
Navigating public transportation with kids in Singapore can be both an adventure and a challenge. From the bustling MRT stations to the extensive bus network, the city’s transportation system can get slightly complicated, and adding little ones to the mix requires extra planning and patience. Whether you’re a local parent juggling errands or a tourist exploring our sunny island, these top tips will provide a smoother, more stress-free experience on Singapore’s public transport system!
Planning your route in advance is a game changer when taking public transportation with kids. You can use reliable apps like Google Maps or Citymapper to chart the most efficient travel paths, including MRT lines and bus routes, beforehand. You can even research MRT exits and lift locations in advance to provide a more stress-free travel journey in real time. By knowing and familiarizing your route ahead of time, you're able to minimize delays and reduce surprises, making the journey a smoother one for you!
While MRT trains and buses run frequently, especially during peak hours, having a clear idea of departure and arrival times can help you plan a more seamless journey. SBS Transit does provide general bus arrival times, so you're able to refer to that schedule when planning your route, and apps like SG Buses also help to track real-time bus arrivals and reduce waiting time at stops - a lifesaver when traveling with restless children.
Singapore's MRT stations and buses are generally stroller-friendly, and using a lightweight or compact stroller easily makes your travel journey more convenient and manageable. You can perhaps opt for strollers designed with one-hand folding mechanisms for quick, hassle-free adjustments, especially when boarding or alighting public transportation. Lightweight strollers are also easier to carry up stairs in case elevators are busy or unavailable, and they take less effort to store in small spaces. Many models also come with storage compartments, which are perfect for storing essentials like snacks, toys and diaper bags!
Don't hesitate to ask for assistance when taking public transportation with your kids. Station staff, bus captains, and even other commuters are usually friendly and willing to help parents traveling with their young children. If you're struggling with a stroller, need directions or require access to priority features, approach the staff at any passenger service centers in MRT stations or speak to the bus captain before boarding. Many MRT stations also have intercom systems at lifts and platform areas to request assistance in real-time if needed.
SimplyGo is a very convenient way of managing public transportation payments. This cashless system allows you to tap in and out of MRT stations and buses using contactless credit or debit cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, or the SimplyGo app. It eliminates the need to top up physical cards, saving time and effort, something that's particularly helpful when you're juggling kids and strollers. Tourists or those without a contactless card can also purchase a SimplyGo EZ-Link card at ticket offices or TransitLink counters for instant access.
Packing the right essentials can make all the difference when taking public transportation with kids! It's advised to always carry a small bag with must-haves like water bottles and wet wipes to keep the little ones comfortable during the journey. For entertainment, you can bring along lightweight items like coloring books, stickers or a favorite toy to keep them occupied on longer rides. By packing thoroughly, you'll be ensuring a smoother, more stress-free travel journey for you and the kids.
Barrier-free routes in Singapore's public transport system can help make it a more seamless travel journey when you're traveling with kids and a stroller. These routes feature a network of accessible facilities across MRT stations, bus interchanges and pedestrian pathways, making it easier to navigate. Some of these key features include elevators, priority queues, wide fare gates, and low-floor buses with ramps for easy boarding. By using these features you'll be able to enjoy a more comfortable and hassle-free journey when taking public transport with children.
Traveling during off-peak hours is a smart strategy when taking public transport in Singapore with kids. It offers a more relaxed commuting experience with fewer crowds, and that tends to be between 9:30am to 4:30pm and after 7:30pm on weekdays. If you're able to, traveling during these timings makes it easier to manage strollers, find seats for the little ones, and keep an eye on them without the stress of peak-hour congestion. It's also quieter, creating a more comfortable travel experience for you and the kids.
Public transportation concession cards in Singapore can help make travel more affordable for younger kids and students, ensuring a budget-friendly commuting experience. Children under the age of 7 enjoy free rides on MRTs and public buses with a Child Concession Card, and you can apply for it through TransitLink. For students, the Student Concession Card offers discounted fares and unlimited travel passes, making commute more economical when you're bringing your child out on weekends or during the school holidays.
Did you know that there are priority queues at MRT stations and bus interchanges for families, seniors and those with special needs? These queues can help you board more easily without the stress of competing in crowded areas, and there are clearly marked signs near elevators, ticketing machines and boarding platforms so that you'll easily be able to find them. This not only ensures a smoother travel journey, but also provides a safer environment for your little ones! There's also less of a need to navigated through packed crowds just in case you're traveling during peak hours or weekends.
Want More?
Websites That Help With Taking Public Transportation in Singapore:
Main Image Credit: The 5 World Explorers
Little Steps Asia knows what families need.
Sign up for our email newsletters to get the most out of Asia!
Got kids? Little Steps Asia gives you the scoop on all the things to do and see with babies, toddlers, and kids in Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bali, Jakarta, Macau, and beyond. From family-friendly hotels, kids and baby shops, the best schools and after school activities, pregnancy tips and meet-ups and more – we have you sorted.
Sign up to receive the free Little Steps email newsletter packed with news, offers, and hidden treasures for Singapore families.
© 2025 Little Steps Asia. All rights reserved.
Sign up now for the latest in Hong Kong pregnancy news, monthly updates and more!
"*" indicates required fields