Flights to Bali from Australia is a hot topic right now, as it is all the time within the travel industry in Australia. During the Pandemic, all flights ceased internationally, but that is no longer the case. Nearly every airline is back flying to Bali from all centers of Australia, and there are even some newcomers to the market.
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This article will focus on what flights to Bali from Australia that you can choose from. My disclaimer here is that this is a review of my experiences. I am an Australian that lives in Bali, and I have done the trip many times. Flights change though. Schedules change. If I talk about Malindo flights from Brisbane, I have no idea if they will suddenly stop flying and switch to running flights to Sydney instead. I will try to be as accurate as I can, and keep things to the facts that I know right now.
So, now that that has been said, let’s get down to business and talk about flights to Bali from Australia.
Table of Contents
- Things to know about Flying to Bali
- Airlines that run Flights to Bali
- Where to catch Flights to Bali from Australia
- Things to do in Bali
- Where to stay in Bali
- Helpful Resources for your Bali Holiday
- Summary
Things to know about Flying to Bali
If you are reading this review, then chances are that this is either your first time looking for flights to Bali. You are probably a first time visitor, or even a first time traveler. Or maybe you have been before, and are looking for someone’s review and thoughts on a different airline. Fair enough.
That is exactly what prompted me to write this article.
I had a conversation with my daughter recently. She is booking flights to Bali as we speak, and her question to me was about Malindo Air. She had never heard of them before. I, however, have flown with them many times, and gave her a quick rundown.
Spoiler alert – I love and highly recommend Malindo!
So if that’s the sort of thing you want to know, then you are in the right place!
So, let’s get down to a few things you should know about booking flights to Bali.
Before Departure
Things to know before departure. Well, this is pretty much the same as most international flights, so no real surprises. But I CAN give you a couple of tips.
- Make certain that your passport is valid (yes, people DO overlook this) and has at least 6 months validity still on it. There will also need to be a few blank pages left in it, but unless you fly internationally every other week, this won’t be an issue.
- Know what Visa you are going to want to utilize in Bali. I will talk about this a little in the next section, but if you are planning on grabbing a Visa on Arrival, it will cost you money at the airport. This is about $50 AUD per person. I do believe they take credit/debit card these days, but to avoid all hassle I would suggest you have cash, preferably in local rupe if possible.
- If you are flying from the East Coast of Australia, your flights to Bali will most likely arrive late. I am talking 9pm or after. You will likely not arrive at your resort until 11pm or after. So have a good bite to eat before you get on the plane – sometimes it is hard to find somewhere to eat that late in Bali, depending on where you stay.
- Make certain to have a return or onward flight booked. They hardly ever ask you about it in Bali, but you will not get on a plane in Australia unless you have it.
On Arrival in Bali
Upon arrival in Bali, you will make your way from the plane to the arrivals hall. This is still a fairly new International Airport, and the arrivals hall is huge. Don’t even get me started on the OLD airport. It was so small that customs and immigration was chaos. Especially late at night when about 6 or 7 planes from Oz all arrived at the same time! Fortunately they built a new International Terminal, and the old one is now used for Domestic.
Upon entering the Arrivals Hall, make sure you have your Passport handy, and your Arrivals Card. This is actually electronic now, so after you fill it out, you will have a barcode or similar that you will have to scan when you go through Customs. If you don’t have this, or for some reason can’t access, you can still get the old forms from counters near baggage claim. I’m not sure how long this will be available though.
In the Arrivals Hall, most passengers on flights to Bali will just go straight to the line ups at the counters. There are over a dozen, and if things are running smoothly (usually not) they will have enough open.
As an Australian, you are entitled to the Visa Free Entry. This is NOT to be confused with a Free Visa, which doesn’t exist. You actually can enter with NO Visa. You just have to get your passport stamped. It will allow you to enjoy Bali for up to 30 days, which is not to be mistaken for 1 month. It’s 30 DAYS! Then you must leave.
If you want to stay longer than 30 days, you can go to the counter in the center of the Arrivals Hall and purchase the Visa on Arrival (VOA). This costs you money, and is extendable one time, meaning that you can stay for up to 60 days. It will cost you $50 AUD, and you will also have to pay to extend, but I honestly am not sure what that price is at the moment. (This is done at an Immigration office in Bali).
There are other Visa’s that you can apply for if you want extended stays, or multiple entries. Check out the handy tool below for your options.
Once you are through Immigration, you will pick up your bags, head through Customs and scan your barcode. You MAY have to run your bags through the X-Ray machine, but only 1 in 10 get invited to do so. Then you are in Bali!
When you exit the terminal you will be greeted with two things. First, the hit of humidity, depending on the time of year, and second is the swarm of drivers, taxi’s and welcome parties. This is not as bad as it once was, and most have to wait near the street before they have open slather access to you. If you have accommodation booked, then try to organize a pick up. It makes things a LOT easier here. If not, the only tip is can give you is to look confident. If you look like you don’t know what you are doing, you can expect 1000 offers of taxis etc.
If you walk past everyone, and across the road toward the carpark, you will find a counter where you can book and pay for a Blue Bird Taxi. This is the best, easiest and safest option if you want to avoid the hassle on your first night in Bali.
The other option you have is to pre-book an airport pickup, which you can do easily at THIS LINK.
Airlines that run Flights to Bali
There are plenty of options when it comes to picking flights to Bali. Unlike many years ago when the only option was Garuda Indonesia. They were a great airline, and I know many that are still loyal to Garuda. They hardly run to Australia much anymore, and haven’t run direct flights to Bali for some time. Instead, there are plenty of other airlines to choose from.
JetStar
Good old JetStar. I have also heard many, many other nicknames for them, and I honestly believe that they are all warranted.
JetStar is the bottom of the heap. Remember, this is my honest opinion!
Now, I will say that their new fleet are a bit better. The larger aircraft are a BIT more comfortable, especially if you sit in the forward section. But for a tall guy like me, they still suck.
Also, with JetStar, you get nothing. No entertainment, food, or basic service unless you pay extra. That’s the real catch with JetStar. They are a true budget airline.
Now, even though (I think you know by now) that I would not recommend JetStar, if you are looking for a budget overseas holiday, then they are possibly a good choice. Their prices are cheapest, and if you can handle flying Hand Luggage Only, then these could be the flights to Bali for you.
One note here is that IF you are flying with only hand luggage, Bali is the best place to do just that. Bring your underwear and basics, and buy cheap clothes in the markets. You don’t even need to take them home with you. Not at $3 a shirt.
If it is just the price though, that attracts you to JetStar, then I suggest you keep reading…
Qantas
Qantas is the pride of Australia. Aren’t they? (crickets…)
Honestly, they haven’t been for quite some time now. I believe that as an International Carrier, they have actually recently dropped out of the top 10, a place they proudly held for some time.
I have flown Qantas to Bali. I have flown them on round trips to Japan. I have also flown on many other airlines, and all I can say is this.
They are not worth the price.
They offer all the good gear. In flight entertainment, food (is that what they are calling it?), bag allowance. Everything that you might want for your Bali Holiday.
All for about $150 bucks PLUS more than anyone else. Unless you happen to find a good late night, once in a blue bloody moon deal. In my honest opinion, NOT worth it for a budget Bali holiday.
Unless you are a frequent flyer, want the mileage, or are using points.
The good news is that they don’t even bother flying from everywhere anyway, so for YOU, they may not even be an option.
Virgin Australia
Virgin were my sentimental favorites when I lived in Australia, but only for one reason. I got GOLD frequent flyer membership through work.
Otherwise, I would happily lump them in the same category as Qantas. Maybe, just maybe, a touch above them for service.
You won’t pay quite as expensive a price as Qantas, which is a bonus. You WILL get the entertainment, food and baggage allowance thrown in. You may even get to use the lounge at the airport if you qualify.
But for a budget holiday to Bali, is all that necessary?
If you do fly, download the in flight entertainment app before boarding. This will keep your mind off all the money you spent to be cramped like a sardine for 6 and a half hours.
Air Asia
Air Asia is only available from a few cities, but are a good budget option. At the time of writing, they were not flying from the East Coast though. Which is good, and I will tell you why.
Remember, they ARE a budget airline.
I fly them around Indonesia all the time, and sometimes around South East Asia. If you are tall, you will be lacking space. There are no frills either, though you might get food, which will be some sort of rice option.
The good thing is that from Perth, or Darwin, who really cares? It’s only a 3.5 hour flight from Perth, and an hour shorter from Darwin. For that length of flight, I happily took the savings and massaged my knees during the flight.
If you are looking for flights to Bali from the East Coast though, you might want to look at another option. Unless, of course, your 10 year old nephew is already taller than you.
Malindo Air
Aah Malindo. How I love you.
I first flew Malindo Air from Perth to Bali, and thought I was flying in luxury compared to JetStar and Air Asia. Then, they appeared in Brisbane when I was living there, and I thought I was dreaming!
Malindo are a Malaysian Airline, officially known as Batik Malaysian Air. They are currently changing their name to Batik Air, and are already flying under that name in Indonesia. I don’t know if the full International Fleet will follow suit, but for now, they are still Malindo Air.
What do I love about Malindo Air?
For one, they are the SAME PRICE as JetStar! In fact, the last time I flew them from Brisbane, they flew 10 minutes after the Bali JetStar flight which was chock full. The Malindo flight? Half full. All for the same price.
Malindo give you more leg room, thank God. I am always comfortable on their planes. You get in flight entertainment, food, and 25kg baggage allowance. And remember…
That’s for the SAME PRICE as JetStar.
See what I am getting at?
Then, you get the better service from the South East Asian flight attendants, and the whole process seems so much better.
My tip? Fly Malindo Air and give them a chance. Then leave me a comment on this article to tell me how you went.
Other Airlines
There are other airlines that offer flights to Bali from Australia. The only problem is that at this stage, they are not direct. These airlines include:
- Scoot
- Singapore Airlines
- Malaysian Airlines
- Airnorth
Some of these may be attractive, and offer good prices, especially Scoot. Just remember that you will have a layover of some description in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or some other South East Asian hub.
In my opinion, it’s not worth it when you are only flying to a place just over 6 hours away. Get a direct flight!
Where to catch Flights to Bali from Australia
Flights to Bali can be caught from all major centers in Australia. Even some more regional airports have added them in recent times. If you want a choice of carrier, and therefore more leeway in price, then you will probably have to go to a capital city.
In this section I will include average flight times and prices. Flight times don’t change drastically, but does not account for unforeseen airport delays. Prices can fluctuate substantially without notice due to global events, so take this as a guide only.
Flights to Bali from Sydney
Sydney is one of the major hubs to catch flights to Bali. It can get busy though, with the airport, at this stage, servicing the entire NSW.
From Sydney, you can jump a flight with JetStar or Virgin easily. In recent times, Qantas have added themselves to the list as well. You also have the option of Scoot, and a couple of others, but remember that these will not be direct flights.
Average time for flights to Bali from Sydney: 6 hours 15 mins
Average Price for flights to Bali from Sydney: Between $250 AUD to $400 AUD.
Flights to Bali from Melbourne
Melbourne, like Sydney, sees a lot of traffic and a lot of flights to Bali from Australia. All the major carriers, once again can be see flying in and out of Melbourne. There are also a lot of connecting flights that come through the airport.
At this stage, from Melbourne, you can catch Virgin, JetStar, Qantas and Malindo Air to Bali. Scoot and Singapore Air may also offer flights, but once again, they are not direct.
Average time for flights to Bali from Melbourne: 6 hours
Average Price for flights to Bali from Melbourne: $250 AUD to $400 AUD
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Flights to Bali from Brisbane
Brisbane is where I still fly back and forth from on most occasions. I love their choice of airlines available, and as far as I am concerned, they have the best International Terminal in Australia.
Airlines that offer flights to Bali from Brisbane are Virgin, Qantas, JetStar, and Malindo Air. You also have a pretty big selection of other airlines, including EVA Air, but I don’t recommend the 18 hour flight via Taipei to a destination that is only 6 hours away. Some airlines also may not fly every day of the week, such as Malindo Air, so it is best to stay flexible in that regard.
Average time for flights to Bali from Brisbane: 6 hours
Average price for flights to Bali from Brisbane: $250 AUD to $400 AUD
Flights to Bali from Perth
Perth is a great place to visit Bali from. Being only a 3 and a half hour flight, it is actually one of the reasons that I once took a job there, and chose to move there! We were able to just take off to Bali for a weekend at a moments notice. But then, I’m not telling you anything you didn’t already know, if you are from Perth.
To fly from Perth to Bali, you have a few more options for carriers. Airlines offering flights to Bali from Perth include Virgin, JetStar, Air Asia, Malindo Air, and Qantas.
Average time for flights to Bali from Perth: 3 hours 45 mins
Average price for flights to Bali from Perth: $150 AUD to $300 AUD
Other Centers
You can also find flights to Bali from outside of the main centers. Mostly JetStar are the ones that offer flights from these locations. They include:
- Adelaide – This is actually a major hub, and all the major carriers can be found here
- Darwin – Like Perth, Darwin offers a lot of options, and only a 2 and a half hour flight!
- Cairns – If you live in the far north, you can hop a JetStar flight to Bali
- Gold Coast – Also JetStar, if you are on the Goldie. Sometimes this will fly via Cairns
- Newcastle – I will throw this one in here as they will be offering flights soon. At this stage I am unsure of any more details.
I ALWAYS get my flights through Skyscanner. They always have the very best prices. You can check their prices by clicking any of the links in this article, or simply clicking HERE.
Things to do in Bali
Bali is a tropical paradise. Australians traditionally love it here. If you are still on the fence and wonder WHY they do, then have a read of THIS article.
There are so many things to see and do in Bali. For what seems like a small island, it has something for everyone. From the incredible beaches of Nusa Dua, to the beautiful jungle and waterfalls of Munduk. From the world class surfing of Uluwatu, to climbing an active volcano at Mount Batur. You will find something to scratch that itch in Bali.
Here are a few of my favorite things to do:
- Go waterfall hunting in Munduk
- Get your Zen on in Ubud
- Learn to surf in Kuta
- Check out the famous beaches of Uluwatu
- Relax in a 5 star beachfront resort at Nusa Dua
- Climb an active volcano at Mount Batur
- Take a daytrip to Nusa Penida, the Instagrammers dream!
- Dive or snorkel with Manta’s at Nusa Penida
- Float in the clouds at beautiful Heaven’s Gate in East Bali
- Get your photo at famous Handara Gate, and Bali’s magic “Floating Temple”
- Go Temple Hunting all the best Temples of Bali
- Spend your week hopping around the dozens of Beach Clubs and Night Clubs
- Laze on Kuta beach and sip on coconuts or $3 beers
There is SO MUCH to do in Bali. I have been holidaying here for 15 years, and living here for the past few. During that time I have been to every corner of the island several times over. I am STILL finding new stuff to do and enjoy!
Where to stay in Bali
There are plenty of great places to stay in Bali. Remember that this is an island that relies on Tourism as its major source of wealth. Understandably, there are thousands of resorts on the island!
To help you narrow down where to stay when you visit Bali, I will give you some ideas below. Otherwise, feel free to click through to my Complete Guide to Bali, which breaks down each area for you, and helps you decide what would be best for you.
Beyond that, here are all the main areas of Bali, and my choice of one place to stay in each that will provide you with a nice stay, without breaking the bank.
Kuta
Grand Inna Resort Kuta
The Grand Inna Kuta is perfectly placed right on the Beachfront in the middle of Kuta. There is great access to all the best shopping and restaurants of Kuta out front, and the walkway on the beach will take you to Discovery Mall, and Waterbom.
Legian
Away Bali Legian
The Away Bali Legian is a personal favorite of mine. The rooms are large and comfortable, and the facilities amazing. The front of the hotel is right onto a main shopping street, while the back has you stepping right out onto the beach. You couldn’t ask for better!
Seminyak
Sense Hotel Seminyak
The Sense Hotel Seminyak gives you something that is hard to find in this area. A nice place to stay for a good price that won’t break the bank. Be in the middle of it all, and still have cash to spend at the multiple Beach Clubs and Nightclubs that are everywhere in Seminyak!
Canggu
Surf Motel Bali, Canggu
The Surf Motel is a rare find in Canggu. Most accommodation here is expensive, as this is one of the hip and happening places in Bali. Therefore to find a place that is cheap, and still close to the beach is not easy. Snatch this one up while you can!
Jimbaran
Villa Prana Jimbaran
Villa Prana stands out for me over a lot of more expensive and exclusive places nearby. For a good price, you get world class views out over Jimbaran beach toward the airport and the Kuta Beach strip. The villas are nicely appointed, and you will be close to everything that Jimbaran has to offer.
Uluwatu
Inn Possible Cliff House
Inn Possible Cliff House is located right on popular Bingin Beach at Uluwatu. Wake up in the mornings to the sound of the surf, and have breakfast whilst checking out the waves. You literally cannot get any closer to one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali.
Nusa Dua
Westin Nusa Dua Resort
The Westin Nusa Dua brings you everything that you would expect from Westin Hotels. Great for families and couples, this resort faces my favorite beach in Nusa Dua, and has great facilities and rooms. It also has the long beach walk that runs the length of Nusa Dua, which is great for checking out all the other beaches and hotels along the strip.
Sanur
Inna Sindhu Beach Resort and Hotel Sanur
The Inna Sindhu Beach Resort and Hotel at Sanur is in a great location, right on Sanur Beach. It is one of a kind amongst the resorts along this strip, as it is actually affordable! Breakfast on the beach while catching the sunrise, and spend your day exploring the beachwalk up and down the length of Sanur.
Ubud
Aksari Resort Ubud
Aksari Resort Ubud is a personal favorite. Located just north of Ubud itself, you will find yourself in a private villa with pool overlooking the thick jungle of the valley behind. Lounge in the iconic split level pools, or enjoy any of the great facilities that this amazing resort has to offer.
Helpful Resources for your Bali Holiday
Here are some links to my most popular articles, with tips and hints to help you on your Bali Holiday.
Get your International Driver’s Permit to hire a scooter in Bali
12 Hidden Gems in Bali you didn’t know existed
Nusa Islands Bali – Your Complete Guide
10 Bali Daytrips every visitor must do
Bali Itinerary – Complete Guide to your dream Bali Vacation
Summary
When it comes to flights to Bali from Australia, there are a lot to choose from. I hope that this review and guide has been helpful. If you have any questions or comments then drop me a line below and I will do my best to give you an answer ASAP.
DID I leave anything out? Is there anything more you need to know? Then don’t forget to ask.
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