7 Tips for Exploring SG Comfortably without Draining Your Wallet
Singapore has a reputation for being one of the most expensive destinations in Asia, often seen as a
place where only those with deep pockets can enjoy all it has to offer. The city-state frequently appears
at the top of “costliest cities” lists, characterised by its wealth of luxury hotels and high-end shopping
malls. This unfortunately leaves many travellers thinking a visit will stretch their finances uncomfortably
thin.
However, the popular perception couldn’t be further from the truth. It is, in fact, entirely possible to
enjoy Singapore without draining your bank account. Travellers who focus on budget-friendly options
often discover experiences that feel more authentic and memorable than the city’s headline attractions.
Highlighted here are some practical ways to make your trip to Singapore both comfortable and
affordable, thereby showing that you can explore the city fully while keeping your spending under
control:
1) Book Affordable Accommodation
Comfortable stays don’t have to come with five-star price tags. Hostels, capsule hotels, and budget
boutique lodgings are plentiful in Singapore and often situated in prime locations. Neighbourhoods like
Chinatown, Bugis, and Little India place you close to public transport, street food, and lively markets,
giving you a base that is both convenient and affordable.
If you prefer a little more privacy, budget hotels near Changi Airport and Airbnb listings can provide
simple yet well-kept rooms at a fraction of the cost of luxury properties. These options also give you the
flexibility to put your savings toward SG tourism experiences that matter more to you, such as food,
culture, or day trips.
2) Take Advantage of Public Transport
Few cities make getting around as easy and cost-effective as Singapore. A stored-value card such as EZ-
Link or a contactless payment card will get you access to the MRT and bus networks, both of which are
clean, efficient, and extensive. If you’re aiming to cover a lot of ground in a short time, the Singapore
Tourist Pass offers unlimited rides for one, two, or three days at a flat rate.
The cost difference compared to taxis or ride-hailing apps is significant. A single MRT journey often costs
under SGD 2, while a similar trip by car could set you back ten times that. Using public transport not only
stretches your budget but also gives you a chance to experience the city the way locals do.
3) Plan around Free or Inexpensive Attractions
Some of Singapore’s most memorable experiences don’t require a ticket at all. The nightly light and
water show at Marina Bay Sands, for instance, is a spectacle you can enjoy from the waterfront
promenade at no cost. The outdoor spaces at Gardens by the Bay are free to wander, so you can get
stunning views of the Supertrees without the need for a paid entry.
Cultural districts like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Gelam invite you to explore them on foot,
rewarding you with vibrant architecture, murals, and street markets. Love nature? The Singapore
Botanic Gardens is open to the public at no charge and managed by the National Parks Board. It’s a
must-visit for those who want both greenery and history.
4) Take Your Meals at a Hawker Centre
Meals in Singapore do not need to come from fine-dining restaurants to be memorable. Hawker
centres—lively food courts found across the city—offer some of the country’s most beloved dishes at a
fraction of the cost. For just a few dollars, you can enjoy chicken rice, laksa, satay, or roti prata, each
prepared with recipes refined over decades. Well-known spots like Maxwell Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat,
and Old Airport Road Food Centre are famous for their variety, but even neighbourhood hawker centres
provide a chance to eat well without overspending.
5) Make Use of Free Walking Routes and Green Spaces
Singapore’s urban design ensures that nature is never far away, even in the heart of the city. The
Southern Ridges is a series of elevated walkways that let you stroll through the forest canopy while
enjoying panoramic views. At MacRitchie Reservoir, trails wind through dense greenery. You can do a
short walk, a full-day trek, or anything in between, with the chance to encounter monkeys and other
wildlife along the way. Meanwhile, East Coast Park stretches along the waterfront and provides space
for more relaxed activities—cycling, skating, or simply enjoying the sea breeze.
6) Time Your Visits for Deals
Planning your itinerary with an eye on timing can lead to substantial savings. Many museums, including
the National Gallery Singapore, offer free or discounted admission on certain days of the week. Cultural
festivals throughout the year from Chinese New Year to Deepavali promise free performances, markets,
and street processions that can add colour and depth to your trip without extra cost. Keep track of such
opportunities and you won’t just lower your expenses; you’ll get the opportunity to experience events
that are central to the country’s cultural calendar.
7) Bring Along a Reusable Water Bottle
Singapore’s humid climate makes staying hydrated particularly important, but buying bottled water
several times a day adds up quickly. Fortunately, the city’s tap water is safe to drink, and public
fountains can be found in parks, shopping malls, and attractions.
Carrying a reusable bottle also allows you to refill throughout the day at no cost. It’s a small habit, but
practising it will save you money, reduce plastic waste, and protect you from the heat all at once.
In the end, exploring Singapore affordably is less about limiting yourself and more about unlocking a
deeper, more genuine sense of place. Once you’ve travelled through the city on a budget once, you may
just find you don’t want to do it any other way. Choose travel options that connect you more closely to
the city’s daily life, and you’ll soon discover that the most rewarding experiences are often the simplest.
