Long Bawan is a remote airport serving Borneo Island, located in one of Southeast Asia’s most pristine and underdeveloped regions. With limited commercial infrastructure, layovers here require careful planning. Whether you have a short connection or an extended stop, this guide covers everything you need to know about navigating LBW and making the most of your time.
Before You Leave the Airport
Essential Information
| Visa Requirements | Check IATA Travel Centre for your nationality and destination requirements |
| Language | Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia). Download a translation app before landing – airport WiFi may be unreliable |
| Currency | Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Use ATMs or a Wise/Revolut card for the best exchange rates – avoid airport currency counters |
| Transit Time | Always factor in immigration and security time. For international connections, budget at least 2.5-3 hours before departure |
Getting to the City
Long Bawan airport is remote with limited ground transportation options. For specific transit information, check the airport’s official website or contact your airline for ground transport recommendations.
Key considerations:
- Ground transportation may be limited or require advance booking
- Travel times to the city center can be longer than at major hubs
- Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing
- If leaving the airport, always confirm return transport timing with your driver or service
What to Do During Your Layover
At the Airport
With limited amenities data available for LBW, focus on rest and preparation:
- Rest: Find a quiet seating area to sleep or relax. Check SleepingInAirports.net for airport-specific sleeping tips
- Refresh: Use restrooms to freshen up. Pack a change of clothes and basic toiletries in your carry-on
- Hydrate: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps manage jet lag
- Eat: Airport food is 2-3x more expensive than city prices. If you have time, eat in town instead
In the City (If Time Permits)
Long Bawan is a remote destination on Borneo Island. If your layover is 6+ hours and you decide to explore:
- Research local attractions and travel times before landing
- Keep your passport, phone, and wallet in a cross-body bag or hidden money belt
- Share your location with a trusted contact
- Plan return transport carefully – don’t miss your connection
Luggage Storage & Sleeping
Luggage Storage: If amenities are limited at LBW, consider using Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero for luggage storage near the airport – typically $5-10 per bag per day, much cheaper than airport lockers.
Sleeping: For longer layovers, check SleepingInAirports.net for airport-specific sleeping conditions and nearby hotel options.
Quick Tips for Your Layover
- Pack a layover bag: Keep snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and toiletries in your carry-on for easy access
- Download offline maps: Use Google Maps or Maps.me to navigate without relying on airport WiFi
- Get an eSIM: Consider Airalo or Holafly for instant data without hunting for WiFi
- Plan your return: Confirm transport back to the airport well in advance – remote locations may have limited options
- Stay hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle and refill after security to manage jet lag
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave LBW airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave LBW airport during a layover if you have a valid passport and meet visa requirements for Indonesia. However, always factor in immigration, security, and return travel time. For international connections, budget at least 2.5-3 hours before departure. Check IATA Travel Centre for your specific visa requirements.
What is there to do at LBW during a layover?
At the airport, you can rest, refresh, and eat. If your layover is 6+ hours, you may explore Long Bawan or nearby areas on Borneo Island. Research local attractions and travel times before landing. Always plan return transport carefully to avoid missing your connection.
How long of a layover do I need at LBW?
For international connections, budget at least 2.5-3 hours to account for immigration and security. If you want to leave the airport and explore, aim for 6+ hours total layover time. This gives you 1 hour for immigration, 2-3 hours to return to the airport, and time to explore.
Is there luggage storage at LBW?
Amenities data for LBW is limited. If luggage storage is unavailable at the airport, use Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero for storage near the airport – typically $5-10 per bag per day, much cheaper than airport lockers.
Plan Your Layover with Yopki
Use the Yopki layover calculator to determine exactly how much time you have to explore during your LBW layover. Input your arrival and departure times to get personalized recommendations for activities, dining, and rest.
Safe travels!