When visiting Sumatra, one of Indonesia’s largest and most diverse islands, staying connected is crucial for navigation, communication, and sharing your travel experiences. Getting a local SIM card is an affordable and convenient way to ensure you have access to the internet during your trip. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using a SIM card in Sumatra, from where to buy one to choosing the best provider and understanding local data plans.
Why Use a SIM Card in Sumatra?
Most accommodation, restaurants and even the local eateries (warungs) offer free wifi. However, the quality can vary and in the event of a power cut the internet can sometimes be completely gone. If you want to be sure that you are always conntected, a local SIM card in Sumatra is advisable. This has several advantages, particularly if you want to avoid expensive roaming charges from your home carrier. With a local SIM, you’ll have access to:
- Affordable data plans: Indonesian SIM cards offer generous data packages at a fraction of the cost compared to international roaming.
- Reliable local networks: Sumatra’s mobile networks, especially from larger providers, offer good coverage even in more remote areas.
- Local calling and texting: You can easily make local calls to hotels, tour operators, and restaurants without worrying about international charges.
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Sumatra
SIM cards are widely available in Sumatra, and you can purchase one at various locations, including:
- Grapari Stores: This chain of phone stores can be found in bigger cities in Sumatra, such as Medan, Binjai or Padang, and offer sim cards as well as the mandatory phone registration (see below).
- Local shops: Once you’re in town, you’ll find many small convenience stores and mobile phone shops selling SIM cards. But you need to register your phone seperately (see below). Near Medan airport there is e.g. Salsa Ponsel, where your private driver can take you. They can also register your phone.
- Shopping malls: Larger cities like Medan and Padang have shopping malls with dedicated mobile network provider stores where you can purchase SIM cards and get help with setup. Binjai Super Mall for example on the way from Medan to Bukit Lawang offers this.
Best SIM Card Providers in Sumatra
Indonesia has several major telecom providers, but Telkomsel is the most popular for tourists due to their extensive network coverage and competitive prices. It is the largest mobile operator in Indonesia and offers the best coverage, especially in rural and remote areas of Sumatra. This is the ideal choice if you’re planning to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations like Bukit Lawang or Lake Toba
How to Choose the Right SIM Card
When selecting a SIM card for your stay in Sumatra, consider the following factors:
- Coverage: If you plan to venture into rural areas or national parks, Telkomsel is your best bet due to its widespread coverage.
- Data plans: Most providers offer packages based on data usage. If you’re mainly using your phone for navigation, messaging apps, and social media, a medium data plan (10–20 GB) should suffice. If you’re streaming videos or working remotely, opt for a larger plan, which are very affordable. You get 100GB/month for around 10€
- Validity: Ensure the plan you purchase covers the duration of your stay. Some SIM cards offer validity for 7, 30, or even 90 days.
How to Activate a SIM Card in Sumatra
Activating your SIM card in Sumatra is usually straightforward:
- Registration: Since 2018, Indonesia requires all SIM cards to be registered using your passport. When purchasing a SIM card at a provider’s kiosk or store, the staff will assist you with registration by scanning your passport and inputting your details.
- Insert the SIM card: Once registered, insert the SIM card into your unlocked phone. Most SIM cards in Indonesia are pre-cut to fit various phone sizes (nano, micro, or standard).
- Choose a plan: Providers typically offer prepaid packages that include a set amount of data, call minutes, and text messages. You can select a plan that best fits your needs and pay in cash or by card.
- Top-up: If you run out of data or credit, topping up is easy. You can purchase top-up vouchers at convenience stores, mobile shops, or online via the Telkomsel app. Sometimes foreign credit cards don’t work in the Telkomsel app, but you can also choose to pay for that at an Indomaret store, which can be found almost everywhere in Sumatra.
- Check sim card status: In the Telkomsel app you can see how long your sim card is valid. If you want to extend the validity, make sure to top up money on the card and choose another data plan.
Internet Speed and Network Coverage
Sumatra’s mobile network is generally reliable, but speeds and coverage can vary depending on your location. In major cities like Medan and Padang, 4G LTE is widely available, offering fast and stable internet. In rural areas or remote islands, you may encounter slower 3G networks or occasional drops in service, especially with providers other than Telkomsel. If you work remotely check beforehand with your accommodation regarding the network coverage.
Using Your Phone as a Hotspot
If you’re traveling with multiple devices (like a tablet or laptop), you can easily use your Indonesian SIM card to create a mobile hotspot. Most data plans allow for tethering, so you can share your internet connection across devices. This is particularly useful for digital nomads or travelers needing to stay connected for work.
eSim as an Alternative
Registering your phone can be a bit of a hazzle, to be honest. If you only stay for a short while in Sumatra, using an eSim can be a good option. We can recommend Airale. Save 3$ on your plan with the code CHRIST00107. Visit the Airalo website
Conclusion
Getting a local SIM card in Sumatra is one of the best ways to stay connected and avoid high roaming fees. With a variety of providers and flexible data plans, you can easily find an option that fits your needs, whether you’re exploring bustling cities or trekking through the lush rainforests. Stay connected and enjoy your Sumatra adventure with the peace of mind that you’re just a call or message away from help, information, or sharing your experiences with the world.
Note: The featured image above was generated with AI.
