Souvenir Shopping in Singapore: What to Buy and Where

Singapore is more than just a travel destination; it's a shopper's paradise where many items are priced more attractively than elsewhere. From proud local brands to international favorites with frequent promotions, this guide covers the must-buy items to bring home. Get ready to fill your luggage with treasures that will remind you of your trip to the Lion City, a place where smart shopping is part of the adventure.

Fashion, Footwear, and Accessories

Singapore offers fantastic deals on a range of fashion and accessory brands, making it the perfect place to update your wardrobe with both trendy and classic pieces. The city's malls and outlets are treasure troves for fashion hunters.

• Charles & Keith: As a proud Singaporean brand, you'll find the latest designs and widest selection here. It's a must-visit for stylish and affordable bags and shoes. Prices in local stores and outlets can be 30-40% lower than international retail prices, making it an unbeatable deal.
• Sportswear: Fans of athletic wear are in for a treat. Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Lululemon have frequent discounts in malls and outlets, with a better stock of popular and hard-to-find colorways than you might see back home.
• Arc'teryx: This premium outdoor brand often has limited-time discounts in its Singapore stores. With a good selection of products, it's a great opportunity to snag high-performance gear at a more accessible price point.
• Hush Puppies: This comfortable and classic footwear brand is a common sight in almost every mall. The widespread availability means you're likely to find a style that suits you, whether for casual wear or something more formal.
• Luxury & Jewelry: High-end items can also be a good buy. For example, Omega watches are said to be more affordable than in other countries, and Pandora jewelry often has more significant discounts than what you might find elsewhere, allowing you to add to your collection for less.

Delectable Treats and Edible Souvenirs

Bring the taste of Singapore home with these popular gourmet gifts, perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying yourself. The city's culinary scene extends to its excellent selection of packaged goods that make for perfect souvenirs.

• Coffee & Tea: For a touch of luxury, look no further than Bacha Coffee, with its opulent orange packaging, and TWG Tea, known as the "aristocrat of tea." Both are premium choices for gifts and can be found at Changi Airport and in city malls like the one on Orchard Road.
• Local Flavors: Recreate an authentic Singaporean breakfast at home by picking up packs of Bak Kut Teh seasoning and jars of Killiney Kaya Jam from local supermarkets. These affordable items, typically costing just S$3-S$5, are a delicious and easy way to share your travel experience.
• Iconic Snacks: You can't leave Singapore without trying IRVINS salted egg fish skin and potato chips. This viral snack lives up to the hype with its rich and savory flavor. Another must-try is the famous Pandan cake from Bengawan Solo, conveniently available at Changi Airport's T1.
• Sweet Treats: For cookie lovers, Famous Amos is a popular choice available in many malls. And while you're there, grab a refreshing drink from Mr. Coconut, a national favorite beverage that you can't get in many other countries. It's the perfect way to cool down during a day of shopping.

Classic Souvenirs & Unique Finds

Beyond fashion and food, Singapore offers a variety of unique items that make for great souvenirs and gifts, from traditional remedies to modern collectibles.

• Traditional Remedies: In local pharmacies, you'll find entire walls dedicated to classics like Tiger Balm and White Flower Oil. These ointments are iconic Singaporean gifts, trusted for generations and perfect for bringing home a piece of local heritage.
• Health & Baby Products: The city is a great place to stock up on health supplements from trusted brands like Blackmores and Swisse. For those with young children, baby products like Hegen bottles and Mothercare apparel are also popular purchases due to their quality and availability.
• Toys & Collectibles: The highly sought-after Jellycat plush toys are available in Singapore's department stores and at the airport, often with a wider selection. For movie fans, you can find exclusive merchandise at Universal Studios Singapore, including Minions and Transformers items that are cheaper than buying through resellers. And of course, don't forget to pick up a classic Merlion souvenir or fridge magnet in areas like Chinatown to commemorate your visit.

Pro Shopping Tips

Make your shopping experience smoother and more rewarding with these essential tips. A little planning can lead to significant savings and a hassle-free trip.

• Tax Refund: If you spend over S$100 in a single transaction at participating stores, you can claim a 7% Goods and Services Tax (GST) refund. The process is surprisingly easy and can be done at an eTRS self-help kiosk at the airport in about three minutes. Just remember to ask for the tax refund slip when you make your purchase.
• Shop at the Airport: Changi Airport is a world-class shopping destination in its own right. Use the Shop Changi app to pre-order items for convenient airport pickup. The duty-free shops, like Shilla, offer great deals, especially on cosmetics like SK-II sets, which can be around 30% cheaper than retail prices after the tax refund. For more official information, you can check out the Visit Singapore shopping guide.
• Look for Payment Deals: Keep an eye out for promotions tied to specific payment methods. Many stores offer discounts for using certain cards, such as UnionPay, so it pays to ask or look for signs at the checkout counter.