Are you dreaming of a holiday in Singapore? From hawker stalls in Little India to the futuristic glow of Gardens by the Bay, every corner of the Lion City has something to offer. I’ve been lucky enough to explore Singapore twice, and trust me, it’s the kind of place that blends cultures, flavours, and surprises in a way only Singapore can.

But before you hop on that plane and dive into a plate of chilli crab or wander through the vibrant alleys of Haji Lane, you’ll have to pack your bags for your EPIC trip!

You’ve got your passport, visa (if needed), and flight tickets in hand, but what about the not-so-obvious stuff? You don’t want to be caught sweating in the wrong fabric or missing that power adapter when your phone's at 3%, right?

So, to save you the stress (and the “I wish I had packed that” moments), here’s the ultimate Singapore packing list that’ll make things easy for you. Bookmark this article, so that you can pack smart and focus on what matters most.

Why stress over visa paperwork? Apply for your Singapore visa through Atlys. Let Atlys handle it while you plan the fun stuff.

Before You Pack: Essentials to Sort for Your Singapore Trip

Before you dive into packing mode, take a moment to get your travel essentials in place. Here's a quick checklist to help you prep like a pro:

1. Book Your Stay Early
   Accommodation fills up fast in Singapore, especially during holidays. Secure your spot early, whether it’s a luxe hotel or a cosy budget stay.

2. Find the Best Flight Deals
   Use comparison sites like Skyscanner to score the best fares and flight times. Booking early often means cheaper tickets and more options.

3. Inform Your Bank
   Singapore is card-friendly. Notify your bank in advance to avoid having your card blocked for international transactions.

4. Sort Health Essentials

   • No major tropical disease risks, but pack basic meds.

   • Bring a copy of any prescriptions.

   • Masks and hand sanitiser

5. Check Your Passport Validity
   Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival. If you're visiting other countries, check their entry requirements too.

6. Keep Digital Backups of Documents
   Save scans of your passport, ID, hotel and flight bookings, and travel insurance on your phone or cloud.

7. Pack a Travel Wallet
   Stay organised with a travel wallet to keep your cash, cards, and important IDs handy while exploring.

8. Download These Must-Have Apps

   • Grab – Local ride-hailing app

   • SMRTConnect – Public transport planner

   • iChangi – All-in-one Changi Airport guide

   • HappyCow – Find vegan/vegetarian eats across the city

With these sorted, you’re ready to pack your bags and dive into the Singapore adventure!

Printed Copies of Travel Documents: It’s a smart idea to carry printed copies of important documents, like your passport, visa (if required), hotel bookings, and return flight details. In case your phone runs out of battery or you lose internet access, having these hard copies on hand can save the day.

Clothes and Shoes

Packing for Singapore isn’t tricky! You need the right mix of comfort, versatility, and a touch of style. Here’s a clothing guide to help you stay prepared for the city’s tropical climate, cultural etiquette, and a little bit of everything in between.

• Comfortable Walking Shoes

Singapore is an incredibly walkable city, with wide sidewalks, scenic routes, and pedestrian-friendly areas. Whether you're exploring Chinatown, strolling down Orchard Road, or taking in the greenery at Gardens by the Bay, a pair of comfy walking shoes is a must. Trust me—your feet will thank you.

• Lightweight Rain Jacket

Rain in Singapore can come out of nowhere, often without much warning. That’s why a lightweight, packable rain jacket is essential. It’s perfect for staying dry while exploring the city or dashing between attractions on foot.

• Linen Pants or Maxi Dresses

If you're planning to visit temples like Buddha Tooth Relic Temple or Sri Mariamman, it’s respectful (and often required) to cover your shoulders and knees. Linen pants or breezy long dresses strike the perfect balance between coverage and staying cool in the heat.

• Long Sleeve Tees

Singapore may be more laid-back when it comes to dress codes than some of its Southeast Asian neighbours, but it’s still wise to pack a couple of long-sleeved T-shirts. They’ll come in handy for temple visits, shielding yourself from the strong sun, or staying warm in chilly, air-conditioned malls.

• Sun Hat

That equatorial sun can be strong, especially around midday. A wide-brimmed hat or cap will keep you shaded and help prevent sunburn, plus it adds a nice touch to your tropical travel style.

• Swimsuit

Planning a beach day on Sentosa Island or a relaxing swim at your hotel pool? Many accommodations, and even Changi Airport, have pools, so don’t forget your swimsuit!

• Sandals or Flip Flops

Sandals are great for warm, humid days and perfect for casual outings or beach visits. Just make sure they’re comfortable enough for walking if you’re heading out for a full day.

• A Dressy Outfit

Singapore is home to chic rooftop bars, elegant restaurants, and luxurious lounges. If you're planning to go partying, make sure to bring a nice outfit. Most clubs and pubs have dress codes: dresses or gowns for women, and collared shirts and trousers for men, nothing overly formal, but still formal enough.

Toiletries and Must-Have Accessories

Singapore might be small in size, but when it comes to weather, it's full of surprises! You’ll find sunshine, rain, and humidity all in a single day. To stay comfortable and ready for anything, here’s your essential list of toiletries and accessories to pack for your Singapore adventure.

• Travel Umbrella or Rain Poncho

Tropical downpours can come out of nowhere, especially in the afternoons. While many hotels offer complimentary umbrellas, having your own lightweight, compact umbrella or rain poncho can be a lifesaver when you’re out exploring. Don’t get caught in a sudden downpour at Marina Bay!

• Mosquito Repellent

While Singapore is very clean and well-maintained, you might still encounter mosquitoes, especially near green spaces like the Botanic Gardens or during evening strolls. A small bottle of repellent or mosquito patches will keep the bites at bay!

• Daypack or Crossbody Bag

You’ll likely be out all day sightseeing, so pack a daypack or a sturdy crossbody bag. It’s handy for carrying essentials like your water bottle, rain gear, portable charger, and travel documents. The best part? Singapore is incredibly safe, so you can relax while carrying valuables in your bag without constantly looking over your shoulder.

• Reusable Water Bottle

Singapore’s heat and humidity are no joke. Staying hydrated is key, and carrying a reusable water bottle is a simple and eco-friendly way to stay cool on the go. Most public places, including Changi Airport and museums, have water fountains where you can easily refill.

• Sunscreen

This is a must! Whether you’re wandering through Chinatown, cruising down the Singapore River, or relaxing on Sentosa’s beaches, sun exposure is unavoidable. Don’t skip the SPF; opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher to keep your skin protected.

Electronics 

While Singapore is known for its affordable consumer electronics, especially compared to other countries in Southeast Asia, bringing the right tech from home can make your trip smoother from the start. Here’s what you shouldn’t leave without:

• Travel Adapter

Singapore uses the Type G plug, the same one used in the UK. If your devices use a different plug type, be sure to pack a universal travel adapter. Bonus points if it comes with USB ports, because those will come in handy for charging multiple devices at once.

• Smartphone & eSIM/SIM

Your smartphone will be your best travel buddy in Singapore, no matter whether you’re navigating the MRT, booking a ride on Grab, or finding the best chilli crab in town.
Consider getting a tourist eSIM or local SIM card upon arrival. Providers like Singtel, StarHub, and M1 offer convenient prepaid plans at Changi Airport. These usually come with plenty of data for maps, social media, and video calls.

• Power Bank

Between snapping photos of Gardens by the Bay and catching light shows at Marina Bay Sands, your phone will be working overtime. A portable power bank is a must-have, especially for long days exploring.

Looking to buy electronics in Singapore? If you're planning to buy gadgets in Singapore, Sim Lim Square and Funan Mall are great places to score deals on electronics. Just remember to check warranty coverage and international compatibility.

Miscellaneous Items to Pack For Singapore

1. Reusable Shopping Bag

Singapore is moving toward sustainability, and many stores now charge for plastic bags. A compact, foldable tote bag will come in handy for groceries, souvenirs, or even a haul from a hawker market.

2. Wet Wipes or Hand Sanitiser

You’ll be eating a lot with your hands at hawker centres (you obviously can’t say ‘NO’ to chilli crab!). Keep sanitising wipes or hand gel on you, especially before meals.

3. Tissues or Pocket Towel

Most hawker stalls don’t provide napkins, and public toilets sometimes lack toilet paper. A small pack of tissues or a quick-dry travel towel can be a lifesaver.

4. Laundry Bag or Dry Bag

A laundry bag helps keep dirty clothes separate in your suitcase. A dry bag is a bonus if you’re visiting water parks or taking island-hopping trips.

5. Snacks or Energy Bars

Perfect for long day trips or when you need a quick bite while exploring. Especially handy if you’re adjusting to jet lag and meal times are off.

6. Pen

You’ll need it for filling out arrival forms on the plane, jotting down addresses, or even leaving notes.

7. Travel Pillow or Eye Mask

If you’re flying long-haul to Singapore, these little comforts can help you arrive rested and ready to explore.

8. Basic First Aid Kit

Pack a few essentials, such as plasters, pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication, and antihistamines. Pharmacies are everywhere in Singapore, but it’s always good to have a mini kit on hand.

What NOT to Pack for Your Trip to Singapore?

Singapore is efficient, modern, and incredibly convenient,  which means there are some things you don’t need to lug around. Here's a list of what you can safely leave out of your suitcase:

• Heavy Winter Clothing

Singapore is hot and humid year-round. Coats, jackets, and woollens will only take up space and never leave your bag. Stick to lightweight layers.

• Too Many Toiletries

You’ll find all major global brands, sometimes even cheaper than back home! Unless you need specific products, don’t overpack your toiletry bag.

• Snacks and Food

Unless you have strict dietary restrictions, skip packing food. Singapore’s food scene is legendary, and supermarkets offer a wide range of international options.

• High Heels or Dress Shoes (in excess)

Unless you’re attending a wedding or business event, leave most of your formal footwear behind. You’ll be walking a lot, and comfort matters.

• Excess Cash

Singapore is a card-friendly country. ATMs are everywhere, and mobile payments are widely accepted. Carry just a bit of local currency for hawker stalls or small vendors.

• Too Many Gadgets

Laptops, tablets, cameras, Kindles… It’s tempting to bring everything, but unless you’ll actually use them, leave the extras behind. Your phone + power bank is usually enough.

• Illegal or Controlled Items

Singapore has strict laws. Don't carry things like: Chewing gum (unless it’s medically prescribed); E-cigarettes or vaporisers; Any form of recreational drugs (even if legal in your country); Weapons, even pepper spray; Raw fish or meat, etc.

• Books (in bulk)

If you're a reader, bring one physical book and use a Kindle or reading app for the rest. Books are bulky and weigh down your luggage fast.

• Unnecessary Travel Adapters

Singapore uses Type G plugs, which are the same as those used in the UK. A single universal adapter will do. You don’t need to pack your whole adapter collection!

Now that you’ve got the ultimate Singapore packing list, it’s time to turn those travel dreams into reality! Use this as your go-to checklist, start organising your suitcase, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Lion City. 

And don’t forget to thank me later!