Is $20 per day realistic during peak season?

Yes, but accommodation costs rise $2-5 per night during November-March. Book hostels 5-7 days in advance and consider staying slightly outside city centers. Food and transport costs remain stable year-round.

Can I use USD or do I need Cambodian riel?

USD is widely accepted and preferred for larger purchases. You'll receive small change in riel. Bring clean, newer USD bills as torn or old bills may be rejected. $1 bills are essential for tips and small purchases.

How do I get between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh cheaply?

Take the local bus for $6-8 (6 hours) instead of tourist buses ($15) or flights ($50-80). Giant Ibis and Mekong Express offer reliable service. Book at the bus station to avoid booking fees.

Are there any hidden costs I should know about?

Temple dress code violations result in sarong rentals ($2-3). Tuk-tuk drivers often take you to shops where they get commissions - politely decline. Some temples charge camera fees ($2-5). Always clarify tuk-tuk fares before starting your ride.

How to travel Cambodia on $20 per day

Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia's most budget-friendly destinations. With careful planning, $20 per day covers basic accommodation ($3-8), local meals ($1-3), temple passes, and local transport. Stay in hostels, eat at local markets, use tuk-tuks sparingly, and buy multi-day temple passes to stretch your budget.

Book budget accommodation in advance. Reserve hostel dorms ($3-5 in Siem Reap, $4-8 in Phnom Penh) or guesthouses ($8-12) through Booking.com or Hostelworld. Book 2-3 days ahead during dry season (November-March). Mad Monkey hostels offer reliable budget options in major cities.
Plan your temple visits strategically. Buy the 3-day Angkor pass for $62 instead of daily passes ($37 each). This covers 3 non-consecutive days within a week. Rent a bicycle ($2-3/day) to get around Angkor Archaeological Park instead of hiring tuk-tuks ($15-20/day).
Eat where locals eat. Target local markets and street stalls. Num pang (Cambodian sandwiches) cost $1, fish amok at markets costs $2-3, and rice dishes run $1.50-2.50. Avoid restaurants near temples and tourist areas where prices double. Buy bottled water in bulk for $0.25 per bottle.
Use public transport and share rides. Take local buses between cities ($4-8 vs $15-25 for tourist buses). Share tuk-tuks in cities - solo rides cost $2-5, shared rides cost $0.50-1. Walk when possible in compact areas like Siem Reap's Old Market district.
Negotiate and buy in bulk. Always negotiate tuk-tuk fares and market purchases. Buy snacks and water in bulk from local markets. Group together with other travelers for temple tours and transportation to split costs. Many hostels organize group trips that reduce per-person expenses.

Is $20 per day realistic during peak season?: Yes, but accommodation costs rise $2-5 per night during November-March. Book hostels 5-7 days in advance and consider staying slightly outside city centers. Food and transport costs remain stable year-round.
Can I use USD or do I need Cambodian riel?: USD is widely accepted and preferred for larger purchases. You'll receive small change in riel. Bring clean, newer USD bills as torn or old bills may be rejected. $1 bills are essential for tips and small purchases.
How do I get between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh cheaply?: Take the local bus for $6-8 (6 hours) instead of tourist buses ($15) or flights ($50-80). Giant Ibis and Mekong Express offer reliable service. Book at the bus station to avoid booking fees.
Are there any hidden costs I should know about?: Temple dress code violations result in sarong rentals ($2-3). Tuk-tuk drivers often take you to shops where they get commissions - politely decline. Some temples charge camera fees ($2-5). Always clarify tuk-tuk fares before starting your ride.