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Staying Connected in Cambodia: Data, Apps & Power Tips for Travelers

Whether you’re trying to stay connected, find your way around, or pay like a local, having the right SIM card, apps, and payment setup makes travel in Cambodia so much smoother. From navigating with Google Maps to using cashless payment options and finding Wi-Fi on the go, this guide covers everything you need to stay online, connected, and ready for every adventure in the Kingdom of Wonder. Let’s dive in!

Mobile Plans & Data

Obtaining a local SIM card is possible for tourists. You can do this by visiting a mobile company’s shop with your passport and selecting one of their pre-paid options.

If your phone is capable of installing an e-SIM, we recommend purchasing an e-SIM package for your trip. We’ve found online platforms like Trip.com to have the best and most affordable options.

Our team purchases this eSIM from Trip.com when they travel to Cambodia and have had a consistently great experience.

It works across 10 SE Asia countries with 5G speed, and you can select the duration and amount of data you’d like to have. Prices start for as little as 25 cents per day.

Essential Apps

Having the right apps on your phone will make your trip a whole lot easier. Whether you’re navigating the streets of Phnom Penh, hunting down hidden cafes in Siem Reap, or ordering a late-night snack, these essential apps will have your back.

Google Maps is hands-down the best app for navigating Cambodia. Whether you’re walking, driving, or hopping in a tuk-tuk, Google Maps will help you find your way. It’s also a great tool for discovering restaurants, bars, cafes, and attractions nearby – with helpful reviews, opening hours, photos, and directions. Download offline maps before heading out if you need to be careful about your data usage.

Grab: your go-to app for ordering taxis and tuk-tuks. It’s affordable, reliable, and eliminates the need for haggling or explaining directions in a new language – making every ride smooth and stress-free. Add a credit card for easy payment. (PS – they also do food delivery!)

Bakong Tourists: the easiest way to pay like a local in Cambodia. Load money from your international card and use QR codes at almost every shop, cafe, and vendor. You will need to verify your account with your passport and this can take up to a week, so set it up early. Funds cannot be returned to your card, so plan to use everything during your trip.

Did You Know?

Addresses in Cambodia can be tricky – many streets lack clear signage or consistent numbers. That’s why locals rely on landmarks instead. When in doubt, just drop a pin on Google Maps or mention a nearby temple – t’s the easiest way to get around.

Money & Payment

In Cambodia, credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels, and Apple Pay or digital wallets are not used, so it’s best to carry cash. Cambodia uses both US Dollars and Cambodian Riel, accepted everywhere.

ATMs are widely available, and ABA bank machines are the most reliable. Be aware that ATM withdrawals in USD only dispense large denominations, like $50 or $100 notes, which can be hard to break. You may also receive change in Riel when paying in dollars.

While the exchange rate is pegged at approximately 4,000 Riel to $1 USD, we suggest withdrawing and using Riel whenever possible. It tends to give you slightly better value and simplifies transactions with local vendors, making your trip a little smoother. Just don’t forget to notify your bank before you travel to avoid any issues with ATM withdrawals!

It’s also a good idea to bring some USD cash with you so you have some money when you arrive (especially if you need a visa on arrival). Make sure you bring brand new and undamaged notes. Merchants may be hesitant to accept USD notes that are dirty, heavily used, or have tears (even if they are minor).

Did You Know?

When receiving change in USD, some merchants might try to pass off damaged or worn-out bills to tourists. Keep an eye out to avoid getting stuck with unusable notes!

Power Plugs & Sockets

The power sockets in Cambodia accept a variety of international plugs. With that said, the best thing to do is bring a travel adapter that will plug into a variety of different sockets depending on where you are at.

Type 1: A multi-use socket is most common in modern buildings and hotels. This accepts typical American, European, and British devices.

Type 2: Two-pronged American sockets are found everywhere. Keep in mind that three-pronged devices, as well as two-pronged devices that have one prong wider than the other, will not fit into these.

Type 3: Two-pronged European sockets are also very common.

Quick Tip:

For your day-to-day devices, a voltage converter (which is different from a typical travel adaptor) is not needed. Keep larger electronic devices (like hair dryers) at home as your hotels will offer these.

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July 16, 2025
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