Best Payment Methods for Foreigners When Travelling in Bali

Choosing the right payment method when renting a motorbike in Bali can make or break your island adventure. With dozens of rental companies offering different payment options, understanding what works best for foreigners helps you avoid problems and get the best deals.

Payment methods affect more than just convenience. They impact your security, exchange rates, and even your ability to get deposits back quickly. Smart payment choices also protect you from common scams that target tourists.

Most rental shops in Bali accept multiple payment types, but knowing which ones offer the best value and protection makes your trip smoother.

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Cash Payments in Indonesian Rupiah - The Most Common Method

Indonesian Rupiah remains the preferred payment method for most motorbike rentals in Bali. Nearly all rental shops accept cash, making it the most reliable option for foreigners.

1. Getting Indonesian Rupiah

The best exchange rates come from official money changers like BMC (Bali Money Changer) rather than banks or hotels. Avoid roadside kiosks that offer rates that seem too good to be true - these often involve scams.

ATM withdrawals are usually cheaper than direct bank exchanges but come with fees. Most Indonesian ATMs charge 20,000-75,000 IDR ($1.30-5.00) per transaction for foreign cards. Your home bank may also charge 2-8% withdrawal fees plus foreign transaction fees.

2. Best ATMs for Cash Withdrawals

BCA (Bank Central Asia) and BNI (Bank Negara Indonesia) are the most reliable ATMs for foreign cards. These banks offer:

• Free withdrawals with certain international cards like Wise and Revolut

• Maximum security with branches in tourist areas

• 3,000,000 IDR limit per transaction (about $200 USD)

• 100,000 IDR notes that most businesses accept

ATMs to avoid:

• BRI and Permata Bank charge 50,000 IDR fees for foreign cards

• Commonwealth Bank has high fees and poor exchange rates

• Unbranded ATMs in isolated areas pose security risks

3. Cash Payment Advantages

• Universal acceptance: Every rental shop takes cash

• No processing fees: Avoid credit card surcharges

• Quick transactions: Pay and go immediately

• Bargaining power: Cash payments often get better rates

4. Cash Payment Drawbacks

• Security risks: Carrying large amounts can be unsafe

• No purchase protection: Limited recourse if problems arise

• ATM fees: Multiple withdrawals add up quickly

Daily rental costs typically range from IDR 70,000 to IDR 150,000 ($5-10 USD), while weekly rentals cost IDR 350,000 to IDR 500,000 ($23-33 USD).

Credit and Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at established rental companies, though smaller local shops may prefer cash. Visa and Mastercard work at most locations, while American Express has limited acceptance.

1. Card Processing Fees

Most rental shops charge a 2-3% processing fee for card payments. This fee covers the cost of payment processing and is standard across Indonesia. Factor this into your budget when comparing payment options.

Some premium rental services include card processing fees in their advertised rates, making the total cost clearer upfront.

2. International Card Benefits

Using international cards provides several advantages:

• Purchase protection from your card issuer

• Fraud monitoring for suspicious transactions

• Detailed transaction records for expense tracking

• Emergency card replacement if lost or stolen

3. Card Payment Tips

• Notify your bank about travel to Indonesia to avoid blocked transactions

• Bring multiple cards in case one doesn't work

• Check foreign transaction fees with your bank before traveling

• Use chip and PIN when available for better security

Wise (Formerly TransferWise) - Best Value for Money

Wise offers some of the best exchange rates and lowest fees for international transactions in Indonesia. The Wise debit card works excellently for motorbike rentals and everyday expenses.

1. Wise Card Benefits

• No foreign transaction fees when spending in Indonesian rupiah if you hold IDR in your Wise account. This means you pay exactly what locals pay without markup.

• Free ATM withdrawals up to £200 ($250 USD) per month across two transactions. After that, a 1.75% fee applies.

• Mid-market exchange rates with transparent fees starting around $5.36 for $1,000 transfers. Much better than traditional banks that hide costs in poor exchange rates.

2. How Wise Works for Rentals

1. Top up your Wise account in your home currency online

2. Convert to Indonesian rupiah at mid-market rates

3. Pay rental companies like a local with no conversion fees

4. Track spending with instant notifications

Many rental companies accept Wise card payments directly, and you can withdraw cash from BCA or BNI ATMs without fees (within monthly limits).

3. Wise Transfer Costs

• From USD: $5.36-11.89 for $1,000 transfers depending on payment method

• From GBP: £5.56-5.83 for £1,000 transfers

• Real-time rates: Lock in rates for up to 48 hours

Revolut - Great for Frequent Travelers

Revolut offers excellent value for international travelers with competitive rates and good ATM withdrawal allowances.

1. Revolut Plans and Fees

Free monthly withdrawals vary by plan:

• Standard/Plus: £200 per month or 5 withdrawals (whichever comes first)

• Premium: £400 per month

• Metal: £800 per month

• Ultra: £2,000 per month

After free limits: 2% fee or £1 minimum on withdrawals

Currency exchange fees apply after monthly limits:

• Standard: 1% on amounts over £1,000

• Plus: 0.5% on amounts over £3,000

• Premium/Metal/Ultra: No exchange fees

2. Revolut Weekend Charges

1% weekend fee on currency exchanges Friday 5pm to Sunday 6pm for Standard and Plus users. Premium and higher plans avoid this fee.

3. Using Revolut in Bali

Works at BCA and BNI ATMs with no local fees when within your monthly allowance. The card is widely accepted for payments at restaurants and shops.

Daily withdrawal limit: £3,000, but most Bali ATMs limit transactions to 3,000,000 IDR (about £184).

Digital Payment Options

Digital wallets are becoming popular for motorbike rentals in Bali, especially among tech-savvy rental companies. These apps offer convenience and often better exchange rates than traditional methods.

1. Local Digital Wallets

Indonesian digital wallets work well for foreigners who can set them up:

• GoPay: The most widely accepted local wallet, linked to the popular Gojek app. You can top up with cash at convenience stores or link international credit cards.

• OVO: Another popular option accepted at many rental shops. Similar setup process to GoPay with cash top-up options.

• DANA: Growing acceptance among rental companies, especially for online bookings.

2. International Digital Options

Several rental companies accept international digital payment methods:

• PayPal: Accepted by premium rental services like GFS-Bike and some online platforms.

• Apple Pay: Available through companies using Stripe payment processing.

• Google Pay: Offered by modern rental platforms with international payment gateways.

3. QR Code Payments

Many rental shops now accept QRIS (QR Code Indonesian Standard) payments. This system works with most digital wallets and provides a quick, contactless payment method that's become very popular post-pandemic.

Bank Transfers for Rentals

Bank transfers offer security and convenience for longer rentals or when booking in advance. Many established rental companies prefer this method for monthly rentals.

1. Local Bank Transfers

Indonesian bank transfers are fast and secure for payments within the country. Popular rental companies provide bank details for transfers to local accounts like BCA (Bank Central Asia).

Typical transfer details:

• Bank: BCA (Bank Central Asia)

• Swift Code: CENAIDJA

• Account holder name matches the rental company

2. International Transfers with Wise

Wise offers much better rates than traditional banks for international transfers to Indonesia. Costs range from $5.36-11.89 for $1,000 transfers versus $37.87 at major banks.

Benefits include:

• Mid-market exchange rates with no hidden markups

• Fast transfers - 64% arrive in under 20 seconds

• Transparent fees shown upfront

3. Transfer Payment Benefits

• Large payment security: Safer than carrying cash for expensive rentals

• Written payment record: Clear proof of payment

• Lower fees for large amounts: Better than multiple card transactions

• Advance booking capability: Reserve bikes before arrival

Online Payment Gateways

Modern rental companies use secure payment processors like Stripe and Braintree to handle online bookings. These gateways provide the highest level of security for international transactions.

1. Stripe Payment Processing

Companies like GFS-Bike and Bikago use Stripe for international payments. Stripe supports:

• 150+ world currencies for easy conversion

• Multiple payment methods including cards and digital wallets

• PCI DSS compliance for secure transactions

• Automatic receipts via email

2. Gateway Payment Advantages

• Highest security standards with encryption and fraud protection

• Multiple currency support with transparent exchange rates

• Instant confirmation of payments and bookings

• Professional service from established rental companies

Payment Safety Tips for Tourists

Protecting yourself from payment scams requires awareness and simple precautions. Common rental scams target tourists who don't understand local payment practices.

1. Avoiding Rental Scams

• Document everything before paying: Take photos of the motorbike from all angles before accepting it. This prevents false damage claims when returning the bike.

• Get written receipts: Always request and keep receipts for deposits, rental fees, and any additional charges.

• Use established companies: Choose rental services with good online reviews and professional websites rather than street-side operators.

2. ATM Safety Tips

• Use ATMs inside bank branches whenever possible for maximum security. These locations have security guards and cameras.

• Cover your PIN when entering it and check for card skimmers before inserting your card.

• Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize fees and reduce exposure to ATM risks.

3. Red Flags to Avoid

• Prices significantly below market rate: Usually indicates scams or hidden fees

• Pressure to pay immediately: Legitimate companies give you time to decide

• Unwillingness to provide receipts: Professional services always give documentation

• Requests for passport deposits: This practice is unsafe and unnecessary

Deposit Requirements and Payment

Understanding deposit structures helps you choose the right payment method. Most rental companies require security deposits to cover potential damage or theft.

1. Standard Deposit Amounts

Deposit requirements vary by bike type and rental duration:

• 110cc scooters: IDR 500,000 - IDR 1,000,000 ($33-66 USD)

• 125cc bikes: IDR 750,000 - IDR 1,500,000 ($50-100 USD)

• 150cc+ motorcycles: IDR 1,000,000 - IDR 2,500,000 ($66-166 USD)

2. Best Deposit Payment Methods

Wise or Revolut cards work excellently for deposits as they offer:

• Secure authorization holds without immediate charges

• Competitive exchange rates if currency conversion needed

• Quick release when deposits are returned

Cash deposits are returned immediately but require carrying large amounts.

3. Getting Deposits Back

Timeline varies by payment method:

• Cash deposits: Usually returned immediately upon inspection

• Card authorizations: Released within 3-7 business days

• Bank transfers: May take 3-10 business days

Which Payment Method to Choose

Your best payment method depends on your situation and priorities. Here's how to choose based on your needs:

1. For Short-Term Rentals (1-7 days)

Wise card or cash work best for daily and weekly rentals. Wise offers better exchange rates than cash if you can load IDR in advance. Cash avoids all processing fees but requires ATM withdrawals.

2. For Monthly Rentals

Wise bank transfers or cards work better for larger amounts. The security benefits and better exchange rates outweigh any processing fees.

3. For Maximum Savings

Wise card with pre-loaded IDR offers the best value with mid-market rates and no foreign transaction fees. Revolut is also excellent within monthly limits.

4. For Maximum Security

Credit cards with purchase protection provide the most security against fraud and disputes, despite the 2-3% processing fee.

5. Budget-Conscious Travelers

ATM withdrawals at BCA or BNI with Wise or Revolut cards minimize fees while providing local currency.

Start Your Bali Adventure Today

Ready to explore Bali on two wheels? Choosing the right payment method makes your motorbike rental experience smooth and secure. Whether you prefer the savings of Wise, the convenience of Revolut, or the simplicity of cash, Bali's rental shops offer options that work for every traveler.

Book your perfect ride today and discover the freedom of exploring Bali at your own pace. From hidden temples to stunning beaches, a motorbike opens up the entire island for your adventure.

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