Currency Essentials: Understanding the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
The only legally accepted currency in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), often displayed as ‘Rp’. While most modern cafes, co-working spaces, and restaurants accept cards, Bali still runs heavily on cash. For daily expenses like local warung lunches, laundry services, motorbike rentals, or small purchases at convenience stores, cash is king.
Pro Tip: Always aim to have at least Rp 200,000 (~$13 USD) in your wallet for small, everyday transactions.
The Pro-Choice ATMs: Where to Get Your Cash
Not all ATMs are created equal. Wasting time hunting for a reliable machine or getting hit with surprise fees is an unnecessary drag. To operate efficiently, stick exclusively to ATMs from major, reputable Indonesian banks. These are generally secure, well-maintained, and less likely to charge withdrawal fees, especially when using a fintech card like Wise or Revolut.
Your go-to list should be short and simple:
BCA (Bank Central Asia): This is the gold standard. BCA ATMs are everywhere, located in clean, secure vestibules, and are known for being fee-free with the right cards. They typically dispense Rp 100,000 notes, allowing you to withdraw the maximum amount efficiently.
BNI (Bank Negara Indonesia): An excellent second choice with similar benefits to BCA. They are also widespread and reliable.
Mandiri Bank: A solid third option. While generally reliable, they may occasionally charge a small fee for certain cards, so BCA or BNI remain the top preferences.
For large withdrawals (e.g., paying for a villa or a visa run), always use an ATM located at a physical bank branch during opening hours. The presence of staff, cameras, and security guards provides an essential layer of protection.
Red Flags: ATMs to Absolutely Avoid
Protecting your assets is paramount. As a digital nomad, having a card skimmed or swallowed is a major operational risk. Avoid these ATMs at all costs:
Unbranded or Generic ATMs: If you don't recognize the brand, walk away. These are often found in small convenience stores or isolated areas and carry the highest risk of tampering.
ATMs in Dodgy Locations: An ATM down a dark alley or one that looks old and poorly maintained is a clear red flag.
Commonwealth Bank ATMs: While a familiar name for some, these machines are known for high foreign transaction fees and unfavorable exchange rates. Avoid them.
Airport ATMs (If Possible): While secure, airport ATMs often have worse exchange rates or higher fees. If you have an eSIM set up, use a ride-hailing app and ask your driver to stop at a BCA or BNI branch on your way to your accommodation.
The Digital Nomad's Wallet: Your Optimal Card Strategy
Your card setup can make or break your financial efficiency in Bali. Relying on a traditional bank card from home is a rookie mistake that costs you in fees.
Primary Cards (Wise & Revolut): These are non-negotiable for any serious digital nomad. They offer near-perfect exchange rates, low-to-no fees, and free ATM withdrawal allowances globally. They are designed for the perpetual traveler lifestyle.
Card Network: Ensure your cards are on the VISA or Mastercard network, as these have universal acceptance across Bali.
Avoid American Express (AMEX): AMEX is rarely accepted and, where it is, often comes with higher fees. Leave it at home.
Backup System: Never rely on a single card. Carry at least two debit cards (e.g., Wise and Revolut) and a credit card, ideally from different networks (one VISA, one Mastercard). This protects you if a card is lost, stolen, or frozen.
ATM Security Protocol: A 7-Step Checklist
Follow these steps every time you withdraw cash to minimize your risk of skimming or theft.
Choose Wisely: Only use ATMs attached to official banks like BCA, BNI, or Mandiri.
Check for Tampering: Before inserting your card, give the card slot and keypad a gentle jiggle. If anything feels loose, wobbly, or out of place, it could be a skimming device. Move on.
Cover Your PIN: Use your other hand to shield the keypad from view as you enter your PIN. This is a simple but highly effective way to thwart hidden cameras. After entering, swipe your hand across the keypad to smudge any heat signature.
Freeze Your Card: Immediately after your withdrawal is complete, use your banking app (Revolut and Wise have this feature) to freeze your card. This renders it useless if the data was skimmed. Unfreeze it just before your next use.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Avoid using ATMs late at night or when alone. If anyone is standing too close or trying to "help" you, cancel the transaction and leave.
Withdraw Big: Plan your withdrawals. The maximum per transaction is typically Rp 2,500,000 or Rp 3,000,000 (~$184 USD). Withdrawing the max amount reduces the number of times you need to visit an ATM, lowering your exposure to risk.
Have Data on Arrival: Use an eSIM provider like Holafly to have data the moment you land. This allows you to bypass airport money changers and navigate directly to a trusted bank ATM.
The Golden Rule of Card Payments: Always Pay in IDR
When you use your card at a restaurant or shop, the payment terminal will often present you with a choice: pay in your home currency (e.g., USD, EUR) or the local currency (IDR).
ALWAYS choose the local currency (IDR).
Choosing your home currency activates a process called Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), which allows the merchant's bank to set the exchange rate. This rate is always significantly worse than the one your own bank (or Wise/Revolut) would give you. It's a legal scam designed to profit from uninformed tourists. As a savvy nomad, you know better.
