A tropical beach with clear turquoise waters, a sandy shore, and a small island in the distance.

$49 Cheap Flights to Tawau

Popular airlines to Tawau

How much is the cheapest flight to Tawau?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $49 for one-way flights and $97 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Batik air
Firefly
Malaysia Airlines
Singapore Airlines
China Eastern Airlines

What you need to know for your flight to Tawau

Flights to Tawau at a glance

Traveling to Tawau is easy; you can choose between full-service and budget airlines. Compare the travel times to find the best fit for your schedule and budget. Whether you're looking for cheap flights to Tawau or the cheapest flight available, you'll be ready to explore the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airport in Tawau: Tawau Airport (TWU)
  • Flights per week: 7 flights arriving at Tawau airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to Tawau: around 3 carriers

Popular airport in Tawau

Tawau is a vibrant city ideal for business, family trips, and urban getaways. Visitors flock to Tawau for its outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and eco-friendly adventures. The city is conveniently accessible through a major airport, making it easy to reach for those planning their travels.

  • Tawau Airport (TWU): Situated in the Tawau District of Sabah, this airport primarily caters to domestic flights. Key airlines operating here include Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Malindo Air.

Top routes to Tawau

  • Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Tawau (TWU), with one-way tickets available from around $40

Cheapest routes to Tawau

  • Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Tawau (TWU), with cheap one-way fares from around $40

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Tawau

  • Malaysia Airlines: This carrier services Tawau Airport (TWU), handling roughly 56% of arrivals in Tawau. The typical one-way ticket price is around $170.
  • AirAsia: Operating flights to Tawau Airport (TWU), AirAsia makes up about 22% of arrivals to Tawau. Expect an average one-way fare of approximately $50.
  • Malindo Air: Also flying into Tawau Airport (TWU), Malindo Air accounts for approximately 22% of the arrivals in Tawau. The average fare for a one-way ticket is around $140.

How to save money on a flight to Tawau

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Tawau is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Tawau hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Tawau flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Tawau

Tawau welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Tawau efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Tawau, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Tawau is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Tawau on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in and around Tawau

  • Kampung Wakuba: Located in the area of Tawau, Kampung Wakuba is a charming village perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, it's an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Key attractions include the Tawau Hills Park, a national park renowned for its lush landscapes and adventure opportunities, and the St. Patrick's Anglican Church, which offers a glimpse into the local culture. For travelers interested in civic architecture, the modern Tawau Federal House is also nearby, showcasing the area’s administrative heritage.
  • Mentadak: Situated 21 miles away from Tawau, Mentadak is a vibrant city rich in cultural and educational attractions. Visitors can explore the Tawau State Library, a great place for families and culture enthusiasts to delve into local literature and heritage. The St. Patrick's Anglican Church is another significant cultural site, inviting travelers to appreciate its architectural beauty and community significance. Additionally, the modern Tawau Federal House stands as a prominent landmark, reflecting the city's civic pride and governance.

Tips for short-haul flights to Tawau

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, it's typically more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize your packing efficiency by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothes, and coordinating your outfits. This also allows you to bypass the baggage claim wait upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Don't forget to ensure your devices are fully charged before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's wise to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Tawau

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide complimentary seat selection once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines may allow seat selection even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to arrive at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security procedures, and immigration processes.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, enjoy a coffee at a café, or unwind at your gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Free airport Wi-Fi is generally available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin to align your body clock by changing your watch and adapting your sleep schedule to your destination's time zone. Try to either sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Tawau?
The cheapest month to fly to Tawau is July when there's less demand. Off-peak months are often when you'll find cheap fares. To keep costs down, avoid flying during public and school holidays.
Which US cities fly direct to Tawau?
If you'd rather fly to Tawau nonstop, check out all the options by choosing "Direct flights only" when you search for available departures on Expedia.
How to find a cheap flight to Tawau?
To snag cheap flights to Tawau, book in advance and travel during the off-peak months of May and August. Want a handy tip? Depart on a Thursday and save around 16% on average compared to traveling on a Sunday.* Opt to receive price alerts on the Expedia app and we'll get in touch as soon as your fares drop.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Tawau?
Although booking in advance is usually the easiest way to save cash, don't worry if your Tawau vacation is last minute. You can still get cheap flights to Tawau, especially if your plans have a little wiggle room. Try switching up your dates, exploring different ticket types or jetting out of another airport.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Tawau?
To pick up the biggest savings on domestic journeys, book your flight to Tawau 28 days ahead of your travel dates. For international flights, book between two and four months in advance. This gives you a better chance of locking in the departure dates and seats you want.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Tawau?
Sundays are typically the best day to book a cheap flight to Tawau, where you can save 8% on average compared to a Friday. If you decide to buy tickets on a Friday, expect to pay a higher price as this is often the most expensive day.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to Tawau?
Tawau is connected to 4 airports worldwide through 4 airlines, with Tawau Airport (TWU) as its chief gateway. Choose from these top airlines to Tawau when planning your trip:

  • AirAsia
  • Malaysia Airlines
  • Malindo Air
  • Firefly

Where do you fly into Tawau?
The main airport to fly to Tawau is Tawau Airport (TWU). There's also the option to land at Lahad Datu Airport (LDU) when flying to Tawau.
How far is the airport from central Tawau?
You'll be approximately 11 mi east of central Tawau after landing at Tawau Airport (TWU).
Can I save money by booking a Tawau trip package?
Book a Tawau flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you could make significant savings. It's easy to bundle your flights and accommodations, and you can even add tours and car rentals to create your own personalized Tawau break. Plus, there's nothing like the convenience of booking everything in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Tawau?
It's often possible to cancel or change your flight to Tawau. Many airlines let you cancel your flights for free within 24 hours of booking. However, some flights are non-refundable, and airlines may issue you a credit toward a future trip instead of a direct refund. To reserve cheap flights to Tawau with flexible change policies, select the "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters during your search. Need more information? Visit our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Tawau
Destination airport IATA code
TWU
Destination city name
Tawau
Roundtrip price
$96

Trending flights to Tawau

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $49 for one-way flights and $97 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Singapore Airlines

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