If you’ve ever sighed at your grocery bill or hesitated before ordering that extra plate of chicken rice, you’re not alone. With prices creeping up, it’s natural to want to tighten your purse strings. But that doesn’t mean you have to skimp on fun!

With a little planning and a smart approach to spending, you can still indulge in life’s little luxuries — whether it’s dining out, shopping or spending time with loved ones — without blowing your budget. 

Read on for easy ways to save more and live bigger.

Tip 1: Plan around promotions, deals and offers

Impulse buys can drain your bank balance faster than you realise, but a little strategic planning can go a long way. Before you spend, activate your inner kiasu Singaporean and hunt for promotions, deals and discounts that can help you stretch your dollar. 

Start with dining discounts — many credit cards offer exclusive discounts at restaurants, while food delivery apps like GrabFood, Deliveroo and foodpanda frequently release vouchers to lower your meal costs. If you shop online or love a good bargain, apps like ShopBack let you earn back a portion of what you spend, helping you save while you shop.

Grocery savings is another area when small savings add up The yuu Singapore app helps you accumulate reward points at partner supermarkets like Cold Storage and Giant, which can be redeemed for discounts. Meanwhile, if you’re a Merdeka Generation cardholder, plan your grocery runs at NTUC FairPrice on Wednesdays, where you’ll get 3% OFF your total bill.

For an all-in-one savings solution, CSC membership offers a wide range of exclusive perks across dining, activities, shopping and wellness. Some highlights include 10% OFF your daily kopi at Kopi Social; up to $500 off preschool fees at MMI Childcare Centre; 20% OFF chalet bookings during your birthday month; and free virtual supplementary membership for spouse, parents, parents-in-law and children below 21 years old of CSC main members.

Tip 2:  Cut it out if you don’t need it

If you’re paying for multiple streaming subscriptions but always end up watching the same K-drama on one platform, maybe it’s time to rethink your expenses. All those $19.99 monthly fees — or even higher — add up over the year, and cutting back on unused services can free up cash for experiences you’ll actually enjoy.

After saying goodbye to your least-watched platforms, it’s time to explore affordable or free entertainment options. Gather your kakis for a night out at 8 Degree KTV Lounge at CSC @ Bukit Batok, where CSC members enjoy 10% OFF drinks — a great way to let loose without stretching your budget. If you prefer something more competitive, head to Gallop Bowl at CSC @ Changi, where CSC members get 1 FREE game with every 2 games purchased, letting you extend your fun while keeping costs low.

Don’t stop at entertainment expenses — your gym membership might also be draining your wallet. If you rarely hit the gym (but keep meaning to), consider swapping out that pricey membership for something more practical. Thanks to CSC’s reciprocal arrangement with HomeTeamNS, CSC members can access Fitness Workz gyms at HomeTeamNS clubhouses. Even better, CSC members enjoy 1 FREE month when signing up for an annual all-day membership — so you can stay fit without unnecessary financial weight.

Tip #3: You can have fun for free

A fun day out doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag — there are plenty of free experiences to enjoy in Singapore if you know where to look. Start with your nearest CSC clubhouse, where members enjoy free access to swimming pools. Bring the kids down to CSC @ Bukit Batok’s two-storey Water Park, or swim laps at CSC @ Tessensohn’s Olympic-standard pool.

After the aquatic workout, make the most of the latest tranche (January 2025) of CDC Vouchers to enjoy a hawker meal, followed by a grocery run at heartland merchants and supermarkets.

To continue stretching your dollar while promoting sustainability, explore initiatives such as the FairPrice Group Neighbourhood Food Share. Surplus produce are distributed at various locations across Singapore, helping to minimise waste while assisting those in need. If you're considering this option, do be mindful that priority should go to those who rely on it most. For other sharing platforms, check out Olio, where users list things they don’t need – including excess food – for others to pick up at no cost.

Lifelong learning is another way to stay engaged without spending a fortune. If you haven’t fully utilised your SkillsFuture Credit, check out its website for subsidised courses in arts, music and sports. 

Tip #4: Check out events in the community

You don’t have to spend a lot to stay active, learn something new or have fun — plenty of free and affordable activities happen all year round.

Start with CSC, where members enjoy exclusive discounts and complimentary access to a variety of events, classes and workshops. From ballroom dancing and wellness talks to robotics camps for kids and cooking demonstrations, there’s always something happening at a CSC clubhouse near you.

For those who enjoy staying active while meeting like-minded fitness enthusiasts, the Healthy365 app offers free workout sessions, including boot camps, Zumba, mini tennis and even skateboarding for kids. Simply browse the event listings and sign up for a class that suits your schedule.

The People’s Association also hosts a variety of budget-friendly or free community events. These range from board game sessions and ukulele classes to painting by numbers and balloon sculpting. It’s a great way to try something new while making new friends in your neighbourhood.

Tip #5: Stay updated on ways to save

Keeping track of the best money-saving deals can feel overwhelming, but fortunately, others have done the work for you. For a quick overview of available government support schemes, payout timelines and eligibility details, check out the Cost of Living page by Gov.sg, which presents key information in easy-to-read infographics.

Beyond official resources, savvy Singaporeans have curated lists of freebies and promotions. TheSmartLocal, for instance, compiled an annual roundup of birthday perks, while Telegram groups like sgtravelpromos, budgetbabes and freebiessg share lobangs on everything from cheap flights to beauty discounts and free samples.

Discover how CSC membership helps you save more while enjoying exclusive perks, and make the most of exciting CSC events designed for fun, fitness and community bonding!