What should I not do in Cambodia?

Don't touch anyone's head, point feet at people or religious objects, wear shoes inside temples or homes, or take photos of military installations. Avoid giving money or sweets to begging children — support registered charities instead.

Is it rude to haggle in Cambodia?

Haggling is expected at markets and with tuk-tuk drivers. However, be reasonable — arguing over small amounts is considered poor form. A good rule is to aim for 20–30% off the initial asking price.

Do I need to tip in Cambodia?

Tipping isn't traditionally expected but is appreciated in tourist areas. Leaving $1–2 at restaurants or rounding up tuk-tuk fares is a kind gesture. Tour guides typically receive $5–10 per day.

Can I drink tap water in Cambodia?

No. Always drink bottled or filtered water. Most restaurants and hotels provide purified water. Avoid ice in very small local establishments, though ice in tourist-oriented restaurants is generally safe.

What is the biggest safety concern for tourists in Cambodia?

Petty theft (bag snatching from motorbikes) is the most common safety issue, particularly in Phnom Penh. Keep valuables in a front-facing bag, don't use your phone while walking near roads, and avoid displaying expensive jewelry.

What should I not do in Cambodia?

Don't touch anyone's head, point feet at people or religious objects, wear shoes inside temples or homes, or take photos of military installations. Avoid giving money or sweets to begging children — support registered charities instead.

Is it rude to haggle in Cambodia?

Haggling is expected at markets and with tuk-tuk drivers. However, be reasonable — arguing over small amounts is considered poor form. A good rule is to aim for 20–30% off the initial asking price.

Do I need to tip in Cambodia?

Tipping isn't traditionally expected but is appreciated in tourist areas. Leaving $1–2 at restaurants or rounding up tuk-tuk fares is a kind gesture. Tour guides typically receive $5–10 per day.

Can I drink tap water in Cambodia?

No. Always drink bottled or filtered water. Most restaurants and hotels provide purified water. Avoid ice in very small local establishments, though ice in tourist-oriented restaurants is generally safe.

What is the biggest safety concern for tourists in Cambodia?

Petty theft (bag snatching from motorbikes) is the most common safety issue, particularly in Phnom Penh. Keep valuables in a front-facing bag, don't use your phone while walking near roads, and avoid displaying expensive jewelry.

15 Common Mistakes Tourists Make in Cambodia

Cambodia is welcoming and forgiving of tourist faux pas, but avoiding common mistakes makes your trip smoother, safer, and more respectful. Here are 15 mistakes that first-time visitors frequently make — and how to avoid them.

Planning Mistakes

1. Only Visiting Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is magnificent, but Cambodia offers far more. The country's destinations include the vibrant capital Phnom Penh, the colonial charm of Battambang, the pepper farms of Kampot, and pristine islands off the southern coast. Limiting yourself to Siem Reap means missing the bigger picture.

2. Not Buying the Multi-Day Angkor Pass

A one-day pass ($37) barely scratches the surface. The three-day pass ($62) lets you explore at a comfortable pace and visit lesser-known temples that are often more rewarding than the main circuit.

3. Skipping Travel Insurance

Healthcare facilities in Cambodia are limited outside Phnom Penh. Serious injuries may require medical evacuation to Bangkok. Comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential, not optional.

Money Mistakes

4. Not Carrying Small Bills

Cambodia uses both US dollars and Cambodian riel. Many vendors, tuk-tuk drivers, and small shops cannot break $20 or $50 bills. Arrive with plenty of $1 and $5 notes.

5. Overpaying for Everything

Tourist prices exist, but the gap is manageable with basic awareness. Check our Cambodia cost guide for current price benchmarks on accommodation, food, and transport so you know what's reasonable.

Busy street with tuk-tuks and motorbikes in a Cambodian city during daytime — Always agree on tuk-tuk prices before departure to avoid disputes

6. Not Negotiating Tuk-Tuk Prices

Always agree on the fare before getting in a tuk-tuk. Use ride-hailing apps like PassApp or Grab where available for transparent pricing.

Cultural Mistakes

7. Wearing Inappropriate Temple Clothing

Temples require covered knees and shoulders. This is strictly enforced at Angkor Wat and the Royal Palace. Pack lightweight long pants and a scarf or shawl.

8. Touching People's Heads

The head is considered sacred in Cambodian culture. Never touch anyone's head, including children, no matter how well-intentioned.

9. Giving Money to Begging Children

While heartbreaking, giving money to children encourages them to stay out of school. Support registered NGOs and sustainable tourism practices instead.

Practical Mistakes

10. Drinking Tap Water

Always drink bottled or filtered water. A reusable bottle with a built-in filter reduces plastic waste while keeping you safe.

11. Forgetting Sunscreen and Insect Repellent

The tropical sun is intense, especially during temple visits with limited shade. Apply high-SPF sunscreen regularly and use DEET-based repellent, particularly at dawn and dusk.

12. Not Checking Visa Requirements

Most nationalities need a visa. The visa on arrival process is straightforward, but having an e-visa prepared saves time at immigration. Understand the common scams at border crossings.

Backpacker organizing travel essentials and packing bag in a guesthouse room — Smart packing — including modest clothing, small bills, and sun protection — prevents most common tourist issues

13. Overpacking

Cambodia is hot and casual. You need far fewer clothes than you think. Laundry services are cheap ($1–2 per kg) and available everywhere.

14. Not Learning Basic Khmer Phrases

A simple "suo sdei" (hello) and "awkun" (thank you) in Khmer opens doors and earns genuine smiles. Cambodians deeply appreciate any effort to speak their language.

15. Rushing Through Cambodia

Cambodia rewards slow travel. Spending an extra day in Battambang or a night in a rural homestay reveals a side of the country that rushed itineraries miss entirely.