Wan Xin NgPlanning a day trip to Johor Bahru (JB) for the first time? You’re not alone. For many Singaporeans, JB is the go-to spot for weekend getaways, massage runs, and food adventures. But while it’s just across the border, it runs a little differently from home.
This guide breaks down practical tips every first-timer should know before heading over, so you can make the most of your trip without getting caught off guard.
1. Plan your crossing time wisely
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Weekends and public holidays can mean long waits at both Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints. If you want to avoid the worst of the crowd, cross early in the morning before 8 am or after 2pm. Weekday mornings are generally the smoothest.
You can check live traffic updates using the One Motoring website or the Beat the Jam app before you leave.
Also read: The Best Times to Travel Between Singapore and Johor Bahru (JB)
2. Download these essential apps
Image Credit (L-R): Grab Official App; MyICA Official App
A few apps will make your trip a lot easier. Grab is the main ride-hailing (and also food delivery) app used in JB, and Google Maps is still the most reliable for directions. If you want to avoid bad exchange rates, apps like YouTrip, or Revolut let you spend in ringgit using competitive real-time rates.
You can also use the MyICA Mobile app to generate a QR code for faster clearance at the Singapore checkpoint. Just make sure to bring your physical passport too — it’s still your form of identification overseas.
3. Use a prepaid card, but carry some cash
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Many places now accept card, but smaller hawker stalls, bakeries, and pasar malam vendors are still cash-only. Around RM100 to RM200 ($S30.18-60.36) per person is a safe daily amount, but of course, the actual amount depends on your day’s activities.
You’ll usually get better exchange rates in Singapore than in JB, so it’s best to change your money before your trip.
4. Avoid taxi touts at the checkpoint
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Once you exit JB Customs, it’s common to be approached by drivers offering rides to places like KSL or Mid Valley. These fares are often inflated. Just book a Grab for a more transparent price and a safer ride.
5. Not all malls are walkable from the checkpoint
Image Credit: Chongkian via Wikimedia Commons
City Square Mall is the only one directly connected to JB Customs. Other malls like KSL City, Mid Valley Southkey, Paradigm Mall, and IKEA Tebrau require a short Grab ride or public bus. It’s best to plan your stops in clusters to minimise travel time.
Also read: Shopping Malls in Johor Bahru (JB) Every Singaporean Must Visit
6. Watch your roaming settings
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It’s easy to rack up unexpected roaming charges in JB, especially if your phone connects to a Singapore network by mistake. You can switch to a Malaysia SIM or eSIM, stick to WiFi, or use your telco’s setting to lock your network to Malaysia only.
This is especially important if you’re near the border, like at KSL, where some phones still connect to Singapore towers.
Also read: Best Data Plans for a Day Trip to Johor Bahru: eSIMs, SIM cards & Roaming Options
7. Bring your own essentials, especially if you’re sensitive to certain brands
Image Credit (L-R): Paradigm Mall Official Website; City Square Official Website
You’ll find familiar chains like Watsons and Guardian in JB, but you’ll also come across less familiar names like BIG Pharmacy and CARiNG Pharmacy. While the range is generally decent, the specific brands or formulations you’re used to in Singapore might not always be available, especially for things like contact lens solution, skincare, tampons, or medication.
If you have sensitive skin or rely on a particular brand, it’s worth packing your own. It’s a small step that can save you a lot of unnecessary stress during your trip.
8. Make reservations for popular spots
Image Credit (L-R): Ng Wan Xin; The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen Official Facebook Page
Weekend crowds in JB can be intense, especially at well-known massage parlours and cafes. If you have a particular spot in mind, call ahead or send a message to book. This is especially important for popular places like Thai Odyssey, Soul Asia, The Replacement, and Keijometo.
Also read: 6 Viral Johor Bahru (JB) Food Spots: Worth the Hype or Overrated?
9. Try the local eats, but be cautious with street food
Image Credit: BroLokLok Official Facebook Page
JB has plenty of iconic dishes worth trying, from banana cake and lok lok to old-school kopitiam breakfasts. But if you have a sensitive stomach, take it slow when trying pasar malam street food. Stick to cooked items and avoid undercooked seafood or lukewarm soups.
If you’re looking for safer but equally satisfying options, consider places like Restoran Woon Kiang (kway teow), Kam Long Curry Fish Head, or It Roo Cafe for their signature chicken chop.
10. Mall hours start later than in Singapore
Image Credit: City Square JB Official Website
Most malls and shops in JB open between 10.30am and 11am, and they often stay open later into the evening. If you’re heading over early, start with breakfast or a massage before diving into your shopping.
Also read: Mount Austin Johor Bahru (JB) Itinerary: Best Places to Eat, Shop and Relax
Final thoughts
JB can feel both familiar and foreign at once. It’s close enough for a spontaneous day trip, yet different enough that a little planning goes a long way. Whether you’re heading over for massages, food, or just a change of pace, knowing what to expect will help you ease into the experience.
That said, it’s worth being a little more cautious than you might be at home. Keep an eye on your belongings, be mindful of your surroundings, and try to avoid staying out too late, especially if you’re travelling solo. Most parts of JB are perfectly safe in the day, but a bit of awareness helps things stay that way.
Start simple, stay open, and enjoy the small differences. For many, one trip is all it takes to start coming back regularly.
