Phnom Penh, Cambodia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Phnom Penh, Cambodia? If you're planning to go to Phnom Penh, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Based on the climate and weather in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Phnom Penh, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Phnom Penh, Cambodia by month

January

If you visit Phnom Penh during January, you may notice that it can be very hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cambodia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Phnom Penh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and G. Check that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Wat Phnom, wear:

If you visit the National Museum of Cambodia, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

Traveling to Phnom Penh in February, you will notice that it is constantly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cambodia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Phnom Penh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and G. Be sure to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit a temple, such as Wat Phnom, wear:

If you visit the National Museum of Cambodia, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you visit Phnom Penh during March, you might see that it is sweltering and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cambodia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Phnom Penh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and G. Be careful to find the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

If you visit a temple, such as Wat Phnom, wear:

If you visit the National Museum of Cambodia, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Phnom Penh is blindingly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) to 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cambodia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Phnom Penh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and G. Check that you find the necessary type. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Wat Phnom, wear:

If you visit the National Museum of Cambodia, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Phnom Penh is unbearably hot. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cambodia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Phnom Penh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and G. Make sure to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Wat Phnom, wear:

If you visit the National Museum of Cambodia, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June here is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cambodia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Phnom Penh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and G. Be sure to get the correct kind. Most adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit a temple, such as Wat Phnom, wear:

If you visit the National Museum of Cambodia, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you go to Phnom Penh in July, you will notice that it is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cambodia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Phnom Penh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and G. Check that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you visit a temple, such as Wat Phnom, wear:

If you visit the National Museum of Cambodia, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in this region can be sweltering and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cambodia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Phnom Penh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and G. Be sure to find the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Wat Phnom, wear:

If you visit the National Museum of Cambodia, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you vacation in Phnom Penh during September, you may see that it can be very hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cambodia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Phnom Penh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and G. Take care to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

If you visit a temple, such as Wat Phnom, wear:

If you visit the National Museum of Cambodia, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

Traveling to Phnom Penh in October, you will notice that it can be very hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cambodia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Phnom Penh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and G. Be sure to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you visit a temple, such as Wat Phnom, wear:

If you visit the National Museum of Cambodia, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Phnom Penh is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cambodia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Phnom Penh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and G. Ensure that you find the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Wat Phnom, wear:

If you visit the National Museum of Cambodia, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Phnom Penh is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Cambodia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Phnom Penh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and G. It's important that you pick the correct type. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Wat Phnom, wear:

If you visit the National Museum of Cambodia, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, is considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. It is a city steeped in a rich past, offering a fascinating blend of modernity and history, and a range of experiences for travellers to explore. From ancient temples to bustling markets, here are the top tourist attractions in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks of Phnom Penh. The palace was constructed in the 1860s, and it is the official residence of the king of Cambodia. The complex contains impressive buildings, such as the Throne Hall, the Silver Pagoda, and the Khemarin Palace. The palace grounds are meticulously maintained, with lush gardens and walkways that make for a scenic stroll.

The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek

A haunting yet important part of Cambodia’s past is the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. It is a 30-minute drive from Phnom Penh and is the site of one of the most brutal atrocities carried out by the Khmer Rouge regime. The site now serves as a memorial to the victims of the regime's brutality, and visitors can walk through the mass graves and learn about the country's dark history.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Another sombre reminder of Cambodia's past is the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. It was once a high school that was repurposed as a notorious prison during the Khmer Rouge regime. The museum houses galleries of photographs, documents and prison cells that showcase the horrors of a regime that killed almost a quarter of the country's population.

Wat Phnom

Phnom Penh's oldest temple is Wat Phnom, located atop a hill in the heart of the city. The temple compounds are decorated with colourful murals and Cambodian-style houses, and visitors can take a stroll around its scenic gardens. Legend has it that the temple was built to house the four sacred statues of Buddha that were discovered in the city.

Central Market

Centrally located, the Central Market or Phsar Thmei is a popular attraction in Phnom Penh. Visitors can explore the market's sprawling alleys of unique handicrafts, food, jewellery, apparel, and much more. It is an excellent spot to stock up on souvenirs, local handicrafts, and freshly-made Cambodian food.

The Russian Market

Another bustling market in Phnom Penh is the Russian Market, known locally as Psar Tuol Tom Pong. It is open all day until late at night, and it is an excellent spot to find vintage clothes, silk clothing, handmade jewellery, and other traditional Cambodian items. It’s a great market to stroll around and soak in the local culture.

Phnom Penh is a city of contrasts - a combination of its dark past and vibrant future. The top tourist attractions of Phnom Penh offer an unrivalled blend of history, culture, and cuisine. It is a city that should be on every traveller's itinerary when visiting Cambodia, offering something to suit every interest and budget.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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