So you’re heading home and wondering what to buy from Singapore? Let me help. As someone who lives here, I get asked this all the time. What’s worth bringing back? What’s not just tourist fluff?
Singapore has really fun stuff to shop for… if you know where to look. Think: salted egg chips that disappear in seconds (trust me, grab two bags), sleek local fashion labels, nostalgic snacks we grew up with, and even handcrafted pieces you won’t find outside the country.
I’ve pulled together this list based on what I’d actually recommend to visiting friends. Whether you’re into food, fashion, or little keepsakes with meaning, there’s something here for you. Let’s dive in.
Kaya Jam
Source: Ya Kun
If there’s one thing that tastes like home to most Singaporeans, it’s kaya. This sweet, coconutty egg jam is what we spread on toast at kopitiams often with a thick slab of butter and a hot kopi on the side.
There are a few brands you’ll see, but my top two are Ya Kun and Good Morning Nanyang Café.
Ya Kun’s version is thicker and sweeter, while Good Morning’s has a more traditional texture and a deeper pandan flavour. Both are delicious so it really depends on whether you prefer your kaya creamy or fragrant.
🛍️ Where to buy:
- Ya Kun Kaya is available at most Ya Kun outlets (found in malls and airports)
- Good Morning Nanyang sells their kaya at their café branches like Far East Plaza or Killiney Road
💡 Tip: Get the glass jar version, not the squeeze tube as it’s more authentic and gift-worthy.
Salted Egg Snacks
Source: Debzviewz
Singaporeans take our snacks seriously and nothing has taken over our shelves quite like salted egg chips. The craze started a few years ago, and it’s still going strong.
If you’ve never tried it, imagine buttery salted egg yolk turned into a powdery seasoning and tossed over crispy potato chips, fish skin, or even tempura.
There are two main brands: Irvin’s and The Golden Duck. Irvin’s is bold and rich (their fish skin version is addictive), while Golden Duck offers interesting flavors like laksa chips and chili crab seaweed tempura.
Most locals have a favorite and I personally lean Golden Duck when gifting overseas.
🛍️ Where to buy: Both brands are sold at Changi Airport, Don Don Donki, and selected supermarkets
💡 Tip: These pack light, but be warned… they disappear fast. Buy extra if you’re sharing.
TWG Tea
Source: Wikipedia
You might spot TWG Tea in luxury malls and think it’s an old European brand… but surprise, it’s proudly Singaporean. Known for its gold tins and chic tea salons, TWG has turned tea gifting into an art form.
Popular blends include Singapore Breakfast (pandan, green tea, and vanilla), Silver Moon, and 1837 Black Tea, all beautifully packaged in mini caddies perfect for gifts.
It’s not cheap, but it definitely feels luxe. If you’re buying for someone who loves a good cuppa or just appreciates elegant packaging, this one’s a no-brainer.
🛍️ Where to buy: Flagship salon at ION Orchard, or pop-up stores at Changi Airport
💡 Tip: Go for the “Tea Taster” sets as they small, stylish, and easier on the wallet.
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Supermama Porcelain Plates
Source: Supermama
If you want something that feels both meaningful and beautifully made, go for Supermama’s signature porcelain. Designed in Singapore and crafted in Japan, their plates feature modern takes on Singapore icons — HDB flats, hawker centres, even the old playgrounds.
What I love is that it doesn’t scream “tourist souvenir,” but locals instantly recognise the designs. It’s great as a conversation starter or even as a wall piece.
🛍️ Where to buy: Supermama Flagship Store at Beach Road (next to Raffles Hotel)
💡 Tip: They also have a range of trays and smaller items if you’re tight on luggage space.
Wheniwasfour Stationery & Home Goods
Source: Wheniwasfour
Wheniwasfour is one of those quirky local brands that turns nostalgia into design. They take old-school Singaporean elements — think ice gem biscuits, kopi cups, retro tiles — and turn them into keychains, notebooks, tote bags, and homeware.
If you're shopping for kids or friends who love playful, artsy stuff, this is a winner. Bonus: their prices are really affordable for something handmade and local.
🛍️ Where to buy: Their shop is inside Kult Studio & Gallery at CT Hub 2, or online via Naiise
💡 Tip: Their enamel pins and socks make for super cute, packable gifts.
Kueh Lapis
Source: Bengawan Solo
This rich, buttery layered cake is a festive favourite here, and Bengawan Solo’s version is hands-down the best known.
Each slice is baked layer by layer, giving it a dense, almost custardy texture and warm spice notes.
It’s one of those traditional treats that feels premium and yes, it’s gift-worthy. I always grab a box before flying out to see friends.
🛍️ Where to buy: Most Bengawan Solo outlets, including Changi Airport
💡 Tip: Get the smaller size if you're packing light and ask for it vacuum sealed.
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Bak Kwa (BBQ Meat Slices)
Source: Bee Cheng Hiang
Think of this as Singapore’s version of jerky — but way better. Bak kwa is sweet, smoky, and savoury all at once. It’s a popular Chinese New Year treat, but honestly, we eat it year-round.
Bee Cheng Hiang is the most famous brand, with beautifully packaged boxes that are easy to gift. Just be sure to check your country’s customs rules if you're flying — some don’t allow meat products.
🛍️ Where to buy: Bee Cheng Hiang outlets islandwide and at Changi Airport
💡 Tip: Go for the vacuum-packed version for longer shelf life and easier transport.
Merlion Souvenirs
Source: ishopchangi
I know, I know… Merlion keychains and magnets feel super touristy. But here’s the thing: people actually love them. Especially the mini statues or the quirky versions made out of wood or crystal.
I usually grab a few as backup gifts as they’re easy to pack, super affordable, and no one ever gets offended getting one.
🛍️ Where to buy: You’ll find them everywhere: Chinatown, Clarke Quay, Bugis Street, and of course, Changi Airport.
💬 Local tip: Some stores in Chinatown even sell glow-in-the-dark or hand-painted ones — way more fun than the usual plastic ones.
Orchid Perfumes
If you’re into scents, this one’s underrated. Singapore’s national flower, the orchid, actually inspired a few niche perfume brands here, and some of them are surprisingly good.
I once did a scent-blending workshop at Scentopia in Sentosa and walked out with a personalised bottle that actually smelled like something I'd wear.
There’s also Singapore Memories, which bottles unique blends inspired by local heritage. They’ve got one called “Orchid Bloom” that’s light and floral. These are good for gifts if you’re not sure about stronger perfumes.
🛍️ Where to buy: Scentopia (Sentosa), some museum shops, and Changi Airport’s gift counters.
💬 Local tip: The smaller 30ml bottles are easier to carry home — and they don’t leak in your bag.
Laksa Paste
Source: Beautiful Voyager
If someone asks me what Singapore dish they should try to cook at home, I usually say laksa… but only if they’ve got the right paste.
The pre-made ones from brands like Prima Taste or New Moon are surprisingly legit. I’ve had friends from overseas tell me their laksa turned out almost like what they had here.
🛍️ Where to buy: Check out the supermarket shelves at FairPrice, Cold Storage, or even Mustafa Centre.
💬 Local tip: Some come in sachets, others in jars. Go for the vacuum-sealed ones if you're flying.
RISIS Orchids
Source: RISIS
This is the kind of gift you buy when you want to go a bit fancy but still keep it meaningful.
RISIS takes real orchids and dips them in 24K gold to turn them into pendants, earrings, and even paperweights.
My aunt gifted me a RISIS pendant once, and it’s the kind of thing you wear for family dinners or special events. Definitely not mass-market.
🛍️ Where to buy: Their boutique at ION Orchard is the easiest to find, and there’s a beautiful display at Raffles Hotel Arcade too.
💬 Local tip: Prices vary, but they do have small pieces (like a gold-dipped orchid brooch) under S$200. It’s great for milestone gifts or souvenirs for someone special.
Tiger Balm
Source: Wikipedia
If you grew up in Asia, this stuff was probably in your grandma’s drawer.
Tiger Balm is that strong-smelling miracle ointment we use for headaches, muscle aches, mosquito bites. Well, pretty much everything. It’s been around since the 1920s and is still a household name here.
The original comes in a small hexagonal glass jar, and there are now newer versions like neck & shoulder rubs, patches, and even cooling gels. It’s affordable, easy to pack, and always gets a laugh or nostalgic smile when gifted.
🛍️ Where to buy: Available at all major pharmacies like Watsons and Guardian, plus supermarkets and Mustafa Centre.
💬 Local tip: Get the classic red or white balm in the tiny jars. They’re cute, iconic, and travel-friendly. You’ll often find multi-pack sets during promotions.
Where to Shop in Singapore
Are you a planner with a wishlist or just browsing for that one perfect find? If so, Singapore’s shopping spots make it really easy to pick up good gifts.
Here are my go-to places I always recommend to friends visiting, each with its own vibe and specialty.
Chinatown Street Market
If you're on the hunt for affordable souvenirs, think Merlion magnets, local snacks, tea sets. This is where to start.
It can get touristy, but it’s still one of the best spots to bargain and pick up small gifts in bulk. The stalls stretch across Pagoda Street and Trengganu Street, and there's always something quirky to discover.
💬 Local tip: Some stalls sell hand-painted calligraphy fans and mini tea sets tucked behind the more commercial shops. Don’t rush, justpoke around.
Haji Lane (Kampong Glam)
Trendy, colorful, and full of indie energy, Haji Lane is where you’ll find local fashion labels, handmade crafts, and artsy knick-knacks.
It’s great for finding something less mass-market and more Singapore-with-an-edge.
💬 Local tip: Look out for Wheniwasfour’s store and boutiques like The Editor’s Market. Also, grab an iced teh tarik from a café nearby and take your time.
Design Orchard (Orchard Road)
Right at the start of Orchard Road, this place is like a curated showroom for Singapore’s best homegrown brands.
You’ll find stylish souvenirs, sustainable fashion, candles, ceramics, and even snacks, all under one roof. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want meaningful gifts.
💬 Local tip: Head up to the rooftop garden after shopping. It’s open to the public and makes a great photo spot.
Mustafa Centre (Little India)
Open 24/7, chaotic in the best way, and absolutely packed with everything from Tiger Balm and laksa paste to perfumes and watches. If you’re after value and variety, Mustafa never disappoints.
💬 Local tip: Go late at night when the crowd thins out a little. The snack and spice section is excellent for edible gifts.
Jewel Changi Airport
Even if you’re rushing to catch a flight, Jewel is a one-stop dream.
There’s a TWG Tea boutique, local snack counters, Supermama, RISIS, and even a Charles & Keith flagship. Honestly, I’ve done last-minute souvenir shopping here more than once.
💬 Local tip: Some shops in Jewel have “Changi Exclusive” products. Just ask the staff what’s only available at the airport.
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A Little Bit of Singapore to Bring Home
I think the best souvenirs are the ones that mean something to you.
It could be a jar of kaya that reminds you of that kopitiam breakfast you had on day one, or a bag of fish skin chips you swore you’d just “try” but somehow finished before the plane ride home.
There’s no need to overthink it. Just walk around, poke into shops, and see what catches your eye.
Some of my favourite finds were completely unplanned. Singapore’s full of little surprises and you’ll definitely find something worth squeezing into your luggage.