Singapore on a Budget: Tips and Tricks for a Pocket-Friendly Holiday

Singapore on a budget often carries the reputation of being one of the most expensive destinations in Asia. But with a little planning and a few insider tips, you can explore the city without draining your wallet. From cheap eats to free attractions, here’s how to make the most of your trip while keeping it budget-friendly.

Singapore on a budget Travel during the shoulder season

Avoid peak periods like June, December, or major events such as the Formula 1 Grand Prix in October. Instead, plan your trip between February–April or July–November, when flights and hotel rates drop, crowds thin out, and the weather is pleasant (25–32°C with low rainfall). For the best deals, book flights at least two to three months ahead.

Use public transport

Singapore’s MRT and bus network is clean, fast, and affordable. A single MRT ride costs around SGD 2–2.50. For unlimited travel, get a Singapore Tourist Pass (SGD 17 for 1 day, SGD 24 for 2 days, SGD 29 for 3 days). If you’re staying longer, an EZ-Link card works best, available at MRT stations and 7-Eleven stores.

Eat at hawker centres

Skip restaurants and head to hawker centres for authentic and cheap meals. Dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, or satay cost just SGD 3–10. Famous spots include Lau Pa Sat and Chinatown Complex. For breakfast, try kaya toast with kopi (coffee) at a local café for as little as SGD 1.20–3.

Drink tap water

Singapore’s tap water is safe to drink and meets WHO standards. Carry a reusable water bottle to save SGD 2–3 per bottle while cutting down on plastic waste.

Limit alcohol consumption

Alcohol is heavily taxed in Singapore. Expect to pay SGD 15–20 for a pint in bars, versus SGD 6–7 at supermarkets or hawker stalls. Look for happy hour deals in Clarke Quay or Boat Quay, or join locals on Clarke Quay’s pedestrian bridge with drinks from 7-Eleven.

Stay in budget accommodation

Hostels and budget hotels in Chinatown, Little India, or Bugis offer clean, air-conditioned dorms or pod-style stays starting at SGD 25–100 per night, far cheaper than luxury hotels charging SGD 400+. Many hostels also include free breakfast and are located near MRT stations.

Explore free attractions

Singapore is filled with free things to do:

• Gardens by the Bay: Stroll through Super tree Grove and watch the nightly Garden Rhapsody light show.
• Merlion Park, Helix Bridge & Marina Bay: Perfect for evening walks and the Spectra Light and Water Show.
• Singapore Botanic Gardens: Free entry except for the Orchid Garden.
• Chinatown, Little India & Kampong Glam: Wander through colorful neighborhoods full of culture and history.
• Fort Canning Park: Great for heritage walks and free outdoor concerts.
• Monster Day Tours: Free walking tours in Chinatown or Kampong Glam; tip what you wish.

Shop smart

Skip Orchard Road malls and head to:

• Bugis Street Market for affordable clothes, accessories, and souvenirs.
• Chinatown Street Market for spices, trinkets, and keychains.
• Mustafa Centre in Little India, a 24-hour shopping hub with electronics, clothing, and more at low prices.