I'm still confused with all the different 'forums' both open and 'private', not to mention the 'trip PM', so I decided to post this in the open 'discussion' forum.
Indonesia recently devalued the Rupiah. Why is this important?
While I know Kamala and the 'air consolidator' have made efforts to inform of the 'sports equipment allowance' for luggage on Garuda airlines, there's still a possibility you will find yourself owing excess baggage fees. In the past, upon check-in, baggage is weighed, you must declare the 'sports equipment allowance' at weigh-in. The agent would then give you a slip of paper with amount you owe for excess weight, to be paid to a cashier, IN RUPIAH, the cashier will mark the paper as paid. You return to the same agent, who has held your luggage, at the front off the line, to complete your check-in.
There are currency exchanges in the arrival areas of the international airports, which are probably the most convenient place to exchange dollars. Both the money changers, and any other resort, or business, will require CLEAN, PRISTINE, NEW dollars for exchange/payment. No tears, no writing, not even any a mark from a currency pen! You could order Rupiah through your bank, but beware the fees can amount to 10% or more of the transaction. Here's a link to a currency exchange website.
Just one more detail to consider. I depart in a month. Time to start packing.
Bill