From The Straits Times    |

Best cheap places to shop

Photo: freestocks.org

 

Everyday necessities don’t seem to cost a lot. But purchasing a bottle of shampoo here, a bag of chips there, and all of a sudden your monthly spending budget seems to have tightened a whole lot. How exactly does one save money when it comes to products used on a daily basis? The good news is that there’s no need to scrimp and save when using every item, especially when there are a multitude of discount stores readily available. By taking the time to shop discounted items, you might even have enough left over to splurge on something you really want – like that bag at the mall.

 

Here are seven discount stores in Singapore where you can shop to your heart’s content, without having to worry about your bank balance.

 

1. Don Don Donki

Best cheap places to shop

Photo: donkisg/ Instagram

This Japanese discount chain just opened its third and largest outlet in early January at the basement of City Square Mall, a testament to how popular this brand is here. 

Known as Don Quijote in Japan, Don Don Donki is where you can find everything you need and more, from watches to groceries to undies, beauty products, Japanese snacks and bizarre knick-knacks. In fact, it’s like a Japanese Mustafa (see below). 

If you’re feeling restless and peckish in the middle of the night, head to its Orchard Central outlet, which is open 24 hours every day (the other two close at midnight). Shopping here can be overwhelming — it’s colourful and noisy with very narrow aisles — but some of its stuff can be cheaper than supermarkets, so take your time to hunt for those hidden gems.

Don Don Donki has several outlets. Visit here for locations.
 

2. Value Dollar

Best cheap places to shop

Photo: mitoyoh/Instagram

If you grew up in the heartlands, chances are that you’ll have a fond memory or two of shopping at one of Value Dollar’s many outlets. The shops are not the prettiest or most conducive for long-term hovering — shelves are cramped full of products and there’s hardly enough space to navigate your way around — worse if you have a basket. 

But if you can look past that, there are some pretty awesome deals there. From snacks like chocolates, chips and biscuits to drinks like coffee mix, tea bags and soft drinks, as well as toiletries like toothpaste and soap, Value Dollar’s wholesale-priced goods will help you save some cash on the daily.

Value Dollar has several outlets, such as #B1-177/178, Northpoint City South Wing, Singapore 769098, and #04-01, Hougang Mall, 90 Hougang Avenue 10, Singapore 538766. Visit here for locations.

 

3. Daiso

Best cheap places to shop

Photo: Daiso_singapore/Instagram

There is nothing more satisfying than putting an item into your basket without even having to check its price tag. Of course, your bank balance may sting after – unless you’re at Daiso, where every item is priced at just $2. 

Especially popular for their range of adorable stationery, letter writing sets, travel essentials, home decor items and yummy Japanese snacks, Daiso is a great place to while away your time discovering knick knacks you never thought you needed (Balance Slippers and Tooth Brushing Wipes, anyone?). Always a reason to drop by.

Daiso has several outlets. Visit here for locations.
 

4. Japan Home

Best cheap places to shop

Photo: Japan Home Facebook

Sometimes you just need an affordable yet reliable piece of home furniture, and Japan Home may have just the option you need. Here you can pick up Asian-style kitchen utensils, small electrical appliances, storage solutions or small knick-knacks to make your house feel much more homely and lived-in. 

Steamboat pots, vacuums, shoe cabinets, pillows — you name it, they’ll probably have it. Seasonal goods are also available here, such as Chinese New Year ornaments and decor. A fuss-free and great place to get what you need on a budget.

Japan Home has several outlets. Visit here for locations.
 

5.  Miniso

Best cheap places to shop

Photo: Minso/Instagram

This Chinese variety store chain is best known for its cosmetic range, adorable plush toys and various other home products such as speakers, scent diffusers, kitchenware and lamps. Basic but stylish fashion accessories can be found here too, such as wallets, purses and backpacks. 

Established by Japanese designer Miyake Junya and Chinese entrepreneur Ye Guofu, the brand prides itself on offering products that are affordable yet of good quality, and have simple, sleek and clean lines. Our favourite has got to be the Miniso and Pink Panther collaboration, which comprises make-up pouches, coin purses, notebooks, tumblers and more in the signature pink shade.

Miniso has several outlets. Visit here for locations.
 

6. Mustafa Centre

Best cheap places to shop

Photo: googgooggaii/Instagram

We’re not sure if this one even counts as a store since Mustafa is so large, it takes up an entire building. Known in Singapore as the affordable place to buy everything, the store is open 24/7 and impossible to miss, seeing as it is conveniently located right in the heart of Little India. From jewellery to toys to computer accessories, travel essentials, toiletries and fresh produce, this sure is a one-stop solution for customers. You can easily spend a whole day here just browsing.

Mustafa is at 145 Syed Alwi Road, Singapore 207704, tel: 6295 5855.
 

7. Mega Discount Store

Best cheap places to shop

Photo: Mega Discount Store Facebook

In need of a new speaker set or refrigerator? Don’t bother waiting for the next appliance fair to make that purchase. As its name suggests, this hidden gem is usually frequented by savvy shoppers looking for a bargain. With a wide variety of electrical appliances available (more than 2,000, in fact!), Mega Discount Store is more likely than not to have whatever you’re thinking of buying in stock. Join their mailing list to get the latest on their promotions.

Mega Discount Store is at #01-46-50, Kallang Leisure Park, 5 Stadium Walk, Singapore 397693, tel: 6348 7998, and #B1-56D/E, United Square, 101 Thomson Road, Singapore 307591, tel: 6254 7998.

 

 

 

ALSO READ: HOW TO BARGAIN LIKE A PRO WHEN YOU’RE OVERSEAS

 

 

 

 

Coach ID Lanyard
Now $75
Original price: $168
Shop Now
Jabra Elite 4 Wireless Earbuds
Now $88
Original price: $162
Shop Now
BaByliss Air Pro 2300
Now $63
Original price: $144
Shop Now
Abib Collagen Eye Patch
Now $19
Original price: $35
Shop Now