Direct answer: Use cards for hotels and larger Labuan Bajo merchants when they work, but carry Indonesian rupiah cash for park-related payments (if not prebundled), market stalls, tips, boat drink tabs, and the days ATMs fail. Do not plan a multi-day Komodo embarkation on “card only” assumptions.
Eastern Indonesia tourism is modernising, but boats are not shopping malls.
Always have a backup card and tell your bank about Indonesia travel.
If park fees are collected as a separate line, know the currency and timing (fee guide).
Deposits and balances should follow the operator’s official instructions — invoice, payment link, or verified bank details. Be wary of last-minute personal-account switches. Keep receipts. Match payment schedule to cancellation terms (cancellation).
Sketch a daily pocket budget: drinks, tips pool, souvenirs, laundry if any, and “oops” money. Inclusions lists tell you what should already be paid (what’s included).
Hybrid wallet wins: card + enough IDR cash + payment plan completed before you are offline at sea (wifi reality). Book with clear invoicing via KomodoExplorer so the money path is as clean as the itinerary.
Many do not for incidentals. Settlements are often cash or pre-arranged transfer. Confirm with your operator.
Enough for park fees if separate, tips, drinks, souvenirs, and a buffer for ATM downtime. Exact amounts depend on inclusions — map them first.
They exist in town but can be queue-long or empty in peaks. Withdraw on arrival day with time to spare; do not wait until embarkation morning only.
Sometimes, but large cash handovers need receipts and verification. Prefer official payment channels your operator documents.
IDR is standard for local costs. Some tourism businesses may take foreign currency at poor rates — convert consciously.
