Navigating a new country involves more than just booking a hotel; it’s about how you pay for that delicious Gonggong (local sea snail) and how you share those sunset photos instantly. In 2026, Bintan has become more digital than ever, but a few local “rules of thumb” still apply.
Here is everything a foreigner needs to know about staying paid and connected on Bintan Island.
1. Money Matters: Cash, Cards, and QRIS
The official currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). While many resorts once accepted Singapore Dollars (SGD), regulations now strictly require all transactions to be in IDR.
- The QRIS Revolution: In 2026, the QRIS (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard) is everywhere—from high-end boutiques to street-side Warungs.Tip: If you are from Singapore (NETS/PayLah), Malaysia, Thailand, or South Korea, you can often scan QRIS codes directly using your home banking app.
- Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in resorts and Lagoi Bay. Always choose to be charged in IDR on the machine to avoid high “Dynamic Currency Conversion” fees.
- ATMs: For cash, use ATMs inside major bank branches (BCA, Mandiri, or BNI) to ensure safety.
2. Connectivity: Staying Online 24/7
Most resorts offer free Wi-Fi, but if you plan to explore the Blue Lake or Trikora Beach, a local data plan is essential.
- Tourist eSIM: This is the most convenient option for 2026. You can purchase and activate an Indonesia eSIM (via providers like Airalo, Pelago, or Telkomsel) before you even land.
- Local SIM Cards: If your phone doesn’t support eSIM, you can buy a physical Telkomsel Tourist Prepaid Card at the Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT) Ferry Terminal.
- Price: Around IDR 150,000 for 25GB of data.
- Requirement: You must bring your passport for mandatory IMEI registration at the counter.
3. Important Digital Paperwork
As of late 2025/early 2026, Indonesia has streamlined entry through the All Indonesia e-Arrival Card.
- E-Arrival Card: Complete this online within 72 hours before arrival to get a QR code.
- Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD): No more paper forms on the ferry! Fill this out digitally to get a separate QR code for a faster exit through customs.
Bintan in 2026 is a seamless blend of tropical charm and modern tech. By setting up your eSIM before departure and ensuring your banking app supports QRIS, you’ll spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the island.
Ready to embark on your Bintan adventure? Contact BintanTrip.id via WhatsApp now to unlock exclusive deals and personalized travel packages! Or, book directly on Klook for our most popular tours and activities: Bintan Desert and Blue Lake Tour and Bintan Fireflies and Mangrove River Tour.Ready to embark on your Bintan adventure? Contact BintanTrip.id via WhatsApp now to unlock exclusive deals and personalized travel packages! Or, book directly on Klook for our most popular tours and activities: Bintan Desert and Blue Lake Tour and Bintan Fireflies and Mangrove River Tour.
