores or very busy tourist areas, many merchants prefer cash. Make sure you’ve always got some IDR in cash in your wallet by making ATM withdrawals with your travel card whenever you need to.

Which countries use IDR?

You’ll find that IDR can only be used in Bali. If you don’t travel to Bali frequently it’s worth thinking carefully about how much to exchange so you’re not left with extra foreign currency after your trip. Or pick a travel card from a provider like Wise or Revolut which lets you leave your money in USD and convert at the point of payment with no penalty.

What should you be aware of when travelling to Bali

You’re sure to have a great time in Bali - but whenever you’re travelling abroad it's worth putting in a little advance thought to make sure everything is organised and your trip goes smoothly. Here are a few things to think about:

1. Double check the latest entry requirements and visas - rules can change abruptly, so even if you’re been to Bali before it’s worth looking up the most recent entry requirements so you don’t have any hassle on the border

2. Cash is a widespread payment method - so you’ll need some IDR in your pocket when you travel to Bali. You can sort out your travel money by visiting an exchange office here in the US, or you can wait until you arrive and make an ATM withdrawal in IDR at the airport when you land. Bear in mind that currency exchange at exchange offices at the airport, either in the US or in Bali can be expensive - so if you’re carrying USD in cash and need to exchange it, head into a town centre to do so.

3. Get clued up on any health or safety concerns - get travel insurance before you leave the US so you have peace of mind. It’s also worth reading up on any common scams or issues experienced by tourists. These tend to change over time, but may include things like rip off taxis or tour agents which don’t offer fair prices or adequate services.

Conclusion - Best travel cards for Bali

Ultimately the best travel card for your trip to Bali will depend on how you like to manage your money. Use this guide to get some insights into the most popular options out there, and to decide which may suit your specific needs.

How does a Indonesian Rupiah card work?

Getting a Indonesian Rupiah card can make managing your money easier when you travel to Bali.

Your Indonesian Rupiah card will be linked to a digital account you can manage from your phone, so you'll always be able to see your balance, get transaction notifications and manage your card no matter where you are. Just add money to your account in pounds, and - depending on your preferences and the specific card you pick - you can either convert your balance to Indonesian Rupiah instantly, or just let the card do the conversion when you spend or make a withdrawal.

If your card gives you the option to hold a Indonesian Rupiah balance, there's not normally any extra fee to spend the Indonesian Rupiah you have in your account when you're in Bali.

Can I withdraw Indonesian Rupiah currency with my card in Bali?

With some cards, you'll be able to add money to your card in United States Dollar, and then convert to Indonesian Rupiah instantly online or in your card's app.

Once you have a balance in Indonesian Rupiah you can spend with your card with no extra fees - just tap and pay as you would at home. You'll also be able to make cash withdrawals whenever you need to, with no extra conversion fee to pay. Your card - or the ATM operator - may charge a withdrawal fee, but this can still be a cheap, secure and convenient option for getting cash when you need it.

With other cards, you can't hold a balance in Indonesian Rupiah on your card - but you can leave your money in United States Dollar and let the card convert your money for you when you spend and withdraw.

Some fees may apply here - including currency conversion or foreign transaction charges - so do compare a few different cards before you sign up, to make sure you're picking the one which best suits your specific spending needs.

Bear in mind though, that not all cards support all currencies - and the range of currencies available with any given card can change from time to time. If your card doesn't let you hold a balance in Indonesian Rupiah you might find that fees apply when you spend in Bali, so it's well worth double checking your card's terms and conditions - and comparing the options available from other providers - before you travel, just in case.

Why should I get a Indonesian Rupiah card?

Getting a Indonesian Rupiah card means you can spend like a local when you're in Bali. You'll be able to check your Indonesian Rupiah balance at a glance, add and convert money on the move, and use your card for secure spending and withdrawals whenever you need to. Best of all, Indonesian Rupiah cards from popular providers often offer good exchange rates and low, transparent fees, which can mean your money goes further when you're on a trip abroad.

FAQ - best travel cards for Bali

When you use a travel money card you may find there’s an ATM withdrawal fee from your card issuer, and there may also be a cost applied by the ATM operator. Some of our travel cards - like the Wise and Revolut card options - have some no fee ATM withdrawals every month, which can help keep down costs.

Travel money cards may be debit, prepaid or credit cards. Which is best for you will depend on your personal preferences. Debit and prepaid cards are usually pretty cheap and secure to spend with, while credit cards may have higher fees but often come with extra perks like free travel insurance and extra reward points.

There’s no single best prepaid card for international use. Look out for one which supports a large range of currencies, with good exchange rates and low fees. This guide can help you compare some popular options, including Wise, Revolut and Monzo.

Yes, you can use your local debit card when you’re overseas. However, it’s common to find extra fees apply when spending in foreign currencies with a regular debit card. These can include foreign transaction fees and international ATM charges.

Usually having a selection of ways to pay - including a travel card, your credit or debit card, and some cash - is the best bet. That means that no matter what happens, you have an alternative payment method you can use conveniently.

Yes. Most travel debit cards have options to make ATM withdrawals. Check the fees that apply as card charges do vary a lot. Some cards have local and international fees on all withdrawals, while others like Wise and Revolut, let you make some no fee withdrawals monthly before a fee kicks in.

Both Visa and Mastercard are globally accepted. Look out for the logo on ATMs and payment terminals in Bali.

The cards you see on this page are ordered as follows:

For card providers that publish their exchange rates on their website, we used their USD / IDR rate to calculate how much Indonesian Rupiah you would receive when exchanging / spending $4,000 USD. The card provider offering the most IDR is displayed at the top, the next highest below that, and so on.

The rates were collected at 09:36:26 GMT on 25 May 2024.

Below this we display card providers for which we could not verify their exchange rates. These are displayed in alphabetical order.

Send international money transfer

More travel card guides.

• Investing & super
• Institutional
• CommBank Yello
• NetBank log on
• CommBiz log on
• CommSec log on

Help & support

Popular searches

Travel insurance

Foreign exchange calculator

Discharge/ Refinance authority form

Activate a CommBank card

Cardless cash

Interest rates & fees

Travel / Travel Money Card

Travel Money Card

Lock in exchange rates and load up to 13 currencies on one account to easily access your money while you’re travelling.

Features & benefits

$0 card issue fee.

Order a Travel Money Card for free in branch or online (search 'Travel Money Card' in the CommBank app or log into NetBank ).

Lock in exchange rates 

Load up to 13 currencies on one card before your trip, so you know how much you have to spend, no matter how the Australian Dollar moves.

Spend anywhere in the world 

Shop online, in-store, or over the phone wherever Visa is accepted, plus get access to Visa ® travel offers .

Easily manage your travel budget

Manage your holiday money and track your spending via the CommBank app or NetBank.

Your purchases, covered

Lost or stolen personal belongings? We may be able to cover the cost to repair or replace them up to 90 days after purchase. 2

Extra card security

Lost, misplaced or stolen card? Lock it and report it in the CommBank app or NetBank. 

• Currency converter

Exchange rates

Load up to 13 currencies on one account

Lock in exchange rates and load up to 13 currencies easily on one account – wherever you are in the world – through NetBank or the CommBank app:  

• United States Dollars (USD)
• Euros (EUR)
• Great British pounds (GBP)
• Australian Dollars (AUD)
• Japanese Yen (JPY)
• New Zealand Dollars (NZD)
• Hong Kong Dollars (HKD)
• Canadian Dollars (CAD)
• Singapore Dollars (SGD)
• Thai Baht (THB)
• Vietnamese Dong (VND)
• Chinese Renminbi (CNY)
• Emirati Dirham (AED)

No load or reload fees

You can load up to 13 currencies on your Travel Money Card with no load or reload fees. The exchange rate is the CommBank Retail Foreign Exchange Rate at the time of the conversion.

When you’re ready to pay for something, we will always try to complete the transaction for the country you are in. Make sure you have enough of the correct currency for the country you’re in on your card to avoid additional fees. If you don’t have enough of the local currency, we’ll use the next available currency instead, so long as there’s enough of it loaded on your card.

If you load multiple currencies on your Travel Money Card, you can  change the order  (the next available currency) anytime online. 

Rates & fees

See all fees and charges

Who can apply

To get your Travel Money Card, you’ll need to:

• Be at least 14 years old;
• Be registered to use NetBank, or register online New to CommBank? Sign up to NetBank at your nearest branch ;
• Provide a valid email address; and
• Have an Australian residential address

How to apply

Before your trip.

• Order a Travel Money Card in the CommBank app (search 'Travel Money Card'),  NetBank , or at your  nearest branch . 
• Load at least AUD 50 or the foreign currency equivalent to get started
• Once you’ve got your card,  activate and set your PIN online  in NetBank, or under Cards in the CommBank app
• Lock-in the exchange rate by  loading currency on your card in NetBank  or the CommBank app

How it works

During your trip.

• The  local currency will be automatically applied  when you pay for something, as long as it’s loaded on your card and you have sufficient funds
• Reload in real time , fee-free if your balance gets low
• Stick to daily transaction limits
• The maximum value of purchases per day is unlimited, however no more than your available balance
• The maximum amount you can withdraw from ATMs per day is AUD 2,500 or the foreign currency equivalent. Keep in mind most ATM operators have a limit on how much you can withdraw from an ATM per transaction
• The maximum amount for over-the-counter withdrawals per day is AUD 2,500 or the foreign currency equivalent.

When you’re home

• Got leftover currency? Exchange it for another currency or back into your CommBank account from  NetBank  or the CommBank app
• Top up  your Travel Money Card (it’s valid for 4 years) in preparation for your next trip
• Donate  your foreign (and local) currency to any CommBank or Bankwest branch and every cent will go to UNICEF
• How to manage your Travel Money Card

You’ve got your new card – here’s how to get the most out of it.

Find detailed info on getting started, loading and reloading currencies, setting a currency order, checking your balance and tracking your spend. Plus, info on Purchase Security Insurance Cover and access to Visa ® travel offers .

Manage your Travel Money Card

Need foreign cash? Have it ready before you travel

If you’re a CommBank customer, you can buy or sell up to 9 foreign currencies at selected CommBank branches in exchange for Australian Dollars.

You can also order foreign cash in over 30 currencies online – even if you’re not a CommBank customer.

Discover Foreign Cash

Planning an overseas trip?

Discover travel tips to help make the most of your European summer holiday.

See travel tips

Emergency support & tools

What to do if you’ve lost your card or it’s stolen.

If you’ve lost your Travel Money Card, or you think it might’ve been stolen, we can have an emergency replacement card sent to you anywhere in the world.

You may also be eligible for an Emergency Cash Advance, giving you access to cash within 24-48 hours (often on the same day).

Call us in an emergency on:

• 1300 660 700  within Australia
• +61 2 9999 3283 from overseas (reverse charges accepted). 

When calling from overseas using your mobile, standard roaming charges may apply. To avoid roaming charges, call the international operator in the country you’re in from a landline and give them our reverse charges number +61 2 9999 3283.

Tools & calculators

• Saving calculator
• Budget planner
• Managing multiple currencies on your Travel Money Card
• Travelling overseas: 10-step money checklist  
• Beginners guide to exchange rates
• Online banking while overseas  
• Planning an overseas holiday

We can help

Your questions answered

Get in touch

Visit your nearest branch

Things you should know

1 The cash withdrawal fee will not apply to cash withdrawals made in Australia.

2  For more information relating to the complimentary Purchase Security Insurance refer to  Travel Money Card Complimentary Insurance Information Booklet (PDF) .

As this advice has been prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs, you should before acting on this advice, consider its appropriateness to your circumstances.  The Product Disclosure Statement and Conditions of Use (PDF)  issued by Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 for Travel Money Card should be considered before making any decision about this product.  View our Financial Services Guide (PDF) .

To raise a dispute related to your Travel Money Card please complete  this form for transactions (PDF)  or  this form for ATM disputes (PDF) .

Any withdrawal or balance enquiry fee will come from the currency for which you are using your card. If this currency is not loaded on your card, the fee will be taken from the first (or sole) currency loaded on your card. Any SMS balance alert fee will come from the first (or sole) currency loaded on your card.

The target market for this product will be found within the product’s Target Market Determination,  available here .

•   Argentina
•   Australia
•   Brasil
•   Česko
•   Canada
•   Deutschland
•   España
•   France
•   India
•   Italia
•   Magyarország
•   Malaysia
•   Nederland
•   New Zealand
•   Österreich
•   Polska
•   Portugal
•   România
•   Schweiz
•   Singapore
•   United Kingdom
•   United States
•   繁體中文 (香港)
•   简体中文 (中国)

The 3 Best Cards for Aussies to Use in Indonesia

Wise is our pick for travel debit card for indonesia.

With this card:

• Convert Australian dollars to Indonesian rupiah at the mid-market exchange rate
• It's very easy to set up and order
• You can receive foreign currency into a multi-currency account linked to the card
• You can transfer money to a bank account overseas

It's not all good news though

• There is a 2% ATM withdrawal fee when you withdraw over $350 during a month
• It takes 7-14 days for delivery

Click here to see the full list of cards and how Wise compares

Read the full review

What are the different types of travel cards?

With so many options out there, how do you know which travel card to take to Indonesia?

The best choice for you depends on what you'll be using it for, whether that's taking out cash, making card purchases or transferring Indonesian rupiah to a local bank account.

There are three main types of travel card:

• Prepaid travel cards
• Travel debit cards
• Travel credit cards

We hand-picked the three best travel cards for you below. Let's have a look at each one.

Travel Debit Cards

Debit cards offer the convenience of a credit card, but work differently. They draw money directly from your bank account when you make a purchase. It's designed for everyday money transactions and means that you're not accumulating debt.

A debit card could make you stick to your travel budget, because you can't overdraw money from your account. And for daily purchases, we think a debit card can help you stick to your travel budget, because you can't overdraw money from your account.

Generally, we recommend having the combination of a travel debit and travel credit card for safety, flexibility and convenience on your trip.

Wise is our pick for travel debit card

• No annual fee, hidden transaction fees, exchange rate markups
• No minimum balance requirements
• Allows you to make payments and withdrawals wherever you are in the world in over 40 currencies
• Local bank account details in Australia (AUD), the UK (GBP), the USA (USD), Europe (EUR) and New Zealand (NZD)
• It takes 7-14 business days to receive the card
• Can't always access local technical support depending on where you are
• Free cash withdrawals limited to under $350 every 30 days
• Only currently available in the US, UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand

Prepaid Travel Cards

For prepaid cards, you're able to load the card with a set amount of money in the currencies you need. Ideally you do this before your trip, but often you can reload them as well.

Most prepaid travel cards allow for multiple currencies to be loaded onto the card. So it's important to know what currency you'll be using on your travels. Airlines also offer prepaid cards so the money you spend can earn you reward points.

With prepaid travel cards you need to be careful. They can have numerous fees and charges, which can make it more expensive than other options. But if you're organised and travelling to multiple cities a prepaid travel card is a good option.

Revolut - prepaid travel card for Indonesia

• No purchase fee, load fee, reload fee, exchange rate margin or minimum balance requirements
• Unlike other Travel Cards, its free and easy to use the balance of your currency or convert it back to AUD
• The exchange rates are unbeatable. They use the same rate you see on XE or Google with no hidden mark-up
• For the free Standard account, there is a 2% ATM withdrawal fee when you withdraw over $350 during a month
• The premium account costs $10.99 a month, which can really add up if you are not using it often

Click here to see the full list of cards and how Revolut compares

• Very easy to use app
• Free to set up
• No hidden fees or exchange rate mark-ups (except on weekends)
• You can use it to transfer money to a bank account overseas
• Additional fees for using the card on a weekend
• 2% ATM fee once you withdraw more than $350 in any 30 day period
• 3-4 business days before you receive your card
• Ongoing subscription fee for Premium and Metal cards

Travel Credit Cards

Credit cards have obviously been around for a long time. But now there are specialised travel credit cards. Generally, these cards give you longer to pay back what you've spent but the interest rates after this time can be quite high.

The main advantage with credit cards are the reward points you get in return for your customer loyalty when you spend. But it only works if you pay off the balance in full each month.

Credit cards are great to use for car hire, restaurants and accommodation - larger expenses that are easier for you to pay back over time. Some services only take credit cards to hold purchases so they can definitely be handy while you're travelling.

28 Degrees - travel credit card for Indonesia

The 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard is our best value travel credit card. With this card:

• There are no annual fees
• No overseas purchase fee or currency conversion fee
• You get 55 days interest free on purchases
• Access to free 24/7 concierge service
• Emergency card replacement worldwide

The 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard has additional benefits including shoppers and repayments benefits cover.

• Can have 9 additional cardholders
• No overseas purchase fee, or currency conversion fee
• No foreign transaction fee
• Free Replacement Card
• High interest rates after the initial 55 days
• Minimum credit limit is $6,000
• No introductory offers or rewards

Travel Money Guide: Indonesia

Get from the beach bar to surfie havens with the right access to your holiday money..

In this guide

Compare travel money options for Indonesia

Travel card, credit card, or debit cards, how much rupiah do i need to bring to the indonesia, exchange rate history (aud to idr), how the different travel money products work in indonesia, a guide to indonesian banknotes and coins, find cash and atms in indonesia, get travel insurance quotes for your holiday in indonesia.

Travel Money Cards

Whether it's Bali, Lombok or any of the 17,000 islands that make up Indonesia, you'll need to figure out the best way to access your money.

If you're sticking to a swanky resort in a built-up area like Bali, you'll be fine with a no-fee debit or credit card and access to some cash for any smaller purchases along the way, like souvenirs and quick meals. If you're doing it loval style in a villa or heading off the beaten track, then having more Indonesian Rupiah available in cash is a must.

• Travel Credit Cards
• Travel Debit Cards
• Prepaid Travel Money Cards

What's in this Indonesia travel money guide?

A quick summary of travel money options for indonesia.

• Stephanie’s trip to Bali
• A guide to Indonesia Rupiah: banknotes and coins
• Finding cash and ATMs in Indonesia
• Find travel insurance for Indonesia

Whether you're on a quick business trip or taking a holiday, it's good to have an at least a couple of ways to access your money. There are currently no travel cards which allow you to load Indonesian rupiah. Compare travel credit cards and debit cards to take to Indonesia instead.

Choose a mix that suits your needs: for example a debit card for regular spending with a credit card for emergencies, or Indonesian currency supplemented by a debit card. Whatever mix you decide on, you want to have enough Indonesian currency in your pockets when travelling through Indonesia — even if it's enough for the first couple of days.

You're going to need to pay for a visa when you arrive in Indonesia. In places such as Denpasar airport, you have to pay cash, so make sure you have sufficient funds.

This table is a general summary of the travel money products in the market. Features and benefits can vary between cards.

*Prices are approximate and are subject to change.

*Exchange rates are accurate as of 3 September 2017

Today's exchange rate AUD to IDR

Using prepaid travel cards

If you're looking at taking a travel money card to Indonesia, think again. There are no travel money cards on the market that allow you to load and spend in Indonesian rupiah. Having said that, there are a couple of travel cards which may be suitable to take to Indonesia, including the CommBank Travel Money Card . One drawback, however, is that the CBA card charges the Visa or Mastercard currency conversion fee, plus 4.5%.

These cards should only really be considered if Indonesia is the first leg of your international holiday. The CommBank Travel Money Card offers up to 13 different international currencies and can be used all over the world. Furthermore, the Commonwealth Bank have a large number of ATMs and branches in Bali and Indonesia where you can use your CBA travel, debit or credit card and avoid the international ATM fee. However, due to the lack of support for Indonesian rupiah, the exchange rate margin when you load the card with funds and the fee structure, there are cheaper products to use in Indonesia than a travel card.

Travel credit cards with no foreign transaction fee

A credit card can be useful when travelling overseas – especially when it comes to big ticket items you may want to pay off over a couple of months, or hotel check-in where a deposit is required. Credit cards also give you access to emergency cash if you need it, and some credit cards have handy benefits like complimentary travel insurance when you charge the cost of your travel ticket to your account.

However, credit cards can be expensive, especially when it comes withdrawing cash at an ATM. Interest is charged straight away and you'll pay a cash advance fee. You may be able to avoid this keeping a positive balance on your card — each credit card issuer has different rules for keeping a positive balance. Read the FAQs section of our travel money page for more information.

Taking a debit card in Indonesia

Most debit cards on the market charge a 2-3% fee when you make a purchase outside of Australia. In fact, there's only one debit card available at the moment which waives the currency conversion fee: the Citibank Plus Transaction Account.

Using traveller's cheques

Traveller's cheques may not be as popular today as they used to be but they still offer some important advantages over other forms of travel money. When travelling to Indonesia, traveller's cheques have the added security of needing ID to be cashed. Plus, if they get lost or stolen, they can be replaced in a few days. There will also be a fee for purchasing and cashing traveller's cheques, so check these out too.

Stephanie's Bali Beach Holiday

• CommBank Travel Money Card
• Commonwealth Bank Low Rate Credit Card
• Commonwealth Bank Smart Access Mastercard Debit Card

Why did you take these cards with you?

Stephanie says she already had a CommBank Travel Money Card from her last holiday with a little money left on it. She withdrew the remaining funds from this card from a Commonwealth Bank ATM in Bali and saved on ATM withdrawal fees. She didn't bother reloading this card even though there is no reload charge from the Commonwealth Bank.

She used the Commonwealth Bank Smart Access Mastercard Debit Card once the money from her travel card ran out. Even though she was paying a little more for the currency conversion fee, she only used her card a couple of times to withdraw cash from CBA ATMs and her debit card offered a slightly better rate than her travel card.

Stephanie had her CommBank credit card as a backup and only used it a couple of times on her trip — she paid the remaining balance of her hotel bill and shouted her friends to dinner one night. he paid it off when she got back to Australia (within the 55 day interest free period) and didn't incur any interest charges.

Did you withdraw from ATMs?

Stephanie says she withdrew from Commonwealth Bank ATMs around the Kuta area. When she used her travel card, she only paid a few dollars each time. When she used her debit card to withdraw cash, a currency conversion fee was applied to her transaction.

Were there any places where you had trouble using any of your cards?

Stephanie mainly used cash in Bali. The times she did pay with her card, she was at an upmarket restaurant and major hotel chain.

What's your recommendation for the best form of travel money to take to Indonesia?

Stephanie says one of her friends used the Citibank Plus Transaction Account, and she says she'll get this account next time she travels overseas. Citibank waives the international ATM fee and currency conversion fee and there's no monthly charge to keep the account.

What are your travel money tips for Bali?

She says do your shopping in the morning. The people who sell things at the markets in Bali will give you a better price in the morning compared to in the afternoon.

Card acceptance

You will be able to use your existing ATM card in most places where merchants display the same logo as the one on your card. Mastercard and Visa have wide acceptance in Bali.

Cheap ATM withdrawals in Indonesia

• Westpac. Westpac Group cardholders (Westpac, St.George, BankSA and Bank of Melbourne) can avoid the international ATM withdrawal fee by using CIMB ATMs throughout Indonesia. The local ATM operator fee may still apply. You can read more about Westpac's International ATM Alliance here.
• Commonwealth Bank. CommBank have a presence throughout Indonesia — you can find a concentration of CBA ATMs around Bali, especially Kuta. You can avoid ATM withdrawal fees using CommBank products at these ATMs.
• Citibank. You can make free ATM withdrawals using the Citibank Plus Transaction Account at Citibank ATMs in Indonesia. Citibank have an ATM in Kuta.

Indonesia has proved to be a dangerous destination for Australian travellers. From the dreaded Bali belly to contaminated alcohol, there are many risks lurking just below the surface. This is why travel insurance is so important. Travel insurance can cover:

• Cancellations
• Repatriation
• Lost Deposits
• Additional accommodation
• Personal liability
• Emergency dental and medical

Add kids under the age of 1 by typing a “0” 0 traveller(s)

Include travel deals and helpful personal finance content from Finder

By submitting this form, you agree to our Privacy & Cookies Policy and Terms of Service

You might also like:

Indonesia is a favourite for holidaymakers from Australia. Bali is an especially popular spot for Aussies, it is virtually impossible to walk down a beach in Bali without hearing that distinctive Aussie twang. Do your research and save on paying unnecessary fees to your bank.

• Read about travel money for Singapore
• Find out how to take money to Fiji
• Compare all your travel money options here

Jacob Joseph

Jacob Joseph was a writer and video journalist for Finder. See full bio

More guides on Finder

Australians hold lofty expectations when it comes to defining wealth, according to new research by Finder.

Research by the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) shows many Aussies are willing to drop Life Insurance as the economy puts the heat on.

Save up to $709 by locking in a term deposit rate.

Here are the winners of the 2024 Finder Forex Awards.

We're excited to announce the winners of the 2024 Finder Share Trading Platform Awards for 2024

Find all the weekly tips from our Dollar Saver newsletter and see how you could save.

Get points from Virgin while you binge on your favourite shows.

Women continue to face significant hurdles around equal pay, according to a new report by Finder.

Finder Travel Insurance Awards 2024.

Equal Pay Day is an reminder to understand why women are still earning less than men and what is contributing to this gender pay gap.

Ask a question

Click here to cancel reply.

You are about to post a question on finder.com.au:

• Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
• finder.com.au is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
• We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
• Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

4 Responses

Hi I am about to head to Bali and I can’t decided on what to do about money. I am getting all different advice. I have CommBank MasterCard debit and ANZ visa debt… do I just use them to withdraw cash in Bali or use a prepaid multi-currency cash passport

Thanks for your comment.

The ‘best’ option will always depend on your unique financial situation, your travel budget and spending habits.

If you use a Commonwealth Bank Debit MasterCard, you will be charged overseas currency conversion fees and foreign ATM withdrawal fees. These fees vary depending on the ATM you use, so I have emailed you a copy of the product disclosure statement for further information. Also, the ANZ Visa Debit card unlimited ATM withdrawal offer does not apply to overseas withdrawals.

If you are looking to access your own funds overseas, a prepaid travel money card can be a valuable way to load funds on your card, transfer them to a foreign currency and access your funds overseas without the temptation of a line of credit. Unfortunately, not many Australian travel money cards support Indonesian Rupiah, so you might want to look out for a card that does not charge currency conversion fees. This way you can load your card with Australian Dollars and you won’t incur a fee when they’re transferred to Indonesian Rupiah while you’re travelling.

For example, the Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card is one of few travel money cards that doesn’t charge currency conversion fees on either supported or unsupported currencies.

Please ensure to read through the relevant product disclosure statement and terms and conditions of the card to ensure that you got everything covered before you travel.

I hope this has helped.

I have a multi currency travel card with Aus dollars on it only. Can the currency be converted into Indonesian currency when I use the card? Or do I have to do something in Australia 1st.

Thank you for your comment.

The Multi-currency Cash Passport does not currently support the Indonesian rupiah.

Although you can make payments using the Australian Dollars loaded on your card, you will incur a currency conversion fee of 5.95% plus the MasterCard® rate each time you complete a transaction in Indonesian rupiah.

I hope this has helped answer your question.

Thanks, Sally

How likely would you be to recommend Finder to a friend or colleague?

Our goal is to create the best possible product, and your thoughts, ideas and suggestions play a major role in helping us identify opportunities to improve.

Important information about this website

Advertiser disclosure.

finder.com.au is one of Australia's leading comparison websites. We are committed to our readers and stands by our editorial principles

We try to take an open and transparent approach and provide a broad-based comparison service. However, you should be aware that while we are an independently owned service, our comparison service does not include all providers or all products available in the market.

Some product issuers may provide products or offer services through multiple brands, associated companies or different labeling arrangements. This can make it difficult for consumers to compare alternatives or identify the companies behind the products. However, we aim to provide information to enable consumers to understand these issues.

How we make money

We make money by featuring products on our site. Compensation received from the providers featured on our site can influence which products we write about as well as where and how products appear on our page, but the order or placement of these products does not influence our assessment or opinions of them, nor is it an endorsement or recommendation for them.

Products marked as 'Top Pick', 'Promoted' or 'Advertisement' are prominently displayed either as a result of a commercial advertising arrangement or to highlight a particular product, provider or feature. Finder may receive remuneration from the Provider if you click on the related link, purchase or enquire about the product. Finder's decision to show a 'promoted' product is neither a recommendation that the product is appropriate for you nor an indication that the product is the best in its category. We encourage you to use the tools and information we provide to compare your options.

Where our site links to particular products or displays 'Go to site' buttons, we may receive a commission, referral fee or payment when you click on those buttons or apply for a product. You can learn more about how we make money .

Sorting and Ranking Products

When products are grouped in a table or list, the order in which they are initially sorted may be influenced by a range of factors including price, fees and discounts; commercial partnerships; product features; and brand popularity. We provide tools so you can sort and filter these lists to highlight features that matter to you.

Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Please read our website terms of use and privacy policy for more information about our services and our approach to privacy.

We update our data regularly, but information can change between updates. Confirm details with the provider you're interested in before making a decision.

Learn how we maintain accuracy on our site.

• Lost or stolen cards
• Online Banking – Personal
• Online Banking – Business
• Corporate Online
• Westpac Share Trading
• View all online services
• International & Travel

Travel money card

• Activate and manage your card Activate and manage your card

Are you an existing customer?

A smart and safe way to pay in foreign currencies

Features and benefits

• Travel and shop worry-free Lock in your budget by converting your loaded AUD ahead of time and feel safe and secure from fraudulent transactions with Mastercard Zero Liability protection.¹  
• Lounge access if your flight is delayed You and a companion can get access to over 1,000 lounges² if your flight is delayed for 120 minutes or more. Visit the Mastercard Flight Delay Pass website to pre-register your flight. T&Cs apply.
• Access unforgettable experiences and rewards Your Mastercard gives you access to Priceless ®  Cities with unforgettable experiences in the cities where you live and travel.³ You can also get cashback when you shop overseas with your Worldwide Wallet, thanks to Mastercard Travel Rewards .⁴

How it works

Before you leave.

• Order a Worldwide Wallet online.
• Activate your cards in Online Banking
• Transfer AUD to your card and convert into your choice of up to 10 currencies to lock in your rates.

While you’re away

Pay for things using the local currency loaded on your card

Avoid ATM fees at Global ATM Alliance partners 5

Reload your card as you go using the Westpac App, with no load or reload fees.

When you get home

• Convert leftover currency back to AUD or another available currency, with no unload fees
• Remember , you can avoid foreign transaction fees while shopping online by paying with your Worldwide Wallet.

Save on fees

• Avoid ATM withdrawal fees Through our Global ATM Alliance and overseas partner ATMs which you can easily find using the ATM locator in the Westpac App   
• No foreign transaction fees Avoid a 3% foreign transaction fee whenever you use your Worldwide Wallet to shop online or in person.  
• No load or unload fees Reload your account on the go, whenever you need.  
• No account keeping fees You won’t pay any inactivity or account keeping fees, so any funds left in your account will be there ready for your next trip or purchase.  

Other fees may apply. Read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDF 307KB)  for full list of fees. 

Like to shop online?

Use your Worldwide Wallet for online purchases in foreign currencies and avoid a 3% foreign transaction fee.

You can also shop worry-free from fraudulent transactions with Mastercard Zero Liability protection. 1

Complete visibility and control

All in one view

See your account balance and transactions in the Westpac App or in Online Banking.

Move money easily

Transfer money to and from your Worldwide Wallet and convert AUD into foreign currencies while you’re on the go in the Westpac App.

More ways to pay

Add your Worldwide Wallet to Google Pay™ or Samsung Pay™, or use your card to tap and go.

A spare card for peace of mind

Both cards give you access to the same funds and can be locked and unlocked instantly at your convenience via Online Banking or the Westpac App. 6

Add up to 11 currencies

Lock in your rate head of time by converting currency in advance.

You'll still be able to spend in currencies not listed here and avoid Westpac's 3% foreign transaction fee.

To view our latest rates, see our  currency converter .

A Westpac Worldwide Wallet is a prepaid travel money card that can help you save on foreign transaction fees and give you control over your spending. With the Westpac Worldwide Wallet, there are no load, reload or unload fees, or ATM withdrawal fees at Westpac Group or select Westpac Group partner ATMs in Australia and Global ATM Alliance partners. 5

Before you shop or travel, you can also choose to convert your loaded AUD into any of the following currencies: USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, JPY, THB, ZAR, SGD, NZD and HKD. By locking in your exchange rate in advance and knowing exactly how much of a foreign currency is loaded on your card, the Westpac Worldwide Wallet can make it easy for you to stay on top of your spending. When you sign up to a Westpac Worldwide Wallet, you’ll also get access to exciting Mastercard travel and shopping perks -  Flight Delay Pass , Mastercard Travel Rewards and Priceless Cities.

With the Westpac Worldwide Wallet, you can avoid a 3% foreign transaction fee when you shop online in available currencies.

You can shop safely by loading only what you need into any of the following currencies: USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, JPY, THB, ZAR, SGD, NZD and HKD. By knowing exactly how much of a foreign currency is loaded on your card, you can stay on top of your spending.

You’ll also benefit from Mastercard Zero Liability protection, 1 so you can shop worry-free from fraudulent transactions.

To apply for a Westpac Worldwide Wallet, you must be aged 14 years or older and be an existing Westpac customer who is registered for Online Banking. If you haven’t registered for Online Banking, see this  helpful guide  to learn how to get started. If you’re new to Westpac and would like to apply for a Worldwide Wallet, you’ll need to become a customer first by opening a Westpac savings or transaction account and meeting our identification requirements. You can visit  westpac.com.au/aml  for more information on how we identify you. 

If you have insufficient funds to complete a transaction in a currency loaded on your account, or the transaction is in a currency not loaded on your account, the transaction will be automatically processed by drawing down from another currency in your account (provided that there are sufficient funds available in one or more other currencies to complete the transaction). Funds will be withdrawn according to the drawdown sequence, and the applicable exchange rate will apply. See the Product Disclosure Statement (PDF 307KB) for the drawdown sequence.

Yes, you can withdraw money or check your balance at overseas ATMs using your Worldwide Wallet. The balance displayed will be in the currency of the country you are visiting. You won’t pay an ATM withdrawal fee when using a Global ATM Alliance ATM. 5  However, fees may apply if you use an ATM outside of the Global ATM Alliance network.

If you have insufficient funds to complete a transaction in a currency loaded on your account, or the transaction is in a currency not loaded on your account, the transaction will be automatically processed by drawing down from another currency in your account (provided that there are sufficient funds available in one or more other currencies to complete the transaction). Funds will be withdrawn according to the drawdown sequence, and the applicable exchange rate will apply. See the Product Disclosure Statement (PDF 307KB) for the drawdown sequence.  

We recommend you download our app as we may send you important notifications about your Worldwide Wallet while you are travelling. Using the Westpac App makes it easy for you to get these notifications while you’re on the go. You can also use the app to:

• Instantly transfer AUD between your savings and transaction Westpac account/s and your travel money card
• Convert between your loaded AUD and up to 10 different foreign currencies at any time to lock in your exchange rate
• View your currency balances and transactions
• Access your Worldwide Wallet account’s BSB and account number as well as your eStatements
• Block your card/s if they have been lost or stolen

If you’re new to the Westpac App, learn more about how to get started .

See all FAQs

Order online

Your cards will be delivered within 5-8 business days

Worldwide Wallet 24/7 support in Australia

1300 797 470

Things you should know

Westpac Retail and Business Banking Financial Services Guide and Credit Guide (PDF 238KB)

•   Argentina
•   Australia
•   Deutschland
•   Magyarország
•   Nederland
•   New Zealand
•   Österreich
•   Singapore
•   United Kingdom
•   United States
•   繁體中文 (香港)
•   简体中文 (中国)

The 6 Best Travel Money Cards for Bali 2024

Bali has it all, from pristine beaches perfect for surfing, a wild party scene, spiritual sites and unique culture - plus places to get away from it all, practice yoga, wander rice terraces and eat fantastic food.

Getting to Bali from the UK isn’t the cheapest or easiest journey. Make sure you can get as much from your trip as possible with a travel debit, prepaid or credit card which can let you cut your overall costs, beat foreign transaction fees, or earn cash back and rewards. This guide walks through your travel money card options and touches on 6 of our favourites to kickstart your research.

Wise - our pick for travel debit card when travelling to Bali

Wise accounts can hold and exchange 40+ currencies, and you can get a linked Wise card for a one time delivery fee. Top up your account in GBP and switch to IDR before you travel. All currency conversion uses the mid-market exchange rate, with low fees from 0.41%. Here are some of the pros and cons of the Wise travel money debit card, to help you decide if it’s right for you.

Hold and exchange 40+ currencies , including GBP-IDR

No fee to spend any currency you hold, low conversion fees from 0.41%

Mid market exchange rate on all currency conversion

Some fee free ATM withdrawals every month

No ongoing fees and no interest to pay

7 GBP delivery fee

No option to earn points or rewards

Click here to read a full Wise review

What is a travel money card?

A travel money card can be used for contactless payments in stores, online shopping and cash withdrawals. Where it’s different to any other card you might hold is that your travel card will have been optimised for international spending, to make spending in a foreign currency cheaper and easier.

The UK is well served for travel money cards, and while individual cards all have their own features and benefits, you may find you can hold a balance in multiple currencies, avoid foreign transaction fees, or earn cash back or rewards overseas.

What are different types of travel cards?

Generally you can split the different types of travel cards available in the UK into the following categories. We’ll walk through the features and benefits of each in a moment:

Travel debit cards

Travel prepaid cards

Travel credit cards

Quick summary: Best travel cards for Bali

Bali is part of Indonesia - so while you’re there you’ll need to spend Indonesian rupiah (IDR). This review of travel cards offers 6 convenient cards to let you do just that. Here’s what we’ll be looking at:

Wise travel debit card : Hold 40+ currencies, including IDR, with no ongoing fees, and spend with the mid-market exchange rate with no foreign transaction fee and low conversion costs from 0.43%

Revolut travel debit card : Hold a balance in GBP or around 25+ other currencies, then spend in IDR with mid-market exchange rates to the plan limit. Pick from 4 different plan types, including some with no monthly fee, and some which come with ongoing costs but which unlock more benefits and no fee transactions

Post Office travel money card : Hold GBP and 21 other currencies, with a secure card you can pick up in person at a Post Office. A 3% fee applies when spending IDR

Monese travel money card : Hold a balance in GBP, then spend in IDR with no fees, up to your plan’s limit. Different plans on offer, including Simple which has no ongoing fees to pay

Barclays Rewards Visa travel credit card: Spend with the Visa exchange rate, and earn 0.25% cash back, with no foreign transaction fee and no cash advance fee. Interest and penalties can apply

Halifax Clarity Mastercard travel credit card: No foreign transaction fee, no annual fee, and no cash advance fee if you withdraw money at an ATM. Variable interest and penalties can apply

Travel money cards for Bali compared

Here’s a brief comparison of all the cards we’ve picked out - in a moment we’ll also look at each card in more detail.

Before you order a new travel money card, you’ll need to weigh up which type of card, and which specific provider might suit your needs. Travel debit cards from a service like Wise can let you hold an IDR balance which is handy if you want to see your travel budget for Bali in advance.

Monese cards come with some currency exchange with no fees, depending on the plan you pick. And while credit cards can be pretty costly they can also offer ways to earn rewards as you spend. This guide helps you compare different card types and providers so you can pick the right one for your needs.

Travel Debit Cards for Bali

Travel debit cards from a specialist provider come with a linked digital account you’ll manage from your phone. Depending on the specific travel debit card you select you may be able to add money in GBP and just convert to IDR at the point of payment automatically, or to hold a balance in IDR in your account so you can see exactly what you have to spend in advance. That can be handy if you spot a good exchange rate and want to lock it in, or if you’re working to a strict budget and want to see exactly how much you have to play with before you start spending.

Below we’ll walk through two popular travel debit card picks which each have their own specific features and fees, so you can compare.

Travel debit card option 1: Wise

There’s no fee to open a personal Wise account , but you’ll pay a one time card order fee of 7 GBP. After that there’s no minimum balance and no monthly charge. Wise accounts can support 40+ currencies for holding and exchange, with low fees from 0.43% when you convert currencies, and transparent ATM fees when you exhaust the monthly free transactions available with your account.

No fee to open a personal Wise account, no minimum balance requirement

7 GBP one time fee to get your Wise card

2 withdrawals, to 200 GBP value per month for free, then 0.5 GBP + 1.75%

Hold IDR and 40+ other currencies, convert between them with the mid-market rate

Get local account details to receive GBP, NZD, EUR, USD and a selection of other major currencies conveniently

Travel debit card option 2: Revolut

Revolut has a selection of different account tiers for personal customers in the UK, including Standard plans with no monthly fee, to the top end Ultra plan which has a 45 GBP/month fee and comes with loads of perks including a fancy platinum plated card.

You can hold around 25 currencies, although IDR isn't supported for holding and exchange. Instead you’ll add money in GBP and your card will convert automatically with the mid-market rate to your plan’s allowance, whenever you spend or make a cash withdrawal. The higher account tiers also come with extras like various different forms of complimentary insurance, discounts, cash back opportunities and travel benefits.

No monthly fee for a Standard Revolut account, or upgrade to one of 4 different account plans which have monthly fees running from 3.99 GBP/month to 45 GBP/month

All accounts have some no fee weekday currency conversion with fair usage fees after that which are 1% for Standard plan holders

Standard plan holders can withdraw 200 GBP overseas per month for free

Hold around 25 currencies

Pros and cons of using debit travel cards in Bali

How much does a travel debit card cost.

The costs of a travel debit card depend on the provider you pick and the way you transact.

For the cards we’ve looked at here, the Wise travel debit card has a one time fee to get your physical card, but there are no monthly charges or minimum balance requirements after that. You can add a balance in GBP and then switch over to IDR in advance with a small currency conversion cost which can be as low as 0.43%. Or you can leave your money in GBP and the card can convert for you with the same great rates and low fees.

Revolut works a little differently, with 4 different account plans available including a Standard account with no ongoing charges but relatively limited features, and 3 personal account plans which have a monthly fee but which offer more no-fee transactions. You can’t hold a balance in IDR so you’ll need to rely on the card to convert for you. There are no fees until you hit your plan conversion limit, but there are then fair usage fees of 0.5% - 1% for some account tiers after that.

How to choose the best travel debit card in Bali?

The best travel debit card for Bali will depend to an extent on your personal preference. If you’d prefer to see your travel budget in IDR ahead of time, you might consider Wise as you can add a balance and then convert to IDR for spending later.

As an alternative, you might choose Revolut which lets you add money in GBP and spend in IDR with no conversion fees up to your plan limit. To unlock more no-fee conversion you’ll need to pay monthly fees so it’s worth comparing your options based on how frequently you might use your card.

Is there a spending limit with a travel debit card in Bali?  

You’ll probably find there’s a spending limit for your travel debit card. However, this limit can vary quite significantly, depending on the provider you pick. You can also usually adjust your spending limits for security in the provider’s app which means you can set the limit you’re comfortable with.

For the providers mentioned above, Revolut UK travel debit card holders have some spending caps based on merchant and transaction type. This applies to things like sending money to others, buying travellers cheques or money orders, and betting. Wise caps monthly card spending at 30,000 GBP but you can also move your limit lower if you’d like to, for security reasons.

ATM withdrawals

ATM withdrawals with a travel debit card are also likely to be subject to limits. Revolut applies a 3,000 GBP limit based on any given 24 hour period. Wise ATM withdrawal limits are 4,000 GBP per month. Both providers allow you to make some no fee ATM withdrawals monthly, but the exact amount you can withdraw will depend on your account type.

Prepaid Travel Cards for Bali

[Prepaid travel cards] ( https://exiap.co.uk/guides/best-prepaid-travel-cards ) are another common option for your trip to Bali. As with travel debit cards, you’ll have an extra layer of security because your card isn’t linked to your main UK bank account. But because prepaid cards don’t commonly support IDR for holding a balance, there could be a few extra transaction fees which push up the overall cost, depending on the specific card you select. Here are a couple of strong contenders for prepaid travel cards in the UK:

Prepaid travel card option 1: Post Office Travel Money Card

You can order a Post Office Travel Money Card online or pick one up in person at a branch as long as you have a valid ID on you. Cards allow you to top up and hold 22 currencies, although bear in mind a fee applies when you spend in IDR as it’s not a currency supported by the card. That means that when you spend in Bali, payments will be deducted from your GBP balance instead, with a 3% fee.

3% cross border fee when you spend in IDR

22 currencies are supported for holding and exchange

No fee to spend a currency you hold on your card

ATM withdrawal fee will be deducted from your GBP balance, and will be the equivalent of 1.5 GBP

Manage your account and card from the Post Office travel money app

Prepaid travel card option 2: Monese Travel Money Card

Monese offers several different account plans which come with linked cards you can use while overseas. Depending on the plan you pick you’ll get some free international spending and some free ATM withdrawals. Simple account plans have no monthly fees, but are more limited in terms of no-fee transactions compared to the other account tiers. While Monese does offer foreign currency account plans, these are not available in IDR.

Pick the account plan that suits your needs, including a Simple plan with no monthly costs and some plans which do have a fee to pay every month

Accounts offered in GBP, EUR and RON

Simple account plan holders can spend up to 2,000 GBP a month in foreign currencies with no fees - other account plans have unlimited overseas spending with no extra fees

All accounts have some fee free ATM withdrawals every month, with variable limits based on account plan

Virtual cards available

Pros and cons of using prepaid travel cards in Bali

How much does a prepaid card cost.

The costs of a prepaid travel card can vary quite a lot. The Post Office travel card has no initial fee, but as IDR isn’t supported for holding and exchange, you’ll pay a 3% cross border fee when you’re in Bali.

Monese has account plans which offer some currency conversion with no fees every month, so this can still be an attractive option based on cost, but you’ll need to weigh up any monthly fees that apply for your specific card plan.

How to choose the best travel prepaid card for Bali?

The best prepaid travel card for Bali really depends on your personal preferences. The Post Office card has the advantage that you can pop into a Post Office branch and get one in person if you’re in a hurry - but the downside that using it in Indonesia comes with a hefty 3% cross border fee. The Monese cards on offer include a Simple card which has no monthly fee but which only lets you spend up to 2,000 GBP internationally a month before extra costs apply. If you’re spending more, upgrading to a Monese account with a monthly fee may actually be better value - plus you can downgrade again any time you like.

Prepaid travel card spending limit

The Post Office travel card lets you top up to 5,000 GBP at a time, with the maximum balance at any given time set at 10,000 GBP, or 30,000 GBP annually. Monese accounts may have different limits based on the tier you pick - usually set at a maximum holding balance at any time of 40,000 GBP. You may be limited to spending up to 7,000 GBP a day, depending on your account type.

With the Post Office card, you can make up to 17,000 THB maximum daily withdrawals and each withdrawal costs 80 THB. Monese accounts may have a maximum ATM withdrawal of 300 GBP a day, depending on the specific account you pick, so it’s worth reading the fee schedule carefully to understand the details.

Travel credit cards for Bali

Travel credit cards don’t let you hold a balance in IDR, but instead when you spend your payment is converted from Indonesian rupiah to GBP using the network rate to be added to your bill. With travel credit cards you’ll often find that the foreign transaction fees which many credit cards use for foreign currency spending are waived, which can mean it’s around 3% cheaper to use a travel credit card abroad compared to using a normal credit card.

However, as with all credit cards, there are some fees you’re likely to run into with a travel credit card which can mean it’s a more expensive option than using a debit card.

Travel credit card option 1: Barclaycard Rewards Visa 

The Barclaycard Rewards Visa credit card is a good, straightforward option for UK customers looking for a credit card which does not have foreign transaction fees, and which doesn’t have an annual fee. As with any credit card, some costs can apply including interest fees if you don’t clear your bill monthly, but you’ll be able to earn 0.25% cash back on all your card spending at home and abroad.

No annual fee, with 0.25% cash back on card spending

Currency exchange uses the network rate and no foreign transaction fee

No ATM withdrawal fee - but interest can still apply

28.9% representative APR, with penalty fees for late payments

Secure spending with extra protection on some purchases

Travel credit card option 2: Halifax Clarity Mastercard

The Halifax Clarity Mastercard has a variable interest rate which is based on your creditworthiness, but doesn’t use different rates for different transaction types as some cards do. There’s no foreign transaction fee when you spend or withdraw in foreign currencies, but bear in mind that an ATM operator might charge a fee, and interest accrues instantly for cash advance transactions.

No foreign transaction fee when spending or making a cash withdrawal overseas

Interest applies instantly when making cash withdrawals

Same interest rate applies on all purchase categories

Variable APR based on your credit score - you’ll need to check your eligibility online to see the APR you’d be offered

Spending is covered by the Consumer Credit act which means extra protections for purchases from 100 GBP to 30,000 GBP in value

Pros and cons of using credit cards for Bali

How much does a travel credit card cost.

Travel credit cards may have no annual charge and no foreign transaction fee to pay when spending overseas. However, variable interest, which is set based on your credit score, will still apply if you don’t pay your bill in full every month. It’s also important to note that although the cards we’ve featured above have no cash advance fee for making ATM withdrawals, interest usually accrues instantly. Overall that can mean credit card spending costs more in the end than using a debit or prepaid travel card.

How to choose the best travel credit card for Bali?

If you’re planning on spreading the costs of your spending over a few months it’s worth looking for the card which has the lowest available interest, particularly if it has no annual fee to worry about. If you’ll usually repay your bill in full monthly it may be more important to you to find a card which offers cash back or rewards. Weigh up a few different options while you decide, to make sure you get the right match for your specific needs.

Travel credit card spending limit

Your travel credit card spending limit will be set by the card provider, and will depend on your credit score. You’ll be shown details of your spending limit when you’re approved for a travel credit card.

The cards we’ve looked at earlier don’t charge a cash advance fee, but this is a common cost when using a credit card at an ATM, so worth looking out for when you select any credit card. It’s also worth noting that it’s very common for ATM withdrawals to start accruing interest instantly, so you’ll end up needing to repay some charges whenever you use your credit card in an ATM.

How much money do I need in Bali?

Bali doesn’t have to be an expensive destination. While you can opt for high end luxury, there are nice hotels at a reasonable price and food shouldn’t break the bank either. Here’s a quick look at some common costs in Bali:

Conclusion: Which travel money card is best for Bali?

Using a travel money card when you’re overseas is secure and convenient, and can help you cut costs and manage foreign transaction fees.

The right travel card for Bali will depend on what you prefer. Check out a few while you’re shopping around - the Wise travel debit card might suit if you want to convert to IDR either in advance or at the point of payment, with low fees and the mid-market exchange rate. A Monese travel prepaid card might be a good pick if you’ll only exchange money to the free currency conversion limit set in your specific plan. Or, a travel credit card like the Barclays Rewards Visa could work if you want a card for earning cash back and for using as a payment guarantee.

FAQ - Best travel cards for Bali

Can you withdraw cash with a credit card in bali.

Yes. You can use your credit card to make an ATM withdrawal at any ATM in Bali where your card network is accepted. However, bear in mind you’ll pay interest instantly when you use a credit card in an ATM. Choosing to withdraw with a low cost travel debit card from Wise or Revolut may bring down your overall fees.

Can I use a debit card in Bali?

Cards aren’t universally accepted in Bali. You should have no problems paying in larger and chain stores, hotels and restaurants in the cities, but bear in mind that you may not be able to pay with card in smaller merchants or at markets, so having both a prepaid or travel debit card and some Indonesian rupiah in cash is a smart plan.

Are prepaid cards safe?

Yes. Prepaid cards are not linked to your normal UK bank account which means that they’re safe to use. Even if you were unlucky and someone stole your card while you’re in Bali, they would not be able to access your main account - and you could freeze your prepaid card in the app easily if you needed to.

What is the best way to pay in Bali?

In some places, cash will be the only option for making payments in Bali. In general, making sure you always have some cash in Indonesian rupiah, and a travel card for spending or getting cash from an ATM, is a good choice so you have a back up plan if you ever need it.

Bali Holiday Secrets

7 Rules to Exchange Cash at Money Changers in Bali

updated September 27, 2022, 6:36 pm 124.5k Views 64 Comments

Away from the major hotels and larger restaurants paying by credit card isn’t always possible, so you will need Rupiah while on holiday from money changers in Bali. Luckily money changers are plentiful and most — although definitely not all — are trustworthy and offer better exchange rates than you will get by withdrawing money from an ATM . Follow my guide and you’ll exchange currency for Indonesian Rupiah with confidence.

If you are here for a short time, say less than 4 or 5 days, using an ATM is fine. It’s easy, risk-free assuming you choose your ATM wisely and the amount you get charged by your bank is possibly worth the exorbitant fees they charge for the security and peace of mind they provide.

However, if you are planning on staying longer than a few days, and spending more than say USD$500, then using a money changer to exchange cash for Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), which is the local currency in Bali , makes good economic sense.

Changing your local currency into Indonesian Rupiah can be a painless and low-risk transaction if you follow these simple rules.

1. Pick somewhere popular.

We know this sounds obvious, but you would be surprised how many people go looking down back-alleys and side-streets thinking they are going to be able to get a better deal on the exchange rate and commission.

This is foolhardy at best and significantly increases the chances of being scammed. The larger and more established money exchanges are larger and established for a good reason.

Pick a money changer with direct frontage onto a main street with heavy walk-by traffic and ask the rate. Check it off the internet, and factor in their margin. If it’s close, you’re good to go.

Rule number one: use a popular money changer with direct frontage onto a main street with heavy walk-by traffic.

2. No commission. Just the market rate.

The best money exchanges don’t charge a commission. They have a regularly updated market rate that closely tracks the international inter-bank foreign exchange rate.

Places that charge a commission are simply going to make it up with a less competitive exchange rate, so you are not going to be any better off. All you are doing is making the transaction more complex than it needs to be, and therefore harder to tell at a glance if you are getting a reasonable deal or not.

Rule number two: use a money changer that doesn’t charge a commission with clearly published exchange rates.

3. The rate is the rate.

Unless you are looking to exchange more than USD$10,000 then trying to negotiate a better rate than advertised is most likely a waste of time.

The best exchanges will track a foreign exchange rate within 2-3 percentage points of the international inter-bank rate easily discoverable by checking the Internet — it really is that simple.

I recommend downloading the XE.com smart-phone app which you can get from Google Play for Android and App Store for iOS. Simply pick your currency and check the money changer’s rate — if it’s within 2-3 percentage points then you’re good to go. That’s the money changer’s markup and how they make a profit.

The rate published on xe.com is the inter-bank rate. So unless you are literally a bank, this is not the rate you are ever going to get.

For example, as of the time of writing (31 July 2018), xe.com was showing a mid-market rate of AUD$1 = IDR10,719 while Central Kuta Money Exchange was offering IDR10,550, which is as close a spread as you will ever get.

There will, however, be a slight difference between the smaller, name brand kiosks generally located outside supermarkets and shopping centres, which tend to be slightly more expensive than the larger, well-staffed and high volume money changers with larger shopfronts.

Rule number three: the Internet means foreign exchange rates are instantly transparent, so check the rate and if within 2-3 points you’re good.

A word of warning: if you are offered a rate better than the published rate on xe.com, then politely decline and leave the premises politely but firmly, because…

4. There is no such thing as free money.

It’s a very simple rule, but something about the prospect of free money appeals to peoples innate sense of greed. They start thinking they are the smartest person in the room (uh-oh).

If you are offered something too good to be true, you are literally a scam-in-progress.

This is dead easy to spot. As mentioned above, if you are offered an exchange rate better than that published on xe.com something is clearly wrong.

Politely decline and firmly leave the premises. Do not stay. The money changer in front of you will not magically transform from someone clearly trying to lure you into a scam into a wonderfully honest and trustworthy person to which you want to hand over your hard-earned cash.

Rule number 4: if the exchange rate offered is better than the one on xe.com, run.

5. What currency is best to bring to Bali?

The best money changers, BMC and Central Kuta Money Exchange, tend to have the best exchange rates and a plentiful supply of Indonesian Rupiah, so you can bring almost any currency and they will have a solid market rate. It really doesn’t matter which currency you bring as they will exchange most currencies without a problem.

The only time supply becomes an issue is if you are trying to exchange Indonesian Rupiah for foreign currency. Then you are best served by visiting an outlet and placing an order ahead of time. Both these outlets can arrange pretty much any currency you need, within reason, but obviously the more lead time the better. Inside a few hours is sometimes difficult but a day is usually enough.

6. Limit on bringing cash into Bali.

There is a new banking regulation brought in by the Indonesian Central Bank in March 2018 that only allows IDR 1 billion (approximately USD$75,000) in foreign currency notes to be brought in by individuals. If someone brings in more then customs officials have the power to confiscate it.

Be aware that any amount more than IDR 100 million (approximately USD$7,500) must be declared when clearing customs and you are required to report this on your immigration form that needs to be completed and presented on arrival.

7. Beware common scams.

While less common than they used to be, but unfortunately still common enough, are the smaller operations that will take any opportunity to scam an unsuspecting tourist.

Be careful when watching the count. A common scam is to count your exchanged IDR in front of you and just before handing it over palm a few notes using sleight of hand. Once you hold the wad of cash in your hand, the transaction is excepted and any short-changing is difficult to come back from.

You can rant and yell all you like, but it is virtually impossible to prove you have been scammed.

Don’t forget it works the other way around. There are plenty of tourists who make a fuss when they get their money and rant about being short-changed when they weren’t. This never ends well.

That’s why the best money changers fill out a form noting the amount of foreign currency you are changing, the exchange rate and the amount of IDR you will receive.

If you are a bit nervous, simply make sure you have the form completed to your satisfaction before handing over your currency.

Check the paperwork has the amount you are tendering, the exchange rate is correct and the amount in IDR you will receive. Follow these simple rules and your chances of being scammed are practically none.

Rule number 5: avoid small operations that play fast and loose with the paperwork.

8. Locations of the Best Money Changers in Bali.

The Money Changers we recommend as easily accessible, trustworthy, commission-free with consistently competitive rates are BMC and Central Kuta Money Exchange.

Central Kuta Money Exchange, Seminyak

Address:   Jalan Camplung Tanduk No.100-103, Seminyak Open Hours: Mon-Sun 8:10am-9:15pm

Address: Jalan Kayu Jati, Seminyak Open Hours:  Mon-Sun 08:15am-03:00am

Keeping your money safe is easier when you know how. I suggest you read my posts on Bali Currency and how to safely use ATMs in Bali . Have a great holiday!

© 2024 Bali Holiday Secrets. Hosted with Cloudways .

Is it better to take IDR or USD to Bali? A travel guide to your trip to Bali

Wondering whether to take USD or IDR to Bali? Get the inside scoop on the best currency and how much cash to bring from expert travel bloggers. Bali money guide

Last Update: July 2, 2024

• Destinations

If you’re travelling to Bali, it’s advisable to bring Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) with you. In case you can’t get the currency beforehand, the best options would be to carry Australian Dollars (AUD) , US Dollars (USD) or Euros (EUR) . You can easily exchange these three currencies at almost any location on the island.

Which currency is best to carry to Bali? IDR vs USD

Should i use usd in bali, what is the currency in bali, what currency should you carry to bali, how much usd should i bring to bali, is $1000 enough for bali , should i exchange money before going to bali, can i withdraw usd in bali, should i pay in usd or idr, where can i exchange money in bali, are there international atms in bali, is it safe to use my credit card in bali, how much cash should i budget per day, bali money tips wrap-up, key takeaway, best bali travel insurance, where to go next.

IDR is the official currency of Indonesia, and it’s generally recommended to carry some with you. While many places in Bali accept USD , you’ll get better exchange rates and avoid fees if you pay in the local currency. Taking at least a few hundred thousand IDR will cover taxis, meals, and other daily expenses.

You can use USD in Bali , as it’s widely accepted, but it’s not always the best option. Hotels and tour companies often inflate USD prices, and you may get lower rates by paying IDR. Also, if you pay in USD, you may get a change back in IDR at a poor exchange rate. 

The official currency used in Bali is the Indonesian rupiah (IDR). Bali is part of Indonesia, so IDR is accepted everywhere on the island.

Ideally, carry a mix of IDR and USD when travelling to Bali. Have at least 200,000-500,000 IDR for daily costs like food, transport, and sightseeing. Bring $100-200 in USD as a backup for places that don’t accept IDR.

Around $100-200 in USD is sufficient as emergency cash or for places that only accept dollars. Any more than that is unnecessary. Rely mainly on IDR and use ATMs to withdraw more as needed so you don’t have to carry large amounts of cash.

Yes, $1000 is plenty for Bali! You can comfortably enjoy a week or two on that budget. The cost of living is quite cheap. Withdraw IDR from ATMs there rather than bringing so much USD cash.

It’s generally better to withdraw IDR from ATMs in Bali rather than exchange money beforehand. This gives you the best rates. Just exchange $100-200 USD to have on hand when you arrive. Then, take out IDR from ATMs as needed.

Most ATMs in Bali dispense IDR, not USD. Some privately run ATMs in tourist areas may offer USD withdrawals, but the exchange rates and fees are usually very high. Stick to IDR withdrawals for the best value.

Thailand Vs Indonesia | The ultimate comparison

Read the guide

More Tips for Managing Money in Bali

Pay in IDR to get better rates. But have USD handy for places that don’t accept IDR or charge higher prices in the local currency. Know the current exchange rate so you don’t get ripped off.

Many ATMs allow you to withdraw IDR . Additionally, you can exchange money at banks, airport exchange booths, and reputable money changers in tourist areas. Compare rates first and avoid shady dealers on the street.

FREE Bali Travel Guide

Everything you should know before going to Bali: a FREE Guide to download and use offline on your mobile.

Yes, you’ll find ATMs that accept foreign cards at the airport, major banks, malls, convenience stores, and tourist hotspots around Bali . Look for networks like Cirrus, Plus, or Visa/Mastercard affiliation. Withdraw smaller amounts more frequently for safety.

Using a major credit card in reputable hotels, restaurants, and stores is generally safe in Bali. However, there is always a small risk of card skimming or cloning. Pay with cash for street vendors and other informal businesses.

Budget 500,000 to 1,000,000 IDR ($35-70 USD) per day per person, excluding accommodations. This covers meals, transportation, activities, and other expenses. You can get by on less on a shoestring budget or spend more for luxuries. Adjust amounts based on your travel style.

By taking a moderate amount of USD as backup and relying on IDR for daily costs, you’ll get the most value when travelling in Bali. Use ATMs to take out only what you need. Enjoy the island without having to worry about currency!

By following these tips and using a sensible mix of IDR and USD, you can avoid money troubles and make the most of your funds in Bali. Travel light with cash and rely on ATM withdrawals to access your money. Enjoy the island without breaking the bank!

5 Best Bali Tips

Research your destination: Read up on the place you’re visiting, including customs, laws, common scams, and any risks. Being prepared avoids issues.

Pack light: Only bring essentials to avoid heavy luggage. Laundry services are widely available in most places. Limit yourself to a carry-on and personal item if possible.

Obtain travel insurance: Purchase a comprehensive policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost baggage, and other issues. It’s a small price for major peace of mind.

Be polite and respectful:

• Observe local customs and dress appropriately
• Learn basic phrases in the local language
• Be patient and courteous in interactions. You’ll gain goodwill and have better experiences

Guard your valuables: Use hotel safes, lock bags, and don’t carry everything at once. Keep an eye on belongings at airports and tourist sites. Avoid showing off expensive items. Stay alert for pickpockets.

These simple but vital tips will help ensure your travels are safe, enjoyable, and hassle-free, whether going abroad or visiting a new place domestically. Plan, pack wisely, get insurance, and respect the local culture.

If you’re thinking of visiting Bali, it’s important to have travel insurance . Accidents and illnesses can happen anywhere, and without insurance , emergency medical treatment can be incredibly expensive. With a good travel insurance policy, you can have peace of mind knowing you’re covered in any unforeseen circumstances.

Looking for a travel insurance for Southeast Asia? Read our suggestions!

We know that safety is the primary thing to think when planning a trip to Bali. So we always rely on Safety Wing and HeyMondo . These are our long term partners and never let us down. Check the best for you! Annual | Long Stay

A good travel policy should cover emergency medical treatment and trip cancellations. Bali hotels usually require upfront payment, and tour operators have strict cancellation policies. With travel insurance , you’ll be reimbursed for these expenses if your trip is cut short due to covered circumstances.

Travel insurance covers lost luggage, flight delays, rental vehicle excess, theft of valuables, health emergencies, trip interruptions, and other costly mishaps. Don’t risk ruinous expenses when visiting Bali or any foreign country. Get a comprehensive travel insurance policy for a reasonable price and enjoy financial peace of mind. Check our suggested TRAVEL INSURANCE – SAFETY WING!

Is Bali worth visiting? A guide to pros and cons of visiting the island of gods, and tips on how to make it the best trip of your life. READ NOW!

Is Thailand in Indonesia? Often people are mistaken between Thailand and Indonesia. Read our guide on how to distinguish the two. THIS IS THE ARTICLE.

Meet the Authors: Toti and Ale

We're Toti and Ale, avid travellers, award-winning writers, and photographers  living life one stamp at a time. It's more than five years since we hit the road in search of the perfect place to explore, dive into the local culture, eat tasty exotic food, and discover every corner. We have been in more than 35 countries, hand in hand, offering inspiring guides on Passport and Stamps and other award-winning travel blogs. We are London-based, but we travel the world as Digital Nomads with a purpose: to help you travel more and better in a sustainable way. You can find us here, offering tips for backpackers, itineraries or guides to cross countries and get on the most insane adventures. We are committed to sharing insights, providing valuable information, and inspiring responsible and meaningful travel. Join us as we explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, savour the beauty of slow travel, and make a positive impact on the places we visit.

How much money do I need to backpack Southeast Asia?

Backpacking Koh Lanta: The 2024 ULTIMATE Guide & 7 Day Itinerary

Ayutthaya Day trip Itinerary: Exploring the Ruins of Siam

Supan Ecolodge and Spa: the Best hotel in Sapa with infinity pool

Is Cat Cat Village in Sapa worth your time? An honest guide

Indonesia, Bali and the Indonesian Rupiah

Everything about the indonesian rupiah and all the easy options to access idr with travelex, travel insurance, travel sim & esims, find a store, about indonesia, historical rates, track the idr rate, travelex info, join the conversation, customer support.

You are here

Aud to idr exchange rate, buy indonesian rupiah.

Buy in Store

Buy IDR hassle-free at any of our 80+ stores across Australia .

Same Day Delivery

Order online and get your IDR notes delivered to your doorstep. Safe, secure & insured!

Click & Collect

Order online and pick up your IDR at your best convenience.

Planning your trip

Holiday budget calculator.

We get it, doing your holiday budget is a snore fest. It's important though, so we've made it super easy for you to do now. Just punch in your holiday deets and we'll combine destination spend data with our exchange rates so you know how much to take. Easy peasy budget donesy!

Inspiration

Bali waterfall 700x300.jpg.

How Much Money Do I Need To Travel Indonesia?

I_brittanysmyth_bali 700x300.jpg.

Pro Travel Tips for Indonesia

About the currency, coins and notes.

The rupiah consists of coins in Rp 50, Rp 100, Rp 200, Rp 500 and Rp 1,000 denominations, and banknotes in Rp 1,000, Rp 2,000, Rp 5,000, Rp 10,000, Rp 20,000, Rp 50,000 and Rp 100,000. Because of the big numbers, Indonesian banknotes are used more than the coins.

Facts about the currency

• In 2014, the Indonesian Central Bank announced that the existing rupiah would be phased out as it was redenominated, and a new rupiah was phased in at the end of 2018.
• The word "rupiah" comes from the Sanskrit word for wrought silver: "rupya". The name was first used to denote a coin introduced by a 16th Century ruler in Northern India.
• The red 100,000 note features Indonesia's first Vice President, Mohammed Hatta, and first President, Sukarno. The Indonesian Parliament building in Jakarta is on the reverse side.
• The rupiah was first introduced to Indonesia after they declared independence in 1945.
• Abaca wood fibres are the preferred materials for printing banknotes on, but long fibres from any kind of wood can be used.
• The rupiah has been heavily devalued over the years and you may find yourself carrying large amounts of money around.