Things to Know Before Travelling to Singapore

Singapore is one of Asia's easiest destinations to explore, but knowing a few important things before your trip can help you save time, avoid unnecessary expenses and enjoy a smoother holiday.

1. Check Entry Requirements

Before travelling, check the latest Singapore entry requirements for your nationality.

Keep your passport, visa if required, flight details, hotel confirmation and other required documents ready.

2. Singapore Uses the Singapore Dollar

The local currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD).

Cards and digital payments are widely accepted, but carrying some cash can still be useful for smaller purchases and selected food outlets.

3. Singapore Is Hot and Humid

Singapore has a tropical climate throughout the year.

Pack:

1. Lightweight clothing
2. Comfortable walking shoes
3. Sunscreen
4. Sunglasses
5. Umbrella or rain jacket
6. Reusable water bottle

Short rain showers can occur, so keep your plans flexible.

4. Public Transport Is Excellent

The MRT and public bus network makes getting around Singapore convenient.

For airport transfers, families, groups or travellers with lots of luggage can also consider taxis, Grab or private transfers.

5. Expect Plenty of Walking

Singapore sightseeing often involves walking, especially at Sentosa, Universal Studios Singapore, Gardens by the Bay and large shopping areas.

Wear comfortable footwear and schedule breaks.

6. Plan Your Attractions

Popular attractions include:

1. Gardens by the Bay
2. Universal Studios Singapore
3. Sentosa Island
4. Singapore Oceanarium
5. Singapore Zoo
6. Night Safari
7. Singapore Flyer
8. Marina Bay
9. Jewel Changi Airport

Check attraction timings and ticket conditions before visiting.

7. Book Popular Attractions Early

Popular attractions can become busy during weekends, school holidays and peak travel periods.

Booking important tickets in advance can make your itinerary easier to manage.

8. Choose Your Hotel Location Carefully

Popular areas include:

1. Marina Bay
2. Orchard Road
3. Bugis
4. Chinatown
5. Little India
6. Sentosa

A hotel close to an MRT station can make sightseeing much easier.

9. Indian Food Is Easy to Find

Indian travellers will find plenty of Indian and vegetarian food in Singapore.

Little India is particularly popular for Indian restaurants, sweets, groceries and cultural experiences.

However, don't miss the opportunity to try Singapore's local hawker food.

10. Singapore Has Strict Laws

Singapore has strict regulations covering areas such as:

1. Littering
2. Smoking
3. Public behaviour
4. Drugs
5. Vaping
6. Public transport
7. Restricted goods

Follow signs and local regulations carefully throughout your trip.

11. Do Not Overpack Your Itinerary

Trying to visit too many attractions in one day can make your holiday tiring.

For many first-time visitors, 4 to 6 days is a comfortable duration.

12. Keep Indoor Activities in Your Plan

Singapore can be hot or rainy, so include indoor attractions such as:

1. Cloud Forest
2. Flower Dome
3. Singapore Oceanarium
4. Shopping malls
5. Indoor entertainment attractions

13. Carry a Travel Adapter

Singapore generally uses Type G electrical sockets. Bring a suitable adapter for your phone, laptop and other devices.

14. Keep Your Documents Safe

Save digital copies of:

1. Passport
2. Visa
3. Flight tickets
4. Hotel booking
5. Travel insurance
6. Attraction vouchers
7. Airport transfer details

Keep the original documents secure during your trip.

15. Plan Your Airport Transfer

Changi Airport is well connected to the city.

You can use:

1. MRT
2. Public bus
3. Taxi
4. Ride-hailing services
5. Private airport transfer

Choose according to your arrival time, luggage and group size.

16. Travel Insurance Is Worth Considering

Travel insurance can provide protection against covered travel disruptions and unexpected situations.

Review the policy conditions carefully before purchasing.

17. Keep Some Free Time

Don't plan every minute of your holiday. Leave time for shopping, local food, relaxation and unexpected discoveries.

Before You Fly: Quick Checklist

☑ Passport

☑ Visa, if required

☑ Flight tickets

☑ Hotel confirmation

☑ Singapore Arrival Card, where required

☑ Travel insurance

☑ Singapore Dollars/payment card

☑ Attraction tickets

☑ Airport transfer

☑ Travel adapter

☑ Comfortable shoes

☑ Umbrella or rain jacket

Final Tips

Singapore is easy to explore when you prepare your essentials in advance. Check the latest entry requirements, choose a convenient hotel, book important attractions and keep your itinerary realistic.

Most importantly, respect local laws and enjoy Singapore at a comfortable pace.