Want cheap local data in Bali but also need to receive calls and texts on your home number? Dual SIM is the answer. Most modern phones let you run two SIM profiles at once — your home SIM for calls and a local eSIM for data. This guide shows you exactly how to set it up.
What Is Dual SIM?
Dual SIM means your phone can use two SIM cards (or SIM profiles) simultaneously. One handles calls and texts, the other handles data. You can mix a physical SIM with an eSIM, or on newer phones, use two eSIMs at the same time.
This is perfect for travel because you can:
- Keep your home number active for incoming calls, texts, and two-factor authentication codes
- Use a local eSIM for fast, affordable mobile data
- Avoid roaming charges on data while staying reachable
Before You Start
You'll need:
- A phone that supports dual SIM — check eSIM compatibility here
- Your home SIM card (physical or eSIM) already active
- A Bali eSIM from GetBaliSIM — order here
- Wi-Fi to download the eSIM profile
How to Set Up Dual SIM on iPhone
Step 1: Install the Bali eSIM
Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM and scan the QR code we send you via WhatsApp. Follow the prompts to install the profile.
Step 2: Label Your Lines
iPhone will ask you to label each line. Use clear names:
- Primary → your home SIM (e.g., "Home" or "Personal")
- Secondary → your Bali eSIM (e.g., "Bali Data" or "Travel")
Step 3: Set Your Default Line for Calls
When prompted to choose a default line, select your home SIM as the default for voice calls and messages. This ensures outgoing calls and texts use your regular number.
Step 4: Set Bali eSIM for Data
Go to Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data and select your Bali eSIM line. This routes all internet traffic through the local Telkomsel network — fast and cheap.
Step 5: Turn Off Data Roaming on Your Home SIM
This is the most important step to avoid surprise charges:
- Go to Settings → Cellular
- Tap your home SIM line
- Turn off "Data Roaming"
Your home SIM will still receive calls and texts (these work differently from data roaming), but it won't use expensive roaming data.
Step 6: Enable Data Roaming on the Bali eSIM
- Go to Settings → Cellular
- Tap your Bali eSIM line
- Turn on "Data Roaming"
This sounds counterintuitive, but the eSIM needs this enabled to connect to the local Telkomsel network.
How to Set Up Dual SIM on Android
The exact menu names vary by manufacturer, but the process is similar.
Step 1: Install the Bali eSIM
Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM and scan the QR code.
Step 2: Name Your SIMs
Give each SIM a recognizable name:
- SIM 1 → your home SIM
- SIM 2 → your Bali eSIM
Step 3: Set Preferred SIM for Calls
Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Preferred SIM. Set your home SIM as preferred for calls and messages.
Step 4: Set Bali eSIM for Data
In the same Preferred SIM menu, set Mobile Data to your Bali eSIM.
Step 5: Manage Data Roaming
Go to Settings → Connections → Mobile Networks:
- Select your home SIM and turn off Data Roaming
- Select your Bali eSIM and turn on Data Roaming
How It Works Day-to-Day
Once set up, everything happens automatically:
- Browsing, maps, WhatsApp, social media → uses your Bali eSIM (local data, no roaming charges)
- Incoming calls and texts to your home number → ring as normal through your home SIM
- Outgoing calls → use your home number by default (or you can choose per call)
- Two-factor authentication SMS → arrives on your home number as expected
You don't need to switch between SIMs manually. Your phone handles it.
What About Calls Over Wi-Fi or Data?
For even more savings, use WhatsApp, FaceTime, or other VoIP apps for outgoing calls instead of your home carrier. These use your Bali eSIM's data — essentially free.
Most hotels, cafes, and co-working spaces in Bali also have Wi-Fi, so you can use Wi-Fi Calling if your home carrier supports it.
Common Questions
Will I be charged for receiving calls on my home SIM?
Receiving calls while abroad usually incurs a small charge from your home carrier (varies by plan). Check with your carrier before you travel. If you want to avoid this entirely, enable Airplane Mode on your home SIM and rely on WhatsApp for calls.
Can I use two eSIMs instead of a physical SIM + eSIM?
Yes, if your phone supports it. iPhone 13 and newer support dual eSIM (no physical SIM needed). On Android, support varies by model. Check your phone's SIM Manager to see if you can add a second eSIM.
Will my WhatsApp still work?
Yes. WhatsApp is tied to your phone number, not your SIM card. Once verified, it works on any internet connection — your Bali eSIM data, Wi-Fi, or anything else.
What if I remove the Bali eSIM after my trip?
You can delete it anytime: Settings → Cellular (iPhone) or Settings → SIM Manager (Android), then remove the Bali eSIM profile. Your home SIM continues working as before.
Get Your Bali eSIM
Ready to set up dual SIM for your Bali trip? Get a Telkomsel eSIM with 5G/4G/LTE coverage across Bali — install it before you fly and be connected the moment you land.
Need help choosing? Reach out to us on WhatsApp — we'll recommend the right package for your trip.