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Bali Holiday Secrets

Is it better to Take Cash or Credit Cards to Bali?

updated July 1, 2022, 5:34 pm 80.6k Views 13 Comments

One of the most common questions I get is about taking cash or credit cards to Bali on holiday. Many people are concerned that using a card at an ATM is dangerous because of the possibility of it being skimmed or swallowed, quickly ruining an otherwise great holiday. Bringing cash can also have its pitfalls unless you know how to navigate the wide range of options for changing money in Bali. Use this guide to manage your money during your holiday.

Is it better to take cash or credit cards to Bali?

Short answer, both. You can use credit cards in Bali at most hotels, restaurants and tour operators. However, getting around and experiencing Bali will mean you need local currency (Rupiah) as most smaller local businesses and markets don’t have EFT-POS machines.

Definitely bring cash with you. It’s best to bring large-denomination banknotes for exchanging into Indonesian Rupiah at one of the many money changers found all over Bali, but mainly in the tourist destinations of Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, Sanur and Nusa Dua.

Most major currencies are readily exchanged at money changers, including but not limited to AUD, CAD, EUR, GBP, HKD, MYR, NZD, SFR, SGD, THB, USD and YEN.

What currency is used in Bali?

The Indonesian Rupiah is the only currency accepted at all Balinese businesses. The larger hotels and tour operators may accept foreign currency but at an expensive premium .

I have written a comprehensive guide to Bali Currency including detailed descriptions of the banknotes, current exchange rates and a guide to what some basics cost when on holiday in Bali.

IDR100.000 is equivalent to around AUD$10. So remember, carrying around $300 in cash means around IDR3.000.000 Rupiah, which is quite a thick wad of banknotes.

You will need local rupiah for a wide range of occasions where credit cards aren’t accepted, like paying for parking with a 2.000 rupiah note (which is around AUD$0.20) or buying street food like the famous babi guling (Balinese roasted pork) for Rp30.000 (around AUD$3).

You are also best off taking cash to the markets for buying some of those genuine fake t-shirts, bags, hats and shoes along with the obligatory souvenirs for the family and friends back home.

And taxis only accept cash. Don’t forget to read my guide on how to catch a taxi in Bali and how much to pay.

Can I exchange cash at hotels?

Yes, you can at most hotels, but the premium for changing money at a hotel is usually very steep . Changing currency is a profitable revenue stream for hotels and bargaining for a better exchange rate is usually out of the question.

They often charge a transaction fee or commission on top of the uncompetitive exchange rate, so changing cash, particularly small amounts, is prohibitively expensive.

I highly recommend exchanging your cash for local currency at a reputable money changer.

Are money-changers safe to use in Bali?

Yes. Using money changers in Bali will get you the best exchange rate and value for money than any other method. The problem is that there are still many unscrupulous money changers looking to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists .

There are several reputable and trustworthy money changers in Bali and I highly recommend you read my article on how to exchange cash using local money changers .

There are many people who, unfortunately, do get ripped off because they use dodgy money changers in the many side streets and alleyways of Bali, particularly in Kuta, Legian and Seminyak.

If you follow my guide the risk of being ripped off is virtually nil .

Where is the best exchange rate in Bali?

Without doubt, the most efficient and recommended method for exchanging your money for local Indonesian Rupiah is using the money changers. You can find money changers pretty much everywhere in Bali, although I recommend only using those who are on the trusted list of Bali Money Changers . In that article, I also cover which money changers to use and how to avoid the bad ones.

Exchanging cash for Indonesian Rupiah at a money changer will get you a better exchange rate than using a bank, withdrawing from an ATM, changing at a hotel or using the exchange booths at your departure airport.

Are ATMs safe to use in Bali?

Generally, yes. There are ATMs all over Bali, although there is a continuing problem with skimming machines being used by criminals to capture your card details and either on-sell them or use the cards for purchases.

Knowing how to spot an unsafe ATM is easy enough, and I have written an extensive guide for withdrawing cash at ATMs in Bali . Using this guide your chances having your credit card skimmed while using an ATM is virtually nil .

What credit cards are accepted in Bali?

For businesses that do accept credit cards for transactions, Visa and Mastercard are universally accepted .

Expect to pay a 3% surcharge for using a credit card at businesses in Bali, as the practice of passing on the transaction fee charged by the banks for processing credit card transactions is very common .

There is a growing trend to not charge a credit card fee for purchases, but these are still the exception and not the rule. The very popular Bintang Supermarket in Seminyak recently ceased charging a 3% fee for using a card.

The practice of adding a credit card transaction fee is not regulated in Indonesia (and therefore Bali), so it is unpredictable which businesses will charge extra for using a credit card .

Can Debit Cards be used in Bali?

As a rule of thumb, Visa and Mastercard Debit cards are processed exactly the same as Credit Cards. However plain debit cards not linked to one of Visa or Mastercard are not accepted.

It’s the same for using ATMs — accounts linked to a Visa or Mastercard can access savings and checking accounts if these are enabled by your home bank.

It’s an easy thing to verify. If you can access your savings and checking accounts in your home country using your Visa or Mastercard then you can do the same in Bali at ATMs.

The exception is that most restaurants and hotels only accept a credit or debit transaction linked to your credit card.

Are US Dollars accepted in Bali?

US dollars are not generally accepted at Balinese businesses . Some larger hotels and tour operators may accept US Dollars as payment but the exchange rate will be terrible, so I don’t recommend using them to exchange your foreign currency if it can be helped.

You are much better off visiting a money changer and exchanging your US dollars for Indonesian Rupiah at a far better rate than you will get from a hotel or tour operator.

Is American Express accepted in Bali?

No. American Express is not generally accepted in Bali . Some international hotel chains will accept American Express but outside those few places, Amex is not accepted in Bali . Stick to Visa and Mastercard, both of which are generally accepted everywhere that takes credit cards.

Are traveller’s cheques accepted in Bali?

Yes. Money changers, in general, will exchange travellers’ cheques for local currency , but the rate is not as good as exchanging cash for Indonesian Rupiah.

Outside the international hotels, no businesses will accept travellers’ cheques as payment . You will need to exchange your traveller’s cheques for Indonesian Rupiah at a money changer. Most shops and businesses don’t accept them as payment.

Great advice!

This really has helped me plan my family's holiday so much Michael. I used to just change traveller's cheques or cash at the hotels I stayed at and I knew it was expensive but I didn't trust using money changers or ATMS. Now I know! I'm sending this to all my friends. Thank you again, it really is a wonderful resource.

What’s the best travel card to use in Bali?

Without a doubt, the Transferwise Debit Card is the best card for travelling anywhere, not just in Bali. I have been using Transferwise to transfer money between different currencies for several years, and they have the best exchange rates of any financial institution, and definitely far better than your bank or even your bank-issued travel card.

You can move money from your home bank account into your Transferwise account and move it between 59 currencies at the most competitive exchange rates I’ve ever seen for foreign currency transactions.

You can then spend in those currencies when on holiday. For example, while in Bali, you can move money into Indonesian Rupiah within your Transferwise account, and spend in Rupiah while in Bali with no fees or transaction charges, exactly the same as if you were using a local account .

You can read more about the Transferwise Debit Card here .

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8 Travel Traps to Avoid If You're Heading to Bali

Nothing can put a dampener on your escape to Bali like falling into a trap. A travel money trap!

We're sharing the most important travel moment traps we think you should avoid, and the travel money tips for Bali that can really help you save some money.

1. Not taking a prepaid card

Our first point is an important one. Using a prepaid card in Bali is a great way to avoid the fees and costly exchange rates that often come with ordinary debit and credit cards, not to mention the theft risk of carrying around large amounts of cash.

The Wise card is a good choice for a prepaid travel card. You get the market exchange rate, low fees and you'll only spend what you put on there.

Read the full review

2. Exchanging money at the Airport

Do not exchange currency at the airport. This goes for before you get on the plane in Australia and when you land in Bali. The rates are awful and the fees are high. You are much better off withdrawing cash from an ATM or going to a money exchange shop in a major city that you visit.

3. Not having different payment methods

Card is becoming more and more accepted in Bali. But having said this, there may be times when you will almost definitely need some cash. Having a combination of payment methods such as cash, debit card and credit card means you're covering all bases. As an extra tip, keep your money in different places. If the worst happens and you don't have access to some of your things it will put your mind at ease to know you still have money.

4. Paying in Australian dollars when using your card.

Sometimes when you make a purchase Internationally with your Australian debit or credit card, you will be asked if you want to make the payment in your currency, or the local currency. It is almost always better to pay in the local currency than it is to pay in AUD. The exchange rates are generally awful otherwise.

5. Forgetting to book luggage when you book your flight

Don't get caught out. If you're booking a flight, it can be tempting to save money by not booking any checked luggage. This can be a saving at the time, but it's much more expensive to buy luggage when you're checking in. Even if you're a light traveller, at least consider booking it for your flight home. This way you're covered in case you stock up on souvenirs and shopping.

6. Making too many ATM withdrawals

While it could be better to withdraw money from an ATM than it is to exchange money at the airport, or your hotel you still want to be careful. If you do decide to do this, just try to plan in advance. Because you will almost definitely need to make a withdrawal at some point during your stay in Bali, try and withdraw more money, less often. Fees will almost always be a set amount, so lessening the amount of times you're doing it can definitely help you save.

7. Not checking terms and conditions of travel cards

If you're worried about carrying cash, you may be tempted to buy a prepaid currency card. If you do this, just make yourself aware of all the fees and charges involved. Often they are advertised as free but can be expensive to reload and withdraw cash with. You can read more about the best cards to take to Bali  here .

8. Keeping too much cash on you

Our final tip is to safe guard you and those you are travelling with. If you choose to travel with cash, try to split up where you're keeping it. If you're keeping millions of Rupiah in your wallet, you're opening yourself to being left in a sticky situation if you lose it or it gets stolen. By keeping some cash on you, and maybe some in your luggage or in the safe at your hotel you will have a back up if the worst happens. But like we said in tip 2, it's best to have a few payment methods on you when you're travelling.

Where to get Bali currency from?

Spending with your card when you’re away from home is usually the most convenient option - but not everywhere you visit in Bali will accept cards, so also having some rupiah in cash is a smart idea. There are plenty of different ways you can get your IDR either before you travel or on arrival - although some will net you better exchange rates and lower fees compared to others. Here are a few places you can get your Bali travel money from:

• Open a multi-currency account with an online provider like Wise or Revolut. With Wise for example, you can add money in AUD and exchange to IDR, and set your holiday budget in advance of travel
• Get a travel card from a provider like Wise or Revolut which will let you top up in AUD and convert to IDR at the point of purchase or withdrawal, often with great exchange rates
• Order your IDR in cash before you travel and collect it at the airport - or take along AUD in cash and switch in the airport on the spot as you pass through (this can be a quite costly way to go - watch out for markups in the exchange rate if you choose to use an airport exchange)
• Carry cash to Bali and exchange in tourist locations and larger towns there which have currency exchange shops
• Buy IDR from your bank in cash - if this service is supported

Before you decide where to get your Bali currency from, compare a few options looking at both fees and exchange rates. Using a travel card with a linked multi-currency account is often one of the best value options as you’ll be able to securely manage your money in AUD and IDR without needing to carry too much cash at any given time.

Read a comprehensive guide on currency in Bali .

What other travel money traps to avoid in Bali?

You want your money to go as far as possible when you’re on holiday - and you certainly don’t want to be the victim of scams or theft. Use these common sense tips to make sure you avoid common travel money traps, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

1. Use a safety deposit box in your villa or hotel

You’ll be carrying your passport, electronics and valuables, as well as cash - and you don’t want to take any chances. In most cases hotels and villas will have a safety deposit box available for use, which can help protect all your important items and money while you’re away.

Worried about forgetting things in the safety deposit box? Leave something in there that you simply can’t forget - like a single shoe. You’ll notice it’s missing when you try to pack or leave, which can be a handy reminder to double check the safe!

2. Agree on a price before a service starts

Before you take a tour or trip, or hop in a taxi, make sure you’re very clear on the fees you’ll be charged in the end. It’s pretty common to find you’re asked for more than expected, either through simple miscommunication or if a seller or merchant deliberately inflates prices or forgets to mention all the fees involved in a service. 

Get everything straightened out in advance - so if you’re taking a snorkelling trip and don’t have your own gear, check if there’s a hire fee, and make sure you know if food or entry tickets are included in any tour you take, for example.

3. Beware of pickpocketing

Tourists are easy prey for pickpockets because they’re not familiar with their surroundings and often won’t be paying much attention to their belongings. Don’t get caught out. 

Situational awareness is usually all you need to avoid pickpockets - keep your valuables close by at all times, don’t put your wallet in a back pocket where it can easily be taken, and consider carrying your rucksack forward facing if you’re in a crowded area.

Bali prices

It’s rightly a very popular destination for Australians looking to spend time on the beach, surf, take part in yoga classes, visit retreats and spiritual or cultural sites. But what can you expect to pay for a trip to Bali? Let’s look.

How much does a trip to Bali cost from Australia?

You’ll inevitably need a flight which can be one of the biggest costs of any travel. The exact costs of a trip to Bali from Australia vary of course, depending on the airline you pick, the season and the airport you need to fly from. However, at the time of writing (July 2023), flights were available from Sydney for August 2023 starting from around 660 AUD return per person.

Accommodation

Bali hotel and villa pricing runs from great budget buys to top end all out luxury - and where on the island you want to be makes a huge difference too. The good news is that there’s something for you whatever your budget.

At the time of writing, if you wanted to stay in Ubud in August 2023 you could get a 4 star luxury hotel room for 2 including breakfast starting at about 250 AUD a night, while the very best villa (which tend to sleep far more people) came in at more like 500 AUD a night. Far cheaper options including hostels and homestays are also available.

Restaurant prices in Bali

If you’re looking for a low key meal, you’ll be able to get great food on Bali for just a few dollars. Or, go for a mid-range place for a 3 course meal for 2, and you’ll pay from about 33 AUD in total, according to cost of living calculator Numbeo.com.

For more information about Bali prices read this guide on how much things cost in Bali .

FAQ - travel money traps to avoid in Bali

What is the safest way to take money to Bali?

When you travel to Bali you probably want to have several different ways to pay including one or two cards, and some cash. However, carrying too much cash isn’t the safest option, and having your regular bank card with you can also expose you to extra fees when spending overseas. A great option is to get a travel money card from a service like Wise or Revolut, which lets you add AUD, and spend in IDR on your card. The account isn’t linked to your primary everyday account, making it secure, and easier to set your travel budget.

Should I exchange money before I travel to Bali?

Often the best way to get IDR cash for Bali is to have a multi-currency account with a payment card which lets you hold, spend and withdraw conveniently in rupiah. This can often mean you get a better exchange rate and lower overall costs compared to exchanging at the airport or your hotel - check out Wise and Revolut as strong options available in Australia.

Is it better to use cash or card in Bali?

Many places in Bali will accept card payments, which can be the most convenient way to pay. However, it’s not an option everywhere so having some cash is also a smart move. Get a travel money card to make ATM withdrawals locally on arrival in Bali, and so you don’t need to carry too much IDR cash at any one time.

Need to know more about travelling to Bali?

Passports, Visas and Vaccinations

How Much Things Cost in Bali

Currency in Bali

Banks, ATMs & Currency Exchange

The Best Cards to Use in Bali

7 Common Travel Money Traps to Avoid in Bali