Last updated: February 2024
Key Takeaways:
- Singapore offers a mix of high-end malls and local markets for diverse shopping experiences.
- Flea markets and local shopping centers provide affordable options.
- Items like Bak-Kwa, Laksa Paste, and Tiger Balm products are budget-friendly buys.
- Some international brands may be cheaper in Singapore due to promotions or sales.
Introduction:
Uncover budget-friendly treasures in Singapore's vibrant shopping scene, from bustling street markets to chic boutiques.
Featured Snippet Question and Answer:
Q: What are the cheap things to buy in Singapore?
A: Affordable finds in Singapore include Bak-Kwa (BBQ meat), Laksa Paste, Miniature Merlion Souvenirs, Asian Artefacts, Singapore Pressed Pennies, Orchid Perfumes, and Tiger Balm products. Shoppers can also find value in local markets and during sales events like The Great Singapore Sale.
Shopping is Singapore's second most popular leisure after dining out.
Our Lion City is famed for its booming shopping culture, which includes everything from classic malls of all types and sizes to handpicked local boutiques and local shopping centres.
While there are several shopping belts in Singapore, Orchard Road is the queen of shopping malls, with clothing brands, high-street names, and a few bargain retailers.
The most popular shopping in Singapore, however, is done in the form of outdoor markets, which sell trendy products, souvenirs, and even offering salon services.
The majority of Singapore's street markets are situated in the city's center, with the most famous choices clustered around Orchard Road, Chinatown, and Bugis Street Market.
And after exploring Singapore's best markets, you'll be greeted with a large number of options, making it tough to decide what to buy and what not to buy.
Having said that, we've accumulated a lot of useful information about goods you may get cheaper in Singapore, especially branded and luxury items. Without further ado, let’s get started!
Here are some of our top picks on:
Are things cheap in Singapore?
It is widely accepted that the average cost of living in Singapore is expensive. In Singapore, the average monthly expenditure for a single individual is roughly $1,300 without taking into account rent, according to Numbeo.
This is much more for a four-person family: roughly $4,843 each month without taking into account rental cost. So, shopping for clothes, food, and other items in Singapore may be expensive, especially if you're not excellent at negotiating.
With that, here are some of the most affordable items in Singapore when you come to travel:
- Bak-Kwa (BBQ Meat)
- Laksa Paste
- Miniature Merlion Souvenirs
- Asian Artefacts
- Singapore Pressed Pennies
- Orchid Perfumes
- Tiger Balm products
Recommended: Cost of Raising Children in Singapore
What is best to buy in Singapore?
What is the best things to buy in Singapore? - Cheap Things to Buy in Singapore
Singapore is well-known for its vibrant retail districts. There are several places to decompress through retail therapy, ranging from high-end shopping malls to medium-priced stores to street markets.
This country, in fact, holds a large event dedicated to the same - The Great Singapore Sale. You may not go on a shopping binge as a traveler, but there are a few things you may buy as a keepsake for yourself or as a gift for someone special.
These goods to buy in Singapore each have their own importance and tale to tell about the history of this country.
Here are the top 8 items to buy in Singapore that would make the nicest mementos and loveliest gifts for your loved ones:
- Bakkwa
- Curry puffs
- Salted egg chips
- Fashion labels by Singapore designers
- Local knick-knacks
- Famous green pandan cake
- Local kopi and coconut jam
- Pernakan culture & cuisine
Read also: Is Singapore Cheap for Shopping?
Which brands are cheap in Singapore?
Are clothes cheaper in Singapore? - Cheap Things to Buy in Singapore
As previously mentioned, Singapore can be rather expensive in terms of shopping.
However, if you are a wise and practical shopper who is good when looking for bargains, you will undoubtedly find several brands that are far cheaper in Singapore than in other countries.
With that, here are some brands that one may find less expensive in Singapore than elsewhere:
- Coach
- Fila
- Nike
- Cotton On
- Kate Spade New York
- Charles & Keith
Recommended: How do I get a Shopee voucher code in Singapore?
Are clothes cheaper in Singapore?
Singapore may seem to be the most expensive place in the world to buy branded clothes, but it omitted to mention that some mass-market brands are actually cheaper here than elsewhere.
While the fact that high-end shopping costs more here than elsewhere appears to be correct, most local customers do not go that far upscale.
High-street labels such as H&M from Sweden and Uniqlo from Japan are popular and afforable, and buyers here appear to be getting a better value than those overseas on at least certain products.
Take, for example, a pair of Uniqlo women's extreme stretch jeans, which are among the brand's best-sellers. It costs $59.90 here, which is more costly than in New York, but less expensive than in Paris.
Meanwhile, a women's basic jersey shirt from H&M costs $7.90 in Singapore, which is around 7% more than in Tokyo but 10% to 12% less than in Paris and New York.
Is Singapore fun to live in?
Singapore is one of the most vibrant and exciting places to live in Asia since it is modern and efficient. The city-state has something for everyone, whether you're looking for amazing food, stunning architecture, or a bustling nightlife scene.
And with its excellent transportation infrastructure and low crime rate, Singapore is also an incredibly safe and efficient place to call home.
So if you're considering making a move to Singapore, know that you'll be in good company!
The expat community here is large and diverse, so you'll be sure to find like-minded people from all over the world to connect with.
Whether you're looking for an adventure or just wanting to settle down in a beautiful and convenient location, there's no doubt that Singapore is the desirable area to live for expats of all ages.
Furthermore, Singapore's tax structure is considered to be exceptionally low and liberal.
Which is the best factory outlet in Singapore?
Asics, Puma, and Royal Sporting House factory outlets are among the cheap sporting retailers worth visiting here.
Timberland boots are the nicest, but no one should have to pay $200 for a pair when you can get them for up to 70% off at one of their factory outlet stores in IMM, Changi City Point, or Causeway Point.
Which is the best shopping mall in Singapore?
IMM in Jurong, one of Singapore's largest outlet shopping complexes in the heartlands, is a must-see for every neophilia traveller who wishes to experience more of Singaporean's way of life.
With over 80 outlet stores, you can easily discover local brands such as Charles & Keith as well as major international names such as DKNY, Coach, and Sacoor.
Some of other popular malls include Somerset 313, Orchard Gateway Shopping Centre, Marina Bay Sands Shopping Complex (MBSSC), Vivo City and ION Orchard.
How much money should I take to Singapore for a week stay?
How much money do you need for a week in Singapore? - Cheap Things to Buy in Singapore
A one-week getaway in Singapore typically costs from roughly $500 for one person for shopping, food and sightseeing.
| Category | Likely Cost a Day for Average Traveller |
|---|---|
| Food (Depending on what you eat) | $30 to $150 |
| Travel (Depending on type of transport) | $10 to $50 |
| Sightseeing (Depending on where you visit) | $25 to $120 |
| Accomodation | $25 to $150 |
| Flights | $100 to $1,000 |
So, a one-week vacation to Singapore for two persons will go to roughly $1,000 in total if you are on a shoe string budget.
Nonetheless in Singapore, a two-week trip for two persons generally costs $4,578 if you want to stay more lavishly.
How can I stay on a budget in Singapore?
Staying on a budget in Singapore can be challenging as we are known as the fifth most expensive city for expats. However, with some smart planning and strategies, it is possible to manage your expenses and stick to a budget. Here are some tips on how to stay on a budget while in Singapore:
- Create a budget: Start by creating a budget that outlines your income and expenses. This will help you identify areas where you can cut back and prioritize your spending.
- Use public transportation: Singapore has an efficient public transportation system, which is much cheaper than owning a car or taking taxis.
- Cook at home: Eating out in Singapore can be expensive, so consider cooking at home and bringing your own lunch to work.
- Shop at local fresh markets: Local markets often offer fresh produce and groceries at lower prices than supermarkets and specialty stores.
- Look for deals and discounts: Take advantage of deals and discounts offered by credit cards, loyalty programs, and online shopping platforms.
- Avoid unnecessary expenses: Cut back on unnecessary expenses such as buying expensive clothes, gadgets, or entertainment.
- Use free or low-cost activities: Singapore has many free or low-cost activities, such as visiting museums, parks, and cultural events.
- Compare prices: Before making a purchase, always compare prices from different stores and online platforms to get the best deal.
- Track your expenses: Keep track of your expenses to ensure that you are staying within your budget and identify areas where you can improve.
By following these tips, we are sure you can manage your expenses and stay on a budget in Singapore.
What are the cheap things to buy in Singapore?
Despite its high cost of living, Singapore is still a great place to go shopping, especially if you're with family or friends.
If you're concerned about spending too much money on a shopping trip in Singapore, I must advise you to be a savvy and practical shopper.
As I previously indicated, if you are excellent at negotiating, you will absolutely love shopping in Singapore while also enjoying the inexpensive products you will buy that are of high quality.
With all of the information provided above, we hope we have substantially helped you and provided you with a wealth of knowledge on shopping in Singapore.
We assure you that all of the goods listed above are inexpensive and will not break the bank.
Read more: