Before planning my trip to Singapore, I had heard nothing other than the fact that the country is very expensive. Think the movie, Crazy Rich Asians. That’s how expensive I thought it’d be. And to my surprise, it’s not an exaggeration. In 2023, it was named the world’s most expensive city!
At the time, I was living in Japan and saw that the flight ticket prices were only $150 USD, nonstop. I did not hesitate to buy my ticket then and there. It wasn’t until after when I realized the cost of travelling in Singapore.
My Singapore travel cost consisted of the following: flights, lodging, transportation, food (per day), attractions, and souvenirs.
Let’s do a breakdown of these costs!
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Flights
As mentioned before, I got a great deal on my flight to Singapore. I only paid $150 USD for my flight but that was coming from Japan. Here’s the average price range provided by Google Flights:
| If you’re coming from.. | Expect to Pay… |
|---|---|
| Los Angeles (LAX) | $800-$1200 USD |
| New York City (LGA) | $990-$1250 USD |
| London (LHR) | $700-$790 USD |
| Sydney (SYD) | $385-$525 USD |
Note: These prices were taken from Google Flights’ price history and are subject to change.
Lodging
Lodging in Singapore can be very expensive. Hostels are very affordable are a great option. Be prepared to pay a lot more if you want to stay in a hotel.
As a solo traveler, I saved money by staying in this super chic and cool capsule hotel: The Pod Boutique Capsule Hotel.
Transportation
When it comes to getting around in Singapore, the most common modes of transportation are the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and buses. The MRT is super efficient and affordable, with fares ranging from $1.50 to $3.50 per ride depending on the distance traveled. Even a ride from the airport to the city center will cost you no more than S$2 to S$3!
This Singapore Tourist Pass offers unlimited rides on public transportation! You can purchase 1, 2, or 3-day passes at a fixed price, with additional options for other services.
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are available and convenient, but they can be more expensive compared to public transportation.
Food (per day)
Eat at least once or twice a day in a Hawker Center! These are food courts with many, many stands that have affordable food options. Not to mention, they are DELICIOUS. You can find the cheapest Michelin-starred meal in the world here in a Hawker Center!
If you choose to eat at local hawker centers, you can expect to spend around $3 to $6 for a meal. However, dining at mid-range restaurants or touristy areas may cost around $15 to $25 per meal. It’s worth noting that Singapore is known for its diverse food scene, so there are options available for various budgets.
Attractions
Singapore offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors. The entrance fees can vary depending on the specific attraction you choose to visit.
There are also many free attractions in Singapore! You can sightsee every day and not pay for a single admission ticket.
For popular tourist spots like Gardens by the Bay or Universal Studios, expect to pay $30 or more for admission. Museums and cultural sites may have lower entrance fees ranging from $5 to $15. It’s recommended to check the official websites or inquire locally for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Souvenirs
Like any travel destination, prices can vary depending on the item and the place of purchase. Traditional souvenirs like keychains, magnets, or postcards can cost around $1 to $5. If you’re looking for higher-end souvenirs or unique local products, prices may range from $10 to $50 or more. It’s advisable to explore different shops and markets to find the best deals and variety.
My favorite souvenir from Singapore is a beautiful, handmade skirt I bought in Little India.
Total Cost for 4 days, 3 nights: $746 USD
My flight cost $150, and my lodging totaled $196 ($70 per night plus taxes). For my 4-day trip, I brought $400 in cash and ended up spending exactly that amount. The flight and lodging were separate from my $400 spending budget. With S$100 per day, I was able to cover all my transportation, food, attractions, and souvenirs. This is the amount I spent comfortably.
How did you budget your trip to Singapore? Comment below!
Lauryn Dunning
Hello! I'm Lauryn. While serving in the U.S Navy, I spent nearly every four-day weekend traveling somewhere new. Those quick trips inspired 96 Hours, a blog dedicated to turning short getaways into big adventures.
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