📶 Getting a SIM Card & Exchanging Money in Singapore – What to Do Right After You Land

📶 Getting a SIM Card & Exchanging Money in Singapore – What to Do Right After You Land
✨ A Soft Start to Your Singapore Journey
Some trips begin in chaos.
In Singapore, the moment you land, everything feels like it knows where it's going — quietly, efficiently, without rushing.

If you’ve just arrived at Changi Airport, there are a few small things you can do right away to make the rest of your trip smoother:
✅ Get connected
✅ Grab some local cash
✅ And ease into the calm rhythm of the city.

Here’s how.

 
📱 1. Getting a Local SIM or eSIM – Stay Connected Instantly
You’ll find several counters offering tourist SIMs right after exiting baggage claim at Changi Airport. Look for:

- Changi Recommends (24/7 service)
- Official telcos: Singtel, StarHub, M1
📦 Most popular tourist packages include:

- 100GB of data for 7 days, priced around S$12–18
- Some offer call time for local and international numbers
- No registration hassles — just show your passport
🧠 Prefer not to queue?
Download an eSIM before flying. Recommended apps include:

- Airalo
- Nomad
- Gigago
You can activate your eSIM as soon as you land — no waiting, no setup stress.

 
💱 2. Exchanging Money – Smart, Simple Options
While most of Singapore runs on credit and contactless cards, it’s always smart to have some cash in hand, especially for:

- Hawker centers (street food courts)
- MRT rides or public buses if not using a card
- Small shops or emergencies
- Here’s what works best:

a. ATM Withdrawal (Highly Recommended)
Best exchange rates
Available 24/7
Look for ATMs by DBS, OCBC, or UOB
💳 Make sure your card supports international withdrawals and check your bank’s foreign transaction fees.

b. Money Changers at the Airport
Convenient but not the best rates
Use this option only for small amounts to get started (S$50–100)
c. Multi-currency Apps or Travel Cards
If you already use apps like Revolut, Wise, or YouTrip, you can pay directly in SGD with minimal fees.

 
📌 Pro Tip:
- When using your credit card at shops or hotels, always choose to pay in SGD (local currency).
- Avoid “Dynamic Currency Conversion” (DCC) — it looks convenient but costs more in hidden exchange fees.

 
🧳 3. Little Things to Do Before Leaving the Airport
✅ a. Connect to Free Changi Wi-Fi
No VPN needed
Perfect for calling a ride, checking maps, or messaging family
✅ b. Download or Refresh Google Maps
Even though Singapore is compact and easy to explore, it helps to have an offline map for central areas
Public transport works best when you know where you're going
✅ c. Book a Grab Ride (If You’re Tired)
Grab is Singapore’s go-to ride-hailing app
Price from airport to downtown: S$18–25
Drivers are polite, cars are clean, and payment is cashless
 
🌿 Take a Breath Before You Dive In
Most travelers want to rush into the city. But if you just landed in Singapore — pause a moment.

Sit down at the airport lounge, sip some water, breathe in the cool air.
You’re in a city that doesn’t demand you run.
It invites you to walk gently.

Start slow. Let the city meet you where you are.

 
💌 Thank You for Reading
I hope this guide helps you settle in gently.
The beauty of Singapore lies not just in its skyline — but in the quiet details that welcome you from the very beginning.

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