Save money overseas Singapore travellers — it’s easier than you think. Whether you’re on a weekend getaway to Bangkok or a month-long adventure in Europe, the right money habits can stretch your budget further. From avoiding hidden fees to locking in great exchange rates, these tips will help you travel smarter in 2025.
From overpriced airport money changers to sneaky foreign transaction fees, these costs often go unnoticed until you check your statement back home. The good news? With the right strategies, you can make every Singapore dollar go further, no matter where you’re headed in 2025.
Here are five practical ways to save money overseas without cutting down on fun.
1. Avoid Hidden Foreign Transaction Fees
Many Singapore-issued credit and debit cards charge a foreign transaction fee of 2%–3% for purchases made in foreign currency. Add this to the currency conversion spread, and you could be paying far more than you think.
Example: Spend $2,000 overseas, and you might lose $60+ just in these fees.
What to do instead:
- Use cards that waive foreign transaction fees.
- Compare your bank’s fee structure before you fly.
- Consider a multi-currency card that charges no extra fees on overseas purchases.
💡 Insider Tip: Multi-currency wallets like YouTrip let you spend globally without foreign transaction fees — but we’ll get to that in a moment.
Always picking the local currency is another simple way to save money overseas Singapore tourists can apply instantly.
2. Always Pay in the Local Currency
Ever been asked, “Do you want to pay in SGD or the local currency?” This is called Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), and it’s almost always a bad deal.
When you choose SGD:
- The merchant or payment processor picks the exchange rate (usually poor).
- They may add extra service fees.
When you choose the local currency:
- Your card issuer or wallet applies their exchange rate, which is often much better.
Rule of thumb: When overseas, always pay in local currency to avoid unnecessary mark-ups. You can learn more about this practice on Visa’s official guide to Dynamic Currency Conversion.
3. Lock In Great Exchange Rates to Save Money Overseas Singapore Travellers Love
Currencies fluctuate daily. If you spot a good exchange rate before your trip, locking it in early can save you money. You can also check the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s official guide to payment service requirements and currency exchange rules for tips and regulations when exchanging money in Singapore.
With a multi-currency wallet, you can:
- Convert SGD to foreign currencies instantly via an app.
- Store multiple currencies for future use.
- Avoid last-minute, high-rate exchanges at the airport.
💡 Smart Move: Apps like YouTrip give you wholesale exchange rates for over 150 currencies. This means you can convert money at a great rate before your trip, then spend it directly overseas.
Multi-currency apps are one of the smartest tools to save money overseas Singapore frequent flyers depend on.
4. Keep a Backup SGD Card for Emergencies
Even with the best travel wallet, you should always carry a backup card. Some smaller merchants may not accept certain card networks, or you might encounter technical issues with your main card.
Your backup card should be:
- A no-annual-fee card you can keep active.
- Accepted worldwide (Visa or Mastercard).
- One with decent overseas rates in case you need it.
This ensures you’re never stranded in a foreign country without a way to pay.
5. Plan for Places That Prefer Cash
Not every country is as cashless as Singapore.
- Japan: Many small eateries, temples, and rural areas are cash-only.
- Vietnam: Local markets and smaller shops may only accept cash.
- Germany: Surprisingly, some cafés and restaurants still prefer cash.
How to prepare:
- Research your destination’s payment habits before flying. You can find reliable, country-specific information on the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs Travel Advisory Portal to prepare for your trip.
- Withdraw cash in larger amounts to avoid multiple ATM fees.
- Keep small notes for public transport, markets, and tips.
Final Thoughts – How to Save Money Overseas Singapore Travellers Can Use
Saving money overseas isn’t about being stingy — it’s about being smart with how you spend. By avoiding foreign transaction fees, paying in local currency, locking in good exchange rates, and carrying both digital and physical payment options, you can stretch your travel budget further without sacrificing comfort or experiences.
If you want a hassle-free way to pay overseas with no foreign transaction fees, great exchange rates, and support for over 150 currencies, check out YouTrip here and make your next trip a smarter one.
Safe travels, and happy savings!
