2025 Edition: The Ultimate Guide to Currency Exchange & Credit Cards in Singapore — Payment Tips and Smart Traveler Advice
Singapore, a regional finance powerhouse, is racing toward a fully cashless society—yet cash still reigns at hawker centers, traditional markets, and small shops. For travelers and business visitors in 2025, understanding the latest money exchange options, where and how to use your credit cards, and getting the right balance between cash and electronic payments is key. Plus, don’t miss our exclusive Saily eSIM offer, making your Singapore trip even smoother and safer.
目次
1. Currency Exchange in Singapore 2025: Where to Get the Best Rates
- Changi Airport Money Changers:
Great for emergencies, but airport exchange rates are generally less attractive. - City Center Money Changers:
Located in most malls (Orchard, Chinatown, Little India). Rates are usually best at ground floors or basement shops. - Bank Counters:
Safe but may charge fees and offer less favorable rates than independent money changers. - Exchanging in Your Home Country:
Generally, rates are better in Singapore. Only exchange a minimum in your country if you must.
Pro Tip:
Some changers may request your passport. New or larger denomination notes may fetch slightly better rates.
2. Credit Cards & E-Payments: How Widely Can You Go Cashless?
By 2025, Singapore is firmly cashless-friendly:
- VISA, MasterCard, Amex:
Accepted at virtually all hotels, department stores, malls, restaurants, attractions. - Local E-Wallets (PayNow, NETS, GrabPay):
Ubiquitous for both locals and expats—try linking your international card to mobile wallets like GrabPay, Apple Pay, or Google Pay where available. - Transport Cards (EZ-Link, SimplyGo):
Perfect for MRT, buses, and some small shops.
Watch Out:
- Some hawker centers, traditional markets, and taxis remain cash-only.
- When paying by card, always select “SGD” rather than your home currency (“DCC” adds hidden markups).
- Acceptance of non-chip&pin cards or “offline signature” cards may vary.
3. When (and How Much) Cash Do You Really Need?
- Hotels/Attractions/Chain Restaurants:
Card or e-wallet is accepted almost everywhere—cash rarely needed. - Street Food, Taxi, Local Shops:
Carry some small bills and coins as many are still cash-only (SGD 50–100 covers most basic needs for a few days). - Safety:
Carry only what you need to avoid loss/theft risk. Use cards or e-wallets as much as possible.
4. Seamless Travel Needs Reliable Internet: Saily eSIM & Reader Deal
Smooth digital payments, comparing real-time exchange rates, booking rides, or scanning QR codes for e-payment—all require solid connectivity. Enter Saily eSIM:
- No SIM swap needed, activate in 3 minutes online.
- Use your phone from the moment you land, everywhere in Singapore.
Special for readers: Enter code DOMUEH5022 at first purchase for USD $5 off.
Service Site: https://saily.com/
Summary
In 2025, Singapore is a near-cashless paradise—but a little cash is still smart for street eats and cabs. Exchange at city money changers, use “SGD” for credit card payments, and go digital whenever you can. With reliable internet via Saily eSIM (don’t forget your $5-off promo), you’ll breeze through all payments and enjoy a stress-free trip in Asia’s safest, most modern city.
（Photo by Unsplash.com）
