How to Check Data Balance and Top Up Your Telkomsel eSIM in Bali (2025 Guide)

Quick Answer

Check your Telkomsel eSIM data balance instantly by dialing *888# from your phone—no internet connection required. 

This USSD code displays your remaining data, credit balance, and plan expiry date within seconds. 

To top up when running low, visit BaliSIM.com (easiest for international travelers with credit cards) or use the MyTelkomsel app for direct purchases with international payment methods.

Introduction: Managing Your Connectivity in Paradise

Nothing kills a Bali adventure faster than discovering your data has run out when you need Google Maps to find that hidden beach or Grab to get back to your hotel after sunset. Understanding how to monitor your Telkomsel eSIM data balance and quickly top up when needed ensures you’re never disconnected during critical moments.

Unlike your home country’s mobile plan where you might have unlimited data or automatic monthly billing, Bali’s prepaid eSIM system requires proactive management. The good news? Checking your balance takes 5 seconds, and topping up takes less than 3 minutes—if you know the right methods.

This comprehensive guide covers every method to check your Telkomsel data balance (including without internet), multiple ways to top up your data package (optimized for international travelers), how to choose the right top-up amount, and troubleshooting tips when things don’t work as expected.

How to Check Your Telkomsel eSIM Data Balance

Method 1: USSD Code *888# (FASTEST & RECOMMENDED ⚡)

Why this method is best: 

• Works without internet connection

• Instant results (2-3 seconds)

• Shows comprehensive account info

• Available 24/7, anywhere in Bali

• No app installation required

Step-by-step:

1. Open your phone’s dial pad (the app you use to make calls)

2. Type: *888#

3. Press the call button (green phone icon)

4. Wait 2-3 seconds for the menu to appear

What you’ll see:

Telkomsel Menu
────────────────
Pulsa: Rp 25,000
Data: 8.5 GB (expires 22 Jan 2025)
────────────────
1. Buy Package
2. Check Balance Details
3. Transfer Pulsa
4. Telkomsel Poin
5. Settings
Reply: [number]

Reading your balance: 

- Pulsa: Your calling/SMS credit (in Indonesian Rupiah) 

- Data: Remaining mobile data in GB or MB 

- Expiry date: When your current package expires

Pro tip: The *888# menu is interactive—you can press numbers to navigate to purchase packages, check detailed breakdowns, or manage settings. However, for just checking balance, simply close the pop-up after viewing.

Method 2: SMS to 3636 (No Internet Needed)

If your phone doesn’t support USSD codes (rare, but some older devices or iOS versions have issues), SMS works perfectly:

Step-by-step:

1. Open your messaging app

2. Create new SMS to: 3636

3. Message content: Type FLASH INFO V2

4. Send

5. Receive response within 30 seconds

Example response:

Telkomsel Info
Pulsa: Rp 25,000
Data: 8.5 GB
Package: Telkomsel Tourist 30 Days
Expires: 22/01/2025 23:59
Active number: 0812-3456-7890

Advantages: 

- Works on any phone (feature phones, smartphones, tablets) 

- Creates a written record you can reference later 

- Sometimes more detailed than USSD

Disadvantage: 

- Slightly slower (30 seconds vs. 3 seconds) 

- Uses 1 SMS credit (usually free with data packages, but costs ~300 IDR if you’re out of package)

Method 3: MyTelkomsel App (Most Visual)

The official MyTelkomsel app provides the most detailed and visual representation of your data usage:

Download the app: 

- iOS: App Store - MyTelkomsel 

- Android: Google Play - MyTelkomsel

First-time setup:

1. Install and open the app

2. Language selection: Tap the gear icon (⚙️) in top right → Language → English

3. Automatic number detection: The app should auto-detect your Telkomsel eSIM number

4. Home screen displays:

• • Large circular data usage indicator (visual percentage)

  • Exact GB/MB remaining

  • Days until expiry countdown

  • Active package name

  • Credit (pulsa) balance

Additional features: 

- Usage history graph: See daily data consumption patterns 

- Package recommendations: Suggests top-ups based on your usage 

- Bill breakdown: Shows exactly what’s included in your package 

- One-tap top-up: Quick purchase buttons

Advantages: 

• Most user-friendly interface

• Shows data consumption trends

• Integrated top-up purchasing

• Notifications when data runs low

Disadvantages: 

• Requires internet to refresh data

• Needs app installation (30-50 MB download)

• Some features only work with Indonesian bank accounts

Pro tip: Download and set up MyTelkomsel while you still have data/WiFi so you can reference it throughout your trip.

Method 4: BaliSIM Website (Check Before Top-Up)

When you’re about to top up via BaliSIM.com, you can check your current balance first:

Access: https://balisim.com/collections/top-up

Note: This doesn’t directly show your balance—you’ll need to use *888# first to determine how much data remains, then visit BaliSIM to purchase additional data if needed.

Quick Comparison: Which Method to Use

Our recommendation: Master the *888# method—it’s the fastest and works everywhere, even in remote Bali areas with weak signals.

How to Top Up Your Telkomsel eSIM Data

When your data runs low, you have several top-up options. We’ve ranked them from easiest (for international travelers) to most complicated:

Method 1: BaliSIM.com Online Top-Up (RECOMMENDED for Foreigners)

Why this is the best option for tourists: 

• English-language interface — No translation confusion

• International payment methods — Credit card, PayPal, etc.

• Instant delivery — Data arrives within 5-15 minutes

• No Indonesian language needed — Fully tourist-friendly

• Email support — Customer service in English

• Transparent pricing — USD pricing (no currency confusion)

Step-by-step process:

Step 1: Assess your current data usage - Dial *888# to check remaining data - Estimate how much more you need (see recommendations below)

Step 2: Visit BaliSIM Top-Up Page - Go to: https://balisim.com/collections/top-up/products/telkomsel-data-top-up

Step 3: Select your top-up package

Available options typically include:

 

 

Note: Exact packages and prices vary—check BaliSIM.com for current offerings.

Step 4: Enter your Telkomsel number

- Input the Indonesian phone number from your eSIM (format: 08XX-XXXX-XXXX or +62 8XX-XXXX-XXXX) 

- Double-check accuracy—wrong number = data goes to wrong account

Step 5: Complete payment 

- Choose payment method: Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex), PayPal, or other options 

- Follow secure checkout process

Step 6: Receive confirmation 

- Email confirmation arrives within 1-2 minutes 

- SMS notification to your Telkomsel number: “Your package has been activated” 

- Data appears in your account within 5-15 minutes

Step 7: Verify activation 

- Dial *888# again to confirm new data balance 

- The expiry date should reflect your new top-up period

Troubleshooting: 

- Data not arriving after 15 minutes? Check spam folder for email confirmation, verify you entered the correct phone number, contact BaliSIM support at cs@balisim.com 

- Payment declined? Some banks block international transactions—contact your bank to authorize payments to Indonesia

Method 2: MyTelkomsel App Direct Purchase

The MyTelkomsel app allows direct data package purchases using international credit cards (in select cases):

Prerequisites: 

- MyTelkomsel app installed and set up 

- Active internet connection (use WiFi if data is very low) 

- Credit card with international transaction capability

Step-by-step:

1. Open MyTelkomsel app

2. Navigate to “Buy Package” (Beli Paket)

3. Select “Data Packages” (Paket Internet)

4. Choose tourist/prepaid packages

• • Look for packages labeled “Tourist” or “Turis”

  • Avoid postpaid options (for Indonesian residents only)

5. Select your desired data amount

6. Review price (shown in Indonesian Rupiah)

• • Quick conversion: 15,000 IDR ≈ $1 USD

  • Example: 150,000 IDR package ≈ $9.60 USD

7. Choose payment method:

• Credit card (look for Visa/Mastercard option)

• GoPay (if you have Indonesian digital wallet)

• OVO (another Indonesian digital wallet)

8. Complete transaction

9. Receive instant confirmation

Challenges: 

- Interface can be confusing even in English (some sections remain in Bahasa Indonesia) 

- Payment options heavily favor Indonesian methods 

- Credit cards sometimes fail due to 3D Secure verification issues 

- Less tourist-friendly than BaliSIM.com

When to use this method: 

- You’re already familiar with the app 

- BaliSIM.com is temporarily unavailable 

- You’re comfortable navigating semi-Indonesian interfaces

Method 3: Physical Top-Up in Bali (Cash Payment)

For those who prefer in-person transactions or only have cash:

Where to buy top-ups:

1. Convenience stores (EVERYWHERE):

• • Indomaret — Red and yellow logo, found every few blocks

  • Alfamart — Blue logo, equally common

  • Circle K — 24-hour stores

2. Telkomsel GraPARI Stores (Official Service Centers):

• • Denpasar: Jl. Teuku Umar (main store)

  • Kuta: Beachwalk Shopping Center level 1

  • Sanur: Bypass Ngurah Rai

  • Staff speak English and can explain package options

3. Street vendors with “Pulsa” signs:

• • Small kiosks throughout Bali

  • Usually near warungs (local restaurants)

  • Slightly higher prices but convenient

How to purchase (at convenience stores):

What to say: “Top up Telkomsel data, please” (most staff understand basic English)

Or in Bahasa Indonesia: “Isi paket data Telkomsel” (ee-see pah-ket dah-tah)

Process:

1. Provide your Telkomsel number (show your phone screen)

2. Choose package amount:

• • Point at price display (usually 50,000 / 100,000 / 150,000 IDR options)

  • Or say the amount: “Seratus ribu rupiah” (100,000 IDR)

3. Staff processes top-up through their system (takes 30-60 seconds)

4. Pay in cash (most don’t accept cards)

5. Receive SMS confirmation on your phone within 1-2 minutes

 

Typical packages at convenience stores:

 

 

Advantages: 

• Face-to-face assistance

• Pays in cash (no credit card needed)

• Immediate human help if issues arise

• Available in every Bali neighborhood

Disadvantages: 

• Language barrier (minimal English in some small stores)

• Requires leaving your accommodation

• Need physical Indonesian rupiah

• Slightly higher prices than online

Pro tip: Indomaret and Alfamart have multiple locations—use Google Maps to find the nearest one. GraPARI stores offer the best English support and package explanations.

Method 4: Hotel/Villa Reception Assistance

Many hotels and villas offer to help guests with mobile top-ups:

How it works:

1. Ask reception: “Can you help me top up my Telkomsel data?”

2. Provide your phone number

3. They may:

• • Have a direct account to process top-ups (common in tourist hotels)

  • Send staff to nearby store to purchase for you

  • Connect you to their WiFi and guide you through online purchase

4. Pay hotel directly (cash or add to room bill)

Note: Some hotels charge a small service fee (5,000-10,000 IDR / $0.30-$0.65). Always confirm the total price first.

Best for: - First-time Bali visitors feeling overwhelmed - Guests at high-service accommodations - Those without Indonesian rupiah cash yet

How Much Data Do You Need? Usage Guide

Understanding Your Data Consumption

 

Recommended Data Packages by Traveler Type

Light User (Mostly WiFi-dependent) 

- Profile: Stays in hotel/villa with good WiFi, only uses mobile data for transportation and emergencies 

- Typical daily usage: 200-500 MB 

- Recommended package: 3-5 GB for 7-14 days 

- Example activities: Google Maps, WhatsApp messaging, occasional Instagram check, Grab rides

Average Traveler (Balanced Usage) 

- Profile: Uses mobile data throughout the day for navigation, social media, and ride apps; uses WiFi for video streaming 

- Typical daily usage: 800 MB - 1.5 GB 

- Recommended package: 10-15 GB for 14 days, or 25 GB for 30 days 

- Example activities: Constant Google Maps, frequent Instagram/Facebook, WhatsApp calls, restaurant research, moderate photo uploads

Heavy User (Constant Connectivity) 

- Profile: Digital nomad, content creator, or always-connected traveler; minimal WiFi reliance 

- Typical daily usage: 2-4 GB 

- Recommended package: 50+ GB for 30 days 

- Example activities: Video calls, Slack/Teams, cloud file syncing, YouTube watching during transit, Instagram Stories uploads, TikTok browsing

Content Creator / Vlogger 

- Profile: Uploads 4K video, live streams, backs up photos to cloud, professional remote work 

- Typical daily usage: 5-10 GB+ 

- Recommended package: 100 GB for 30 days (or unlimited) 

- Example activities: 4K video uploads, Instagram Reels, YouTube content, RAW photo cloud backup, live streaming

Daily Data Budget Calculator

Example: 14-day Bali trip, average traveler

 

Recommendation: Purchase 15 GB package to include buffer for unexpected usage and avoid running out.

Pro tip: Your first few days in Bali typically use MORE data than later days (lots of research, finding locations, constant navigation). Budget accordingly.

Top-Up Pricing Comparison (2025)

Understanding pricing helps you choose the most cost-effective method:

BaliSIM.com (Online, International Payment)

MyTelkomsel App (Prices in IDR)

 

Convenience Stores (Cash, Slight Markup)

Key insights: 

- Convenience stores have slight markup (10-15%) but offer in-person service 

- MyTelkomsel app often has promotional “Flash” packages with best per-GB rates 

- BaliSIM.com offers best convenience for international travelers despite slightly higher per-GB cost 

- Larger packages always offer better value per gigabyte

Recommendation: If comfort and convenience matter (English support, international payment), pay the small premium for BaliSIM.com. If you’re budget-conscious and comfortable with Indonesian interfaces, MyTelkomsel app offers best value.

Understanding Package Validity and Expiration

How Package Expiry Works

Telkomsel data packages have two expiration concepts:

1. Package Validity (Data Expiry) 

- The period during which your data allowance is usable 

- Example: 15 GB valid for 30 days 

- When this expires, remaining data (if any) disappears

2. SIM Card Active Period (Account Validity) 

- How long your Telkomsel number remains active 

- Extended by topping up credit (pulsa) or data packages 

- If this expires, your number is deactivated

What Happens When Data Package Expires?

Scenario 1: Data expires, but SIM card active period is still valid 

- Your data stops working (can’t browse internet without WiFi) 

- Your number still works for receiving calls and SMS (free) 

- You can still make calls if you have pulsa (calling credit) 

Solution: Purchase a new data package immediately

Scenario 2: Both data and SIM card validity expire 

- Complete disconnection from Telkomsel network 

- Number may be deactivated after 30-60 days of inactivity 

Solution: Contact BaliSIM support—they may be able to help reactive, or you may need a new eSIM

Extending SIM Validity Without Needing Data

If you’re leaving Bali but plan to return within a few months:

Method 1: Small credit top-up 

- Purchase 20,000-50,000 IDR credit (pulsa) via BaliSIM.com 

- This extends your SIM active period by 30-60 days 

- Keeps your number alive even without data package

Method 2: Minimum data package 

- Buy the smallest data package available (even if you won’t use it) 

- Cost: ~$3-5 USD 

- Keeps number active for another 30 days

Why do this? 

- Preserves your Indonesian number for Gojek/Grab accounts 

- Avoids IMEI re-registration hassle on return visit 

- Maintains continuity for Indonesian contacts

Pro Tips for Smart Data Management

1. Enable Low Data Mode (Saves 30-50% Data)

iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Low Data Mode: ON

What it does: 

- Pauses automatic app updates 

- Reduces video streaming quality 

- Disables automatic photo uploads - Pauses background app refresh

Android: Settings > Network & Internet > Data Saver > ON

Result: Your 15 GB package effectively becomes 20-25 GB of typical usage.

2. Download Maps Offline (Saves 90% Navigation Data)

Google Maps offline download:

1. Open Google Maps (while on WiFi)

2. Search for “Bali” or specific area

3. Tap location name at bottom

4. Select “Download offline map”

5. Choose area size

Coverage recommendation: 

- Download “Bali” (entire island): ~300 MB 

- Download specific regions (Ubud, Seminyak, etc.): ~50-100 MB each

Benefit: Navigation uses only 1-2 MB per hour instead of 5-10 MB with live map downloads.

3. Restrict Background Data for Specific Apps

Some apps consume data even when you’re not using them:

iPhone: Settings > General > Background App Refresh > Turn OFF for data-hungry apps

Android: Settings > Apps > [App name] > Mobile data > Restrict background data

Apps to restrict: 

- Facebook (huge background data consumer) 

- Instagram - TikTok 

- News apps with auto-refresh 

- Cloud storage apps (Dropbox, Google Photos auto-upload)

4. Use WiFi for Large Downloads

Reserve hotel/villa WiFi for: 

- App updates (often 100-500 MB each) 

- Netflix/YouTube downloads for offline viewing 

- Photo backups (Google Photos, iCloud) - Software updates

Never download these over mobile data unless necessary.

5. Set Data Usage Alerts

iPhone: Dial *888# daily, or set phone reminders to check weekly

Android: Settings > Network & Internet > Data usage > Set data warning (e.g., at 80% of your package)

MyTelkomsel App: Automatically notifies when you’ve used 50%, 75%, 90% of data

Troubleshooting Common Top-Up Issues

Problem 1: Topped Up But Data Not Appearing

Wait 15 minutes first — Sometimes there’s a processing delay.

If still not showing after 15 minutes:

1. Restart your phone — Forces account refresh with Telkomsel servers

2. Toggle airplane mode on for 10 seconds, then off

3. Check confirmation SMS/email:

• • Verify the transaction was completed

  • Confirm correct phone number was used

4. Dial *888# — Check if data shows in account but phone hasn’t recognized it yet

5. Contact BaliSIM support:

• • Email: support@balisim.com

  • WhatsApp: +62 813-3977-4203

  • Provide order number and screenshot of payment confirmation

Problem 2: Payment Failed at Checkout

Common causes & solutions:

International transaction blocked by bank
Call your bank and authorize transactions to Indonesia/Southeast Asia

3D Secure verification failing
Ensure you have cell service on your home number to receive bank SMS codes

Card declined due to insufficient funds
Verify card has sufficient balance plus international transaction fee buffer (~3%)

Payment gateway error
Try a different browser or payment method (switch from credit card to PayPal)

Problem 3: Topped Up Wrong Number

If you accidentally entered an incorrect Telkomsel number:

Immediate action (within 10 minutes): - Contact BaliSIM support immediately: cs@balisim.com - Provide transaction details and correct number - They may be able to cancel and resend (no guarantees)

After activation (too late to reverse): - Unfortunately, once data is activated on another number, it’s generally non-refundable - Prevention: Always double-check the number before completing payment

Problem 4: Package Activated But Internet Not Working

Data shows in balance but internet won’t load:

1. Check APN settings (usually automatic, but sometimes needs manual config):

iPhone:

• • Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Network

  • APN: internet

  • Username: (leave blank)

  • Password: (leave blank)

Android:

• • Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Access Point Names

  • Select Telkomsel Internet

  • If not listed, create new APN:

• • • Name: Telkomsel

    • APN: internet

    • Save and select

2. Ensure Telkomsel eSIM is set for mobile data:

iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Make sure Telkomsel is toggled ON for “Mobile Data”

Android: Settings > Network & Internet > SIM cards > Ensure Telkomsel is selected for “Mobile data”

3. Check you’re not in airplane mode

4. Restart phone after verifying settings

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do top-up packages stack or replace my existing data?

Answer: They STACK (add together). If you have 3 GB remaining and purchase a 10 GB top-up, you’ll have 13 GB total.

Exception: Some promotional packages from MyTelkomsel might have stacking restrictions—always read package details before purchasing.

2. Can I check my data balance without using data?

Yes! That’s the beauty of *888# and SMS to 3636—both work over cellular voice network, not data network. You can check your balance even with 0 MB remaining.

3. Why does *888# show different data amounts than my phone settings?

Your phone’s built-in data counter (Settings > Mobile Data > Usage) tracks data differently than Telkomsel’s system:

• Phone counter: Measures all data passing through that eSIM (may include system overhead, failed downloads, etc.)

• Telkomsel counter (*888#): Measures billable data according to their network

Always trust the *888# figure as the official balance. Reset your phone counter after each top-up to track usage more accurately.

4. Can I top up before my current package expires?

Yes, absolutely. You can top up anytime—you don’t need to wait for data to run out. The new package typically: 

- Adds its data to your existing balance 

- Extends validity to the new package’s expiry date

Example: You have 2 GB valid until Jan 20. You buy 15 GB (30-day package) on Jan 15. Result: You now have 17 GB valid until Feb 15.

5. Is it cheaper to buy one large package or multiple small ones?

One large package is always more cost-effective per GB:

• Small 5 GB package: ~$1.40/GB

• Large 35 GB package: ~$0.69/GB

• Savings: 50% per gigabyte

However, consider validity period: 

- Buying 50 GB for 30 days is wasteful if you’re only staying 10 days 

- Better to match package size to your actual stay and usage pattern

Recommendation: Estimate your total trip data needs, then purchase the package closest to that amount in a single transaction.

Conclusion: Stay Connected Without Worries

Managing your Telkomsel eSIM data balance and topping up when needed is straightforward once you understand the system. 

The *888# method gives you instant visibility into your remaining data anytime, anywhere—even without internet connection. And when it’s time to top up, BaliSIM.com offers the most tourist-friendly solutiono with English support and international payment methods.

Key Takeaways:

• Check balance instantly with *888# (no internet needed)

• Top up via BaliSIM.com for easiest international payment

• Download offline maps to reduce navigation data usage

• Enable Low Data Mode to extend package life by 30-50%

• Larger packages offer better per-GB value

• Top-ups stack with existing data (they add together)

Your Next Steps:

1. Save *888# in contacts as “Check Telkomsel Balance” for quick access

2. Download MyTelkomsel app while on WiFi for visual monitoring

3. Set up Google Maps offline for Bali before your trip

4. Bookmark BaliSIM top-up page for quick access when needed

Internal Links: 

- Top Up Telkomsel eSIM — Add more data instantly 

- Telkomsel eSIM Plans — Initial eSIM purchase 

- How Long is Your SIM Valid? — Understanding expiry dates

Never worry about running out of data mid-adventure—with these tools and knowledge, you’re always just seconds away from checking your balance and minutes away from topping up.