Rupiah Rescues: Smart Ways to Save While You Spend in Indonesia

Let’s face it – the Indonesian Rupiah loves a zero. Or six. That innocent-looking 100,000 IDR note? It’s worth around £5. So, before you start tipping like a tycoon or overpaying for a mango smoothie, pause and do a mental double-take. Confusing 10,000 with 100,000 is a common traveller slip – and those little mistakes add up faster than a scooter in Seminyak.

$ Top tip: Keep small denominations handy for everyday spends – and always check your change.

Markets, tuk-tuk rides, beach bracelets… they all come with a little wiggle room in Indonesia. Haggling isn’t rude here – it’s part of the fun. Just remember: it’s about friendly banter, not full-blown battles. If you shave a few thousand off each purchase, your daily savings could stretch far enough for an extra spa treatment or two.

$ Pro tip: Start low, smile wide, and don’t be afraid to walk away – there’s always another stall around the corner.

Put down the pizza – you didn’t come to Indonesia for margherita Mondays. Local food is not only tastier, but it’s also a fraction of the price. Nasi goreng, satay skewers, spicy sambal – all for the cost of a coffee back home. Western-style cafés can blow your daily budget in one overpriced brunch.

$ Rule of thumb: If it’s busy with locals, it’s delicious and affordable. Plus, you'll get a far more authentic flavour of Indonesia.

Sure, ATMs are everywhere – but so are hidden charges. Between poor exchange rates and international withdrawal fees, your Rupiah can quietly drain without you noticing. And trust us, realising you’ve lost £30 to your bank after buying three sarongs and a durian is no fun.

$ Better bet? Use a Hays Travel Money Card with no foreign fees, withdraw larger sums to reduce multiple charges, and check with your bank before flying out.

Here’s the golden rule: buying Rupiah last-minute means losing money. Exchange rates at airports or hotels are often shocking – and not in a fun way. Some places might not stock Rupiah on demand either, so you risk turning up empty-pocketed.

$ Save yourself the stress: Order your currency at a Hays Travel branch in advance, lock in a better rate, and arrive feeling like a savvy, sun-kissed spender.