Planning your dream vacation to Bali?
Before you dive into the waves or explore the rice terraces, one of the first questions every traveler asks is:
“Should I exchange my money in Australia or wait until I arrive in Bali?“
The answer depends on a few key factors — and making the right choice can save you both money and stress on your trip.
Many Australian travelers make the same mistake: they rush to exchange large amounts of AUD at the airport before flying, thinking it’s safer or more convenient. But after arriving in Bali, they realize that local exchange rates are much better — sometimes up to 5–10% higher, meaning you could lose out on hundreds of thousands of Rupiah just by exchanging too early.
After years of visiting and living in Bali, I’ve tested both options — exchanging in Australia and in Bali — and here’s what truly works best in 2025.
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of exchanging money in Bali vs Australia, along with expert travel tips and the most trusted money changer recommendations on the island.
1. Exchanging Money in Australia
Pros:
- Convenient — you can prepare before your trip.
- Peace of mind — you arrive with cash in hand.
- Avoids dealing with exchange counters on arrival.
Cons:
- Lower exchange rates. Australian banks and airport counters usually charge higher margins.
- Extra fees. Some providers include hidden commissions or service charges.
- Limited denominations. You might not get small bills, which are handy in Bali for taxis and tips.
Example:
If 1 AUD = 10,000 IDR in Australia, you might get 10,500–11,000 IDR per AUD in Bali — that’s a big difference for larger amounts.
2. Exchanging Money in Bali
Pros:
- Better exchange rates. Bali’s licensed money changers often offer higher rates than Australian banks.
- No hidden fees. Many legitimate exchangers clearly display their rates and charge no commission.
- Flexible and convenient. You can exchange smaller amounts as needed.
Cons:
- Must choose a trusted exchanger to avoid scams or fake bills.
- Some small shops may advertise “too good to be true” rates — avoid these.
Pro Tip:
Exchange a small amount (around AUD 50–100) in Australia for arrival expenses like taxis or SIM cards. Then, exchange the rest at official exchangers in Bali for better rates.
3. Trusted Place to Exchange in Bali — Best Money Changer
If you decide to exchange your cash in Bali, one of the most reputable and secure options is Best Money Changer.
Best Money Changer Branches:
- Bali Airport
- Kuta
- Sanur
- Canggu
- Legian
- Seminyak
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Daily)
Why Travelers Prefer Best Money Changer:
- Licensed by Bank Indonesia
- Transparent rates displayed on digital boards
- English-speaking staff
- No hidden commission
- Receipt provided after every transaction
Start by exchanging a small amount at the Bali Airport branch for convenience, then visit a city branch (like Kuta or Canggu) for the best rates during your stay.
4. Which Is Better — Bali or Australia?
| Criteria | Exchange in Australia | Exchange in Bali |
|---|---|---|
| Exchange Rate | Lower | Higher |
| Convenience | Easy before trip | Easy after arrival |
| Safety | Very safe | Safe with licensed changers |
| Availability | Banks & airports | 6+ trusted branches |
| Best Choice | For small initial cash | For main budget exchange |
Verdict:
It’s better to exchange most of your money in Bali, but bring a small amount (around AUD 100–150) in cash from Australia for immediate expenses.
Read this article as your reference: https://bestmoneychanger.com/should-you-exchange-money-before-going-to-bali/
So, is it better to exchange money in Bali or Australia? Exchange a small amount (AUD 50–100) in Australia for arrival. Exchange the majority of your money in Bali for better rates and more flexibility.
With Best Money Changer’s 6 branches across Bali — open daily from 7 AM to 11 PM — you can enjoy the best exchange rates and peace of mind throughout your trip.
Contact us now!
Whatsapp: +6285167063510 or Click me