Forget beaches: 1 in 3 Singaporeans just wants to shop abroad, says survey

They burn through an average of $336 a day.

Most tourists travel abroad to tan at beaches or hike up mountains, but not the average Singaporean traveller. They have their hearts and wallets set on something else—shopping, which might be ironic since Singapore already has the region's highest level of retail space per capita.

A survey by insurance company AIG revealed that 1 in 3 Singaporean tourists say that they go overseas specifically to shop. Meanwhile, nearly 6 out of 10 say that shopping holidays are their most preferred kind of holiday.

Shopping holidays also take up the lion’s share of holiday spending. According to the survey, Singaporeans spent an average of $336 a day on such trips.

Other respondents said that they traveled for a weekend getaway (21%), to an exotic destination (12%), or for a luxury holiday (4%).

“Singaporeans are taking their love for shopping overseas, flocking to destinations such as Thailand, Hong Kong and Taiwan in search of a bargain,” said Anita Tan, AIG Singapore Head of Travel.

Ms Tan added that while Singaporeans are loading their luggage full of the latest fashion, it is important that they protect their new purchases, particularly when it comes to travelling home.

The survey also noted common issues that sour Singaporeans’ holidays. For instance, 28% of travel insurance claims comprised of loss of or damage to baggage- second only to the 41% accounted for by medical expenses.