Traveling to Singapore comes with its own payment habits and currency considerations. Knowing when to use cash, when cards are accepted, and how to avoid unnecessary fees can make your trip smoother and cheaper.
This travel money guide explains how payments work in Singapore, including cash usage, card acceptance, ATM availability, tipping customs, and practical currency conversion examples for travelers.
Currency Used in Singapore
Official currency: Singapore Dollar (SGD)
Symbol: SGD
Is foreign currency accepted? Foreign currency is rarely accepted outside tourist hotspots.
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Cash vs Card in Singapore
Cash is still widely used for everyday spending, especially in smaller restaurants and local transport. Cards are accepted in hotels, malls, and larger restaurants, but may not work in smaller shops. In most situations, cards are enough for big purchases, but cash is essential for daily convenience.
ATMs and Withdrawal Fees
ATMs are usually available in cities and major towns, while rural areas can have fewer options. Plan ahead if you're traveling outside major hubs.
Typical fees include a local ATM fee plus your bank's foreign transaction fee. Withdraw larger amounts less often to reduce fees.
Best practice: avoid dynamic currency conversion and always pay in the local currency.
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Tipping and Payment Etiquette in Singapore
Tipping is usually modest and not always expected. In many places, service charges are already included. When tipping is appropriate, small amounts are generally sufficient.
Where Cash Is Still Needed
- Street food and local markets
- Small guesthouses or local taxis
- Public transport outside big cities
- Small temples or local attractions
How Much Cash Should You Bring to Singapore?
For a short city trip, bring enough cash for small meals and transit. For longer stays or rural travel, carry extra cash for local transport and smaller vendors.
Quick conversions:
Example Currency Conversions for Travelers
- 100 USD to SGD
- 500 USD to SGD
- 1000 USD to SGD
- Typical meal in SGD
- Coffee or public transport fare in SGD
Use the live currency calculator for exact amounts: USD to SGD
Common Travel Money Mistakes in Singapore
- Relying only on cards in areas where cash is still common
- Withdrawing small amounts and paying repeated ATM fees
- Accepting dynamic currency conversion at ATMs
- Exchanging money at high-commission kiosks
Quick Travel Money Tips for Singapore
- Use cards for large purchases and cash for small payments.
- Carry a backup card and keep emergency cash separate.
- Withdraw at trusted bank ATMs and avoid DCC.
- Check card acceptance before rural travel days.
Final Thoughts
Traveling in Singapore is straightforward once you understand local payment habits. With the right mix of cards and cash, you can avoid fees and focus on enjoying your trip.
Check today's exchange rate and plan your travel budget: