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What Money Do You Need for Cambodia? (USD vs Riel Explained for Travellers)

If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia, one of the first practical questions is what money you’ll need when you arrive. Unlike many countries, Cambodia uses two currencies side by side: US dollars and Cambodian riel. For travellers, this can be confusing at first, but in reality it’s quite straightforward once you understand how it works.

Across Cambodia, from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap and smaller towns, US dollars are widely accepted and are the main currency used for most tourist-related expenses. Cambodian riel is still used in everyday transactions, especially for smaller amounts, and you’ll often receive it as change.

Understanding how these two currencies work together will help you avoid confusion, make payments easier, and ensure you’re prepared from the moment you land.

Table of Contents

USD vs Cambodian Riel: What’s the Difference?

Cambodia operates a dual-currency system:

  • US Dollars (USD) are used for most tourist-related payments, including hotels, tours, and transport services
  • Cambodian Riel (KHR) is typically used for small purchases and you’ll often receive it as change

For example, if something costs $3.50, you’ll usually pay in USD and receive the $0.50 in riel.

For visitors, this means you don’t need to exchange money into a local currency before arriving. Bringing US dollars is the simplest option.

Do You Need Cambodian Riel or US Dollars?

In most situations, you can rely on US dollars:

  • Hotels, tours, and transport are almost always priced in USD
  • Restaurants and cafes in tourist areas accept USD
  • Tickets and activities are usually listed in USD

Cambodian riel (KHR) is mainly used for:

  • Small local purchases
  • Street food and markets
  • Change from USD payments

For example, if something costs $2.75, you’ll typically pay with US dollars and receive the $0.25 in riel.

Should You Bring Cash to Cambodia?

Yes – cash is still very important in Cambodia.

For most travellers:

  • Bring US dollars in good condition
  • Smaller notes ($1, $5, $10, $20) are very useful
  • Avoid torn, old, or marked bills, as they may be refused

You don’t need to bring all your spending money with you, as ATMs are widely available across the country.

Using ATMs and Getting Money in Cambodia

ATMs are easy to find in major destinations like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.

  • Most ATMs dispense US dollars
  • Some also offer Cambodian riel
  • Withdrawal fees typically apply (usually around $4–$6)

This means you can arrive with a small amount of cash and withdraw more as needed.

Can You Pay by Card in Cambodia?

Card payments are becoming more common, especially in cities, but cash is still the standard in many places.

  • Larger hotels and restaurants usually accept cards
  • Smaller businesses often accept cash only
  • Some places add a small fee for card payments

For day-to-day spending, it’s best to rely on cash and treat card payments as a backup.

How the Currency System Works

Cambodia’s dual-currency system is easy once you see it in practice:

  • Prices are often shown in USD
  • You pay in USD
  • You receive small change in riel

You don’t need to calculate exchange rates constantly — the system is widely understood and consistent across the country.

Tips for Handling Money in Cambodia

  • Keep a mix of small USD notes for convenience
  • Check your bills are in good condition before using them
  • Don’t worry about exchanging money before arrival
  • Expect to carry both USD and riel at the same time

Money at Phnom Penh International Airport (KTI)

When you arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport:

  • ATMs are available in the arrivals area
  • You can withdraw US dollars directly
  • Some services accept cards, but cash is still preferred in many cases

Many travellers choose to withdraw a small amount on arrival and handle the rest later in the city.

If you prefer to avoid dealing with ATMs immediately after a long flight, it’s common to arrange your transport in advance and pay in cash once you arrive at your hotel.

If you prefer to avoid dealing with ATMs immediately after a long flight, many travellers choose to arrange their transport in advance. You can book a Phnom Penh airport transfer with a fixed price and pay in cash once you arrive, making the process much simpler after landing.

For more options, including private cars and transfers across Cambodia, you can also explore services through Connect Cambodia’s Phnom Penh airport transfer service.

Money at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI)

At Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, accessing cash is generally straightforward, but it’s still helpful to know what to expect after landing.

  • ATMs are available shortly after arrival
  • Most machines dispense US dollars, which are widely used throughout Siem Reap
  • Card payments are accepted in some places, but cash is still preferred for many services

Many travellers withdraw a small amount on arrival for immediate expenses such as transport, food, or tips, and then organise the rest once they’re settled in the city.

 

If you’d prefer to avoid using ATMs straight away after a long journey, it’s common to arrange your transport in advance. Booking a Siem Reap airport transfer with a fixed price allows you to go directly to your hotel and pay in cash on arrival, making the process much smoother after landing.

 

Final Thoughts

For most travellers, US dollars are the simplest and most practical currency to use in Cambodia. Cambodian riel plays a supporting role for smaller transactions, but you don’t need to plan heavily around it.

As long as you arrive with some usable USD or access to an ATM, you’ll be able to manage easily throughout your trip.