Singapore is known for being one of the most expensive cities in the world, but that doesn’t mean budget travelers like me can’t find affordable yet comfortable places to stay. As someone who travels frequently and prefers to stretch my budget while still having a comfortable and safe experience, I’ve found some fantastic budget-friendly accommodations in Singapore that offer great value for money. Whether you are a solo traveler, a backpacker, or simply a budget hunter, these are some of my best bargains under budget stays in the Lion City.
1. Dream Lodge – Homely Capsule Hostel with a Cozy Feeling
I stayed at Dream Lodge when I first traveled to Singapore, and it felt like home from the very first moment. Situated in Lavender, this capsule boutique hostel offers a peaceful and intimate setting ideal for solo travelers such as myself. I appreciated the seclusion of the capsule beds, which feature curtains, personal lighting, and charging ports. The communal space was cozy, and I chatted with fellow travelers over my morning coffee. The staff were super friendly, happy to give advice at all times. And since the MRT is just a few minutes’ walk away, mobility was extremely convenient!
2. Beary Best! Hostel – Playful and Casual in Chinatown
For a budget-friendly accommodation with a playful and sociable atmosphere, Beary Best! Hostel at Chinatown is an excellent choice. The bear decorations brought a delightful touch, making my experience unforgettable. I appreciated the cozy dorms, in which I even had my own reading light and locker area. Being located in Chinatown, I had simple access to wonderful hawker food, such as Maxwell Food Centre, just a short walk away. I also appreciated the fact that the hostel provided walking tours, making it simple for me to venture out into Singapore without having to worry about a schedule.
3. The Pod – Boutique Capsule Hostel for Minimalist Travelers
For travelers with a liking for clean and contemporary design, The Pod is an excellent option. Situated in Bugis, this capsule hostel that takes a minimalist approach provides chic and generous pods that are more akin to a hotel than a hostel. As a solo female traveler, I enjoyed the sole female-only dorms, which were an added comfort and safety measure. The complimentary self-service laundry and breakfast made it an added delight. It’s also near Haji Lane, which is my go-to for quirky buys and Instagram-perfect shots.
4. Spacepod@Lavender – A Budget Space Stay
If you ever dreamt of sleeping in a space-themed pod, here it is! Spacepod@Lavender has a sci-fi capsule stay, and I felt like I was inside a spaceship. The pods were large enough for me to stretch around comfortably, and they even came equipped with a TV built-in! The hostel is close to Lavender MRT Station, which makes it very convenient to move around. It’s also close to Little India and Kampong Glam, which I enjoyed discovering for their cultural attractions and delectable cuisine.
5. Champion Hotel – Budget Private Rooms
Although I prefer to stay in hostels when I’m tight on money, there are times when I need a bit of privacy. That’s when I discovered Champion Hotel, a wonderful budget hotel located in Joo Chiat. The rooms are plain but clean and comfy, and are designed in a contemporary style. What I loved the most was where it is – Joo Chiat has such a rich Peranakan culture and rainbow of shophouses, one of the most photo-worthy neighborhoods in Singapore. Foodies like myself will love this area as there are numerous quaint local food courts around.
6. MET A Space Pod – An Alternative Experience by the Singapore River
Another capsule hostel with an astronauts’ theme, which I’ve also experimented on, was MET A Space Pod, along the Clarke Quay area. The pod-like futuristic design added to the fun of my stay, and I liked being in a central location that made it easy for me to visit Marina Bay, Clarke Quay, and Chinatown. The pods were cozy, with a soft mattress, air conditioning, and entertainment facilities. It was an excellent combination of being affordable and comfortable, and the staff was extremely helpful with suggestions on what to do at night.
7. 5footway.inn Project Boat Quay – A Riverside Stay with a View
If I was in the mood to wake up to a riverfront view without spending too much, 5footway.inn Project Boat Quay was my choice. This affordable hostel boasted an excellent rooftop deck that had views over the Singapore River. It was quiet and calming, particularly at night when I could just sit and watch the city lights. I liked that it was within walking distance of major places such as Merlion Park and Clarke Quay.
8. Hotel 81 – Budget Chain with Numerous Branches
For travelers who prefer budget hotels over hostels, Hotel 81 is a well-known affordable hotel chain with locations all over Singapore. I’ve stayed at Hotel 81 Orchid and Hotel 81 Dickson, both of which provided basic but clean rooms at an affordable price. While they aren’t luxurious, they’re perfect for budget-conscious travelers who just need a comfortable place to sleep after a long day of exploring.
Final Thoughts
Getting affordable accommodations in Singapore may look difficult at first, but with planning and research, you can have a wonderful stay without burning a hole in your pocket. I have stayed in different capsule hostels, boutique hotels, and affordable guesthouses, and all of them have given me an unforgettable experience. Depending upon whether you want a social environment, a private retreat, or a quirky pod stay, Singapore has something affordable for every type of traveler.
If you’re going on a budget trip to Singapore, I strongly suggest you visit these sites! Have you ever stayed at any budget accommodations in Singapore? Let me know—I’d appreciate your suggestions!