With plenty of sights to see and heaps of things to do in Singapore, you’d want to experience as much as you can. The Lion City may come across as an expensive destination, especially if you’re not travelling with a Singaporean heir (hello, Nick Young!), but it really isn’t if you know certain travel hacks and budget travel tips.
Here are seven thrifty travel tips to help you experience most of the best things to do in Singapore without maxing out your credit card:
- Book affordable accommodations
- Enjoy hassle-free transport using the EZ-Link Card
- Look for free things to do
- Splurge at local markets
- Drink tap water in Singapore
- Hawker street stalls and food halls will be your saviour
- Save up with Klook bundle passes
1. Book affordable accommodations
One of the most expensive things in Singapore is accommodation. If you’re spending most of your time enjoying all the best things to do in Singapore, it would be wiser to book a cheaper place to stay rather than splurging on a posh one.
Budget accommodations are readily available in Singapore. Most hostels around the city have free WiFi, complimentary breakfast, and decent facilities, so don’t worry about sacrificing quality for the price tag.
2. Enjoy hassle-free transport using the EZ-Link Card
Singapore landmarks are sprawled all over the country. Going from one spot to another can be expensive if you’re travelling via taxi. To get the most savings, purchase an EZ-Link card or the Singapore Tourist Pass, valid for all public transport in Singapore.
Getting the EZ-Link card is perfect if you have non-travel days. At the same time, the Singapore Tourist Pass offers unlimited travel on Singapore’s public transport for a certain number of days.
3. Look for free things to do
We told you going around the city doesn’t have to be expensive, and it’s true. There are tons of free things to do in Singapore! You can spend a day exploring the Singapore Botanic Gardens or the free zones at Gardens by the Bay. You can also enjoy open-air movie viewing spots while you’re here.
Klook tip: Check out Singapore’s Really Really Free Market, where everything is available at no cost. Just take home what you want!
4. Splurge at local markets
Speaking of markets—Singapore’s local markets are also great places to spend the day if you’re on a budget. Indulge in retail therapy without breaking the bank at flea and farmers’ markets. From local jewellery to handmade handbags, the sky’s the limit when it comes to souvenir shopping.
5. Drink tap water in Singapore
Great news: Singapore’s tap water is safe to drink, so there’s no need to reserve money for buying bottled water! Don’t forget to bring your trusty water tumbler to refill it wherever you are. Refilling stations are usually available at your accommodation, so remember to fill up before you travel for the day.
6. Hawker street stalls and food halls will be your saviour
We know it isn’t a vacation if you don’t splurge on food. And with Singapore’s delectable range of local food, we totally understand why you wouldn’t want to skimp on your food budget. Luckily, there are tons of hawker street stalls and fantastic food stalls all over the country that offer great food for cheap! Start at the Chinatown Food Centre for a plate of the most beloved Hainanese Chicken Rice.
7. Save up with Klook bundle passes
Booking individual admission tickets can also be pricey, especially if you have many things to do in Singapore lined up on your itinerary. We’ll let you in on a little secret: Klook bundle passes let you save up to 30% on the cost of admission tickets!
Here are the bundle passes you can book with Klook:
Singapore Multi Attractions Pass
Wanna visit Universal Studios Singapore, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Cable Car, SkyHelix Sentosa, Marina Bay Sands, and Sentosa Luge? The Singapore Multi Attractions Pass lets you visit these top city attractions at the convenience of one pass. You can visit up to five landmarks for a great price whenever you want to visit!
Singapore Wildlife Attractions Pass
If you love animals, this Singapore Wildlife Attractions Pass is perfect for you. It gives you access to Singapore Zoo, Singapore Night Safari, Singapore River Wonders, and Jurong Bird Park. And if you’re up for it, you can also add in a horse grooming session at Singapore Turf Club Riding Centre!
Singapore Adventure Pass
Experience all the thrills Singapore has to offer with this Singapore Adventure Pass! Brace yourself for the time of your life at four exciting attractions: NERF Action Xperience, HeadRock VR, Superpark, AIRZONE, Katapult Trampoline Park in Orto Yishun, or VR Game Experience by Hologate using one pass. This pass is valid for 120 days after booking and guarantees unlimited fun!
Singapore Spa Wellness Pass
Wanna have the R&R sesh you deserve? Book this Singapore Spa Wellness Pass and reach peak relaxation while you're in The Lion City! Gain access to some of the best spa operators in Singapore, such as Joya Onsen Cafe, OD Wellness, KENKO Wellness, Miracle Day Spa and Syoujin, and get ready to experience wellness like never before.
Singapore Craft Pass
Looking to try something new while in Singapore? This Singapore Craft Pass will let you make your own perfume, paint your own tote bag, practise pottery, or make your own art! With one pass, you can enjoy up to four different arts and crafts workshops around the city. Don’t forget to unleash the creativity in you!
Written by Elle David