Backpacking Cambodia Tips (What We Wish We Knew Before Going)
Backpacking Cambodia for the first time? There are a few things you’ll want to know before you go; from money and transport to safety, scams, and what daily life actually looks like.
After travelling Cambodia ourselves, these are the backpacking Cambodia tips we genuinely wish we knew beforehand. This guide will help you avoid common mistakes, save money, and make the most of your trip.
If you’re planning your route, check out our Phnom Penh travel guide, Koh Rong Islands guide, and 2 weeks in Cambodia itinerary to help map things out.
Disclaimer: Some of the links included on our website may contain affiliate links. We may receive some commission from purchases made via these but it will NOT affect the price you pay. This is to allow this site to stay online and ensure that readers use, what we believe, are the best products possible whilst travelling.
Cambodia Travel Tips at a Glance
- 🛵 Transport: buses + tuk-tuks + Grab
- 💸 Budget: $20–50 per day (backpacker style)
- 🛂 Visa: required (e-visa or on arrival)
- 💵 Currency: USD + Cambodian riel
- 📱 SIM: cheap and worth getting
- ⚠️ Safety: generally safe, watch for petty theft
Before You Start Your Cambodia Backpacking Trip
Do You Need a Visa for Cambodia?
Yes, most travellers need a visa. Whether this be an e-via (online) or a visa on arrival. They usually cost around $30 USD but this can vary depending on where you are travelling from. These visas are usually for 30 days so if you are planning a longer trip, you will need to extend.
What to Pack for Cambodia
Cambodia is hot, humid, and often dusty.
Here are the essentials, but remember you can buy a lot of clothing and toiletries once you are there.
- lightweight clothes
- insect repellent
- sunscreen
- comfortable shoes
For a full breakdown, check out our what to pack for Cambodia guide.
SIM Cards in Cambodia
Getting a SIM card in Cambodia is quick, cheap, and 100% worth it.
You can buy one at the airport or in town, and it’ll make things like Google Maps, Grab, and booking transport much easier. Data is very affordable, and coverage is good in most places.
Buy in town for slightly better prices, or use an eSIM if you want data as soon as you land.
Best Time to Visit Cambodia
- Dry season (Nov–April): best weather, but hotter
- Wet season (May–Oct): fewer crowds, but more rain
We travelled during mixed weather, and honestly, it didn’t ruin the experience at all!
Money & Budget Tips
Currency in Cambodia
Cambodia uses USD and Cambodian riel.
We learned that you’ll pay mostly in USD, but small change is often given in riel. Torn or damaged notes are often refused, even though you might get these back as change, so do be strict not to take them!
Always carry small USD bills; it’ll save you so much hassle.
How Much Does Cambodia Cost?
Cambodia is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia.
- Hostels: $3–10 per night
- Food: $2–5 per meal
- Beer: $0.50–$1
- Transport: $5–15 between cities
We averaged around $25–35 per day while backpacking.
For accommodation ideas, check out our best hostels in Cambodia.
Getting Around Cambodia
Transport is simple but not always smooth.
Main options:
- buses (most common)
- minivans
- Tuk-tuks
- scooter
- Grab (in cities)
Journeys often take longer than expected. The Cambodian people tend to have a relaxed idea about schedules, so keep that in mind when you’re planning!
Renting a Bike in Cambodia
Renting a motorbike in Cambodia is cheap and popular, but it’s definitely not risk-free.
Roads can be unpredictable, traffic rules are loose, and accidents are fairly common, especially among tourists who aren’t used to riding in Southeast Asia.
Make sure you only rent a bike if you’re confident and experienced. Otherwise, stick to tuk-tuks or Grab, it’s safer and still very affordable.
Safety & Scams in Cambodia
Is Cambodia Safe for Travellers?
Overall, yes, Cambodia is relatively safe for backpackers.
But you should still be aware of pickpocketing (especially in cities), including phone snatching, especially from vehicles and when you are walking around.
Another thing to be aware of is overcharging by tuk-tuks. We would often check the price on Grab and then find a local driver who would offer the same price!
In our experience, we felt safe most of the time, but definitely had to stay alert in busier areas.
Sihanoukville: Worth Skipping?
We’ll be honest, Sihanoukville definitely wasn’t a highlight for us.
While it’s the main gateway to the islands, the town itself is quite built up, feels a bit unsafe, lacks charm, and doesn’t feel like the rest of Cambodia. Unless you have a specific reason to stay, we’d recommend passing straight through and heading to the Koh Rong islands instead.
Book your ferry in advance and time your arrival so you can transfer straight away; you’re not missing anything by skipping a stay here.
Cultural Tips for Cambodia
Cambodia is incredibly welcoming, but respectful behaviour goes a long way.
Key tips:
- dress modestly at temples (especially Angkor Wat)
- remove shoes when required
- Be respectful when talking about history
If you’re visiting temples, check out our Angkor Wat guide.
Backpacking Cambodia Tips (From Experience)
Here are the things that actually made a difference for us:
- Always carry small cash (big notes are a pain)
- Download Grab for easy transport
- Don’t over-plan; travel delays are common
- Book accommodation last-minute for flexibility
- Expect things to feel a bit more “raw” than Thailand and Indonesia
Cambodia feels more authentic and less polished, which is part of what makes it so special.
Where to Go in Cambodia
If you’re planning your route, these are must-visits:
- Phnom Penh for history and city life
- Siem Reap as a gateway to Angkor Wat
- Koh Rong for beaches and island vibes
We spent one month backpacking Cambodia so do check out the rest of the posts on our blog for some helpful tips.
Is Cambodia Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Cambodia ended up being one of the most memorable countries we visited.
Why it’s worth it:
- incredibly affordable
- rich history and culture
- less touristy than Thailand in places
- unique, raw travel experience
Things to be aware of:
- infrastructure can be basic
- It’s hot and sometimes chaotic
- Travel can be slower
Overall, if you’re backpacking Southeast Asia, Cambodia is 100% worth adding to your trip.
FAQ: Backpacking Cambodia Tips
Yes, Cambodia is one of the best budget destinations in Southeast Asia and perfect for backpackers.
Around $20–50 per day, depending on your travel style.
Generally, yes, but watch for petty theft and scams.
In cities, yes, but cash (USD) is still preferred in many places.
Yes, cash is essential, especially outside major cities.
Final Thoughts
Backpacking Cambodia isn’t always the easiest travel experience—but that’s exactly what makes it so rewarding.
It’s raw, real, and full of moments you won’t get anywhere else.
With the right preparation (and these tips), you’ll avoid the common mistakes and be able to properly enjoy everything Cambodia has to offer.
Disclaimer: Some of the links included on our website may contain affiliate links. We may receive some commission from purchases made via these but it will NOT affect the price you pay. This is to allow this site to stay online and ensure that readers use, what we believe, is the best products possible whilst travelling.
Thank you so much for this informative guide! I’m hoping to head to South East Asia in May so this has been very helpful
Anytime! Don’t hesitate to get in contact if you have any questions Elyse.
Thank you so much for all these great tips when traveling to Cambodia!
These are great tips!! Saving this if I ever go there!!
Thanks Janelle; very kind of you to say. Let us know what you think if you ever get the chance.
Thank you, we’re very pleased you enjoyed the top tips!
Cambodia is so high on my list, I’m going to save this article for my future travels! Well done, so many great tips!
It took a little getting used to but it’s very worth it! Thank you for your kind words.
Cambodia is definitely on my list. Thanks for the valuable tips!
It’s really worth going; definitely took some time to get used to everything but spend as long as you can here!
This list is incredibly helpful! It is so important to get admin items figured out beforehand in order to not have to worry upon arrival in country. Additionally, it is good to know the little tips and tricks for getting around.
You’re very kind Alina, thank you. We’re really pleased you enjoyed our post.
This Cambodia post was so helpful, thank you!
Thanks Amy, that’s very kind of you!
This has all the info we’ll need to prepare for Cambodia. Those mosquitos don’t sound fun!
Thank you so much Denise. Honestly they’re really not fun; make sure to get some good (deet) repellent.