This page is specially written for those in the second half of their Bali trip.
After fully enjoying your time in Bali, it's finally time to head back home.
Transit flights via Singapore or Malaysia require a few tips regarding procedures and timing.
You might feel anxious, wondering, "How do I check in?" or "Will I get lost at the airport?"
Based on my own experience, I've put together a clear guide on
what to watch out for when taking connecting flights.
YUKII personally always fly with Singapore Airlines.
・People planning to return to Japan from Bali.
・Those who are nervous about flight transfers.
・Travelers using connecting flights via Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, etc.
・Anyone who wants their departure process to go smoothly.
Arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport 2.5 to 3 hours before departure.
The airport is located in the Tuban area, between Kuta and Jimbaran.
Traffic is extremely heavy between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM, so be sure to leave early.
After getting out of the car, head up the ramp to reach the Departure Gate.
Only passengers with valid tickets and porters are allowed past this point.
There are two departure gates, but you can enter through either one—both lead to the same area.
First, all your luggage (including suitcases and carry-on bags) will go through a security scan.
Check the monitors to find your airline's check-in counter.
Counter locations are labeled with letters; follow the signs to your assigned alphabet.
- Should I do the online check-in?
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Yes, I highly recommend doing it in advance.It’s a system where you can check in via an app or website 24 to 48 hours before departure.Doing it confirms your intent to board, which is always good practice.
- What are the benefits?
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To be honest, I don't feel much of a "time-saving" benefit at the Bali airport right now.The idea that "the online line is shorter" feels like a thing of the past—there’s almost no difference compared to the regular line.Regardless, I always make sure to do it anyway.
Navigating Ngurah Rai International Airport: From Immigration to Departure
Once you’ve checked your luggage and received your boarding pass, it’s time to head inside.
Scan the QR code on your boarding pass at the automated gate to proceed.
Security Check
Please remember that liquids and lighters are not allowed through security. Double-check your carry-on!
Next is Immigration. Have your passport and boarding pass ready.
YUKIRecently, automated gates (Autogates) have been introduced, which has significantly reduced the waiting time and crowding.
Depending on your gate, it can be a 5-minute walk after immigration. I recommend arriving at the airport 2.5 to 3 hours before your flight.
YUKINote: Even if you have checked in online, you still need to go through the immigration process, so please allow enough time.
Enjoy some final shopping and dining before you fly!
Check out "BIASA," a long-established Balinese boutique. Their designs are simple yet elegant—you’ll feel the quality the moment you put them on!
YUKIIf you have the chance, I highly recommend visiting their flagship store on Seminyak Street as well.
They also offer beautiful sarongs and adorable Batik-patterned plush toys.
Forgot someone on your list? Don't worry! While prices are slightly higher at the airport, there’s a great variety of soaps, snacks, and local gifts available.
Always double-check the flight information display boards! Even if a gate is printed on your boarding pass, it can change unexpectedly. Make sure to reconfirm your gate number once you're inside.
Instead of a sit-down restaurant, I prefer grabbing a quick coffee, sandwich, or muffin from a stand and heading straight to the gate.
I like to find a seat near my boarding gate and just relax until it's time to board.
After immigration, there’s a massage shop just past the duty-free area. If you have time, I highly recommend a quick foot massage! Getting a massage before flying helps prevent leg swelling and ensures you’ll sleep much more soundly during the flight.
YUKII had a 15-minute foot reflexology session for 175,000 IDR—well worth it!
＼Need a Ride to the Airport?／
With heavy souvenirs and unpredictable Bali traffic, getting to the airport can be stressful.
I highly recommend pre-booking a private transfer for a smooth, worry-free departure. A professional driver will pick you up directly from your hotel, letting you enjoy your final moments in Bali in comfort.
Transit Tips: Singapore Airlines Edition
First Step: Check the Departure Board as soon as you land.
When you check in at Bali, you’ll receive two boarding passes—one for each leg of your journey.
You’ll receive separate boarding passes for each leg of your journey—for example, Bali to Singapore, and then Singapore to Haneda (or your final destination in Japan).
YUKIThe gate number for your connecting flight in Singapore will likely be blank on your boarding pass since it’s determined closer to departure.
So, the very first thing you should do upon arrival at Changi is check the screens to find your next gate!
Don't Miss: Bacha Coffee at Changi Airport
Bacha Coffee is a luxury coffee house originating from Morocco.
If you have a layover, visit Bacha Coffee. This Moroccan luxury coffee house is famous for its slow-roasted beans and stunning, aesthetic packaging.
Every time I fly Singapore Airlines, I’m reminded of why they are one of the best!
I was particularly impressed by the wide selection of movies—they even had plenty of Japanese films to choose from.
The dessert, a delicious coconut ice cream, was a highlight of the meal!
And just like that, I’ve arrived safely in Japan! ♪
I’ve also written more about the transit experience in this post. Check it out!
Don’t Let Travel Stress Ruin Your Last Day!
Traffic in Bali can be unpredictable, especially when you have a flight to catch.
Booking a private transfer ensures a reliable driver will meet you at your hotel on time.
It’s a fixed-rate service, so you can skip the last-minute price haggling and travel in comfort with all your souvenirs.
YUKIPro Tip: Complete your customs declaration online via "Visit Japan Web" before you land for a seamless exit.
Don't miss these articles for the second half of your stay:
・The Ultimate Guide to Affordable Balinese Souvenirs
・Why High-Quality Coconut Soap is the Perfect Gift
・Health-Conscious Souvenirs: Eco-Friendly & Gluten-Free Picks
See you in the next post!
