Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport is the busiest airport in Indonesia and a major hub in Southeast Asia. As a popular entry point for travelers, getting a local SIM card upon arrival is often necessary for staying connected during your trip. This article provides detailed information on Where to Buy a SIM Card at Jakarta Airport Soekarno-Hatta.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Jakarta Airport Soekarno-Hatta
If you’re arriving at Jakarta’s main international airport, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (also known as CGK airport), you’ll want to get a local SIM card to have internet access as you explore the city. Here are your options for buying a SIM card right at the airport.
In the Arrival Hall
There are several shops located in the arrival hall of Terminal 3 where you can purchase SIM cards. Some reliable options include:
- XL Axiata Store – This is the official store of the XL Axiata mobile network. It’s located toward the end of the arrival hall. They offer data packages on the XL network.
- Data Cellular and Backbone Cellular – These smaller shops selling various networks like Telkomsel and Indosat are located in the middle of the hall.
All the stores in the arrival hall accept both cash and credit cards. They are open 24/7.
Outside the Arrival Hall
For even more options, you can also visit some SIM card sellers right outside the Terminal 3 arrival exit doors:
- Telkomsel Shop – The official store of the Telkomsel network is on the left side. They offer reliable connectivity nationwide.
- Data Cellular and Backbone Cellular – These shops are in front of the exit doors for your convenience.
The Telkomsel shop hours are from 7am-9pm daily while the others operate 24 hours. Cash is preferred here but cards may work at Telkomsel.
All in all, whether you’re looking for discounted prices, connectivity on a specific network, or just convenience – you’ll find a store at Jakarta Airport to provide you with a local SIM card to enjoy affordable internet as you begin your Indonesia trip. Be sure to have your passport on hand for verification.
II. Jakarta Airport SIM Card Options and Costs
There are many SIM card options available at CGK airport, but the main providers are:
| Network | Plan | Indonesian Price | USD Price* | Data | Validity | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Telkomsel | SimPATI Tourist “Wonderful Indonesia” | ~Rp100,000 | ~$6.75 | 25 GB | 30 days | 25 mins domestic calls, 25 mins international calls to G20 countries |
| Telkomsel | Pulsa Rp100,000 | ~Rp100,000 | ~$6.75 | 2.5 GB | 30 days | 2 GB 4G/night, 5 GB Videomax |
| Telkomsel | Pulsa Rp150,000 | ~Rp150,000 | ~$10.12 | 4.5 GB | 30 days | 2 GB 4G/night, 7 GB Videomax |
| IM3 | TravelOn Rp100,000 | ~Rp100,000 | ~$6.75 | 15 GB | 10 days | 8 GB night data, 120 mins domestic calls, 60 mins international calls |
| IM3 | Unlimited Pack 1 GB 7 days | ~Rp12,000 | ~$0.81 | 1 GB | 7 days | Unlimited social media, YouTube, Spotify |
| IM3 | Freedom Combo 8 GB | ~Rp150,000 | ~$10.12 | 8 GB + 15 GB night + 12 GB 4G | 30 days | Unlimited on-net calls+texts, unlimited social media |
| XL Axiata | XL Strong 50 GB | ~Rp100,000 | ~$6.75 | 50 GB | 30 days | 50 GB night data |
| Smartfren | Premier 95 | ~Rp95,000 | ~$6.40 | 30 GB | 30 days | 10 GB reserve data |
*Currency exchange rate: 1 USD = Rp14,800. Rate is approximate and may vary.
Overall I recommend Telkomsel as the best provider for most travelers due to their coverage and reliability. But any of the major Indonesian SIM cards will provide good service in cities and tourism areas across the country.
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Jakarta Airport
To purchase and register a SIM card at Jakarta Airport, you’ll need:
- Passport – Your passport is required when registering a SIM card in Indonesia. Photocopies are not accepted.
- Passport Photos – Some providers may ask for a passport photo to attach to the SIM registration. Have one ready to speed up the process.
- Cash – Have IDR cash ready to pay for your SIM card. There are some ATMs landside at CGK Airport terminals.
- Active Phone – Your current phone must be unlocked to use a local SIM card. Ensure it is unlocked before your trip.
- SIM Tool – A paperclip works to eject your SIM card, but having a proper SIM tool makes it much easier.
- Patience – Registration can take up to 30 minutes during busy times. Be patient as staff activate and register your new SIM.
Make sure you are prepared with all required documentation and tools when you arrive to make getting connected as quick and smooth as possible.
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Jakarta Airport
Landing in the bustling city of Jakarta, all you can think about is shedding your jet lag and diving headfirst into exploration. But before you can navigate hidden gem cafes or haggle at markets, you’ll need a trusty digital companion – enter, your new eSIM friend!
With indonesiaesim.com, visitors can purchase affordable data packages online before your trip. Upon arrival in Jakarta, all you need to do is turn on roaming on your eSIM-compatible device, scan the QR code sent to your email, and instantly connect to 4G networks in Indonesia.
Whether you’re spinning five days or a month-long tale in the city, Indonesiaesim.com has the perfect plotline. Plans start under $5 USD for 1-3GB daily data – more than enough megabytes to map mysterious maketalleys and Instagram immersive murals uncovered.
Travel beyond the capital? Our multi-country Asia eSIM bundles even wilder wanderlust. Valid in 8 nations including Indonesia, it networks you from $5-89.50 over weeks of exotic escapades.
Plans that may interest you
Say goodbye to airport SIM queues. With Indonesiaesim.com, visitors can explore the city seamlessly connected from the moment they land. It’s a simple and affordable way to enjoy convenient data access during any visit to Indonesia’s vibrant capital.
V. FAQs about Buying SIM Card at Jakarta Airport
Can I buy a SIM card at Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport?
Yes, you can buy SIM cards at some shops located in the airport. However, you should note that SIM cards at the airport are generally more expensive than outside.
How much does a SIM card at Jakarta airport cost?
A SIM card at Jakarta airport can cost starting from IDR 100,000 for an empty SIM card or one with limited data or social media access only. Cheaper packages are available outside the airport.
Do I need to register the SIM card at Jakarta airport?
Yes, all SIM cards in Indonesia must be registered under the owner’s name. Typically the shop staff at the airport can assist you with SIM registration by providing your original passport details.
Is there an alternative besides buying a SIM card at the airport?
It’s better to avoid airport SIM cards due to the high prices. The best alternative is to use eSIM services from indonesiaesim.com. With eSIM you don’t need to swap physical cards and can instantly connect to 4G network upon arrival in Indonesia.
How much are indonesiaesim.com eSIM plans?
Indonesiaesim.com offers 5-day eSIM plans starting from IDR 50,000 for 3GB data. They have various duration options like 7 days, 10 days, 15 days and 30 days with large daily data quotas from 3GB up to 50GB.
