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Singapore might be small, but it knows how to make a big impression. It’s one of those places that usually gets written often — as too polished, too strict, or just a layover stop en route to somewhere else. I mean, when we started planning our trip to Singapore, a friend of ours who was living there at the time (and liking it!) told us 48 hours was plenty.
But wow was she wrong! If you actually spend time here (and you should), you’ll quickly realize how much this city has going on underneath the surface.
After my visit, I put together this guide with all the little things I wish I’d known before I landed. Some are practical, some are personal, and some will just help you avoid rookie mistakes — like sweating through the day in jeans or ordering the wrong kopi. Ok, let’s get into it.
- Things to know before visiting Singapore
- 1. Respect the rules — they’re not a joke
- 2. Beat the Heat with Smart Packing and Local Tricks
- 3. The Tap Water is Safe & Good — and You’ll Be Chugging It
- 4. Cash isn’t king anymore — but it’s still handy
- 5. Skip the Car — The MRT’s Easy with Just a Tap
- 6. Yes, Singapore Is Pricey — But You Can Still Travel Smart
- 7. Don’t just transit through — stay a few days
- 8. Eat Like a Local at Singapore’s Hawker Centres
- 9. Decode Local Lingo — from Kopi Orders to Singlish Slang
- 10. You Can Try Durian — If You’re Feeling Brave (and Curious)
- 11. Respect Local Customs, AKA Don’t be a Dick & Don’t Stick Out
- 12. It’s a super safe place to travel — even solo
- 13. It’s not Just a Concrete Jungle
- 14. Shop Smart — Singapore’s Best Finds Aren’t in the Malls
- 15. Make Time for Changi — It’s a Destination on Its Own
Wanna explore Singapore like a local?
Here’s a mini guide to help you explore beyond the tourist track!
Where to stay:
My favorite neighborhoods:
Can’t miss experience:
Your holy grail on-the-ground resource:
Stay connected:
More on Singapore:
Delve into Singapore
Don’t forget to check out the rest of my Singapore posts and guides if you’re still planning your perfect trip!
15 Critical Things to Know Before Visiting Singapore
Real Talk:
Singapore – while less affected than some of its Southeast Asian neighbors – is not immune to overtourism, gentrification, and environmental damage. So please: don’t be an asshole when you travel here (or anywhere).
If you’ve made it to my blog, I’d like to think you too care about preserving the integrity of the places you visit – but I’ve seen enough disrespectful behavior from Western tourists to know it’s worth saying out loud:
If you’re going to make locals’ lives harder, just stay home.
1. Respect the Rules — They’re Not a Joke!
Singapore is famous for its strict laws — and they’re enforced. It’s part of what keeps the city clean, safe, and orderly, but it also means you need to be aware of things you might not think twice about elsewhere.
Here are a few to watch for:
Then beyond behaviors we have to talk about all the things you can’t bring to Singapore so you don’t get a rude awakening the night before when you’re packing, or worse, at customs.
Prohibited Items: What you absolutely cannot bring into Singapore
For a detailed list, refer to the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website.
Controlled Items: Medicine may require prior approval
This was probably the most important section for us ahead of our trip, so listen up!
Prescription medicines, especially those containing controlled substances, require a doctor’s prescription and may need prior approval. For example, we did not know this and we waited until the night before to find out that Daniel could not bring his ADHD medication in. He could have requested permission at least 48 hours in advance of arrival, but by the time we checked it was too late.
Know Before You Go
Planning Cheat Sheet: Every Link You Need in One Place
P.S. When you book using my links, you help support Rachel IRL at no extra cost to you. It’s a win-win!
2. Beat the Heat with Smart Packing and Local Tricks
Singapore’s temperatures are next level. We’re talking high humidity, year-round tropical temps, and that immediate sheen of sweat the moment you step outside. It’s not unbearable—we walked around often and ate all our meals outdoors—but it is something to plan around.
Think light, breathable clothes (linen is your friend), comfy shoes, and always carry water. Depending on your itinerary and the way you’re planning your day you may want to plan for multiple showers due to the sweating (I know, it’s gross, but I’m just trying to help lol).
I literally showered three times a day every day in Singapore: morning after waking up, late afternoon before getting ready for dinner, and before getting into bed. This also meant I used double the amount of clothes I would have expected to.
Obviously if you don’t sweat much/at all (jealous) this won’t be an issue for you. If you do, and showering thrice a day doesn’t sound like your idea of fun, you can also plan more casual dinners and/or not go back to the hotel to rest, all of which will mean you don’t need to worry about those extra clothes and showers.
I would also recommend carrying a handheld fan, like the old fashion kind (I literally never leave home without one, like it’s permanently in my purse). I think these work WAY better than the electric and battery powered handheld ones. There were a lot of times where the lack of breeze was killing me, and I really was grateful to have the fan.
PS: I know it’s probably tempting to open a new tab and buy one on Amazon, but that dude is literally helping to ruin the world right now. I promise you you will be able to buy one from some nice person at your destination within like, the first hour of your trip. Check any tourist or convenience store. I got mine from a gift shop in Warsaw years ago and it’s still holding up.
Lastly, you might want to consider bringing (or buying) an umbrella to carry with you for sun protection. I picked up this tip from our tour guide in Katong who had one for herself and one for us. It’s ideal for when you’re walking around and can’t always be in the shade, but also don’t want to wear something covering your skin due to the temperature. Ditto on the Amazon diatribe!!
3. The Tap Water is Safe & Good — and You’ll Be Chugging It
This one’s a small detail that makes a huge difference.
Singapore’s tap water is clean, high-quality, and totally safe to drink — no need to waste plastic buying bottled water or worrying about getting sick from some washed lettuce.
Bring a reusable water bottle if possible so you can refill throughout your trip.
I’m partial to my Larq bottle because it purifies the water for me, and that comes massively in handy when I’m traveling in places without safe tap water.
10 Amazing Things to Do in Kampong Glam & Haji Lane That Will Make You Fall in Love with Singapore’s Irresistibly Creative Heritage District
20 Great Hotels in Singapore: The Most Stunning & Stylish Stays for Every Budget
4. Cash Isn’t King Anymore — But It’s Still Handy to Have a Little
Singapore is one of the most cashless-friendly places in Southeast Asia. You can tap your card or phone almost everywhere — from the MRT to most cafes and restaurants. Even some hawker stalls now accept mobile payments.
That said, it’s still smart to carry a little cash. Some older or more traditional food stalls only accept exact change, and you might need cash for small purchases at markets or temples. ATMs are easy to find, and exchange rates are generally fair if you’re withdrawing locally.
Know Before You Go
Speaking of cash, there’s no need to tip. Most restaurants automatically include a 10% service charge on the bill, and it’s not common (or necessary) to tip on top of that.
You can round up if you want to, but no one will bat an eye if you don’t.
5. Skip the Car — The MRT’s Easy with Just a Tap
Singapore’s MRT (metro) system is chef’s kiss — clean, fast, safe, and ridiculously easy to navigate.
To use it, you’ve got two great options: buy an EZ-Link card (you can grab one at the airport or any MRT station), or just tap in and out with a contactless credit or debit card, or even Apple Wallet (that’s what we did!).
No need to top up or calculate fares — it’s super seamless. Buses work the same way too, and they’re underrated for getting across shorter distances with AC.
Either way, skip taxis when you can. The public transport here actually works better.
Insider Tip
If you must drive, ride-hailing apps are more reliable than taxis.
Taxis do exist in Singapore, but flagging one down isn’t always the easiest — especially during busy hours or in more residential neighborhoods. Locals tend to rely on ride-hailing apps instead, and you should too.
Grab is the main one (it’s basically Southeast Asia’s Uber), but Gojek, TADA, and ComfortDelGro are worth downloading as backups. They work more or less like Lyft & Uber.
Bonus: many of the drivers are super friendly and happy to chat if you’re curious about local life. One of our drivers actually pointed out a random celebrity sighting to us, something we never would have known otherwise!
6. Yes, Singapore Is Pricey — But You Can Still Travel Smart
Let’s be real: Singapore is one of the most expensive cities in Southeast Asia — and in some categories, it rivals cities like London or Tokyo. Accommodation, cocktails, and sit-down meals can add up fast, especially if you’re comparing it to budget-friendly neighbors like Vietnam or Thailand.
But here’s the good news: you can still travel smart here without sacrificing experience. Hawker centres serve some of the world’s best meals for under $5. Public transit is cheap and efficient. And many of the best things to do — like walking the Southern Ridges or visiting temples — are totally free.
If you budget a little more intentionally and avoid splurging on every meal or hotel, you’ll still get a full, rich experience of the city without breaking the bank.
8 Cool Things to Do in Tiong Bahru: How to Make a Day of Singapore’s Awesome Little Art Deco Hidden Gem
15 Must-Visit Singapore Cafes for Any Visitor Who Wants to Caffeinate Like a Local: Indie Hidden Gems with the Best Speciality Singapore Coffee
7. Don’t Just Transit Through — Stay a Few Days
Singapore has a reputation as a stopover city — and I totally get why. It’s got a sleek airport, everything runs on time, and you can technically see a lot in 24 hours. But tbh that kind of visit barely scratches the surface.
If you give Singapore three to five days, you’ll start to see what makes it really special. The neighborhoods all have distinct personalities (like the colorful shophouses of Joo Chiat vs. the sleek vibes of Marina Bay vs. the retro Art Deco of Tiong Bahru), and there’s so much layered history beneath the shiny skyline. I’ve written about a few of my favorite neighborhoods here if you’re not sure where to start.
Step Further Into the Stories of Tiong Bahru
If you’re interested in seeing beyond the surface of Singapore, this guided walk is for you. With a local leading the way, you’ll uncover the everyday rhythms, rich history, and personal stories that define Singapore’s oldest (art deco!) housing estate – plus a few tasty local snacks along the way.
Plus, the food scene alone deserves a few days — even if all you do is hawker-hop and café crawl.
Not sure how to fill your time? Here’s my guide to the best things to do in Singapore — it’ll help you build the perfect multi-day itinerary.
8. Eat Like a Local at Singapore’s Hawker Centres
Forget what you think you know about “food courts” — hawker centres are a cornerstone of Singaporean life. These open-air complexes are where locals go for seriously good food at seriously good prices, from $3 bowls of laksa to award-winning chicken rice.
There’s a bit of unspoken etiquette, though: find a seat first (and chope it with a tissue packet or umbrella), then head to the stalls to order. Bring cash just in case, queue patiently, and return your tray when you’re done — it’s a very communal vibe.
You could honestly plan your entire trip around eating at hawker centres… and you wouldn’t regret it.
Want the full scoop on where (and what) to eat? I’ve got a whole post dedicated to Singapore’s best hawker centres— including my favorite stalls and what to order if you’re overwhelmed by the options. Bring an appetite!
Taste Singapore’s Heritage on a Private Food Tour
I did this tour myself and absolutely loved it — 10 tastings across Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam, with a local guide who shares the cultural context behind every bite. It’s a delicious way to experience Singapore’s diversity and dig into stories you’d almost certainly miss on your own.
9. Decode Local Lingo — From Kopi Orders to Singlish Slang
Ordering coffee in Singapore comes with its own vocabulary — literally. At traditional kopitiams, you won’t just ask for a black coffee or latte. You’ll hear:
Once you get the hang of it, it’s oddly addictive — and way more fun than ordering a flat white.
The local language doesn’t stop at kopi, either. You’ll hear Singlish — a mash-up of English, Malay, Hokkien, Tamil, and more — all over the city. It’s fast, expressive, and full of flavor. A few phrases to know:
You don’t need to speak it (tbh it could be a bit weird if you tried?), but recognizing a few phrases is a fun way to connect and adds so much personality to the city experience.
Did You Know
Singapore has four official languages — English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil.
English is the main language used in schools, business, and government, but you’ll hear a blend of all four (plus plenty of Singlish) in daily life. It’s part of what makes the city feel so unique and layered, but don’t worry, you’ll likely get on just fine if you only speak English.
Where to Stay in Singapore: Your Complete Guide to 7 of the Best Singapore Neighborhoods for Every Type of Traveler
25 Best Singapore Museums: Art, History & Hidden Gems That Will Make You Appreciate the Lion City in a New Way
10. You Can Try Durian — If You’re Feeling Brave (and Curious)
Durian is famously divisive — you either love it or you can’t be in the same room with it. This spiky Southeast Asian fruit has a very strong smell (think: onions, cheese, and sugar had a fight), which is why it’s banned on public transport and in many hotels.
But it’s also beloved by locals and considered a delicacy. If you’re curious, try it at a proper fruit stall where they’ll crack it open fresh and help guide you through it.
We did not manage to try durian on our trip and… can I be honest? It’s probably my biggest regret about our trip!! Next time we visit I swear my first stop is gonna be a durian fruit stall—I’m not kidding.
11. Respect Local Customs, AKA Don’t be a Dick & Don’t Stick Out
Singapore is incredibly multicultural, and with that comes a mix of customs and expectations that are worth being mindful of. A few basics to remember:
A little respect and cultural awareness goes a long way here — and will make your experience smoother and more meaningful.
12. It’s a Super Safe Place to Travel — Even Solo
Singapore is genuinely one of the safest countries I’ve ever visited. You’ll see people reserving tables with their phones or wallets (yes, really), and we constantly heard from locals how safe they feel walking around alone late at night without feeling the need to look over their shoulder.
I hate to admit this but I can be a bit of a baby. I get anxious walking at night in my home cities of London, San Francisco and New York. I’m constantly worried about something going wrong, but in Singapore I felt… so unbelievably relaxed. Public transport is well-lit and predictable, streets are clean and calm, and there’s a general vibe of order that makes things feel easy.
That said, of course — basic travel common sense still applies. Don’t be a total idiot… but overall you can relax here more than in many other (maybe any other?) major cities.
And it’s not just safe in terms of crime: if you’re someone who checks earthquake zones or monsoon seasons before booking a trip (hi, same), here’s a relief: Singapore is one of the most geologically and climatically stable places you can visit. No earthquakes, no hurricanes, no volcanoes — and while it does rain, the storms are usually brief and manageable. Just try to avoid rainy season!
13. It’s Not Just a Concrete Jungle
Singapore isn’t just clean and sleek — it’s also intentionally green. You’ll notice it right away: vertical gardens spilling down skyscrapers, lush pockets of rainforest in the middle of the city, and trees lining almost every road. This isn’t an accident — it’s part of a long-term national plan to be a “City in a Garden.”
Even if you’re not a nature lover, you’ll feel the impact. The greenery keeps the city cooler (bless), softens the urban landscape, and makes just walking around feel calming in a way you don’t expect from a massive urban center.
Make time for places like the Southern Ridges, MacRitchie Reservoir, or even just a walk through the Botanic Gardens — it’s all part of what makes Singapore so livable.
Singapore’s Best Indie Shops: 23 Design, Thrift, Book & Vintage Gems in the City Centre
10 Things to Do in Singapore’s Surprisingly Beautiful Tanjong Pagar — Where Old-School Charm Meets Vibrant, Unexpected Cool
14. Shop Smart — Singapore’s Best Finds Aren’t in the Malls
Orchard Road might be the most famous shopping strip in Singapore, and sure, it’s worth walking once just to see how over-the-top it is. But if you really want to shop well, the magic is in the neighborhoods.
Places like Tiong Bahru, Joo Chiat/Katong, and Kampong Glam are packed with indie boutiques, local brands, homegrown designers, and vintage gems. Whether you’re into thrift stores, minimalist ceramics, quirky gifts, or just love a good browse — you’ll find way more personality (and better souvenirs) off the beaten track.
Want the full list of all my favorite shopping in Singapore? Check out my Singapore shopping guide here.
15. Make Time for Changi — It’s a Destination on Its Own
It’s not just hype — Changi Airport is genuinely one of the best in the world. You’ll find everything from butterfly gardens and a free movie theatre to a giant indoor waterfall inside the Jewel complex (which is technically a mall connected to the airport, but totally worth visiting even if you’re not flying out any time soon).
It’s clean, efficient, and honestly kind of fun to be in — which is not something I say about most airports.
Know Before You Go
I recommend getting there early for your flight home on purpose. In fact, most airlines allow checked bags to be dropped up to 24 hours in advance at Changi, specifically to encourage people to show up, check in, and enjoy the amenities!
FAQs about Things to Know Before Visiting Singapore
What do I need to know before entering Singapore?
First, the basics: Singapore is a sovereign country (not part of Malaysia or China), and for most travelers, it’s pretty easy to enter. Many nationalities don’t need a visa for short stays — but check the ICA website to confirm based on your passport.
You’ll need:
A passport with at least 6 months’ validity
Proof of onward travel (immigration may ask)
To fill out the SG Arrival Card online up to 3 days before you land — it’s quick and free
To declare any restricted or taxable items (Singapore has strict customs laws)
They take rules seriously here, so double-check your bags for things like vape pens, chewing gum (yes, really), and duty-free alcohol allowances. Arrivals at Changi are smooth, efficient, and often surprisingly fast — just don’t joke with immigration officers, and you’ll be golden.
Do and don’ts in Singapore?
Do:
Be polite, patient, and respectful in public
Queue (seriously — Singaporeans love a good queue)
Take your shoes off when entering temples or homes
Use public transport — it’s clean and efficient
Dispose of trash properly and return your tray at food courts
Try the local food! Hawker centres are a must
Don’t:
Eat or drink on the MRT (not even water — it’s fined!)
Litter, spit, or jaywalk
Bring or use chewing gum or vape pens — both are banned
Disrespect religious or cultural sites (dress modestly, stay quiet)
Assume it’s “boring” — if you’re bored in Singapore, you’re doing it wrong
Singapore’s social rules might seem strict, but they’re part of what makes the city feel calm, clean, and easy to explore. If you’re mindful, you’ll fit right in.
What can you not bring into Singapore?
Prohibited Items: What You Absolutely Cannot Bring
Bringing these items into Singapore is illegal and can lead to confiscation, fines, or more severe penalties:
Chewing gum (except for therapeutic dental or nicotine gum approved by the Health Sciences Authority)
Chewing tobacco, snuff, shisha, and dissolvable tobacco products
Electronic cigarettes, vape pens, and related components
Controlled drugs and psychotropic substances
Obscene materials (including publications, videos, and software)
Seditious and treasonable materials
Firecrackers and fireworks
Weapons such as flick knives, knuckle dusters, and throwing stars
Cigarette lighters shaped like firearms
Endangered species and products derived from them (e.g., ivory, rhinoceros horn)
Radio-communication jamming devices and unauthorized telecommunication equipment
For a detailed list, refer to the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website.
Controlled Items: What Requires Prior Approval
Certain items are allowed only with proper authorization from relevant authorities:
Medications: Prescription medicines, especially those containing controlled substances, require a doctor’s prescription and may need prior approval.
Food products: Importing meat, seafood, fruits, and vegetables is subject to restrictions. For instance, travelers can bring in up to 5kg of processed food (excluding meat and seafood) for personal consumption. Detailed guidelines are available on the Singapore Food Agency website.
Telecommunication equipment: Devices like walkie-talkies and certain radio equipment may require approval from the Infocomm Media Development Authority.
Weapons and ammunition: Including replicas and antique firearms.
Animals and plants: Importing live animals, birds, and certain plant products requires permits.
Always declare controlled items at the Red Channel upon arrival and present the necessary permits or documentation.
What to wear in Singapore?
In short: dress for the heat — but bring a layer. Singapore is hot and humid year-round, so lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Think cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking fabrics. You’ll sweat, so comfort > fashion most days (but hey, you can still be cute and cool).
That said, nearly every indoor space is air-conditioned — malls, museums, trains, even some cafés. It’s wise to carry a light sweater, scarf, or jacket with you.
If you’re planning to visit temples or religious sites, bring something modest: covered shoulders and knees are respectful and often required. A midi skirt or wide-leg trousers plus a light scarf works perfectly.
Footwear-wise, opt for sandals, sneakers, or anything comfy to walk in. Singapore’s super walkable — and stylish sneakers are basically the city’s dress code.
Planning Cheat Sheet: Every Link You Need in One Place
P.S. When you book using my links, you help support Rachel IRL at no extra cost to you. It’s a win-win!
Are you ready to explore Singapore?
I hope this post about things to know before visiting Singapore has helped you feel more prepared (and more excited!) for your trip. As I mentioned earlier, Singapore is absolutely packed with culture, flavor, and unexpected charm — and in my opinion, it’s still way too overlooked by a lot of American and European travelers. This city deserves more than a layover.
If you’ve been around here for a while, you probably know my ideal day in a new city includes one deep-dive activity (yes to museums!), a little bit of browsing, and a perfectly timed café break. Singapore totally nails that balance — and then some.
Got thoughts, tips, or questions of your own about traveling Singapore? Drop them in the comments — I’d love to hear from you!
As always you can always find me on Instagram (tag me in your travel content!), Youtube, or Pinterest.
Happy traveling!
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