Cambodia: Essential Apps and Travel Tips
During our three weeks in Cambodia, we discovered several tips that made getting around and day-to-day travel easier. From apps and cash withdrawals to SIM cards and transport, we're sharing practical advice to help you prepare for your trip, avoid surprises and save money.
Which apps should you download in Cambodia?
Grab: to book a tuk-tuk or car without haggling over the fare, especially in larger cities.
PassApp: a local alternative to Grab, useful for comparing tuk-tuk fares and availability.
12Go: to compare buses, minivans and transfers. Remember to check fares on the operators' official websites too.
Klook: to book activities and excursions. We used it to book a cruise on the Mekong.
ATM Fee Saver: to find ATMs and compare their fees and withdrawal limits.
How do you pay and withdraw cash in Cambodia?
The official currency is the Cambodian riel (KHR), but the US dollar (USD) is also widely used. Cash is essential, especially for small shops, markets and local restaurants.
Always carry small US-dollar bills! We often met shopkeepers who could not even give change for a 20 USD bill. Also watch out for damaged banknotes, which may be refused.
With our Revolut Visa card, we could withdraw cash without ATM fees at SBI Bank and Shinhan Bank. During our visit, these ATMs only accepted Visa cards, not Mastercard. Withdrawal conditions and fees may change depending on the bank and your card.
Use ATM Fee Saver to find the most favourable ATMs and compare fees and withdrawal limits. Conditions and the information shown in the app can change. Always check the fees displayed before confirming a withdrawal, and decline conversion into your home currency.
Which SIM or eSIM should you choose in Cambodia?
We used Smart, a local operator we were very happy with. Buying and activating our SIM took just a few minutes, and the data plans were affordable: 6 USD for 90 GB or 10 USD for 150 GB, valid for 30 days. Offers may change.
With Smart, we had a very good connection throughout our stay, except in a few remote areas of Koh Rong where we had no signal. Bring your passport for registration.
An eSIM such as Airalo is a convenient alternative if you want Internet access as soon as you arrive, but compare prices with local plans.
How do you get around Cambodia?
In cities, tuk-tuks are one of the most convenient ways to get around. You can book one through Grab or PassApp to see the fare in advance. Otherwise, agree on the price before getting in.
For travel between cities, buses and minivans are generally the most practical and affordable options. Compare schedules and fares on 12Go, then check offers directly with the operators.
To reach the islands, you usually need to combine an overland journey with a ferry or speedboat. Once there, we also liked renting scooters to explore freely, provided you have the correct licence and valid insurance.
What mistakes should you avoid in Cambodia?
- Travelling to an island without enough cash: ATMs may be scarce or unavailable.
- Accepting damaged US-dollar bills: always check the condition of any banknotes you receive as change.
- Booking a ferry without checking its arrival pier: some islands have several piers, which may be far from your accommodation.
- Renting a scooter without checking your insurance: make sure you have the appropriate licence and valid cover before riding.
To discover another side of Cambodia, explore all our travel stories and recommendations from across the country.