Are you planning a vacation to Singapore? Congratulations—you’re in for a treat! This Southeast Asian city-state is chock-full of amazing attractions, from world-renowned tourist spots like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay to more off-the-beaten-path gems like Haji Lane and Pulau Ubin. And, of course, no trip to Singapore would be complete without indulging in Singlish cuisine like chili crab or chicken rice!
To make the most of your trip, keep this ultimate Singapore vacation checklist handy. From booking your flights and accommodation to packing your bags and planning your itinerary, this checklist covers everything you need to do before jetting off on your Singapore adventure. So what are you waiting for? Start ticking off those items and get excited about an unforgettable trip!
Decide Where To Eat
There’s much more to Singapore than just shopping and sightseeing. The city-state is also home to some delicious food. Of course, no trip to Singapore would be complete without indulging in a plate of chili crab—it’s one of the country’s most iconic dishes. Other popular Singaporean foods include Hainanese chicken rice, a dish of poached chicken served over rice with a ginger-garlic sauce, and laksa, a spicy noodle soup. You’ll also want to try out new restaurants in Singapore, as the city-state is known for its diverse cuisine. With so many great options available, it can even be hard to decide where to eat.
Plan Your Itinerary
Start thinking about what activities you want to do while you’re there. This is the fun part: planning your itinerary! There are so many great things to do in Singapore. If this is your first time in the city-state, some must-see sights—Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Orchard Road, Little India, Chinatown—should definitely be on your list.
Gardens by the Bay has a stunning Supertree Grove, while Orchard Road is a shopper’s paradise. Chinatown is also a great place to eat and shop for souvenirs. Once you’ve visited the major tourist attractions, take some time to explore Singapore’s more unique neighborhoods, like Kampong, which is known for its colorful houses, or Tiong Bahru, which has beautiful art deco architecture. But don’t forget about some of the lesser-known spots that make Singapore special too—like Haji Lane and Pulau Ubin. Haji Lane is a hipster haven with great street art and trendy shops, while Pulau Ubin is an island off the coast of Singapore that’s perfect for a day trip. No matter what interests you, there’s sure to be something on this list for everyone!
Book Your Flights and Accommodation
Most importantly, you’ll need to book your flights and accommodation. If you’re coming from abroad, there are plenty of direct flights to Singapore from major international airports like London Heathrow, JFK, Los Angeles, and Dubai. Once you’ve figured out your flight details, it’s time to start looking for a place to stay.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel in the city’s heart or a more budget-friendly option just outside the tourist hot spots, plenty of great options are available. Some popular hotels in Singapore include the Fullerton Bay Hotel, Marina Bay Sands, and Orchard Hotel. Just make sure to book early—accommodation in Singapore can fill up quickly!
Pack Your Bags
Once you’ve sorted out your travel plans, it’s time to start packing your bags. Of course, what you’ll need to pack will vary depending on the time of year you’re visiting Singapore.
If you’re traveling during the wet season (November to January), make sure to pack rain gear like an umbrella and waterproof shoes. And no matter what time of the year you are visiting, don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle—Singapore can be quite hot and humid! Of course, if you forget anything while you’re there, don’t worry—there are plenty of convenience stores where you can stock up on essentials.
Get Your Vaccinations and Travel Insurance
Depending on your country of origin, you may need certain vaccinations before traveling to Singapore. Be sure to check with your doctor or travel clinic before your trip. If you do this last minute, you may not be able to get the vaccinations you need in time. In addition to getting vaccinated, consider getting insurance. It’s a good idea to purchase travel insurance because it will cover you in case of any medical emergencies or cancellations. You can get this at most banks or online through companies like World Nomads.
Final Thoughts
It’s no wonder Singapore is one of Asia’s most popular travel destinations. Once you arrive, don’t forget to take some time to relax—after all, you deserve it! And most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy all the amazing things Singapore offers.
