Traveling to Singapore in 2024: Checklist before the trip

Traveling to a new country is always exciting, and if we’re being honest, part of that excitement is from the uncertainty and what the unknown may bring you in your travels. However, we would be lying if we said the uncertainty didn’t make us nervous, too.

However, preparing well can help calm this nervousness! Don’t worry, Singapore can still surprise you even though you think you've got it all covered — in a good way.

Whether you’re about to go or still thinking about going, our checklist can help you understand how prepared you are for the trip of 2024.

COVID-19 entry requirements

We must admit, these days, COVID-related requirements are the first thing we check, even before visa requirements! After all, they can change from time to time, while entry requirements tend to be more constant.

First, travelers aged 12 and below are exempt from COVID vaccination requirements. All other travelers aged 13 and older may enter Singapore without testing or quarantine if they take the minimum required vaccine dosage from the WHO Emergency Use Listing. For more information on which vaccines and which dosages are required, check the Singaporean ICA page on COVID-related entry requirements.

Note that you must have documentary proof of your vaccination(s), which has to be in English or translated into English.

If you’re not vaccinated or not fully vaccinated, you will need to complete pre-departure testing within 2 days before departure by COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction test or Antigen Rapid Test (ART). The proof of a negative result must also be in English or translated into English.

Travel insurance covering COVID-19, with at least $30,000 of medical coverage, is also required for short-term visitors who are not vaccinated or fully vaccinated. For others, it is strongly encouraged.

Other health-related needs

While COVID-19 is on top of your mind, this doesn’t mean you can forget other health-related requirements!

If you have visited any country at risk of Yellow Fever transmission in the past 6 days before arrival in Singapore, you will need to present an International Certificate of Vaccination for Yellow Fever.

Other than that, don’t forget about your own health needs. Check if you have specific medications for which cross-border travel may be restricted, and be ready to have the required documentation for your prescription, if applicable.

Travel documents

To start with, your passport must have at least 6 months of validity to enter Singapore, so if yours have less — renew it before entering or applying for a visa, if needed. The detailed Singapore e-visa application process is described in this guideline. 

Check if you need a visa to visit Singapore based on your country of citizenship. Note that some countries are eligible for online visa application, and some must apply via the embassy. The requirements for these two processes differ, but you will need to supply personal details, including an identifying photo of specific parameters, even in the online application process.

After your entry permit (visa) is sorted, you will also need to fill out the SG Arrival Card (SGAC) declaration 3 days before your arrival in Singapore. This serves as a declaration of arrival and health status. 

Only Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents, and Long-Term Pass Holders entering via land checkpoints do not need to fill out this declaration.

Booked trip and accommodation

Of course, any trip is unthinkable without figuring out how to get there in the first place and where to stay once you’ve arrived.

However, as Singapore is a massive transport hub of the region, you don’t need to worry about getting your airline tickets. To keep your budget in line, though, we suggest booking your flights early and use airline aggregators in which you can compare ticket prices, like Skyscanner.

As Singapore is internationally connected, you can also not worry about accommodation, as the major international accommodation booking options are available in Singapore. Whether you need to browse hotels on Booking.com, flats on Airbnb, or need to stay in a specific international five-star hotel, you’re bound to find what you like in Singapore.

Note that being both a business hub and tourist destination, you may need to book ahead of time to get the best deals.

Figure out transportation

Whether you prefer mass public transport or something more private, Singapore is a well-connected city with enough options, so you don’t need to worry much about getting around. However, it’s still good to be prepared.

In the age of smartphones, it’s even easier to get around the city. For public transport, apps like SMRTConnect can help you understand the metro and train routes. If you prefer taxis, Singapore also has several ride-sharing services, such as Grab. Getting around the airport is easier now — iChangi will be your guide.

What to pack

Singapore is a tropical country, just a bit away from the equator, so it’s hot and humid all year there. Therefore, you should pack what you wear during the summer — t-shirts, and other clothing made from cotton, linen, or other light, breathable fabrics.

As for electronics, bring what you need, but make sure your phone has a long-lasting battery to help you get around. A power bank can be handy for that, too. Also note that Singapore has type G power outlets — if your cables don’t have the matching plugs, make sure to get adapters before you go.

And of course, the common sense: toiletries, sunscreen (it gets sunny!) and other personal cosmetics.

Unskippable for travelers: don’t forget to bring a good mood, and have fun exploring Singapore!