Cambodia is one of the most affordable destinations in Southeast Asia and a long-time favorite among backpackers and slow travelers. Famous for Angkor Wat, lively markets and relaxed cities like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, Cambodia offers incredible experiences on a small budget.
The short answer: Cambodia remains one of the cheapest countries to visit in Southeast Asia in 2026.
This guide breaks down real travel costs so you can plan a realistic budget.
Average cost of a trip to Cambodia
Typical daily budgets in 2026:
• Budget traveler: $25–35/day (≈ 100k–140k KHR)
• Mid-range traveler: $50–80/day (≈ 200k–320k KHR)
• Luxury traveler: $120–200+/day (≈ 480k–800k KHR)
Cambodia is usually cheaper than Thailand and Malaysia, and similar in price to Vietnam.
For a regional overview read how much does a trip to Southeast Asia cost.
Daily cost comparison table (2026)
| Expense | Budget | Mid-range |
|---|---|---|
| Street food meal | $2 | $6 |
| Local transport | $1 | $8 ride |
| Beer | $1 | $2.50 |
| Room | $10 | $40 |
Cambodia offers some of the lowest daily travel costs in Asia.
Accommodation prices in Cambodia
Accommodation is extremely affordable across the country.
Budget accommodation
• Hostels dorm beds: $5–10/night
• Guesthouses: $10–20/night
Mid-range hotels
• Boutique hotels: $25–45/night
• 4-star hotels: $45–70/night
Luxury hotels
• 5-star resorts: $90–180/night
Siem Reap offers particularly good value hotels near Angkor Wat.
Food prices in Cambodia
Cambodia is a street-food paradise.
Local food prices
• Local meal: $2–4
• Street snacks: $1–2
• Fresh fruit shakes: $1.50–2
Restaurant prices
• Casual restaurant: $5–8
• Western restaurant: $10–15
Eating local keeps daily food costs very low.
The US dollar reality (important)
Cambodia is unique because US dollars are widely used alongside the Cambodian riel (KHR). Most prices are quoted in USD, which makes budgeting easier and reduces exchange fees.
ATM fees and cash tips
Foreign bank cards usually incur $4–6 ATM withdrawal fees.
Budget tips:
• Withdraw larger amounts to reduce fees
• Carry small USD bills
• Many local businesses prefer cash
Cash remains essential in Cambodia.
Transport costs and the PassApp tip
Transport is cheap but slower than neighboring countries.
Typical costs:
• Tuk-tuk ride: $2–5
• Intercity bus: $10–18
• Domestic flights: $40–80
In 2026, PassApp and Grab are the easiest ways to book tuk-tuks and avoid tourist pricing. Using these apps often results in cheaper and more transparent fares.
Angkor Wat ticket prices (biggest expense)
The Angkor Archaeological Park is Cambodia’s top attraction and the largest single travel expense.
Ticket prices (2026):
• 1-day pass: $37
• 3-day pass: $62
• 7-day pass: $72
Insider tip: The 3-day pass is the best value for most travelers. It gives enough time to see the main temples and more remote sites without temple fatigue.
Cambodia vs Thailand travel costs
Cambodia is generally cheaper than Thailand, especially for accommodation and beer prices.
Read is Thailand expensive to visit in 2026.
Cambodia vs Vietnam travel costs
Cambodia and Vietnam are similarly priced, though Vietnam has cheaper transport and coffee.
Read is Vietnam expensive to visit in 2026.
Total trip cost examples
2-week budget trip
Flights: $700–1000
Daily budget: $30 × 14 = $420
Activities: $150
Total: $1,270 – $1,570
2-week mid-range trip
Flights: $700–1000
Daily budget: $70 × 14 = $980
Activities: $250
Total: $1,930 – $2,230
How to travel Cambodia on a budget
• Eat street food daily
• Travel by bus between cities
• Stay in guesthouses
• Visit Angkor Wat with multi-day pass
• Travel slowly
Cambodia remains one of the best value destinations in Asia.
FAQ
Is Cambodia cheaper than Thailand in 2026?
Yes. Cambodia is usually cheaper overall.
How much money do I need for 2 weeks in Cambodia?
Most travelers spend $1,300–2,200 total including flights.
Is Cambodia good for budget travel?
Yes. Cambodia is one of the cheapest destinations in Southeast Asia.
What is the biggest travel expense in Cambodia?
The Angkor Wat entrance ticket is usually the largest single cost.
