To help travelers avoid long delays, MoneySmart has identified the most favorable times for a smoother journey from Singapore to JB by car.

Weekdays
Traffic on weekdays is generally more predictable, making it easier to plan ahead. The best times to cross the border are before 8 a.m., between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m., or after 8 p.m. During these hours, traffic tends to be lighter, allowing for a faster and more pleasant crossing.

However, it’s crucial to avoid peak hours, such as the morning rush from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., and the evening rush between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., when congestion is at its worst due to heavy commuter traffic.

The Causeway and Second Link experience the highest levels of congestion during these peak periods, especially on Friday evenings, when many Malaysians head home for the weekend.

Weekends
Weekends are typically busier, as many people take advantage of their free time to visit JB. On Saturdays, the worst traffic usually occurs between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., so it’s best to avoid traveling during these hours. Instead, consider leaving early in the morning before 7 a.m. or later in the afternoon after 1 p.m., when traffic tends to subside.

Returning from JB on a Saturday evening can also be challenging, especially after dinner time, as many travelers head back to Singapore. To avoid heavy traffic, try returning before 6 p.m. or after 11 p.m.

Sundays
Sundays see a similar pattern, with traffic starting to build up as early as 11 a.m. and peaking between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. as weekend visitors return to Singapore. To avoid these peak hours, consider crossing the border late at night after midnight or early in the morning before 8 a.m.

Public Holidays
Public holidays are known for even heavier traffic, as both Singaporeans and Malaysians take advantage of extended weekends. If you’re traveling on a holiday, it’s advisable to start your trip a day in advance or early in the morning to beat the rush. The later you depart, the more likely you are to encounter significant delays at the border.

In summary, careful timing is the key to a smoother trip from Singapore to Johor Bahru. By planning ahead and avoiding peak hours, you can spend less time in traffic and more time enjoying your destination.