How to Travel to Singapore on a Budget

The words ‘Singapore’ and ‘budget’ aren’t often used in the same sentence because the city-state is the most expensive city in the world. It only follows that travelling there can and will burn a hole in your pocket. However, it’s not totally impossible to visit Singapore on a budget. From booking business hotel rooms and finding activities to do for free, here are a few tips on how to travel to the Lion City without breaking the bank.

Booking flights

According to a research conducted by CheapAir, the best way to snag a deal is to book your flight is 54 days before takeoff or within the “prime booking window” which is 112 to 21 days before your trip. In addition, there are a number of low-cost carrier options available that travel to Singapore such as Tigerair and AirAsia. You can also wait for a seat sale which is often half of the original price or subscribe to their email updates to receive the latest flight deals and promos they have that might fit your budget.

Where to stay

Luxury hotels are obviously out of the equation if you want to travel on a budget in Singapore. You can always try business travel hotels if you’re not too keen on compromising your privacy and comfort. However, if you don’t mind sharing a room with other travelers, staying at a hostel or even at a capsule hotel can help you save more on your trip.

How to get around

If you can help it, refrain from taking a cab as it can get expensive. Instead, when in Rome, do as the Romans do: take the bus or train. Bus rides are quite cheap (at least 10 cents) and train rides cost approximately S$ 1 and above depending on where you want to go. If you’re staying for a week or two and plan on exploring the city for hours on end, consider buying a tourist pass which allows you to take the bus and train for free. Singapore’s transportation system is efficient, so hardly probable that you’ll get lost. If you do, ask directions from the locals and they’ll be happy to accommodate you.

Where to eat

Singapore is famous for their hawker centers which you can find anywhere offering local Singaporean, Malaysian, and Chinese cuisine for as low as S$ 2. You can satisfy your biryani and hummus cravings in Little India and Arab Street. If you’re more of a coffee and brunch person and are willing to splurge a little, head over to Tiong Bahru.

What to do for free

Contrary to popular belief, there are a number of activities you can do in Singapore without taking out your wallet. For nature lovers, go to MacRitchie Reservoir Park and hike to the Tree Top Walk. You can also wander around in the Botanical Gardens where you’ll find families and couples. Book lovers can head over to Orchard (yes, the shopping district) where Library@Orchard is located. There’s also a series of concerts once a month on a Sunday at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay where everyone can enjoy great music.

Travelling to Singapore doesn’t have to be expensive. It only takes a passion for travel and a will to save to pack your bags and enjoy the Lion City on a budget.