Traveling in Cambodia: Your Ultimate Packing Guide

You have been dreaming about traveling to Cambodia. There's something magical about this charming kingdom that attracts many visitors. The meeting of ancient heritage and modern life creates a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Yet, the fact that you need to pack stresses you out again. Don’t worry, MyProGuide has summarized the following tips to make packing easy. 

The tips below would include packing tips in general but will focus on some tips that you would need to know such as what to wear and things to bring while traveling in Cambodia.  

First things first: the art of packing is “less is more” 

Pack light!

It would be tiring to travel like a mule. Once you make your luggage or backpack lighter and smaller, your travel would sure be easier. Remember not to overpack, count the days and be precise about how many things you actually need, and whether you need them at all. 

There are things you can buy there: 

Clothes, in general, are fairly cheap in Cambodia. You can find places in most cities in Cambodia that sell cheap clothing, so you could consider packing a bit less and getting your clothes at your travel destination instead. However, as clothes in Cambodia are generally cut in Asian sizes, it might be hard to find a good fit if you're exceptionally tall or large. 

Have an extra travel bag with you:

There is no denying that we all like to buy souvenirs and gifts, whether they are a gift for yourself or for your friends and family. With all those interesting, cheap, special crafts you can find in Cambodia, you might end up leaving with more and heavier luggage than you arrived with. Having an extra travel bag will give you some extra space, so you don’t need to worry about the quantities of souvenirs you want to buy. 

Smart traveling outfit: what to wear in Cambodia

Pay extra attention to the weather: 

For those who have never been to Cambodia before, one of the things you might not be used to would be the weather. Yes, sometimes the humidity could be quite intense. You might start sweating simply while you are waiting for the bus even though you are under the shades. Also, if you are traveling in Cambodia during the cooler months, the temperature won’t get that low, so a sweater, a light jacket and long sleeves will be just fine. A long jacket or furry sweater would definitely take up too much space for your luggage. If traveling in summer, do remember to bring clothes that can be dried easily, as it may be the rainy season. Yet, you can always find laundry where you can dry your clothes. Still, it is easier if you bring clothes that dry easily. 

Know the season you are traveling: 

Whether it’s the rainy season or not decides what clothes you bring. In most of Cambodia, the rainy season usually runs from May to October, making it extremely rainy and humid. So, you should definitely avoid packing heavy or thick clothes in your luggage if traveling during the rainy season. Do bring light clothes that dry easily, and a light waterproof raincoat or portable umbrella would come in handy. 

Know and respect the local culture: 

Cambodia is a predominantly Buddhist country, so when entering Angkor Wat or any heritage sites, do remember to be respectful to the local culture and wear clothes such as long pants and shirts that cover your shoulders and knees. 

What to bring: the final checklist before departing

Complete sun protection is a must: 

Remember to use complete sun protection. Especially in the hot season, if you don’t take extra care, there is a high chance of getting a sunburn or even heatstroke, which is true suffering for the rest of your trip.   

Have some medicine and bug-spray along with you: 

The wet and warm weather in Southeast Asia ensures the existence of mosquitoes, bugs, and insects. Don’t underestimate the consequences: mosquito bites can cause infection and spread diseases such as dengue. It is, therefore, necessary to have a bug-spray or herbal insect repellent along with you. 

Following is a useful checklist you will need before departing. After making sure what to bring along and going through the list, it not only gets you ready for Cambodia but also gives you a safe and secure feeling!  

• Your passport / ID
• Credit cards and cash
• Phone and charger
• A universal plug adapter 
• Foreign currency 
• Headphones
• Toiletries: Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Soap, Lotion, Shampoo, Conditioner
• A traveling first aid kit 
• Personal medicine/pain killer
• Deodorant
• Wet wipes 
• Herbal insect repellent
• Sweater and/or jacket
• 1 extra pair of shoes
• Hat 
• Sunglasses 
• sunscreen
• Bathing suit 
• Shoes 
• Sandals 
• Light clothing 
• Long pants and clothes with long sleeves 
• Raincoat/portable umbrella/light waterproof jacket 

There you go! You sure are ready! Whether this is your very first time or the third time in Cambodia, do remember to make sure about the climate, pack for your destination, use complete sun protection, etc. So, it’s all set and be ready to experience all the fun, the food, the fascinating culture in Cambodia. Enjoy your trip!