So, you’re thinking about exploring Cambodia without blowing your savings? Smart move, my friend. Cambodia is one of those magical places where history, food, and jaw-dropping landscapes meet—and the best part? You don’t need to sell a kidney to experience it all. :)
I’ll be real with you: I’ve traveled around Southeast Asia, and Cambodia stands out not just for Angkor Wat (though yes, it’s epic), but for how far your money can stretch. This is the kind of destination where $20 can cover a comfy bed, tasty meals, and maybe even a tuk-tuk ride across town. Tempting, right? Let’s break it all down step by step so you can squeeze every drop of adventure out of Cambodia—without your wallet crying for mercy.
Why Cambodia Is Perfect For Budget Travelers
Ever wondered why Cambodia gets such a glowing rep among backpackers? Here’s the tea:
- Affordable everything – from accommodation to transport to food, Cambodia is a wallet’s dream.
- Plenty of free or cheap experiences – temples, street markets, and beaches that don’t cost you a fortune.
- Friendly locals – trust me, Cambodian hospitality feels priceless.
IMO, it’s one of the few countries where you can live like a king on a peasant’s salary. And no, that’s not an exaggeration.
Getting Around Without Spending a Fortune
Transportation is usually where budgets go to die, but not here.
Buses & Vans
The bus network in Cambodia is surprisingly reliable. A bus from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap costs about $10–$15. Pro tip: splurge the extra $2 for the “VIP” option unless you enjoy bouncing around in a van that feels like a washing machine on spin cycle.
Tuk-Tuks
These are everywhere. Think of them as Uber with way more personality. Short rides are about $2–$3, but always haggle politely (smile while you’re at it).
Motorbike Rentals
Feeling adventurous? You can rent a motorbike for $7–$10/day. Just don’t forget travel insurance, unless you enjoy explaining road rash to your mom over FaceTime.
Where To Stay On The Cheap
Cambodia has accommodation options that suit every kind of traveler—backpackers, digital nomads, or even those who pretend they’re “roughing it” but secretly need Wi-Fi for Netflix.
- Hostels – As low as $5/night in shared dorms. Many include free breakfast.
- Budget hotels & guesthouses – Expect to pay $10–$15/night for a private room with AC.
- Mid-range stays – If you’ve got a little extra cash, $25–$30 gets you boutique-style rooms with pools.
I stayed in a Siem Reap hostel that had a pool, bar, and nightly trivia contests—for $6. Honestly, it felt like cheating the system.
Eating Like A Local (And Like A King)
Food is where Cambodia wins big time. You can feast daily without worrying about going broke.
Street Food
Local dishes like amok curry, beef lok lak, and grilled skewers cost $1–$2. Honestly, half the fun is pointing at random things sizzling on a cart and hoping it’s edible. Spoiler: it usually is.
Local Restaurants
Expect meals in small family-owned restaurants to cost $3–$5. Portions are hearty and flavors bold.
Western Food
Craving pizza or burgers? Those run $6–$10, which is expensive by Cambodian standards but still cheaper than eating out at home.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the fruit shakes—they’re everywhere, cost about $1, and will ruin you for any overpriced smoothies back home.
Budget-Friendly Things To Do In Cambodia
Here’s where Cambodia flexes. The country overflows with adventures that won’t torch your budget.
1. Explore Angkor Wat (Siem Reap)
Yes, it’s pricier than most activities, but let’s be real—you can’t skip it. A 1-day pass is $37, which sounds steep until you realize you’re getting access to one of the world’s most incredible archaeological sites. Bring snacks and water so you don’t overspend inside.
2. Wander Phnom Penh’s Markets
The Russian Market and Central Market are budget traveler heaven. You can shop for clothes, souvenirs, and cheap eats in one place. Bargaining? Totally expected.
3. Relax In Kampot & Kep
Rent a motorbike and cruise around for the day. Pepper farms, riverside cafes, and seafood feasts for $2? Sign me up. Kep crab market is legendary—and affordable.
4. Chill On The Islands
Skip expensive Thailand beaches—Cambodia’s islands like Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem offer turquoise waters, hammocks, and bungalows starting at $10–$15/night.
5. Visit Killing Fields & S21 (Phnom Penh)
Heavy stuff, but important. Entry is around $5–$6 each. It’s sobering but a must to understand the country’s history.
Daily Budget Breakdown (For Real)
Let’s get practical. Here’s what a day in Cambodia on a budget could look like:
- Accommodation: $6 (hostel dorm with pool)
- Breakfast: Free (included)
- Lunch: $2.50 (local restaurant)
- Dinner: $3.50 (street food feast + fruit shake)
- Transport: $3 (tuk-tuk rides)
- Activities: $5 (museum or temple entry)
Total: About $20/day. That’s less than a movie ticket and popcorn in some places. Wild, right?
Money-Saving Hacks For Cambodia
Want to stretch your budget even further? Try these:
- Eat where locals eat – Fancy restaurants are for tourists. Street carts = better food, better prices.
- Book buses online early – You’ll save a couple bucks and avoid the “sold out” scam.
- Refill water bottles – Many hostels offer free water refills. Skip buying plastic bottles every hour.
- Travel in groups – Tuk-tuk costs drop fast when split 3–4 ways.
- Avoid ATMs with high fees – Some charge $5 per withdrawal. Yikes. Look for Maybank or ABA machines.
The “Hidden Costs” You Should Expect
Traveling cheap doesn’t mean zero surprises. Here are a few sneaky extras you’ll probably face:
- Visa fees – $30 for a tourist visa (valid 30 days).
- SIM card – $5–$10 for data (worth every penny for Google Maps alone).
- Temple pass at Angkor Wat – The big one at $37/day.
- Occasional scams – From inflated tuk-tuk fares to mystery “fees.” Keep small bills and a smile handy.
Is Cambodia Safe For Budget Travelers?
Short answer: yes. Longer answer: just use common sense. Petty theft happens, but violent crime is rare. Don’t flash cash, avoid walking alone at 2 AM down sketchy alleys, and you’ll be fine. Honestly, I felt safer in Cambodia than in some big cities back home.
Final Thoughts: Cambodia Without Breaking The Bank
So, can you do Cambodia on a budget? 100%. Not only can you survive here for $20–$25/day, but you can actually thrive. You’ll eat like royalty, explore jaw-dropping sites, and meet some of the friendliest people in Southeast Asia—all while spending less than your daily coffee tab back home.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely. Just pack sunscreen, bug spray, and an open mind. Oh, and maybe a little patience when your bus shows up an hour late—it’s part of the charm. ;)
Cambodia proves that travel doesn’t need to be expensive to be unforgettable. And IMO, that’s the best kind of adventure.
