Return for fixed holidays
Set dates almost always mean a round trip is cheaper.
Bali round trip vs one-way flights
Return tickets usually cost less than two one-ways. See when each makes sense and what the difference looks like on popular routes.
In short
A round trip to Bali is usually cheaper than two one-way flights, especially on international routes. Airlines price returns to reward full itineraries, and this holds for flights to Denpasar (DPS) from most cities in 2027.
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Usually cheaper
Round trip
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Typical long-haul saving
15–30%
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Entry check
Onward ticket often required
Ticket tips
Pick the ticket that fits your trip.
01
Why round trips win
For most international travellers, a round trip is the standard and most cost-effective choice. You fly to Denpasar and back, usually with one airline or alliance, which keeps planning and budgeting simple.
Carriers from Europe, North America and Australia price fares to favour returns. A London return via Singapore can cost far less than two one-way tickets.
02
When one way makes sense
One-way tickets suit open-ended plans, people relocating, or travellers moving on from Bali without returning home, such as on a longer trip through Southeast Asia.
Indonesia, like many countries, often asks for proof of onward or return travel. Check the latest visa and entry rules before buying a one-way ticket.
03
What decides it
Five factors usually settle the choice.
- Length of stay: fixed holidays almost always suit a round trip
- Itinerary: Bali as your only stop favours a return
- Distance: long-haul from the US or Europe strongly favours returns
- Visas: a return ticket proves onward travel automatically
- Flexibility: with uncertain dates, free cancellation may matter more
04
Booking for value
Whichever ticket you choose, plan ahead. Good-value US fares for October and June dry-season deals both need booking months in advance, and late December seats cost far more than early ones.
Groups of ten or more get better rates by booking early. Business class and private jets allow more flexible timing, though demand still sets the price.
05
Trends for 2027
More travellers now look for airlines committed to sustainability, solo packages with hotel transfers, and family extras such as priority boarding and kids’ meals.
Regional flyers should watch direct schedules from Asia. A Jakarta stopover can add value to a longer journey, and travellers heading to Ubud fly into Denpasar.
Round trip vs one way: 2027 estimates
Illustrative fares to Denpasar (DPS). Actual prices vary with airline, booking time and dates. On long-haul routes the round-trip saving is clear; on short regional routes it is modest.
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London–Denpasar (one stop)
- Round trip
- GBP 800–1,200
- Two one-ways
- GBP 1,000–1,600
- Round-trip saving
- GBP 200–400
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Los Angeles–Denpasar (one stop)
- Round trip
- USD 1,000–1,600
- Two one-ways
- USD 1,300–2,000
- Round-trip saving
- USD 300–400
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Sydney–Denpasar (direct)
- Round trip
- AUD 600–1,000
- Two one-ways
- AUD 700–1,200
- Round-trip saving
- AUD 100–200
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Singapore–Denpasar (direct)
- Round trip
- SGD 250–400
- Two one-ways
- SGD 280–450
- Round-trip saving
- SGD 30–50
Is a round trip or one-way flight to Bali cheaper?
A round trip is usually cheaper for international travel. Airlines price returns more favourably than two one-ways, saving 15–30% on average on long-haul routes to Denpasar (DPS).
Can I book a multi-city flight to Bali?
Yes. Many airlines and online agencies sell multi-city tickets, ideal if you fly into Denpasar and leave from another city, or stop in several places on the way.
What should I check before booking a one-way flight to Bali?
Make sure you meet Indonesian entry rules, which often require proof of onward or return travel. One-way fares can also cost more than returns on long-haul routes.
More flight guides
Deals, routes and booking advice for flying to Bali.
Not sure which ticket to buy?
Tell us your route and plans. We price the round trip, one-way and multi-city options side by side.