Finding cheap flights to Indonesia is often easier when the search covers more than one arrival point and a useful range of dates. Denpasar (Bali) may suit travellers planning a holiday on the island, while Jakarta can be more practical for the capital and onward travel. Praya is another option for reaching Lombok, and Balikpapan may be worth including when your plans are focused on that part of Indonesia. Comparing these destinations can reveal different fares, even when the travel dates are similar.

Flexibility matters particularly around periods of stronger demand, including UK school holidays, Christmas and New Year, and major Indonesian public holidays. Searching across several departure and return dates can help identify better-value combinations, while travelling just outside the busiest periods may offer more choice. It is also worth checking whether a longer stay changes the overall fare, rather than focusing only on the outbound journey.

UK travellers should broaden the departure search beyond their nearest airport where practical. London airports, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh may produce different results, although the saving should be weighed against rail fares, parking, an overnight stay or the time needed to reach the airport. When comparing arrivals, include baggage, connection arrangements and the cost of getting from the Indonesian airport to your final base, as the lowest headline fare may not be the cheapest complete journey.

When comparing flights to Indonesia from the UK, start by considering which departure airport is most practical. London airports generally provide the widest choice of connecting itineraries, while departing from Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh or another regional airport may reduce the need for a separate domestic journey in the UK. A single booking can also make connections and baggage arrangements simpler, although an itinerary with separate tickets may offer more flexibility and choice.

Your Indonesian arrival point should match the main purpose and geography of the trip. Denpasar (Bali) is a natural choice for travellers staying in Bali, while Jakarta may be more suitable for the capital and onward connections across Indonesia. Praya can be convenient for travellers whose plans are centred on that airport’s surrounding area, and Balikpapan may work better when it is the most relevant entry point for a journey in that part of the country. Choosing the closest suitable airport can avoid a lengthy transfer after an already demanding journey.

Check how each option handles connections, including whether the transfer requires changing airports, collecting baggage or allowing a long gap between flights. Compare total journey time, connection arrangements, arrival time and the ease of onward transport, rather than judging an itinerary solely by its advertised fare.