Singapore is often seen as an expensive travel destination, but the truth is, you can experience the best of the city without burning a hole in your wallet.
Singapore is also a walkable city with plenty of free attractions, so you don’t have to splurge to enjoy the sights.
I’ve prepared this guide to show you practical money-saving tips to help you explore Singapore like a pro.
Whether you’re finding cheap souvenirs, discovering hidden food gems, or scoring attraction discounts, these tips and hacks will ensure you get the most out of your trip without overspending.
Let’s dive in!
1. Singapore’s tap water is safe and drinkable!
Yes, you’ve read that right!
Singapore’s tap water is not just safe to drink—it meets the World Health Organisation (WHO) standards for drinking water quality. The local water supply undergoes stringent purification processes, making it safe for consumption straight from the tap.
While many Singaporeans drink tap water without a second thought, some prefer boiling it first.
Before heading out for the day, fill up your bottle with tap or boiled water.
If your hotel has a kettle, boil some water the night before and let it cool overnight—by morning, it’ll be ready to drink!
2. Water is cheaper in supermarkets
This is my ultimate favourite travel tip and hack for budget travellers!
If you need bottled water, supermarkets are your best bet.
Local supermarkets like FairPrice, Sheng Siong, and Giant sell bottled water for as low as 55 cents per bottle, and you might even find deals where you get two bottles for under $1.
In contrast, convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Cheers charge a premium, ranging from $2 to $4 per bottle.
The difference adds up quickly, making supermarkets the most budget-friendly option.
🧐 Good to know: Most shopping malls in Singapore have a supermarket inside, so if you’re near one, grab your water there instead of heading to a convenience store!
3. Avoid taxis & ride-hailing services during peak hours
If you’re travelling on a budget, one of the best ways to save money in Singapore is to avoid taxis and ride-hailing services during peak hours.
The prices can surge to insane levels, sometimes double or even triple the usual fare.
Peak hours in Singapore:
- Weekdays (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM & 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM) – High demand due to work and school commutes.
- Late nights (past midnight) – Ride-hailing apps often implement midnight surcharges.
A ride that typically costs $12 to $15 might shoot up to $30 or more during these periods!
Instead of taking expensive taxis, opt for public transport.
Singapore’s MRT and bus system offer one of the most efficient, clean, and affordable ways to get around. Fares are fixed regardless of time, so you won’t have to worry about price surges.
If you’re interested in learning more, check out my detailed guide on how to use public transport in Singapore!
4. Walk when possible, Singapore is a walkable city
If your destination isn’t too far, why not walk?
Singapore is a pedestrian-friendly city with plenty of well-maintained footpaths, underpasses, and sheltered walkways.
Walking not only saves money but also allows you to experience the city’s charm up close.
You never know what hidden gems you might stumble upon when walking—charming cafés, street art, or a beautiful park—things you’d likely miss if you were in a car.
5. Enjoy free attractions in Singapore
You don’t have to spend a fortune to explore Singapore—there are plenty of amazing attractions that are completely free!
Whether you love nature, cultural landmarks, or stunning city views, there’s something for everyone.
Gardens by the Bay is one of Singapore’s most famous attractions, and while some areas require a ticket, you can still experience its beauty for free!
Some free attractions in Gardens by the Bay are the Supertree Grove and the Garden Rhapsody Light Show, which are held daily at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM.
If you’re looking for more, I’ve also recently shared an article on free activities to do in Singapore—be sure to check it out for even more ways to explore the city without spending a cent!
6. Use discounts and passes for attractions
If you plan to visit paid attractions in Singapore, check out online platforms like Klook, Traveloka, or Trip.com, where you’ll often find much better deals than buying tickets on-site.
Online platforms often run promotions that make tickets more affordable than buying them at the attraction itself.
Some even offer attraction bundles, letting you visit multiple places at a lower price.
On top of that, you can earn points from previous bookings and use them to offset future ticket prices!
I always do this whenever I travel, and it helps me save more!
🧐 Good to know: Always compare prices across different platforms before booking. Sometimes, 1 site may have a special deal that others don’t!
7. Get your souvenirs at Mustafa Centre
If you’re looking for affordable souvenirs, groceries, or electronics, skip the expensive tourist shops and head to Mustafa Centre instead!
Mustafa Centre in Little India is a massive 24-hour shopping mall where you can find almost anything at some of the lowest prices in Singapore.
Not sure what souvenirs to buy? I’ve shared a guide on 10 must-buy souvenirs in Singapore—check it out for the best picks!
🧐 Good to know: Mustafa Centre is always busy, so visit during off-peak hours (late morning or early afternoon) to avoid crowds.
8. Try local dishes outside tourist hotspots
When searching for authentic Singaporean food, many travel guides will point you towards places like Lau Pa Sat and Newton Food Centre.
While these spots offer great ambience, they have become overpriced and touristy.
The good news?
You can find equally delicious (if not better) local dishes at much cheaper prices if you know where to go!
For starters, my favourite chicken rice is by Pin Xiang Hainanese Chicken Rice at Bedok Interchange Hawker Centre, and it starts from $3.50 per plate.
I’ll be sharing more hidden local food gems in an upcoming post, so stay tuned!
One of the best ways to explore local dishes outside tourist hotspots is to ask a local! If you get the chance, strike up a conversation and see if they’ll share their go-to hidden food gems with you.
P/S: Everyone has different tastes. What I love might not be your favourite, but you’ll never know until you give it a try!
Conclusion
Singapore may have a reputation for being expensive, but with the right tips, you can explore the city without breaking the bank!
By making small adjustments like drinking tap water, using public transport, finding free attractions, and eating at local hawker centres, you can save significantly while still experiencing the best of what Singapore has to offer.
A little planning goes a long way!
I hope that with these travel tips and hacks, you’ll be able to explore Singapore affordably while making the most of your trip!
