Singapore is now one of my favorite places to visit in Southeast Asia, and I’ve been a budget traveler for nearly seven years. Despite its reputation as one of the world’s most expensive cities, this small and diverse island nation offers affordable activities for the clever traveler. Read below about “Backpacking in Singapore – A Guide to Affordable Adventures in 2024”.
Backpackers seeking to make the most of their trip budget will find Singapore in 2024 to be an even more intriguing destination, thanks to the constant addition of new attractions, hotels, and transportation alternatives. In the coming year, I have compiled this budget-friendly guide to Singapore’s must-see attractions, restaurants, and activities.
Table of Contents
Getting There and Around
Travelers may easily reach Singapore from nearly anywhere in the globe thanks to Changi Airport, which serves as a key regional gateway. When you plan ahead, budget airlines such as Jetstar, Scoot, and AirAsia provide fantastic flight deals.
You can go around Singapore so easily and cheaply using the public transportation system. You can get just about anyplace you need to go via the public bus system and the MRT metro. You can save a lot of money compared to buying individual fares with a pass like the Singapore Tourist Pass, which allows unlimited trips on both services for one to three days.
If you’re looking for an affordable way to experience the past, riding a trishaw is a must. For about $10 to $20 an hour, you can get a driver to take you on a bike tour of Chinatown and Little India. Compared to getting a cab, it’s far better for the environment.
Top Attractions
Despite the fact that tickets to popular Singapore attractions like Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Flyer can get pricey, there are ways to save money by taking advantage of sales, specials, and combo deals.
Take Gardens by the Bay as an example; during the evenings, you can view the incredible Supertree Grove and light shows at no cost. In addition to entry, you can save 25% or more by purchasing a Singapore Flyer package that includes an observation deck pass and a lunch.
Free attractions like Bukit Timah Nature Reserve provide excellent pathways for hiking in the island’s interior jungle, so be sure not to miss these. East Coast Park’s beach and the Singapore Botanic Gardens are both open to the public and cost nothing.
Taking a stroll across the Helix Bridge to Marina Bay Sands, home to the biggest infinity pool in the world, is another inexpensive option. If you don’t want to pay the extra to swim there, you can still take great shots!
Cheap Meals
Gourmets, take heart – You can enjoy a variety of inexpensive Asian cuisines, including Chinese, Indian, Malay, and Peranakan, at Singapore’s famous hawker centers. My favorites include chicken rice, chili crab, Hainanese chicken, and laksa noodle soup.
Try some native breakfast dishes, such as kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs, and Singaporean coffee, at a kopitiam (traditional coffee shop) for an even more affordable lunch. The most enjoyable aspect is taking in the wonderful vintage furnishings.
If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, several of Singapore’s fine dining establishments offer prix fixe lunch menus that are considerably more affordable than evening. At elite chef tables, you can spend $25–$35 on a delectable multi-course dinner. For those on a tight budget, it’s the best way to experience fine dining!
Hotel Discounts
You can meet other travelers and get a bunk bed for $15 to $25 a night at Bunc Hostel, Fisher BnB Hostel, or The InnCrowd. A simple but decent room at Hotel 81 or Vintage Inn can be reserved for about $50 to $70 per night if you’re looking for extra privacy.
You may sometimes find cheaper deals on 3- or 4-star hotels if you stay within a short bus or MRT trip from the city center. To get the greatest value, be sure to compare costs across booking platforms and keep an eye out for discounts.
Think about glamping at Wanderlust Glamping or D’Kranji Farm Resort for the pinnacle of backpacker indulgence. For about $100 per night, you may have an incredible time sleeping outside in a luxurious tent with access to campfire pits and sports like archery.
Excitement and Amusement
Excitement and Amusement
There are plenty of free events going throughout the year that backpackers may attend to save money on entertainment. Numerous cultural festivals, street markets, live music venues, and outdoor movie theaters are available. To find out what’s happening in Singapore, visit websites like Visit Singapore and Time Out Singapore.
Head to Clarke Quay for some club hopping after a few drinks at a cheap pub or hangout place like SMU Green if you’re in the mood for a wild night out. You may save money on drinks in nightclubs.
Join a free walking tour to discover the hidden gems of neighborhoods like Chinatown and Kampong Glam for an affordable day of excitement. Book a kayaking trip down the Kallang River or a pay-what-you-wish biking excursion with Let’s Go biking Singapore. Adventures and exercise are yours to enjoy at a price you can manage.
Tricks for Efficient Traveling
Some of my favorite ways to cut costs while traveling in Southeast Asia on a budget are these:
- Avoid overpriced taxi rides by taking public transportation or walking wherever possible.
- Shop for booze at supermarkets and convenience stores instead than nightclubs and pubs.
- Get multi-site entrance passes that include admission to popular tourist destinations.
- Plan your meals in advance by reserving an Airbnb with a kitchen.
- Get exclusive access by signing up for free kayaking, walking, or cycling tours.
- Find great prices on clothing, presents, and mementos at your neighborhood markets.
- See museums on days when admission is free or when students get a discount.
Conclusion
Singapore is a fantastic destination for budget-conscious travelers thanks to its diverse cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. If you follow these suggestions, you can see all of this modern city-state without breaking the bank.
Singapore is a fantastic place for those on a tighter budget, thanks to its abundance of affordable and convenient attractions, such as its beautiful landscapes, historic districts, and food stalls. I hope you like reading “Backpacking in Singapore – A Guide to Affordable Adventures in 2024”. Reserve your plane tickets and gather your belongings now for an unforgettable journey in 2024!
Laura is the lead writer at BackpackBeliefs.com, where she specializes in travel guides, cultural exploration, and sustainable tourism. With over 10 years of travel experience and a Master’s degree in Cultural Anthropology, Laura brings valuable insights to her readers.
For the latest travel tips and updates, connect with Laura on Facebook at @backpackbeliefs and Instagram at @backpackbeliefs. where she has 4,622 followers.