7 Ways To Save Money And Time On Public Transport In Singapore

Under general circumstances, the average public transport in Singapore is quite efficient and reasonable. It may seem to be expensive at first. However, if you are slightly observant and careful, you can save significantly on this front.

You need to follow certain tips and tactics while using Singaporean public transport that will be both cost and time efficient. You need to keep proper track of the recent developments to grab the best deal.

1. Opt for these buses if you live in the north-eastern region

There are six bus routes that will inevitably earn you cash incentives for every ride you take. These bus routes are 43e- Punggol Bus Interchange in Marine Parade Road; 654- Anchorvale Street to Shenton Way; 660- Buangkok Green to Shenton Way; 666- Punggol Drive to Marina Boulevard; 671- Punggol Road to Marina Boulevard, and 672- Hougangstreet 51 to Marina Boulevard. If you take any of these buses between 7 am and 9 am, you will earn a cash incentive of up to SGD 1.50 for every trip you take.

2. Using the best credit card with EZ-reload or SimplyGo

You can easily use SimplyGo, entirely avoiding the usage of an EZ card. For payment, just use your credit card. If you are careful enough, you will find that several credit cards earn you significant points, leading to cost-cutting on public transport. In this context, some of the most popular credit cards include CIti Smart Card, DBS Live Fresh Card, Maybank Family and Friends credit card, and many others.

3. Acquire a public transport concession card if applicable

If you are a daily commuter and need to travel long distances, then this card might prove to be significantly helpful. However, if that is not the case, then this card is not worth it.

4. Download the EZ-Link Rewardz app

As a Singaporean, you have to maintain an EZ card. It gets you access to every major public mode of transport. While maintaining this card, you need to link it with the EZ-Link Rewardz app. This will earn you 1 point for every SGD 0.10 spent. You can redeem these points later to buy the products that are on offer.

5. Download transport apps like Zipster, Moovit, etc.

As the saying goes, “Time is money”, it especially holds the respect of Singaporean public transport. Zipster is an exclusive all-in-one transport app combining the routes and fares of taxis, buses, trains, as well as private hires. Moovit is another similar app offering rewards under special circumstances.

6. Use apps like Grabshuttle and Beeline for bus pooling

If you like to save time without using any public transport, you can try out certain special bus and carpooling apps. If you share your route on Grabshuttle and there are several other passengers on that same route, then the app allows you to book a seat. Its working policy is similar to that of a school bus.

Some other similar apps include ShareTransport.sg and Beeline.

Due to the existence of so many competitors, the rates charged here are also quite reasonable and convenient. Although it is more expensive than any standard public transport, it saves you a lot of time and money in case your travel requires several transport changes.

7. Opt for Ryde and Grabhitch-like car-pooling apps

If you are willing to enjoy the comfort of a taxi ride, but at a cheaper rate, then opting for car-pooling is a convenient option. This is quite convenient occasionally, but it will not add up to your savings if you use it regularly.

If you are using Grabhitch, you need to book it at least 10 minutes prior to your travel. This proves that it is not very convenient if you are in a great rush. However, if you can plan your travel ahead of time, then it is quite convenient.