Planning a DIY trip to Singapore can be exciting, especially if it’s your first international solo travel. Based on my 5D4N Singapore experience, here are some practical travel hacks and tips that can help you save money, avoid common mistakes, and enjoy your trip even more.
1. Book Flights During Seat Sales
Airfare is one of the biggest travel expenses, so watch out for airline seat sales. I was able to book my round-trip ticket via Cebu Pacific for only Php 5,779, which is a huge saving.
Tip:
- Follow airline seat sale announcements.
- Book months in advance for cheaper flights.
Click this link for Cebu Pacific Air booking: https://www.cebupacificair.com/en-ph/
2. Look for Affordable Accommodation
Hotels in Singapore can be expensive, ranging from Php 6,000–10,000 per night. If you want to save money:
✔ Consider transient rooms
✔ Capsule hotels or space pods
✔ Shared apartments
During my trip, I availed a transient room. I found a master’s bedroom for only 32 SGD per night (with own bathroom), and shared kitchen and living room, which was much cheaper and more comfortable than a capsule pod.
Tip:
Join Facebook groups for Filipino transient rentals in Singapore. Many hosts offer affordable rooms.
3. Make Sure Your Phone is Unlocked
Before buying a SIM card, check if your phone is network unlocked. I bought a SIM card worth 48 SGD, but it didn’t work because my phone was locked.
Alternative:
You can rent a pocket Wi-Fi, which costs around 10 SGD per day, though it usually requires a deposit.
4. Get a Transport Card Immediately
Singapore has one of the most efficient transportation systems in the world.
I used an EZ-Link Card, which is widely used for:
- MRT trains
- Public buses
- Some convenience stores
Tips:
- Initial cost: about 10 SGD with stored value
- MRT fares usually range from 1–2 SGD
- You can reload at MRT stations.
5. Download or Save an MRT Map
The Mass Rapid Transit (Singapore) system is easy to navigate, but having a map saved on your phone helps a lot when transferring lines.
Good news:
- Stations are color-coded
- Signs are clear and easy to follow
- Transfers between lines are smooth
6. Eat at Hawker Centers to Save Money
Restaurants in Singapore can be expensive. One meal can easily cost 20–30 SGD. Instead, try eating at hawker centers, where locals usually eat. You can enjoy authentic dishes like Laksa at much cheaper prices.
Tip:
Hawker centers are like carinderias in the Philippines, but cleaner and more organized.
7. Visit Free Attractions
Singapore has many free tourist attractions, so you don’t always need to buy tickets.
Some of my favorite free spots include:
- Jewel Changi Airport
- Merlion Park
- Singapore Botanic Gardens
- Gardens by the Bay (Supertree area)
These places are beautiful and perfect for photos.
8. Prepare for a Lot of Walking
Singapore is a very walkable city, but expect to walk a lot.
Bring:
- Comfortable shoes
- Water bottle
- Light clothes
The weather is similar to the Philippines—hot and humid.
9. Visit Popular Attractions Early
Some places can get extremely crowded, especially during holidays.
For example, when I visited Fort Canning Park, I waited 30 minutes just to take a photo.
Tip:
- Visit early in the morning
- Avoid weekends and holidays
10. Buy Souvenirs in Budget Areas
If you want cheaper souvenirs, go to:
- Bugis Street Market
- Lucky Plaza
- Mustafa Centre
You can find:
- Chocolates (3 for 10 SGD)
- Clothes
- Bags
- Souvenirs
Bugis is one of the best places for budget shopping.
11. Don’t Always Convert Prices to Peso
Singapore can feel expensive if you constantly convert prices to Philippine peso.
A meal costing 25–30 SGD may seem expensive when converted.
Tip:
Set a daily budget instead of converting every purchase.
12. Travel is Safe Even for Solo Travelers
One thing I noticed is how safe Singapore is.
You’ll rarely see security guards in malls because surveillance is mostly done through CCTV systems. The city is clean, organized, and people are generally respectful.
This makes Singapore a great destination for solo travelers.
13. Book Ride-Hailing Apps at the Right Time
Ride fares can change depending on demand.
I used Grab when going to the airport.
Example:
- Early check: 28 SGD
- Later booking: 42 SGD
Tip:
Book early to avoid surge pricing.
14. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
One of the best travel tips I learned is not to hesitate to ask people for help.
During my trip:
- A stranger helped take my photos
- People gave directions
- Locals were friendly and approachable
Singaporeans are generally helpful to tourists.
15. Enjoy the Experience
Travel is not just about the places you visit but also the experiences you gain. From navigating the MRT system to exploring the city alone, every moment becomes part of the adventure.
My Singapore trip taught me that solo travel can be both exciting and empowering.
Read my DIY Singapore Trip Part 1 at this link: https://mjtravels.blog/singapore-5d4n-part-1/
Read my DIY Singapore Trip Part 2 at this link: https://mjtravels.blog/singapore-5d4n-part-2/
Read my DIY Singapore Trip Part 3 at this link: https://mjtravels.blog/singapore-5d4n-part-3/
