Singapore Travel Tips: 25 Things You Should Know Before You Arrive (From People Who Learned the Hard Way)
Singapore is one of the easiest places in the world to travel… but it also has a few “wait, really?” rules and cultural quirks that can catch first timers out.
So this is the post we wish we’d read before our first trip: practical tips, local etiquette, transport hacks, what’s actually worth booking ahead, and the little rules that Singapore takes seriously (so you don’t accidentally become that tourist).
If you’re building your full plan, these guides pair perfectly with this one:
Contents
Arrival & getting around
1) The MRT is your best friend
Singapore’s MRT is clean, fast, air-conditioned, and genuinely easier than taxis for a lot of journeys. If you’re from the UK, you will quietly wish your commute was this efficient.
2) Don’t overthink transport cards
You can use contactless for many journeys, and there are travel card options too. Either way: public transport is straightforward, and you’ll be moving around with minimal effort.
3) Grab is the “heat has won” button
There will be a moment when you’ve walked enough and you’re done. That’s when you use Grab. It’s reliable and easy, especially if you’re trying to save your energy for the evening.
4) Changi Airport is basically an attraction
Even if you’re not doing a stopover, try to have a bit of time at the airport on either end. It’s wildly nice. If you have time, add Jewel (also a great “rainy day” bonus).
5) Singapore is small… but don’t assume you can walk everything
Distances aren’t huge, but humidity turns “easy walk” into “why are we like this?” Use MRT between areas and save the walking for neighbourhood wandering.
Money, costs & saving tricks
6) Singapore can be expensive… but it doesn’t have to be
The big budget hitters are hotels and “nice nights.” But you can balance that with hawker food, free attractions, and MRT. If you want the full breakdown: Singapore travel costs guide.
7) Eat hawker food daily (best value move in the city)
Hawker centres are where you eat ridiculously well without spending loads. They also make the trip feel more authentic than only doing malls and restaurants.
8) Free attractions are genuinely good here
Some of Singapore’s best moments cost nothing: skyline walks, Gardens by the Bay outdoor areas, neighbourhood wandering, and the night light shows. Full list here: Free things to do in Singapore.
9) If you’re doing a rooftop bar, do it properly (but not every night)
Rooftop bars are a classic Singapore splurge. Choose one night, make it your “main character” night, and keep the other evenings more casual. Your wallet will thank you.
10) Water and drinks add up — plan for it
You’ll be thirsty all the time. Carry a refillable water bottle and accept that you’ll buy cold drinks. It’s part of surviving Singapore.
Rules & laws tourists don’t expect (Singapore takes this seriously)
Singapore is safe and orderly for a reason — it has rules, and people follow them. Here are the common ones tourists get surprised by:
11) Don’t litter. Ever.
This sounds obvious, but Singapore is strict about cleanliness. Use bins, don’t be “that person,” and you’ll be fine.
12) Return your tray at hawker centres
Hawker etiquette is real. Clear your tray, be respectful, and don’t treat it like a tourist attraction.
13) Eating/drinking on public transport is a no
It’s not the “quiet snack on the Tube” vibe. Keep food and drinks off the MRT to avoid fines and awkwardness.
14) The chewing gum thing (myth vs reality)
People love the chewing gum story. The simplified truth: Singapore heavily restricts chewing gum, and you shouldn’t try to be clever about it. You don’t need gum to survive a 3-day city break — let it go.
15) Don’t mess around with drugs
Singapore has extremely strict drug laws. This is not a “we’ll risk it” country. Treat it seriously and keep your trip drama-free.
Culture & etiquette (so you don’t look rude)
16) Be respectful in religious sites
Dress modestly where needed, keep your voice down, and follow signage. It’s easy, and it matters.
17) Don’t touch people’s heads / point with your feet
Singapore is multicultural, and etiquette varies, but as a general rule: don’t be overly physical with strangers, and avoid gestures that can be seen as disrespectful. When in doubt: polite and low-key wins.
18) Tipping isn’t a big thing
Many places include service charge. Tipping isn’t the same as in the US, so don’t stress about it unless you’ve had exceptional service.
19) Queue properly (Singapore loves a queue)
If there’s a line, join it. If people are waiting, don’t barge. Singapore is organised and everyone expects you to play by the rules.
20) “Chope” culture is real
People reserve seats in hawker centres by leaving a tissue packet or card at the table. Respect it. It’s not litter — it’s a reservation system with vibes.
Weather, packing & surviving humidity
21) The humidity will humble you (plan around it)
Plan early mornings and late afternoons for outdoor wandering. Mid-day is perfect for museums, malls, long lunches, or anything with air con.
22) Carry a small umbrella
Rain can appear out of nowhere. A small umbrella is the simplest “why didn’t we bring one?” fix.
23) Pack breathable clothes and comfy shoes
Singapore is a walking city, but it’s also a “sweat instantly” city. Breathable clothes + good shoes = a much better trip.
24) Air con can be freezing indoors
Malls and museums can feel weirdly cold compared to outdoors. Bring a light layer if you’re sensitive to it.
25) A day bag makes life easier
Bring a small day bag for water, umbrella, sunscreen, and whatever you’ve bought when you “just popped into one shop.”
If you want the full packing list with specifics, we’ve got a dedicated post for it: What to pack for Singapore.
What to book in advance (and what you can wing)
Book in advance if:
- You’re travelling during peak periods (school holidays, big events)
- You want a specific hotel in a specific area
- You’re doing popular attractions at peak times
- You’re planning a “nice night” restaurant or rooftop bar
You can usually wing it if:
- You’re mostly doing free sights + neighbourhoods
- You’re eating hawker food (show up hungry, follow the queues)
- You’re happy being flexible on timing
Hotel planning tip: area matters more than “star rating” in Singapore. If you want help picking a base, use this guide: Where to stay in Singapore (by area).
FAQs
Is Singapore safe for tourists?
Yes — Singapore is widely considered one of the safest major cities for travellers. Like anywhere, use common sense, but overall it’s a very low-stress destination.
Can you drink tap water in Singapore?
Generally yes — Singapore’s tap water is considered safe to drink. (Which is great, because you’ll need a lot of water.)
What’s the biggest mistake first timers make in Singapore?
Trying to cram too much into one day and underestimating the heat/humidity. The best trips balance big sights with neighbourhood wandering, and they build in air-con breaks.
What should I avoid doing in Singapore?
Don’t litter, don’t eat or drink on the MRT, don’t ignore hawker etiquette, and don’t break laws thinking they’re “suggestions.” Singapore is easy as long as you respect the rules.
