Cambodia Packing List: Essential Items for US Tourists

Essential Clothing for Cambodia Travel US Tourists

Okay, let's talk clothes. Cambodia's hot and humid, so think light and breathable. Cotton and linen are your friends. Avoid anything too heavy or dark colored – you'll be miserable. A good rule of thumb is to pack clothes you can hand wash easily because laundry services can be a bit hit or miss, especially outside of major cities like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

• Lightweight Shirts: Pack 3-4 short-sleeved shirts and 1-2 long-sleeved shirts. The long-sleeved shirts are great for protecting you from the sun and mosquitoes, especially when visiting temples or trekking. Consider moisture-wicking fabrics if you're prone to sweating.
• Shorts or Lightweight Pants: Bring 1-2 pairs of shorts and 1-2 pairs of lightweight pants. Long pants are required for visiting some temples, so make sure you have at least one pair. Convertible pants that zip off into shorts are a good option for versatility.
• Underwear: Pack enough for each day of your trip, plus a few extra. Quick-drying underwear is a lifesaver.
• Socks: Bring 3-4 pairs of socks. Again, quick-drying socks are ideal. Consider bringing a pair of compression socks for long flights.
• Swimsuit: If you plan on visiting the coast or taking a dip in a pool, don't forget your swimsuit!
• Light Rain Jacket or Poncho: Rain is common in Cambodia, especially during the rainy season (May to October). A lightweight rain jacket or poncho will keep you dry.

Footwear Essentials for Your Cambodia Trip US Visitors Need

Footwear is super important. You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfort is key. Think about the activities you'll be doing. Temple visits require appropriate footwear (closed-toe shoes are often preferred), while exploring cities calls for comfortable walking shoes.

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes that you've already broken in. Avoid bringing brand new shoes that could cause blisters. Consider trail running shoes if you plan on doing any hiking. I personally recommend the Merrell Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe. They're durable, breathable, and provide excellent support. They retail for around $100. A cheaper alternative is the Skechers Go Walk series, which are incredibly lightweight and comfortable for everyday walking, costing around $50. However, they lack the durability and support of the Merrell Moab.
• Sandals or Flip-Flops: Bring a pair of sandals or flip-flops for relaxing by the pool or wearing around your hotel. Consider a pair of durable sandals like Teva or Chaco if you plan on doing any water activities. Teva Hurricane XLT2 sandals are great for hiking and water activities, offering good traction and support. They typically cost around $70. For a cheaper option, Havaianas flip-flops are a classic choice, costing around $20. However, they provide minimal support and are not suitable for long walks or hikes.
• Closed-Toe Shoes (Optional): If you plan on visiting any temples that require closed-toe shoes, bring a pair of sneakers or loafers.

Toiletries and Medications Packing List for Cambodia US Travellers

Don't forget your toiletries and medications! It's always a good idea to bring your own, as some of your favorite brands may not be available in Cambodia. Also, consider bringing any prescription medications you need, along with a copy of your prescription.

• Sunscreen: The sun in Cambodia is strong, so bring a high SPF sunscreen. I recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55 is a popular choice because it is lightweight, non-greasy, and provides excellent protection. It costs around $10 per bottle. For a more eco-friendly option, consider Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+, which is mineral-based and free of harmful chemicals, costing around $15 per bottle.
• Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes are common in Cambodia, especially during the rainy season. Bring a good insect repellent with DEET. I recommend Sawyer Products Premium Insect Repellent with 30% DEET, which provides long-lasting protection. It costs around $8 per bottle. For a DEET-free option, consider Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent, which is effective against mosquitoes and other insects. It costs around $7 per bottle.
• Hand Sanitizer: Hand sanitizer is essential for keeping your hands clean, especially when you're on the go.
• Anti-Diarrheal Medication: Traveler's diarrhea is a common problem, so bring some anti-diarrheal medication like Imodium.
• Pain Relievers: Bring some pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for headaches or other aches and pains.
• Any Prescription Medications: Bring any prescription medications you need, along with a copy of your prescription.
• Motion Sickness Medication: If you're prone to motion sickness, bring some medication like Dramamine.

Electronics and Gadgets Cambodia Packing Essentials for US Tourists

These days, we can't live without our electronics! Don't forget to pack your phone, camera, and any other gadgets you need. Also, remember to bring a universal adapter, as Cambodia uses a different type of electrical outlet than the US.

• Phone: Don't forget your phone! Make sure to unlock it before you leave the US so you can use a local SIM card.
• Camera: If you want to take high-quality photos, bring a camera. A GoPro is great for action shots. The GoPro HERO11 Black is a top-of-the-line action camera that captures stunning video and photos, costing around $400. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the DJI Osmo Action 3, which offers excellent image quality and stabilization for around $300.
• Universal Adapter: Cambodia uses a different type of electrical outlet than the US, so you'll need a universal adapter. I recommend the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter, which works in over 150 countries and has multiple USB ports for charging your devices. It costs around $25. A simpler and cheaper option is the BESTEK Universal Travel Adapter, which is compact and lightweight but only has one USB port, costing around $15.
• Portable Charger: A portable charger is essential for keeping your devices charged when you're on the go. Anker PowerCore 20100mAh Portable Charger is a reliable choice with a large capacity, costing around $40. For a smaller and more portable option, consider the INIU Portable Charger, which is lightweight and compact, costing around $20.
• E-reader (Optional): If you enjoy reading, bring an e-reader like a Kindle.

Important Documents and Money Matters Packing List for US Travelers in Cambodia

Make sure you have all your important documents in order before you leave. This includes your passport, visa (if required), and any other necessary documents. Also, be sure to let your bank know that you'll be traveling to Cambodia so they don't freeze your account.

• Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Cambodia.
• Visa (if required): US citizens can obtain a visa on arrival in Cambodia. However, it's recommended to apply for an e-visa online before you travel to avoid potential delays at the airport.
• Copies of Important Documents: Make copies of your passport, visa, and other important documents and store them separately from the originals.
• Credit Cards and Debit Cards: Bring a mix of credit cards and debit cards. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Cambodia. Let your bank know that you'll be traveling to Cambodia.
• Cash: It's a good idea to have some US dollars on hand, as they are widely accepted in Cambodia. You can also exchange US dollars for Cambodian riel at the airport or in major cities.

Miscellaneous Items to Pack for Cambodia US Tourists Recommend

These are just a few other items that you might want to consider packing:

• Small Backpack or Daypack: Bring a small backpack or daypack for carrying your essentials when you're out and about. Osprey Daylite Daypack is a popular choice because it is lightweight, comfortable, and has plenty of storage space, costing around $50. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Venture Pal Lightweight Packable Backpack, which is foldable and easy to pack, costing around $20.
• Travel Pillow: A travel pillow can make long flights more comfortable.
• Eye Mask and Earplugs: An eye mask and earplugs can help you sleep on planes and in noisy hotels.
• Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, so bring a reusable water bottle. LifeStraw Go Series Water Filter Bottle is a great option because it filters water, making it safe to drink from any source, costing around $40. For a cheaper option, consider the Nalgene Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle, which is durable and leak-proof, costing around $12.
• Snacks: Bring some snacks for long flights or bus rides.
• First-Aid Kit: Bring a small first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and other essentials.

Specific Product Recommendations and Comparisons for US Travelers Packing for Cambodia

Let's delve a bit deeper into some specific product recommendations, comparing features, pros, cons, and prices to help you make informed decisions.

Sunscreen Comparison: Neutrogena vs. Thinkbaby

• Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55:
  • Pros: Lightweight, non-greasy, widely available, relatively inexpensive (~$10).
  • Cons: Chemical sunscreen, may not be suitable for sensitive skin, not reef-safe.
  • Best for: Everyday use, those on a budget, people who don't mind chemical sunscreens.
• Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+:
  • Pros: Mineral-based, reef-safe, good for sensitive skin, environmentally friendly (~$15).
  • Cons: Can leave a slight white cast, slightly more expensive than chemical sunscreens.
  • Best for: Those with sensitive skin, environmentally conscious travelers, people visiting beaches and coral reefs.

Insect Repellent Comparison: Sawyer vs. Repel

• Sawyer Products Premium Insect Repellent with 30% DEET:
  • Pros: Long-lasting protection, effective against a wide range of insects (~$8).
  • Cons: Contains DEET, which some people prefer to avoid.
  • Best for: Areas with high mosquito populations, people who prioritize effectiveness over natural ingredients.
• Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent:
  • Pros: DEET-free, plant-based, pleasant scent (~$7).
  • Cons: May not be as effective as DEET-based repellents in areas with extremely high mosquito populations, needs to be reapplied more frequently.
  • Best for: Those who prefer natural alternatives, people with sensitive skin, areas with moderate mosquito populations.

Portable Charger Comparison: Anker vs. INIU

• Anker PowerCore 20100mAh Portable Charger:
  • Pros: Large capacity, can charge a phone multiple times, reliable brand (~$40).
  • Cons: Larger and heavier than smaller chargers.
  • Best for: Long trips, those who need to charge multiple devices, people who value high capacity.
• INIU Portable Charger:
  • Pros: Compact and lightweight, affordable, fast charging (~$20).
  • Cons: Smaller capacity than larger chargers, may not be enough for extended trips.
  • Best for: Short trips, those who prioritize portability, people on a budget.

Packing Scenarios and Gear Recommendations for US Tourists in Cambodia

Let's consider different travel scenarios and recommend specific gear based on those scenarios:

Scenario 1: Temple Hopping in Siem Reap

• Clothing: Lightweight pants or a long skirt (required for some temples), a lightweight, breathable shirt, a hat to protect from the sun.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers (closed-toe shoes are often preferred).
• Gear: Sunscreen, insect repellent, a water bottle, a small backpack to carry your essentials, a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders if needed.

Scenario 2: Beach Relaxation in Sihanoukville or Koh Rong

• Clothing: Swimsuit, shorts, t-shirts, a cover-up.
• Footwear: Sandals or flip-flops.
• Gear: Sunscreen, insect repellent, a beach towel, sunglasses, a hat.

Scenario 3: Trekking in the Cardamom Mountains

• Clothing: Moisture-wicking shirts and pants, hiking socks, a light rain jacket.
• Footwear: Hiking boots or trail running shoes with good traction.
• Gear: Sunscreen, insect repellent, a water bottle or hydration pack, a first-aid kit, a headlamp or flashlight, a backpack to carry your gear.