When planning a trip to Indonesia, one of the essential questions to consider is how much money to bring with you. While credit cards are becoming more widely accepted in popular tourist areas, having some cash on hand is always a good idea, especially when venturing to more remote locations or smaller towns. In this guide, we'll break down how much cash you should bring to Indonesia based on your travel style, preferences, and budget.

Budget Travelers:

For budget travelers who are looking to explore Indonesia on a shoestring budget, bringing a moderate amount of cash is advisable. Many street vendors, small shops, and local restaurants may only accept cash, so having Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) on hand will be beneficial. A budget traveler should plan to carry around 500,000 IDR per day to cover meals, transportation, and activities.

Midrange Travelers:

If you fall into the midrange category and prefer a bit more comfort and convenience during your travels, you may want to bring a bit more cash with you. In addition to having enough money for meals, transportation, and activities, midrange travelers might want to have extra cash for shopping, souvenirs, and occasional splurges. It's recommended that midrange travelers carry around 1,000,000 to 1,500,000 IDR per day.

Luxury Travelers:

For those who enjoy indulging in luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and exclusive experiences, having a larger amount of cash on hand is essential. Luxury travelers should plan to carry at least 2,000,000 to 3,000,000 IDR per day to cover high-end accommodation, gourmet meals, spa treatments, and other upscale activities.

ATM Availability:

While it's essential to have cash on hand, especially in more remote areas, Indonesia has a relatively well-established banking system with ATMs readily available in popular tourist destinations. However, it's essential to check with your bank before your trip to ensure your debit or credit card will work in Indonesia and to notify them of your travel plans to prevent any issues with accessing your funds.

Carrying Cash Safely:

When traveling with a substantial amount of cash, it's crucial to take precautions to keep your money safe. Consider using a money belt or hidden pouch to store your cash and only carry the amount you'll need for the day. It's also a good idea to have some small bills on hand for smaller purchases and to avoid flashing large amounts of cash in public places.

Overall, the amount of cash you should bring to Indonesia will depend on your travel style, preferences, and budget. By planning ahead and having a mix of cash and cards, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer.