Should I bring USD or Indonesian Rupiah to Bali, and where to exchange money?
Based on 1 discussion with 3 participants · Last activity: 27 days ago
TL;DR
Bring USD cash (new, undamaged bills) and exchange on Bali for the best rates. Ubud has money changers everywhere; Gili Trawangan has some but rates are worse.
What the community said
Exchanging to Rupiah before departure (outside Indonesia) gives terrible rates and can be hard to find. Bring USD and exchange on arrival in Bali.
27 days ago USD → IDR on Bali
USD is the best currency to bring to Bali. Bills must be new and in perfect condition — no tears, marks, or folds — otherwise exchangers may refuse them or offer a lower rate.
27 days ago New USD bills required
Ubud has money changers on virtually every street — no shortage of exchange options throughout the town.
27 days ago Ubud — money changers everywhere
Gili Trawangan has money changers, but fewer options than Bali and rates tend to be worse. It's better to exchange the bulk of your cash on Bali before heading to the Gili Islands.
27 days ago Gili Trawangan — exchange on Bali first