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When we think about budget travel destinations, Singapore isn't the obvious choice for many reasons. Being a pretty expensive city, it isn't easy to plan a trip to Singapore, and it's probable that you might have to significantly dent your pockets for a comfortable trip. However, if you plan your holiday properly and maintain some discipline in spending, you can have a decent trip without breaking the bank. Here are some tips for a decent, budget-friendly holiday in Singapore.
Singapore boasts a well-connected airport catering to over 100 airlines across four terminals, including many budget carriers offering affordable tickets to regional destinations. Consider a multi-city trip or a long layover in Singapore; Changi Airport offers free three-hour transit tours for layovers between 5.5 and 24 hours. Save money by arriving during the day, as public transport stops around midnight, and taxis add a midnight surcharge on top of the airport fee.
While hotels in Singapore can be pricey, you can dodge peak rates by avoiding key dates such as the Singapore school holiday months (June and December), the rare 2-day public holiday during Chinese New Year (end of January/early February), National Day (August 9), and the Formula 1 Grand Prix (mid-September). Check Singapore's annual public holiday calendar for long weekends, which often result in high demand for staycations and increased hotel rates. A dorm bed in a hostel room costs somewhere around S$30-40 per night, whereas a hotel room for two would be some S$200-300 per night.
Indulge in affordable street food at Singapore's hawker centres to experience local cuisine without breaking the bank. Singapore even boasts Michelin-rated street food stalls, allowing you to enjoy award-winning fare on a budget. A meal at a hawker centre costs S$5-10 per person, while at a cafe, it could be S$10-30 per person, and it goes upwards at a restaurant with a meal costing between S$20-100 per person.
Alcohol is heavily taxed in Singapore, making a night out at a bar or club quite expensive, with a pint of beer at a bar coming close to S$10-$20 per pint. Opt for supermarket or hawker centre drink stalls for cheaper alternatives, as there is a curfew on alcohol sales after 10:30 pm. Look for happy hour deals in nightlife districts to save on drinks. Or, best of all, cut back on drinking as much as possible.
Explore the city using Singapore's efficient and affordable public transport network. Fares are distance-based, and consider purchasing a day pass for multiple commutes. To cut down on transport expenses, take advantage of free or low-cost shuttle options around major tourist attractions.
Stock up on daily essentials at supermarket chains like Fairprice, Cold Storage, Giant, or Sheng Siong to avoid higher prices at convenience stores. Consider purchasing pre-packaged sauces, seasonings, and foods as souvenirs to bring the flavours of Singapore home instead of buying trinkets like keychains, which are not worth the money.
Purchase bundled tickets in advance for savings on major tourist attractions, or explore free attractions and activities across the city, from outdoor adventures to unique places of worship. Walk around Sentosa Island for free and enjoy watching the Merlion statue or visiting the beaches. You can explore Singapore's Chinatown, Little India, or take a free walking tour for an immersive yet inexpensive experience.
