Here are some of the most creative hacks Singaporeans have used to save money

When it comes to money, Singaporeans don't just like it, we love it.

But for some, saving money isn't just a goal — it's a religion. We're talking about penny-pinching kiasus who turn frugality into an extreme sport. 

From refilling their water bottles at nursing rooms to waiting 'til 8.30pm for food to go on discount, here are some of the most creative hacks Singaporeans have used to save/make a buck. 

1. Heading to the supermarket after 8.30pm to get cooked food on discount

“Many stores like NTUC, Cold Storage, and Don Don Donki mark down prepared meals to clear out inventory before closing, at around 8.30pm. Keep an eye out for staff restocking shelves and changing price tags. This can be your cue to snag incredible deals on rotisserie chickens, sushi platters, and more."

2. Picking up Healthy365 QR codes that people left behind for points 

“My mum often keeps an eye out for the receipt bin at self check-out counters at the supermarket. She's checking for leftover Healthy365 QR codes that people have left behind. She would scan these codes in the Healthy365 app to earn points, which can be exchanged for cash vouchers."

3. Lurking on Carousell for last-minute deals

“People often have unexpected changes of plans and need to sell event/movie tickets fast. By browsing the "Tickets" category and sorting by "Most Recent" on Carousell, you can find these desperate sellers offering tickets at crazy discounts, sometimes even free! My best score? A free Jay Chou concert ticket just 30 minutes before the show.” 

4. Having problems? Email the company

“We've all been there — that less-than-perfect takeout order. But my aunt has a secret weapon: her eagle eye for detail (and maybe a touch of persistence!). If her delivery arrives less than perfect, from soggy fries to undercooked rice, she'll politely reach out to the food delivery company. More often than not, they'll offer her a discount or free item to make things right."

5. Never paying for water outside 

"As any parent knows, keeping little ones hydrated is key, especially when you're out and about. After having a child, I discovered a lifesaver for my wallet: the free water dispensers in most shopping mall nursing rooms and baby changing facilities. They're a fantastic way to refill everyone's water bottles throughout the day, saving money and ensuring the whole family stays refreshed. No more expensive bottled water for me!"

6. Getting more ice cream from Ikea by lifting the cone during dispensing 

In 2023, a Singaporean vlogger shared a video showing a way to potentially get more ice cream from the Ikea self-serve machines. The method involved lifting the cone while dispensing to avoid weight detection. While intended as a lighthearted discovery, the video sparked online conversation.

Some viewers questioned if this approach bypassed intended serving sizes, while others viewed it as a playful experiment. The vlogger later clarified that their actions stemmed from curiosity and acknowledged it wasn't the intended use of the machine.