Normally when visiting other countries you have to consider how much money will you need to convert into that country’s currency. And try to get the balance between bringing too much or not enough money. In the case of Cambodia, they use two currencies which are the US dollar and the Riel. So what is the best currency to take to Cambodia?

The US dollar is the best currency to bring to Cambodia. The Riel is the official currency of Cambodia but it is only really used for anything that is under 1 dollar. As well as that your bank or foreign exchange in your home country will more than likely not be able to give you any Riel as they will not have any in reserve.

In this post, we will go through should what is the best currency to take to Cambodia. Let’s get started!

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What Is The Best Currency To Take To Cambodia?

The US dollar is the best currency to bring to Cambodia. The Riel is the official currency of Cambodia but one of the main problems with trying to get Riel from your home bank is that they will not have any in reserve.

As well as that Riel is used only for small transactions that are under 1 dollar. For example, buying a small bottle of water and receiving the change in Riel.

Angkor Wat in Cambodia

Is It Better To Use Dollars Or Riel In Cambodia?

In Cambodia, you will use both the US dollar and Riel. Simply the US dollar is used for anything greater than 1 dollar and Riel is for anything under 1 dollar. And if the change is less than 1 dollar, you will get Riel.

Even using a local ATM in Cambodia, will dispense in US dollars. Either way, you will have to learn how to pay for things in 2 different currencies. It takes a while to figure it out but remember the Riel will start to build up.

Generally, 10,000 Riel is equal to 2.50 Dollars. Always ask what the conversion rate is.

Is Cambodia Expensive?

How expensive a place is depends really on the person but in general, Cambodia is reasonably cheap compared to other places around Southeast Asia. It is not hard to get a nice place to stay at a good price.

You can buy beer in Cambodia for $0.75 upwards. And the food is also fairly cheap.

Can I Use A Credit Card In Cambodia?

Yes, you can use credit cards all over Cambodia but the more small local family-run businesses will more likely not have the facilities to accept credit cards. It is worth having enough cash just to be safe.

In large cities and touristy areas, credit cards are generally accepted. But also there may be an extra 3% fee added to the total price to cover the credit card fees.

Kep National Park in Cambodia

Should I Tip In Cambodia?

No there is no need to tip in Cambodia. Tipping is not expected in Cambodia, so there is no requirement to tip anyone, but small tips for good service are appreciated.

In bars and restaurants, it is customary to leave behind any loose change in coins as a tip.

Wrapping Up

Finally, the US dollar is the best currency to bring to Cambodia. Yes, the Riel is the official currency of Cambodia but it is only used for anything that is under 1 dollar. As well as that your bank or foreign exchange in your home country will more than likely not be able to give you any Riel as they will not have any in reserve and the demand for Riel is extremely low.

And that’s it for now! I’d love to know if this guide on what is the best currency to take to Cambodia has helped you. Let me know if you have any questions and let me know if there is more to add.

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Best Currency take Cambodia