I thought my experience growing up and later living in New York City made me familiar with inflated costs and the high prices found in one of the most prominent metropolitan centers on the planet. Then I visited Singapore.
It only took an afternoon and evening in the country to notice my wallet was already hemorrhaging. It was necessary the next morning to reassess. After some initial research on the internet I went out of my way to speak with the staff members at my hostel. Not only did they assist me, but they introduced me to a few locals who lived at the hostel (because it was cheaper than an apartment) that also gave me some money saving tips. These discussions led to the realization that there is a silver lining that I was not aware of my first day in Singapore.
Marina Bay Sands Hotel as seen from Gardens by the Bay
Essentially, your trip will only be as expensive as you make it so follow this Quick Guide to Saving Money in Singapore to familiarize yourself with the very simple ways you can reduce your expenses while in Singapore. Below is a detailed list of the suggestions and quick tips that were passed along to me. They helped me plan better, see more, save money and avoid unnecessary police fines. Finally, if you are looking for information about free, cheap and discounted activities and attractions please refer to my article about the 5 Ways to Do Singapore on the Cheap.
Planning & Prior to Arrival
Do Research – Prior to traveling anywhere it is beneficial to complete as much research as possible about your upcoming destination. You may find many opportunities that you would not have been aware of otherwise. This step will help you plan ahead and make the most out of the time you have while in Singapore.
Plan a Short Trip – Consider a multi-day layover before continuing on to your next destination. Singapore is a major hub for connecting flights throughout Asia from destinations around the globe. If you frequently travel throughout Asia you are likely to stop in Singapore multiple times.
Search Groupon for Deals & Discounts in Singapore – It would be advantageous to look for discount tickets and other deals for Singapore’s major attractions prior to your arrival. It may help you organize your schedule, while saving some money. Obviously, you can also do this after your arrival, but the foresight may result in increased savings and prevent you from missing out on anything of interest.
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- ABC Premium Hostel Desk & Footlockers
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- Clean, Cheap & Cold… Value!
Book Lodging in Little India or Chinatown – Both ethnic neighborhoods have ample hostels and budget hotels with rates that are much lower than those found in the city center.
Once You Arrive at the Airport
Grab a Tourist Guide & Map – Before you leave the airport make sure to grab a map at one of the tourist information centers for easier navigation. It will also include resources to highlight free attractions, find discounted tickets and other vital tourist information.
If you need free Wifi at the airport stop at the Information Desk. (Bottom Floor of Terminal 2)
Purchase a Transportation Card – You have two options so choose wisely. Both the EZ-Link Card and the Singapore Tourist Pass allow you to use public buses and the metro system. With the EZ-Link Card you are charged only the distance you travel rather than the standard flat rate. It may be cheaper than the Singapore Tourist Pass. This option can be picked up at the airport metro station. It allows for unlimited use of public transportation and is sold in one, two or three day increments. Purchase whichever option best suits your needs.
You can purchase an EZ-Link card at any General Ticketing Machine (GTM) throughout Singapore to utilize public transportation.
During Your Stay
Put on your Sneakers & Walk – I found the city easy to navigate and enjoy wandering into neighborhoods and attractions I may have missed taking a speedier method of transportation. I only used public transportation when I was in a rush.
While walking from St. Andrews Village to Kallang Park I came across this bridge in the Whampoa District decorated with SG50 flags & banners made by students.
Don’t Buy Bottled Water – Unlike many other countries in Asia the tap water in Singapore is safe to drink. Bring a refillable bottle and start saving.
Shop at Supermarkets – If you want to purchase food and beverages go to the supermarket instead of the mini-marts, because they are cheaper and have more variety.
Potting Pasir Hawker Center
Eat at Hawker Centers – You will find an abundance of quality options from various ethnic cuisines. At approximately S$5 ($4USD) per dish it is also some of the most reasonably priced food you can find.
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a free museum in Chinatown.
Visit One of the Many Free Attractions – Singapore has many free attractions. The Ethnic Enclaves are full of affordable tasty eats and unique cultures. For more detailed information about see my article 5 Ways to Do Singapore on the Cheap.
Make Sure to Avoid
Costly Alcohol & Tobacco Products – The taxes are incredibly high making these products extremely expensive. Simply skip them or limit your consumption.
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- Overpriced Alcohol & Late Night Consumption Laws
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- That makes sense! Of course cold beer costs more!
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- So does that mean daytime drinking is acceptable?
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- If you are of legal age & looking for the most bang for your buck try a Baron’s.
Don’t Get Fined – Singapore has been nicknamed “Fine City”. There is a laundry list of laws that are strictly enforced by the government. Many of them may seem trivial to a tourist, but are taken very seriously in Singapore. Violators will be subject to a costly fine (and the more serious crimes years in prison) if found guilty of breaking any of the following regulations:
- chewing gum
- littering
- jaywalking – only cross streets at designated crosswalks
- bringing food or drinks on to public transportation
- not wearing your seat belt in taxis
- smoking or drinking in public unless in a designated zone
- not flushing the toilet
- urinating in public – elevators have Urine Detection Devices (UDD)
- vandalism of any kid – do you remember Michael P. Fay?
- drug use &/or distribution – they could even random drug test a tourist!
- homosexual activity (See Section 377A of the Penal Code)
Make sure you follow the rules of the land to avoid being hassled by the police and getting a hefty ticket or worse in the process.
Just in case you thought I was joking!
Staying Too Long – Like I’ve said numerous times Singapore is expensive. Get in and out! If you’re reading this you’re not a millionaire so don’t plan on staying for too long.
Singapore Skyline at Night (Those are not clouds, but the massive amounts of smoke from the SG50 fireworks celebration.)
Conclusions
Following the tips provided in my Quick Guide to Saving Money in Singapore will help you during the planning phase prior to your arrival and your eventual visit to the country. Being aware of these money saving suggestions is only one way to cut your costs. In addition to these general guidelines there are many free, cheap, or discounted activities to partake in and attractions to see that won’t break your budget during your trip to Singapore. You can find more information about them in my 5 Ways to Do Singapore on the Cheap. Stay frugal and happy trekking!