Believe it or not, you can experience Singapore on a budget! There’s no need to sacrifice meals or sell plasma to explore Southeast Asia’s interesting little city-island-country.

Singapore has historically posed challenges for backpackers and budget travelers. With a reputation for high costs and many opportunities to incur fines, numerous travelers limit their time here or skip it altogether.

Despite its high prices, Singapore offers a rich experience, including the world’s best airport. While its place on the Banana Pancake Trail focuses largely on shopping and layovers, you don’t have to break the bank to fully enjoy this vibrant multinational city. Follow these tips for saving money while in Singapore.

Get a CEPAS/EZ-LINK Card

Many travelers mistakenly skip purchasing Singapore’s transportation card upon arrival. Instead, they pay for each bus and train journey, which accumulates quickly.

An EZ-Link card costs S$12, including S$7 in usable credit. You can also add credit at 7-Eleven stores. Not only does it save you time at ticket machines in MRT stations, but it allows you to pay only for the distance traveled on the LRT, MRT, and public buses.

Tip: Don’t forget to tap your card on the reader as you exit the bus or you may end up overpaying!

Don’t Buy the Singapore Tourist Pass

The Singapore Tourist Pass is designed for unlimited rides over one to three days; however, it may not be the most economical option. A one-day pass costs S$10 plus a S$10 refundable deposit, requiring multiple rides to break even.

Unless train travel is a primary focus of your visit, you may find more enjoyment walking through the city’s attractions, shopping centers, and world-class museums.

Drink the Water

Unlike many countries in Southeast Asia, the tap water in Singapore is safe to drink. Purchasing bottled water can cost around S$2, so refilling a bottle will save money.

If you lack a refillable water bottle, buy a small bottle of water and refill it at hotels or taps.

Eat in Food Halls

Singapore boasts some of the best food courts, food halls, and hawker street stalls in Asia. It’s perfectly safe to dine on street food, which is a vital part of Singapore’s culinary experience.

A delicious meal can be enjoyed for S$4–6, and you can even find noodle soups for under S$3. The food courts in upscale malls may be slightly pricier than standalone food centers, such as those in Chinatown or the affordable Lau Pa Sat food center.

Don’t Drink or Smoke

Due to excessive taxation, both smoking and drinking can quickly drain your budget in Singapore. A pack of cigarettes exceeds S$13, and drinks are pricy, even compared to U.S. and European standards. Cover charges at nightclubs may reach S$30, which often includes one drink.

Budget-minded travelers can save costs by purchasing drinks from convenience stores and enjoying them at the waterfront. Just look for the pedestrian bridge filled with people lounging.

Note: Electronic cigarettes are illegal in Singapore, so avoid crossing the border with one!

Enjoy the Parks

Although Singapore is known for its concrete landscape, it offers a robust network of parks. You can bike or walk through paths that provide stunning views of the city skyline.

Enjoy free access to these parks and take advantage of the interconnected trails linking various neighborhoods.

Take Advantage of Freebies

Adventurous travelers will discover public performances, art exhibits, and street performers throughout the riverfront, esplanade, and city center, with many free entertainment options available—especially during weekends.

Though museum entry fees can be high, keep an eye out for days when entrance fees are waived for special exhibitions. Additionally, several tourist passes can provide discounts for various attractions, but ensure that you will use them enough for them to be worth the investment.

Only Shop in the Right Places

With countless shopping malls across the city, including Changi Airport, shopping options are virtually endless. However, many of these malls can be quite pricey.

Instead, consider shopping for souvenirs and necessities in tourist markets around Chinatown and Little India, where prices are much lower. Remember to negotiate for the best price!

Moreover, stock up on snacks, drinks, and toiletries at larger supermarkets located below shopping malls instead of smaller convenience stores, as they often offer better deals.

Finally Give Couchsurfing a Try

Accommodation in Singapore can be steep, with hostel beds starting around S$20 and modest hotels charging high rates. As a result, many travelers opt for hostels to reduce expenses.

Couchsurfing with expats in Singapore is a fantastic way to find free accommodation while gaining local insights on experiencing the city affordably.

Tip: If sharing a space feels uncomfortable, explore options around Little India, where hostels and hotels may be slightly cheaper.

Don’t Get Busted

Locals often refer to Singapore as a “fine” city—both for its cleanliness and its strict regulations. Despite the sparse police presence, violations of seemingly minor rules can lead to steep fines.

Common infractions include:

• Not using marked crosswalks.
• Mandatory seatbelt use in vehicles; drivers must not use mobile phones while driving.
• No riding bikes on pedestrian paths, particularly along the river.
• No chewing gum, snacks, or beverages allowed on public transit.
• Electronic cigarettes and vaping are prohibited.
• Failing to flush public toilets can incur penalties.
• Spitting attracts a hefty fine.
• Feeding birds in parks can result in S$500 fines!