Lyla Lindsey
Bali is a popular tourist destination for Australians, known for its beaches, surfing, yoga, and spiritual and cultural sites. It is generally an affordable destination, with hotel and food costs remaining stable regardless of where you travel from. However, flights can be costly, with prices depending on your departure airport. When travelling from Australia to Bali, it is important to consider the best way to exchange your money to get the best value for your trip.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Currency in Bali | Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) |
| Currency exchange rate | Better in Bali than in Australia |
| Where to exchange currency | Registered money changers, BMIC bank, or major Indo banks' ATMs in Bali |
| Where not to exchange currency | Australia, airport exchange booths, dodgy back-lane changers |
| How much to carry in cash | Only what is needed to get from the airport to the hotel in Bali |
| How to carry the rest of the money | Credit cards, travel cards (Wise, Revolut, Transferwise), or Australian debit cards (Visa or Mastercard) |
| Where to use cards | Large costs such as hotels, dinners, etc. |
| Where to use cash | Convenience stores, taxis, drinks, drivers, etc. |
| Average daily budget | $20-50 |
| Average cost of a round trip flight from Australia | AUD 400-660 |
| Average hotel pricing | Starting from AUD 250 for a 4-star luxury room for two with breakfast |
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What You'll Learn
Exchanging AUD to IDR in Australia or Bali
When it comes to exchanging AUD to IDR, there are a few options available to you, both in Australia and in Bali. Here is some information on each to help you make an informed decision:
Exchanging AUD to IDR in Australia
One option is to exchange your AUD for IDR before you depart for Bali. This can be done at a bank or a foreign exchange kiosk, such as Travelex. However, keep in mind that the exchange rates offered in Australia may not be as favourable as those in Bali. Some sources suggest that the rate in Australia could be "awful", with one source stating that it was around 8,000 IDR per AUD or less when they exchanged. Additionally, kiosks like Travelex may charge hidden fees or markups on the exchange rate, resulting in a lower amount of IDR than expected.
Exchanging AUD to IDR in Bali
Exchanging your currency after arriving in Bali can be a more cost-effective option. The airport in Denpasar, Bali, has money changers that offer decent exchange rates, providing a convenient option upon arrival. However, it is important to be cautious and count your money carefully to ensure you receive the correct amount.
Outside of the airport, you can find reputable money changers or use a travel card to withdraw IDR from ATMs of major Indonesian banks, which typically offer better rates than money changers. Some sources suggest using a "travel card" linked to your bank account to withdraw money, but be aware of potential card scams and daily withdrawal limits.
Additionally, some merchants in Bali may offer to charge you in your home currency (AUD). It is recommended to refuse this option, as the exchange rates are often unfavourable and can result in excessive transaction fees. Instead, always select the local currency (IDR) when making purchases to avoid these additional costs.
In summary, while exchanging AUD to IDR in Australia is convenient, the rates in Bali tend to be more favourable, especially at the airport and reputable money changers or ATMs. It is important to be cautious of potential scams and always count your money carefully when exchanging currency.
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Using ATMs in Bali
ATMs in Bali are common in bigger cities and tourist hotspots. They can be found in airports, markets, malls, outside bank branches, and on busy tourist streets. In more rural areas, you may have trouble finding an ATM, so it's recommended to stock up on rupiah beforehand.
The best ATMs to use are those located in the foyer of a major bank, such as BNI, BRI, BCA, CIMB Niaga, and Bank Mandiri. These banks have 24-hour security guards posted, so the chances of these ATMs being compromised are slim to none.
ATMs in Indonesia are generally safe to use, but it's important to be cautious of scams. Some ATMs deliver your cash first and then your card, so make sure not to walk away without taking your card. It's unlikely that you'll be able to retrieve it if you leave without it. Additionally, there have been cases of digital pad skimming devices found in ATMs, so it's recommended to use ATMs placed in banks, shopping malls, shops, and places with security cameras.
Before using an ATM in Bali, it's a good idea to check the fees with your bank. Even if there is a fee, the exchange rate you get may compensate for the cost. It's also important to inform your bank of your travel plans, as sudden overseas spending may cause your card to be blocked.
Most ATMs in Bali allow a maximum withdrawal of 1,250,000 (50,000 bill machines) to 3,000,000 rupiah (100,000 bill machines) per transaction, with a total maximum of 6,000,000 rupiah withdrawals per day.
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Using credit cards
Credit cards are widely accepted in Bali, particularly Visa and Mastercard. However, American Express is not generally accepted outside of a few international hotel chains.
If you are travelling from Australia to Bali, it is recommended to carry AUD in cash and exchange it for IDR at a reputable money changer in Bali. The exchange rate in Bali is better than in Australia. Money changers in Bali will get you the best exchange rate and value for money compared to other methods. However, there are many unscrupulous money changers looking to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists, so it is important to use only trusted and reputable money changers.
When using your credit card, it is recommended to refuse if the merchant offers to charge in your home country currency as the exchange rates are usually not favourable. Always select the currency of the country you are in to get a better exchange rate.
Additionally, it is worth noting that Bali is generally an affordable destination, with prices being cheaper than the average cost of living in Australia. However, your spending can vary depending on your preferences for accommodation, food, and activities.
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How much money to bring
The amount of money you should bring to Bali depends on your budget and travel plans. Bali is often significantly cheaper than other destinations, and it's just as affordable for young backpackers as it is for those seeking luxury.
Some days may cost nothing if you plan to spend the day at the beach near your hotel. On other days, you might spend $100 if you plan to travel to remote parts of the island. $20 a day is a reasonable budget, but $50 per day would allow you to travel more. $20-$30 per person per day is a good estimate for those who want to include alcohol or souvenir shopping in their budget.
Flights from Australia to Bali can be one of the biggest costs of the trip. A round trip from Sydney can be as low as AUD 400, and it's usually cheaper to fly from Melbourne. At the time of writing (July 2023), flights from Sydney for August 2023 started from around 660 AUD return per person.
Hotels in Bali range from budget-friendly to top-end luxury. At the time of writing, a 4-star luxury hotel room for 2 including breakfast in Ubud in August 2023 started at about 250 AUD.
It's recommended to bring a mix of AUD and IDR cash to Bali. You can exchange AUD to IDR at a reputable money changer in Bali, as the exchange rate is better than in Australia. You can also withdraw IDR from ATMs in Bali, but be cautious of skimming machines. It's best to use a travel card such as Wise, Revolut, or Transferwise to avoid excessive transaction fees and leftover currency at the end of your trip.
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Common scams and how to avoid them
While Bali is a beautiful and safe place, it is not immune to scams. Here are some common scams in Bali and ways to avoid them:
Money Changer Scam
The money changer scam is one of the most talked-about scams in Bali. Currency exchanges will count your money in front of you several times, but on the final count, they will use sleight of hand to keep a note or two for themselves. To avoid this scam, it is recommended to only exchange money at licensed money changers and to check current rates online for a general comparison.
Taxi Scams
Taxi scams are common in Bali, with drivers often not using meters or inflating fares. Some drivers might also try to sell you a tour or take you to shops where they earn a commission. To avoid this, use reputable ride-sharing apps like Grab or Gojek, which provide transparent pricing and reliable service. Alternatively, you can download the Blue Bird taxi app, which is known for its professional and reliable service.
Temple Scams
At some temples in Bali, locals or hustlers might demand an entrance fee or try to sell you offerings, guides, or other extras. However, these are usually not necessary, as the only things required when visiting temples are a respectful attitude and modest attire, such as a sarong and a sash. To avoid this scam, research the temple you plan to visit and be aware of the official requirements and fees.
Scooter Rental Scams
When renting a scooter or motorbike in Bali, be aware of potential scams. Always inspect the vehicle thoroughly for any pre-existing damage and opt for reputable rental companies that provide proper insurance coverage. This will help you avoid unexpected costs or disputes later on. Additionally, be cautious of overly friendly locals who offer help with your scooter, as they might demand a high fee for unnecessary repairs.
Photography Scams
At popular tourist spots like the Lempuyang Temple, photographers might charge outrageous fees for photos. To avoid this scam, take your own camera and make your own photos, or ask for the price in advance and haggle if necessary.
By being aware of these common scams and taking some simple precautions, you can ensure that your trip to Bali is safe and enjoyable.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to take a mix of AUD in cash, IDR in cash, and a credit card.
It is generally recommended to take AUD in cash and exchange it for IDR at a money changer in Bali. This will get you a better exchange rate than exchanging in Australia. However, be aware of unscrupulous money changers and only use those that are reputable and trustworthy. It is also recommended to take a credit card for larger expenses such as hotels and dinners.
The cost of a trip to Bali from Australia can vary depending on factors such as the airline, season, and airport. However, flights from Sydney to Bali can range from AUD 400 to AUD 660 for a round trip. Bali offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from budget-friendly to luxury villas.
It is recommended to take enough AUD cash to exchange for IDR upon arrival and then use your credit card for larger expenses. A reasonable budget for daily expenses in Bali is around $20-50 per person per day, depending on your activities.
