Thinking about a trip to Singapore but feeling anxious about the expenses? The Lion City can be a luxurious getaway, making budgeting challenging for those looking to save.
Hotels in areas like Orchard Road or Marina Bay can be costly. Dining at popular restaurants or enjoying drinks at rooftop bars can quickly add up. Even popular attractions like Gardens by the Bay and Universal Studios Singapore have high ticket prices that will make you think twice. However, you can still enjoy the best of Singapore without spending a lot.
Whether you’re a student, a family on vacation, or someone who loves a good deal, you can find ways to save. Let’s dive into these budget-friendly travel tips for Singapore.
1. Find Cheap Flights to Singapore
Finding budget-friendly Singapore travel deals should be at the top of your list. The best times to fly are during the shoulder seasons: February to April and August to October. During these months, tickets can be 20% to 50% cheaper than in peak season.
OneAir is a great tool for booking flights to Singapore. The platform uses smart AI to scan millions of airfares, helping you find deals unavailable elsewhere. With OneAir, you could save 40 to 90% on your trip, which means hundreds of dollars in savings.
To save even more on flights to Singapore, keep these tips in mind:
- Be flexible with your travel dates, as midweek flights are often cheaper than weekend ones.
- Set up price alerts to track fare changes and book when prices drop.
- Consider indirect flights since they may take longer but can be much cheaper.
- Book 3 to 4 months in advance during busy times.
- Compare prices across different airlines to ensure you get the best deal.
2. Find Cheap Accommodations
Chinatown and Little India are great areas to stay. They offer affordable options without sacrificing convenience. Chinatown is lively and close to many attractions, where you can find budget-friendly hostels and hotels. For example, the Wink Capsule Hotel on Mosque Street has cozy pod-style rooms starting at about SGD 120 (~$90) per night.
Little India is another wallet-friendly spot. It has affordable guesthouses and budget hotels, like the Arianna Hotel, with rooms starting at around SGD 70 (~$53) per night. Booking ahead, especially during off-peak times like June and September, can lead to big savings. Also, look for cheap hotels in Singapore with complimentary breakfast or kitchenettes to save on meals.
3. Use Public Transport
Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) subway system and extensive bus network are the best ways to explore the city on a budget. The MRT is quick and connects most major attractions. Buses offer a scenic view and can reach places the MRT does not.
To save money on public transport, consider getting an EZ-Link Card or a Singapore Tourist Pass. The EZ-Link Card is a rechargeable card that works on buses and the MRT. It offers discounts compared to paying cash.
The Singapore Tourist Pass allows unlimited travel on buses and the MRT for 1 to 3 days, starting at S$10 per day (plus a refundable deposit). Choose the option that fits your travel plans. The Tourist Pass is great for short visits with lots of travel, while the EZ-Link Card is better for more extended stays or less frequent trips.
You can also save by traveling before 7:45 AM on weekdays to get a 50-cent discount on MRT and LRT fares called “Morning Pre-Peak Fares.” This early bird discount can add up if you’re an early riser. Plan your routes to take advantage of transfer rebates, too. You can switch buses and trains up to five times in two hours and only pay for the total distance traveled.
4. Indulge on Hawker Stalls
Hawker centers are the best places to find delicious and inexpensive local food in Singapore. Some popular hawker centers to check out include:
- Maxwell Food Centre: Try the famous chicken rice from Tian Tian. Enjoy fish ball noodles and satay too.
- Old Airport Road Food Centre: Get the char kway teow (stir-fried noodles) or lor mee (noodles in gravy).
- Tiong Bahru Market: Start your day with chwee kueh (steamed rice cakes) or curry chicken noodles.
- Lau Pa Sat: At night, enjoy satay from the stalls. Don’t miss the fried oyster omelet.
- Chinatown Complex Food Centre: Sample famous chicken rice and bak chor mee (minced meat noodles).
Food courts in malls offer more choices but are pricier than hawker centers. They still fit a budget. Here are some good options:
- Ion Orchard: Find a mix of local and international dishes, including ramen or Thai food.
- VivoCity: This mall has seafood and gourmet burgers great for a casual meal.
- Plaza Singapura: A blend of local favorites and fast food.
Most hawker dishes cost between $3 to 6 SGD. Enjoy local favorites like chicken rice, laksa, char kway teow, and satay while you’re there.
5. Explore Free Viewpoints and Activities
Singapore offers many free and affordable attractions to enjoy. One must-visit is Gardens by the Bay, where the outdoor gardens and nightly light shows are free to explore. Only the conservatories have an entrance fee.
Another highlight is the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site free to enter and explore. For those who love nature, the Southern Ridges provide scenic walks and treetop views along a 10-kilometer (6 miles) trail that connects several parks. If you’re looking for some sun and sand, the Sentosa Island beaches are free to access, although some attractions on the island have fees.
Additionally, wandering through cultural neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam allows you to soak in the vibrant atmosphere without spending a dime. You can also enjoy the stunning skyline, the iconic Merlion statue, and nightly light shows in the Marina Bay area at no cost. Lastly, MacRitchie Reservoir offers free hikes through the rainforest and along the TreeTop Walk.
For those seeking inexpensive things to do in Singapore, consider a few strategies to save on paid attractions:
- Buy combo tickets or tourist passes, which can bundle multiple attractions at a discount, such as the Singapore Tourist Pass, which offers up to 50% savings on popular sights.
- Book tickets online in advance is often cheaper than purchasing them on-site.
Additionally, some attractions offer off-peak or weekday discounts, so check those out on their respective or third-party sites. For those visiting multiple attractions, consider getting a Go City All-Inclusive Pass to lower overall costs.
6. Wait for Happy Hour Deals
Happy hour deals in Singapore include discounts on drinks and sometimes food during specific hours. These promotions aim to attract customers during slower times, typically late afternoon to early evening. You can find these deals in many places across the city.
Many popular bars have great happy hour offers. For instance, No.5 Emerald Hill serves “gentlemen’s pours,” offering 45ml cocktails for just $8 daily from noon to 9 PM. Another option is Bar Square at Andaz Singapore, where you can enjoy wines for $13 a glass and signature cocktails for $15 during happy hour.
Restaurants also join in on the fun. Tanuki Raw gives discounts on freshly shucked oysters, lobster bao, and salmon sashimi. Meanwhile, Papi’s Tacos features $10++ specials on drinks like Singapore Lager Draught and frozen lime margaritas from 3 PM to 7 PM.
7. Visit During the Great Singapore Sale
The Great Singapore Sale is an annual month-long event, typically held from May to July, that attracts both locals and tourists from around the world. During the sale, shoppers can enjoy discounts of up to 70% on international and local brands. Be prepared to find amazing deals on jewelry, chic handbags, clothing, shoes, watches, electronics, and more.
Among the best places to shop is VivoCity, which offers luxury goods from brands like Chanel and Tommy Hilfiger. Another great spot is Bugis Street, known for its budget-friendly prices and trendy fashion items. If you’re focused on saving money in Singapore, visit ION Orchard for high-end shopping, featuring brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton at reduced prices.
Takeaway
With these budget travel tips for Singapore, exploring the city without overspending is entirely achievable. Prioritizing affordable accommodations, using public transport, and enjoying local hawker food allows travelers to experience Singapore’s culture. Don’t forget to check out free attractions and enjoy happy hour deals for even more savings. With some planning, your Singapore adventure can be memorable and budget-friendly.
Now that you have the tips, it’s time to secure the best travel deals. OneAir is here to help you find cheap flights and hotels for your Singapore getaway. Compare prices easily and book hassle-free to make the most of your budget. Sign up on OneAir and start planning your next adventure today.
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