The backpacker scene in Cambodia is vibrant and popular among budget travelers from around the world. The country offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and affordability, making it a top destination for backpackers.
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Backpacking Cambodia in 2025
A complete guide for backpacking in Cambodia with best places to go, best time to visit, what to bring and safety advice.
Visit Cambodia
Welcome to Cambodia, a backpacker's paradise where ancient temples, vibrant markets, and lush landscapes beckon the adventurous. Pros? Explore the iconic Angkor Wat, enjoy budget-friendly living, and savor the delectable street food. Cambodia offers a rich cultural tapestry with a friendly local vibe. However, infrastructure may be basic in certain areas, and tourist areas can get crowded. Yet, for the backpacker seeking a perfect blend of affordability, history, and cultural immersion, Cambodia stands out as a captivating destination, where each moment unveils a new layer of Southeast Asian charm.
Why to go?Why backpacking in Cambodia
Backpackers
Architecture
Cambodia is home to the magnificent ancient ruins of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest religious monument in the world. This 12th-century temple complex is a stunning example of Khmer architecture and is surrounded by a vast …
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Cheap
The average costs for backpacking in Cambodia can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. On average, budget travelers can expect to spend around $20 to $30 per day. This budget includes accommodation in budget guesthouses or hostels, …
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Food
The food in Cambodia is so good because of its unique blend of flavors and influences. Cambodian cuisine is a fusion of Southeast Asian, Chinese, and Indian flavors, resulting in a diverse and vibrant culinary tradition. The use of fresh herbs, …
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💡 HighlightsTop-5 things to do in Cambodia
- Angkor Wat: This magnificent temple complex is a must-visit in Cambodia. It is the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Exploring the intricate carvings, massive structures, and stunning architectural details of Angkor Wat is an unforgettable experience.
- Phnom Penh: The capital city of Cambodia offers a mix of history, culture, and vibrant city life. Visit the Royal Palace, explore the National Museum, and learn about Cambodia’s tragic past at the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.
- Sihanoukville: If you’re looking for beautiful beaches and a relaxing coastal getaway, Sihanoukville is the place to go. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water activities on the stunning beaches, or take a boat trip to nearby islands for snorkeling and diving.
- Battambang: This charming city is known for its French colonial architecture, bamboo train rides, and the famous Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus. Explore the local markets, visit ancient temples, and take a scenic boat ride along the Sangkae River.
- Koh Rong: For an idyllic island escape, head to Koh Rong. This tropical paradise offers pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush jungles. Relax on the beach, go snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs, or take a hike to enjoy stunning panoramic views.
But Cambodia offers more...
🌤️ When to go?Best time to go backpacking Cambodia
The best time to visit Cambodia for backpacking is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is generally warm and dry, making it easier to explore the country's various attractions and outdoor activities. However, it's important to note that Cambodia can still be quite hot, especially in April, so be prepared for high temperatures. Additionally, visiting during the shoulder seasons of November and April may offer fewer crowds and more affordable prices.
Risk level: low (17%)Safety advice for Cambodia
- Street crimes, particularly phone and bag snatchings, occur regularly. Thieves often travel on motorbikes and target pedestrians or people in open taxis. Be prepared to surrender your valuables rather than risk injury in a struggle. Significant celebrations often attract large crowds and can lead to petty crime and more serious threats.
- Sexual assault occurs in tourist areas. Travellers have been assaulted after having their drinks spiked. Stick with people you trust, don't leave your drinks unattended in nightclubs and bars.
- Many people in Cambodia own guns, and gun crime and shootouts are common. Explosions have also occurred. These incidents usually arise from commercial, personal or other disputes. They can and have occurred at a wide range of locations, including at popular tourist destinations.
- Scams, credit card fraud and ATM fraud are common. Check for card-skimming devices before using ATMs.
- Protests may turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings. Officials may arrest and deport foreigners involved in protests.
- Be wary of invitations from strangers. Never carry parcels or luggage for others.
- Be careful when visiting regions near the border with Thailand. Landmines and unexploded remnants of war are a risk. Stay on marked roads if you're travelling in the north and northwest (see 'Travel').
- Fatal road accidents, particularly on provincial highways, are common. Be alert at all times on the roads and avoid travelling at night (see 'Travel').
- Severe storms and flooding can occur during the wet season (July to November). These can disrupt services and travel, including on the Mekong River. Check with your tour operator for updates.
source: smartraveller.gov.au
CambodiaMy tips to get you on the way!Does Cambodia sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.
Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Cambodia. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Cambodia may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Cambodia. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Cambodia may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Cambodia, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Cambodia, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
My personal packing list 🎒
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Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Moneybelt
[Amazon]
“Best way to carry your important documents”
Quick dry pant
[Amazon]
“Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling”
Light rain jacket
[Amazon]
“Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry”
Thermo underwear
[Amazon]
“Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets”
Quick dry towel
[Amazon]
“Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling”
Power bank
[Amazon]
“Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more”
Travel adapter
[Amazon]
“Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs”
Number lock
[Amazon]
“No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories”
Packing cubes
[Amazon]
“Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest”
Travel pillow
[Amazon]
“Light and great for flights and long bus journeys”
last page update: 28 September 2024