7 Best DISCOUNT Stores In Singapore to Grab Good Deals And Stretch Your Dollar

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 this 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.

If you live in the heartlands, chances are that you are familiar with 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, 769098, and #04-01, Hougang Mall, 90 Hougang Avenue 10, 538766. Visit here for locations.

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.

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.

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.

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.

145 Syed Alwi Road, 207704; tel: 6295 5855.

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.

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