Planning a Visit to Cambodia

A trip to Cambodia can be rewarding and inspiring, but it is very different than a visit to Europe. Although many items can be purchased in Cambodia's markets, some products aren't available or may be difficult to find.

Below is a suggested list of what to bring when planning a visit to Cambodia. If you know you use these items every day, make sure to bring enough of them with you. For convenience, you can download a printable version of this packing list (downloads as a PDF).

If you have visited the Palm Tree Orphanage, have volunteered, or spent time with the projects of Cambodia's Hope, and would like to share your experience on our blog, please email your story to cheryl@cambodiashope.org and she will add it to the blog.

Clothing

Light, airy, casual clothing of natural fibers are most comfortable in Cambodia's heat. Tank tops, short skirts, shorts, or any other revealing or tight clothing are considered inappropriate and should not be worn throughout Cambodia.

lightweight pants, capris and/or long lightweight skirts
long sleeve and short sleeve shirts
sweater or sweatshirt (for air-conditioned cars and buildings)
underwear
pajamas
tennis shoes or comfortable walking shoes
socks
swimsuit
lightweight rain jacket

Toiletries

Be aware that toilet paper is not always available in public restrooms outside of high-end hotels and nice restaurants. You may want to bring either toilet paper or a small package of Kleenex in your day bag - just in case!

shampoo
conditioner
brush, comb
toothbrush
toothpaste
dental floss
razor
tampons, sanitary napkins
contact lens care: saline solution, contact lens case, any cleaning products
eye drops (Cambodia is very dusty; eye drops will comfort dry eyes)
mosquito repellent
suntan lotion
hand sanitizer
small packages of Kleenex (can double as toilet paper)
lip balm

Medicine

Be prepared with all prescriptions; it may be very difficult and inconvenient to get refills during your visit to Cambodia.

pain reliever
band aids
alcohol wipes
anti-biotic ointment
cold medicine
prescription medications
anti-histamines
anti-diarrheal medicine (such as Imodium)

Miscellaneous Items

Almost everything in Cambodia is listed in US dollars. We suggest you bring lots of $1.00 and $5.00 bills, which are most commonly used.

small day pack
sunglasses (Cambodia can be very bright and sunny)
battery operated alarm clock
compact umbrella (indispensable during the rainy season and for bright, sunny days)
camera
money - $1.00 and $5.00 dominations
photocopy of your passport (keep it in a separate place from your passport during your trip)

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A Tribute to Evan Witty
On April 16, 2008 we lost a very special member of the Cambodia's Hope family. Evan Witty was so beloved by all of the children at the Palm Tree Orphanage. We have created a tribute to him on our site.
view tribute »

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