How to Save Money While Traveling to Singapore: Top Budget Tips - Travel smart and save big in the Lion City!

Singapore may seem like one of the most expensive cities in the world to travel to. However, with a little planning and creativity, you can easily explore this bustling modern city without blowing a hole in your wallet. From choosing affordable meals to free attractions, here are some tips that will ensure that you have a great time in Singapore on shoestring finances.

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Choose affordable accommodation

Accommodation is one of the largest expenses for travellers, but Singapore offers a variety of budget-friendly options. Dormitory-style accommodations and hostels are available in areas like Chinatown, Little India, and Bugis, offering beds for as low as $15-30 per night. For a bit more privacy, capsule hotels provide compact sleeping pods starting at $30-50 per night.If you prefer a private room, consider budget hotels. You can find a good, affordable hotel in Singapore that offers modern amenities like swimming pools and gyms, such as Value Hotel SG. Booking in advance and avoiding peak travel seasons can also help you secure better deals.

Eat like a local

Singapore is a foodie's dream, and you don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy its cuisine. You can have good value-for-money meals at hawker centres such as Maxwell Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat, or Old Airport Road. In these spots, a plate of chicken rice, nasi lemak, or laksa would cost you only about $3-6.Food Courts are available in shopping malls and are another great place for affordable and delicious meals. For a fast, inexpensive breakfast, try some of the street snacks such as kaya toast and kopi, which is local coffee.

Use public transportation

Singapore’s public transportation system is efficient, clean, and budget-friendly. MRT (Mass Rapid Transit is the fastest and cheapest way to get around. Fares range from $0.90 to $2.50 depending on the distance. You can save money by purchasing an EZ-Link card for seamless travel on buses and trains. The card costs $10, with $5 pre-loaded for travel. Most of the top attractions are within walking distance of most hotels, especially in places like Marina Bay and Chinatown, making it very easy to either walk or rent a bicycle.

Take advantage of free attractions

There are plenty of places to see and things to do in Singapore without spending a single penny. While Cloud Forest and Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay call for ticket purchase, you can enter the outdoor gardens for free. The Supertree Grove light show is also free to watch.Marina Bay Sands Light Show is a spectacular light and water show at Marina Bay Sands that is free to watch every evening. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens offer some peaceful moments in nature and is free. You can enjoy the sun and sand at Sentosa's public beaches without paying an entry fee as well.

Shop smart

Apart from being a land of luxury shopping, you can pamper yourself on a budget in Singapore. At Bugis Street Market, visitors can pick up cheap souvenirs, clothes, and accessories. Mustafa Centre is a 24/7 shopping centre in Little India offering many things at cheap prices. While most of the malls do have promotional sales and discounts, try your luck during the Great Singapore Sale from June to July.

Plan your activities wisely

Instead of booking expensive tours, discover Singapore at your own pace. Self-guided tours are a great option. Plan them online or through free mobile apps and create your own walking tours. Or, join in on the free walking tours conducted by local guides and learn about the history and culture of Singapore.If you intend to see a number of attractions, buy combination tickets or passes for discounted entry. There are many inexpensive ways to enjoy Singapore's lively entertainment scene. Go to Chinatown or Little India and check out the free festivals and performances. The public libraries in Singapore, such as the National Library at Bugis, are a nice place to learn about the history and culture of the region.

Avoid overpriced drinks

Singapore is a tropical country, and you’ll need to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Rather than spending on mineral water bottles, carry a reusable bottle. Tap water in Singapore is drinkable, and you can refill your bottle at public fountains. Keep in mind alcohol is expensive, and the government taxes it heavily. Instead, you may want to settle for local concoctions like teh tarik (pulling tea or milk tea) and kopi.