Your Travel Checklist

Important Stuff You Need Before Flying to Singapore

☑️ SG Arrival Card

This is a mandatory electronic declaration for all travelers entering Singapore, including tourists, citizens, permanent residents, and long-term pass holders. No payment required. You’ll need your passport info, flight details and health declaration

When to Submit: You can submit it up to 1 - 3 days before your arrival date. It's highly recommended to do it before you fly to save time at immigration.

How to Submit: Complete it online via the official ICA - SGAC website or through the MyICA mobile application.

Tip: Screenshot or save the confirmation for easy access at immigration.

☑️ Passport / Visa

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of departure from Singapore. This is a strict requirement for entry into most countries, including Singapore.

Singapore has a very liberal visa policy, and citizens of many countries can enter visa-free for periods ranging from 14 to 90 days. However, always double-check the official Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore website for the most up-to-date visa requirements for specific nationality.

☑️ Getting Connected

Prepaid SIM Cards: This is the most popular and cost-effective way for visitors to get online. You can easily buy them right after you land at Changi Airport from telco counters like Singtel, StarHub, and M1, or from convenience stores such as 7-Eleven and Cheers. They offer various tourist-friendly packages with plenty of data.

eSIMs: For greater convenience, consider an eSIM if your phone supports it. You can purchase and activate it digitally even before you arrive, avoiding the hassle of physical SIM swaps.
I strongly recommend checking out options from Klook Unlimited 5G eSIM they offer various plans, including unlimited data and flexible durations at a really affordable price.

Public WiFi: it is available at Changi Airport, MRT stations, shopping malls, hotels and tourist attractions. Look for "Wireless@SGx" for free public Wi-Fi access

☑️ Currency & Payment

Singapore Dollars (SGD)

While Singapore is very credit card friendly, it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases, hawker centers (food courts), or local markets, where card payments might not always be available.
How Much? A few hundred SGD (e.g., $100-$200) for a few days' worth of small expenses is usually sufficient.
ATMs: ATMs are widely available across the island for withdrawing cash.

Credit/Debit Cards

Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and attractions.

Contactless Payment: Singapore is a leader in contactless payments (PayWave, PayLah!, Google Pay, Apple Pay). Many places accept these, making transactions very convenient.

☑️ Universal Travel Adapter

Singapore uses Type G electrical sockets (the three-pin rectangular type, same as the UK). The standard voltage is 230V with a 50Hz frequency.

A universal adapter will ensure you can charge all your devices.

☑️ Essential Apps (IOS | Android)

Grab

The dominant ride-hailing app in Southeast Asia, including Singapore. It even has GrabFood for food delivery. Tourists can sign up for a Grab account using their home country's mobile number and typically receive a verification code via SMS.

Google Maps
Has very reliable and updated information on walking, driving, and public transport directions with real-time updates for MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and bus routes in Singapore.

Citymapper

It provides detailed public transport directions, including real-time information, and can often suggest quicker routes or alternative modes of transport in Singapore

Google Pay / Apple Pay

If you've linked your credit and debit cards to these mobile wallets, you can use them for contactless payments at most retail stores, hawker centers, and even for MRT and bus rides.

Gojek

Another popular ride-hailing app, often providing competitive pricing compared to Grab, especially during non-peak hours. It's worth having both Grab and Gojek to compare fares and availability.

iChangi

The official app for Changi Airport. Provides real-time flight information, terminal navigation, shopping and dining guides, and even information on Jewel Changi Airport. Handy for arrival and departure

☑️ Clothing & Footwear

Lightweight, Breathable Clothing

Singapore is hot and humid year-round. Pack light, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking materials. Essentials: T-shirts, shorts, skirts, sundresses are perfect for daytime exploration.

Modest Attire (for specific sites)

If you plan to visit temples, mosques, or churches, it's respectful to have clothing that covers your shoulders and knees

Comfortable Walking Shoes/Sandals:

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is paramount. Sneakers, walking sandals, or sturdy flats are ideal.

Small Umbrella or Raincoat: Tropical showers can occur suddenly, even during sunny periods.

Sun Protection: The sun in Singapore can be intense. Pack sunscreen (high SPF), a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.

☑️ Travel Insurance

While not strictly mandatory for entry, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. It covers unforeseen circumstances like medical emergencies, travel delays, lost luggage, and trip cancellations, offering peace of mind.

Normally travel insurance can be purchased from your home country and then indicate that you are travelling to Singapore and from which dates.

☑️ Pick Up Some Local Lingo: Singlish

Singapore has four official languages (English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese, and Tamil), but the unofficial national language is "Singlish" – a vibrant, colloquial English creole. Learning a few common terms can help you better understand locals and even join in the fun. I have summarized some most-used Singlish terms here

Discovering Singapore

Your Singapore Adventure Starts Here—Plan, Explore, and Be Amazed!