Currency and Money Rules for Travelling to Indonesia
Planning a trip to Indonesia? Learn how much cash you can bring, how to use Indonesian rupiah (IDR), and why preparing your travel money in advance makes all the difference.
Table of contents:
Indonesia is one of Australia’s favorite travel destinations, from the beaches of Bali to the cultural heart of Java and the natural beauty of Lombok and Flores. Whether you’re travelling for a holiday, a honeymoon, or a longer backpacking adventure, understanding Indonesia’s currency rules and cash regulations is essential to avoid issues on arrival.
Knowing how much money you can bring, when you need to declare it, and how to use Indonesian rupiah (IDR) during your stay will help you travel smoothly and confidently.
Why it’s important to understand Indonesia’s money regulations
Indonesia enforces specific rules on cash entering and leaving the country to prevent money laundering and ensure financial transparency. While these rules are less strict than in some destinations, failing to comply can still lead to delays, questioning customs, or even confiscation in serious cases.
For Australian travelers, being aware of these regulations means:
- Avoiding unnecessary paperwork at the airport
- Carrying the right amount of cash for daily expenses
- Planning currency exchange in the most cost-effective way
A little preparation before departure goes a long way once you land.
How much cash can you bring into Indonesia?
Travelers entering or leaving Indonesia must declare cash amounts exceeding IDR 100 million (or the foreign currency equivalent). This applies to all forms of cash, including Indonesian rupiah, Australian dollars, and other foreign currencies.
If you’re carrying more than this limit, you must complete a customs declaration form upon arrival or departure.
Practical example:
If you’re travelling with AUD 10,000 in cash and the converted value exceeds IDR 100 million, you are legally required to declare it at Indonesian customs.
Tip: Most travelers won’t need to carry large sums of cash. For everyday expenses, a smaller amount of IDR combined with card payments is usually sufficient.
Using Indonesian rupiah (IDR) during your trip
Indonesia is still a largely cash-based economy, especially outside major tourist hubs. While hotels and upscale restaurants accept cards, cash is essential for many everyday situations, such as:
- Local markets and street food stalls
- Small shops and family-run businesses
- Taxis and motorbike rides
- Entrance fees to temples and attractions
Having small denomination notes (IDR 10,000, 20,000, and 50,000) is particularly useful, as vendors often struggle to give change for large bills.
Card payments and ATMs in Indonesia
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas like Bali, Jakarta, and major shopping centers. Visa and Mastercard are the most supported, while AMEX acceptance is more limited.
That said, relying only on cards isn’t recommended:
- Some places add surcharges for card payments
- ATMs may have withdrawal limits
- Rural areas often operate cash-only
ATMs are widely available, but international withdrawals may incur fees from both Indonesian banks and your Australian bank. Always carry some cash as a backup.
Should Australians exchange IDR before travelling?
Yes, exchanging at least part of your money before departure is a smart move. Here’s why:
- You avoid poor exchange rates at tourist kiosks
- You’re ready to pay for transport, food, or tips immediately
- You reduce the need to search for ATMs after a long flight
With Prosegur Change, you can:
- Reserve Indonesian rupiah online at competitive rates
- Enjoy 0% commission on your exchange
- Collect your cash conveniently at the airport before departure
Backed by over 30 years of experience, Prosegur Change helps Australian travelers start their journey fully prepared.
Looking for more tips? You may also like: Why reserving your travel money before flying makes sense.
Before you fly, here are answers to some common questions:
FAQs for Australians travelling to Indonesia
Yes, if you are carrying more than IDR 100 million (or equivalent in foreign currency), you must declare it at customs.
No. Australian dollars are not accepted for daily purchases. You’ll need Indonesian rupiah (IDR) for most transactions.
There is no maximum limit but amounts over IDR 100 million must be declared. Undeclared large sums may be questioned or confiscated.
For most travelers, IDR 3–5 million in cash is sufficient for food, transport, and small purchases, combined with card use for hotels and larger expenses.
Yes, in cities and tourist areas. However, availability can be limited in rural regions, so it’s best to carry some cash at all times.
Travel prepared and enjoy Indonesia stress-free
From beach clubs in Bali to night markets in Yogyakarta, having the right currency makes your Indonesian adventure easier and more enjoyable.
Reserve your Indonesian rupiah with Prosegur Change before you fly:
- Lock in competitive exchange rates
- Pay 0% commission
- Pick up your cash at the airport
- Travel with confidence backed by 30+ years of expertise
Plan ahead, travel smart, and enjoy Indonesia with one less thing to worry about.
-
Currency and Money Rules for Travelling to Indonesia
January 8, 2026
-
Currency and travel money rules for Australians visiting Singapore
December 19, 2025
