What you need to know before visiting Cambodia

09.01.2025 - 15:27 / lonelyplanet.com

Jan 8, 2025 • 6 min read

Nick Ray is the author of the Phnom Penh and Siem Reap chapters in the 14th edition of Lonely Planet's Cambodia guidebook scheduled to be released in September 2025.

Cambodia is considered one of the friendliest countries in Southeast Asia. Thanks to an unbreakable spirit and infectious optimism, the Khmers have prevailed. No visitor comes away without a measure of admiration and affection for the inhabitants of this enigmatic kingdom.

General health is more of an issue here than in many other parts of Southeast Asia, due to a lack of international-standard medical-treatment facilities, a prevalence of tropical diseases, and poor sanitation. Once you venture into rural areas you are on your own, although most provinces have a reasonable clinic for minor health problems.

Cambodia is generally a very safe country to visit, but occasional crimes and scams do happen so it is best to minimize the risks where possible. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning once again, this guide can help you plan the essentials for your trip.

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months or you won't be allowed into Cambodia.

Arrange any recommended inoculations at a travel-health clinic.

Purchase travel insurance with decent health coverage.

Double-check to see if you need to arrange a visa before arrival.

Cambodia’s official currency is the riel (4000r = approx. US$1). The US dollar is used as a parallel currency and accepted everywhere, although small change may arrive in riel. Just to confuse matters, in towns bordering Thailand Thai baht (B) is also accepted.

Purchase a krama, a traditional Cambodian checked scarf, as soon as you arrive — it's a multipurpose travel towel that the locals use in a multitude of ways. The primary use is protection from the sun, dust, and wind, but you can also use it as a quick cover-up sarong-style, to towel yourself down after a dip in the pool, and as a makeshift pillow. Essentially the list is as long as your imagination and it takes up virtually no space in your backpack compared to the multiple equivalent products it dupes.

Lightweight and loose-fitting clothes are the best plan in Cambodia, including cottons and linens to combat the humidity. Cambodia is not a particularly dressy place unless you're spending time at high-end bars and clubs in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, so smart clothes are rarely a necessity. If heading to the upland northeast in November to March, pack a warm top for the cool nights.

Lightweight, light-colored clothing to reflect the sun

Comfortable sandals or shoes

Refillable water bottle

Powerful sunscreen and long-lasting deodorant

Earplugs to block out noise

Unlocked mobile phone for use with a Cambodian SIM card

A light raincoat