Planning on traveling to Singapore? You have come to the right place! This is the ultimate Singapore Packing List + bonus content! Feel free to use the table of contents below to best navigate this blog post about things to pack for Singapore.
What NOT to bring to Singapore
Electronics + Accessories
1. Type G Outlet Adapters, ideally with additional slots for USB
*This type of outlet is very common around the world so if you are from the UK, Ireland, Middle East, or certain parts of Africa, then you are good to go!
In Singapore, international converters can be purchased at airport convenience stores and petrol stations as well as at Challenger, Courts, Valore, and Harvey Norman. This is an essential item on this Singapore packing list, don’t forget to bring it!
2. Charging Cables
Make sure you bring at least one per device (phone, camera, smart watch/GPS watch, tablet, laptop, earphones, power bank charger) ~ If you have an extra-long charging cord that is always helpful for travel.
Once in Singapore, you can get cables anywhere like branded stores like Sony and Apple or at convenience stores and the name brand spots listed in number one on this Singapore packing list.
3. Power Bank/Portable Chargers
This is a MUST! For you and this Singapore packing list. You will have many 12+ hour days exploring the stunning city-state of Singapore. You will use your devices for maneuvering public transport, taking photos, and ticketing (just to start). I highly recommend bringing a power bank to ensure you are prepared and don’t forget its charging cable!
Power banks can be purchased at the airport, as well as at Ankor Tech House, Harvey Norman, and H&B.
4. Waterproof Phone Case or Clear Pouch
If you are planning on partaking in boat/water activities, it may be wise to switch to your hardened waterproof case or bring a clear slide-in pouch to protect your cellphone. I mention this on my Singapore packing list since there are snorkel/diving spots in Singapore as well as waterparks where underwater photos would be epic!
Popular waterparks include Adventure Cove Waterpark, Dolphin Island, Wild Wild Wet, Splash @ Kidz Amaze, and HomeTeamNS Aqua Adventure. While waterproof phone cases will be easy to find in Singapore, submersible pouches can be found at sports stores like Decathlon.
5. Camera + Tripod for Phone/Camera
There are plenty of lightweight and foldable tripods on the market for your best picture taking! If you are into photo taking, a tripod is a no brainer, although how much better would it be to have your own remote for your phone or camera? Promise we are almost done with the electronics section of this Singapore packing list.
Tripods and other accessories can be purchased at a Sony store, as well as local brand stores such as Alan Photo, Bali Photo Electronics, and Insta360.
6. Wifi Pod or International Phone Plan
If you want access to a 5G network while out an about, there are two options. You can purchase a portable wifi pod that connects to the local cell towers and offers a private network to your devices as you travel. You typically purchase a GB or time plan; popular options are Solis and Sapphire which work in over 130 countries.
The thing about these is that you should configure them to your device before you leave your home country. This will not only allow to trouble shoot/make returns but also change the network name/password. You can also purchase an international data and/or phone plan through your cell phone provider.
Though this is a Singapore packing list, did you know that you will get cell/5G service all over Singapore, whether you are deep underground in the MRT or seemingly in the middle of nowhere nature reserve.
7. Local eSim Card
If you prefer to get a eSim card upon arrival in Singapore there are several options. Singtel offers 5G plans tourist plans ranging from S$12-S$50 which can be purchased through the app without having to switch out your own sim card. Other providers include M1 and Star Hub. You can actually purchase a plan before arriving in Singapore!
If you’re old school and prefer to purchase a physical sim card, you can purchase them at a Changi airport kiosk, at cell provider stores in town (commonly located in malls), or at convenience stores like 7-11 and Cheers.
Clothing & More
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8. Clothing
The hallmark thing about clothing in Singapore is comfort and breathability. As you may know, the Singapore weather is hot, humid, and often rainy. I would highly recommend brining clothes that is a wicking, quick-dry material (especially if you plan on doing nature-focused activities), as well as clothing that is comfortable and will protect you from the sun.
I’d also recommend brining a spare outfit or two as well as additional underwear and socks since you will sweat a lot and may want to change out throughout the day…or if you get caught in the rain.
If you plan on fine dining, many restaurants and bars have a dress code, so be sure to bring nice shoes, a long sleeve button up, and some nice slacks for men, or a nice dress for women.
Speaking of dress code, many mosques, shrines, and temples do require modest clothing for visitors, so it doesn’t hurt to bring a scarf and/or a jacket to cover up. It may be wise to keep these on hand regardless as air con inside malls and restaurants is quite strong!
9. Comfortable Shoes for Walking (ideally waterproof!)
If you take anything from this list, please bring comfortable and broken in walking shoes/sneakers/trainers! Regardless of how good the Singapore public transportation system is (Singapore MRT), you will be walking a lot.
If you have waterproof shoes, I would recommend this even more since the weather can be unpredictable, and when it rains, it pours. Alternatively, waterproof socks are another great option! It never hurts to bring an extra pair of socks in your bag just in case.
10. Bathing Suits & Small Portable Towel
Singapore has some stunning beaches, rooftop pools, waterparks, as well as lakes and reservoirs for all your swimming needs. Definitely do bring your swim suit and a small towel!
PS, there are a lot of splash pads in many popular tourist areas such as the Marina Barrage, Gardens by the Bay, and Vivo City; so be sure to always have your kids’ swimming suits on hand!
11. Sunglasses + Hat
Don’t forget your go-to pair of sunnies! Please don’t forget to bring the sun glasses you like! You do not want to have to shop for a good pair while in Singapore as it can be expensive. The Southeast Asian sun really is different, so do yourself a favor and cover up with a hat or at least a cap/visor while you are outdoors.
Daily Essentials
12. Travel Essentials
Make sure you are prepared for long hours on the road and in the airplane. Don’t forget to bring your snacks, reusable water bottle, neck pillow, phone charging cable, air tags, wireless earbud converter (connects your bluetooth earbuds to aircraft entertainment system, like the AirFly), and whatever else you need to stay comfortable.
Also don’t forget to bring sleeping aids such as ear plugs, eye masks, pillows, leg rests attachments, and a jacket. If you are flying in from North America, I highly recommend brining a spare outfit or two to change over during your layover, as well as some toiletries to freshen up. If you are flying in from a colder climate, bring a light outfit to change into once you have arrived in Singapore since it will be hot.
13. Backpack and/or Bum Bag/Fanny Pack
I personally think that unless you are going to be strolling around a mall, purses are not it! Bring a small, comfortable backpack or bum bag to keep your belongings in throughout the day. Ideally, if you have a backpack with easy access to you water bottle and umbrella, then half the battle is already won.
14. Foldable Umbrella or Parasol
While the sun is hot the rain in Singapore is even more intense. Regardless of the time of year, rain in Southeast Asia is very common, and having an umbrella on hand can save you a trip back to the hotel.
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15. Fan (handheld or electric)
Especially if you are in an area with not much shade, a handheld or electric fan can make all the difference on a hot humid day. If you are not used to hot and humid climates, trust me.
I’ve spent years living in Florida, but no time in Florida could prepare me for the Singapore humidity. In other parts of the world, I was used to it cooling down at least a little after a rain or on cloudy days. However, I hardly noticed a temperature drop in Singapore after it rained.
16. Reusable Water Bottle(s)
Unless you constantly want to buy water bottles at attractions, please bring a reusable water bottle with you! It may also be wise to bring or purchase a small amount of dish soap to clean said bottle.
PS to all the North American readers, but most water fountains in Singapore do not serve chilled water, so have your ice ready. The only place where you may find free cold water is at a water dispenser in a family bathroom/changing room.
17. Tissue Packs
Although you can purchase these in Singapore, I would bring a few packs of tissues with you. Why? Many restaurants and all hawker centres, coffee shops, and food courts do not provide napkins. Additionally, you may find yourself in a public bathroom without toilet paper so it’s good to come prepared.
Toiletries & Beyond
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18. Toiletries from Home: You Know What You Like Best
I highly recommend brining travel-sized toiletries from home because you know what you like best. You may even want to bring a little big into your carry-on.
Since most things in Singapore are imported, going out to purchase additional things will cost you time and money.
Here is what I recommend: deodorant, hand sanitizer, tooth paste + toothbrush, mouthwash, floss, body wash, fragrances, shaving cream + razors, shampoo, conditioner, cotton rounds, Q-tips, nail clippers/nail kit, tweezers, dry shampoo, hair spray, hair brush/comb, hair ties/scrunchies, clips/hair bands, bonnet, and hair care products.
Other items include body exfoliating scrubs, nets, or gloves, loofas, and scalp scrubbers.
Please be sure that you don’t bring hemp/CBD products into Singapore.
19. Skin Care & Make Up
Once again, you know what you prefer! Don’t forget to pack your make-up brushes, lashes, glue, tape, make up remover, and lip balm! I recommend brining small amounts of cleanser, moisturizer, and your nighttime serums and retinol products.
For travel, I love getting the Clean Skin Club Towelettes for washing up and drying off. Please note, just as stated above, please do not bring any on’t bring hemp/CBD skin care, hair, or body products, products into Singapore.
A pro tip from a skin care professional, make sure you never take the following products out of their original packaging; sunscreen, retinol products, and anti-oxidant products such as Vitamin C & niacinamide serums.
These products lose their efficacy or even dry out once taken out of their original packaging or repackaged into another.
20. SPF: Face & Body
Sunscreen/sunblock is mandatory, especially if you are planning on beach/pool days. Although you can purchase sun block in Singapore, I was not a fan of their selection.
Especially if you have a specific product you prefer for the face/under make up, then be sure to bring what you like.
Did you know that you can get a lip balm sunscreen? Aquaphor makes SPF lippies. SPF is a must unless you plan on covering up completely head to toe.
21. Feminine Hygiene Products
Become prepared for this always ladies. Especially if you are from North America, it will likely be impossible to find tampons with applicators. Regardless of your choice of products, don’t forget to pack pads, tampons, period panties, feminine wipes, or menstrual cups, plus means to disinfect it.
22. Insect Repellent
Bug repellent is a good idea in Southeast Asia. Even in Singapore, where most areas are sprayed for bugs, you can encounter mosquitoes even at Gardens by the Bay and the Botanic Gardens. This is a must if you are planning on going on nature hikes as well, such as the MacRitchie Treetop Walk.
Insect repellent can be purchased at Fair Price, Watsons, as well as some convenient and grocery stores.
23. Electric Gadgets (i.e. hair tools)
This applies if you have particular hair tools such as a straightener or a curler, in which case, good luck keeping your hairstyle in the Singapore climate. But if you carry a small clothing or facial steamer with you then don’t forget to pack it.
With your electric gadgets just make sure they are rated for the power outlets in Singapore. The voltage for Singapore outlets are 230 volts at a frequency of 50 hertz.
If you are staying at a standard Singapore hotel, it may be worth seeing if the room already comes with a blowdryer and/or iron.
24. Laundry Powder & Dryer Sheets
If you have an extended stay and/or limited outfit choices and are in need to wash clothes, it may be wise to pack some laundry powder or several Tide pods.
You can also opt for Sink Suds to clean clothes in a sink or tub. There are some laundromats in Singapore where washers already pre-dispense laundry detergent.
Alternatively, you can always opt for a third-party laundry service or specialty laundering at the hotel. Either way, it may not be to have a stain remover on hand like a Tide pen or shout wipe.
25. Miscellaneous: Baby & Religious Items
It never hurts to mention the often forgotten and niche items. These can include fashion tape, safety pins, hijab/hijab pins & magnets, religious prayer items & scripture, small lint rollers, disinfectant wipes, diapers, baby wipes, baby formula, baby bottles, band aids, blister bandaids/mole skins, body wipes to freshen up, vitamins/supplements, and air fresheners.
What You May Be Forgetting
26. Your Favorite Non-Perishable Snack from Home
Got a favorite energy bar or treat you like to snack on during your travel, or really whenever? Make sure to pack it! But also ensure it doesn’t contain CBD/Hemp. I would also recommend brining a mint brand you like, in lieu of chewing gum.
27. Glasses & Contacts
If you wear corrective glasses and/or contact lenses, do not forget to pack those, to include any prescription goggles or sunglasses as well as contact lens fluid. Even if you only wear reading glasses or blue light glasses, this is on the list for a reason.
28. Your Valid Passport + Visa (if needed)
This is the item you do not want to forget at home. If you are planning a trip, ensure you passport does not expire within 6 months of the arrival date. You are also required to have at least two blank pages in your passport (although Singapore doesn’t stamp). Your cash intake/exit limits are S$20,000.
There are around 30 countries that require a Visa to enter Singapore which can be found here. Chances are if you are reading this, you will not require a visa. There are also exceptions for a 96-hour Visa free statues outlined here.
Regardless, everyone WILL have to fill out the Singapore Arrival Card (online or via the MyICA Mobile App) within than 72 hour of your arrival, which essentially just outlines the details of your stay and your billeting info. Find out more here.
29. Space in Your Suitcase!
Wether you like to shop for clothes, shoes, purses, or souvenirs, be sure to leave room in your suitcase for some goodies! It may be worth wearing the bulkier pairs of shoes on your travel day.
What NOT to bring into Singapore
Singapore has a strict no drug policy; this includes e-cigarettes aka “vapes” as well as chewing tobacco. The only thing you can bring is cigars, cigarettes, and alcohol; you may have to pay a tax on this.
The drinking age in Singapore is 18 while the smoking age is 21. Keep in mind that you can only smoke in designated areas in Singapore.
In fact, the drug policy is so strict even Singaporeans can not have drugs in their system upon returning from abroad. Though I have never witnessed not experiences this, it is not unheard of that visitors can be drug tested and thoroughly searched upon entry.
Please leave your drug paraphernalia and CBD/hemp body & beauty products at home. This goes without mentioning, but you also can’t bring in meat (including jerky), plants, miscellaneous/unlabeled medications or vitamins, and chewing gum (unless you can prove that it’s for personal use). A complete list is outlined here.
What to get once arriving in Singapore: Cash for eating out, especially at hawker centres; be sure to save up your change for laundry. Although I mentioned brining your own tissue packs, be sure to keep some change on you in case you forget or need to stock up on tissues in Singapore.
Lastly, if you are planning on using public transportation (the Singapore MRT & buses), you will need to buy a Singapore Tourist Pass or a regular EZ Link MRT Card that can be topped off with cash at any MRT station. I say cash only because the machines don’t accept foreign bank/credit cards.
You can also skip the public transport pass and use your contactless international Visa or Mastercard (or your mobile payment method), however, an additional charge up to $S0.60 is added to each fare if you do this.
What To Do Before You Travel
Charge your devices (especially the power banks) before you depart; this also ensures all your cables work.
Prepare your air tags + link them to your device.
If its tour first time, don’t forget to configure your wifi pod to your device; ensure it’s charged & ready to use upon arrival. It may be worth adding a data or time plan before you arrive. Make sure you change and save the wifi password.
Medication: This is IMPORTANT! Due to Singapore’s strict drug policy, please ensure that any medication that you do bring are the ones with your name on it. This is especially true to any sort of medicated chewing gum, motion sickness meds, allergy pills, sleeping aids, and so on. Also make sure you have all the medication you need and then some before you depart (i.e. brith control pills). It is also essential to know that pseudoephedrine is illegal in Singapore, which is common in cold medicine. More information can be found here.
The Singapore Arrival Card: This is the online document you must fill out at most 72 hours prior to your arrival. They WILL check and ask for this upon arrival, trust. More info can be found here.
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Travel Insurance: This is different for everyone but I highly recommend getting this before departing Singapore so you are covered in case something happens. You never know when the food poisoning, dengue (both unlikely), or other ailments strike. Singapore is also home to the Blue Malayan Coral Snake (calliophis bivirgatus) for which there is no anti-venom in Singapore.
Download Helpful Apps: For public transport, I highly recommend downloading a map of the Singapore MRT system. You’ll get the hang of public transport quickly, but the Go There Singapore App, Google Maps (not Apple!), and Bus Router SG are helpful when planning your route.
Other helpful apps are Grab (like Uber & food delivery), GrabMart, Foodpanda (including pandamart), NTUC FairPrice, Cold Storage, and Amazon Fresh. Klook and/or Pelago are great for cheaper attraction ticket bundles. The iChangi app is great for spending time at the Singapore airport.
A currency converter app as well as a local weather app are always helpful. If you don’t have an active Whats App account, do get one so you can communicate with airline staff, hotel staff, and more! Otherwise, don’t forget to set up your SG telecommunications app (such as Singtel) to purchase a data plan.
You can also fill out your Singapore arrival card using the MyICA Mobile App!
The emergency number in Singapore is 995 for medical emergencies and fires. For police, dial 999. The Singapore international number prefix is +65.
Take Aways & Conclusion
The most important thing to keep in mind while traveling abroad are the virtues of flexibility and thinking outside the box. Weather in Singapore can change in a flash, so be prepared to adapt your plans. Though you should do your research, have a rough schedule of attractions in mind, as well as book tickets ahead, you have to expect the unexpected.
Stay open-minded and optimistic, because you’re in Singapore! Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path of the Marina Bay. Check out the hidden gems tab of my website for the most niche Singapore things to do as well as unusual and memorable Singapore attractions, or check out the linked blog posts below.
For more Singapore tourist tips such rules on smoking, Singapore MRT etiquette, and more, check out the linked article at the bottom of this post, or find the tips for tourist tab at the top menu under “Know before you go”.
