If you are planning to explore Singapore but prefer to stay in Johor Bahru because of the much cheaper accommodation prices, this cross-border journey is definitely worth trying. One of the easiest and most affordable ways is to take the MRT to Woodlands and then continue with Bus 950.

From Woodlands MRT Station, you can directly catch Bus 950 that goes to the Woodlands Checkpoint. The bus usually arrives every 10–15 minutes, but on weekdays it can get crowded as it coincides with commuting hours. Be prepared for some waiting time or even longer queues during these periods. Still, many travelers enjoy the experience because it gives a real taste of the daily cross-border life between Singapore and Malaysia.
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At Woodlands Checkpoint, you will go through Singapore immigration, which is relatively quick. The process is now fully automated—you just need to scan your passport and face to pass through. After that, you’ll need to reboard the same bus to continue the journey towards Malaysia. This is why many passengers rush off the bus to clear immigration quickly and secure a seat back on the same bus. If you miss it, don’t worry—you can still catch the next bus, but you’ll have to wait a little longer.
Once you arrive at Johor Bahru Checkpoint, the immigration process can take slightly longer. Some lanes are equipped with passport scanning machines, while others are still done manually by immigration officers. After clearing Malaysian immigration, you can board the bus again and head straight into Johor Bahru city.
What makes this journey so appealing is not just the affordability, but also the convenience. Crossing the border only costs about SGD 1 from Singapore to Malaysia and RM 2.6 from Malaysia to Singapore—far cheaper than taking a taxi or private car. On top of that, accommodation in Johor Bahru can be up to three times cheaper than in Singapore, with plenty of modern apartments and hotels available near the checkpoint. Many travelers even say that staying in JB allows them to enjoy bigger rooms, swimming pools, and better amenities at the same price as a tiny budget room in Singapore.
By choosing this option, you get the best of both worlds: the excitement of exploring Singapore during the day, and the comfort of relaxing in Johor Bahru at night—all while saving a significant amount of money on your trip.
Practical Tips for Crossing Singapore – Johor Bahru
- Avoid peak hours (6–9 AM & 5–8 PM) to skip long queues.
- Use transport cards like EZ-Link in Singapore & Touch ’n Go in Malaysia.
- Check immigration crowds via apps like Beat the Jam! or Google Maps.
- Prepare your passport & documents for faster clearance.
- Travel light to make boarding and walking easier.
- Stay near JB Sentral/CIQ for the most convenient cross-border trips.













