You’ve planned the trip, packed your summer clothes, and are ready for those Bali sunsets 🌴 — but one practical question can still make or break your budget:
💭 “Should I exchange my money here in Perth or wait until I’m in Bali?”
It’s a classic travel dilemma — convenience versus value. Travelers on Reddit and TripAdvisor have debated this for years, and the verdict is surprisingly clear: Bali often gives better rates, but only if you know where to go.
Australian travelers frequently share their experiences in Reddit’s r/Bali forum when it comes to exchanging AUD (Australian Dollars) into IDR (Indonesian Rupiah).
A Perth local who visits Bali yearly wrote:
“You’ll get a much better rate in Bali. The airport rates are poor, but city money changers like Best Money Changer Bali give honest rates close to market value.”
— r/Bali
Another Redditor explained the main difference clearly:
“If you exchange in Perth, you’ll pay bank fees and get lower rates. In Bali, if you pick a registered exchanger, you’ll get 5–7% more IDR for the same amount.”
That small percentage can make a big difference — especially if you’re exchanging hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
However, some travelers still prefer to exchange a small amount in Perth before flying. It’s a safe and convenient option for your arrival expenses: airport taxis, SIM cards, or your first meal.
Once you land, the best approach is to head to a reputable money changer in Bali, ideally one that’s PT-registered (officially licensed) — and among those, the top name that keeps coming up is Best Money Changer Bali.
Bali vs Perth: Rate & Convenience Comparison
| Feature | Perth (Australia) | Bali (Indonesia) |
|---|---|---|
| Average Rate (per 1 AUD) | 14,200 – 14,500 IDR | 15,500 – 15,800 IDR |
| Commission/Fees | Often 1–3% or hidden in rate | Usually none at official changers |
| Convenience | Safe, but higher cost | More steps, but better value |
| Best for | Immediate pre-trip cash | Main currency exchange |
| Recommended Place | Banks or Travelex | Best Money Changer Bali, Central Kuta, BMC |
Rates fluctuate daily — always check live rates on Google or XE.com before exchanging.
Best Money Changer Bali
If you decide to exchange your cash in Bali, Best Money Changer Bali is consistently rated by travelers as one of the most trustworthy and professional currency exchange companies on the island.
Here’s what makes it stand out:
- 🏦 Official PT-registered company, licensed under Indonesian regulations.
- 💰 Competitive rates that closely follow real-time market values.
- 🔒 Secure service — CCTV, counting machines, transparent counters.
- 📍 Branches in Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua, easily accessible from major tourist areas.
- ⭐ High customer ratings on Google for honesty and accuracy.
Reddit users and travel bloggers alike agree that Best Money Changer is one of the few places where you can exchange large amounts safely, without worrying about scams or fake rates.
The Smart Exchange Plan for Travelers
Here’s how to get the best of both worlds — safety and great value:
✅ Step 1: Exchange a small amount in Perth for your arrival.
Just enough for airport needs (around AUD 50–100).
✅ Step 2: Bring clean, large AUD notes ($50 or $100).
Larger bills get better rates in Bali; torn notes are often refused.
✅ Step 3: Once in Bali, go to a licensed exchanger.
Choose Best Money Changer Bali, Central Kuta, or BMC — avoid roadside counters with handwritten rates.
✅ Step 4: Always count your money in front of the teller.
Never let your cash out of sight.
✅ Step 5: Double-check rates online.
Use XE.com or Google currency converter to compare before exchanging.
So, where should you exchange money — Bali or Perth?
💡 Do a little in Perth, but most in Bali.
Exchanging in Perth is safe and convenient for small amounts, but Bali offers much better value when using trusted exchangers.
If you want the best of both worlds — great rates and peace of mind — head straight to Best Money Changer Bali once you arrive. It’s the choice most repeat travelers swear by. Because when it comes to making the most of your holiday budget, every extra rupiah counts — and Bali’s sunsets are always better when you’ve saved more to enjoy them. 🌅