When we first landed in Cambodia, we were surprised to find that prices were listed in both Cambodian Riel and US dollars—sometimes even in the same transaction! If you’re heading there soon, understanding how this dual-currency system works can save you time, stress, and a few awkward moments at the market. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you navigate spending money in Cambodia:
Riel vs. USD: What’s the Difference?
Cambodia operates on a dual-currency system using Cambodian Riel (KHR) and US Dollars (USD) interchangeably. For travelers, this means you’ll likely carry and use both.
- USD is dominant in larger transactions—think hotel bills, tours, and restaurant meals.
- Riel is more common for smaller purchases, like bottled water, tuk-tuk rides, or snacks at a street stall.
- The standard exchange rate is about 4,000 Riel to 1 USD, but always check for the current rate.
Pro Tip: US coins aren’t used in Cambodia. If your total comes to \$1.50, expect to receive 2,000 Riel in change instead of coins.
When to Use USD vs. Riel
Here’s a general breakdown of where and when to use each currency:
| Scenario | Best Currency |
|---|---|
| Hotels & Guesthouses | USD |
| Restaurants & Bars (tourist areas) | USD |
| Local Markets & Street Vendors | Riel |
| Tuk-Tuk Rides | Riel or small USD bills |
| Entry Fees to Attractions | USD |
| Groceries & Convenience Stores | Mixed |
It’s common to pay in one currency and receive change in the other, so don’t be surprised if it happens!
How to Carry and Manage Both Currencies
- Bring clean, undamaged USD bills. Torn or overly worn notes may be rejected.
- Avoid \$50 and \$100 bills unless you’re paying for something big—they’re rarely accepted for small transactions.
- Break large bills at hotels or major stores to get smaller change.
- Keep your Riel neatly organized. Having small notes helps when you’re bargaining or tipping.
Quick Tip: Keep a mix of small USD bills (\$1, \$5, \$10) and Riel in a separate pouch for daily use.
Avoiding Common Money Mistakes
- Don’t exchange money at home. You’ll likely get a poor rate. Use ATMs in Cambodia or bring USD in cash.
- ATM fees can add up—look for ones with low or no withdrawal fees (like ABA Bank or Canadia Bank).
- Double-check change. Because of the currency mix, it’s easy to get confused when getting change back—especially if you’re unfamiliar with the Riel notes.
If you’re heading to Siem Reap, you might also find this Angkor Wat sunrise guide handy—it’s where a lot of your money will go!
What About Credit Cards and Mobile Payments?
- Credit cards are accepted at major hotels, upscale restaurants, and some tour companies.
- Cash is king for everything else. Don’t count on mobile payments or card readers in rural areas or small businesses.
- Bring at least two forms of payment (e.g., credit card + cash) in case of ATM issues.
Final Thoughts
Getting comfortable with Cambodia’s currency system doesn’t take long—and it definitely shouldn’t hold you back from enjoying the country. With a pocket full of crisp USD bills and some Riel for local buys, you’ll be all set to dive into Cambodia’s vibrant markets, temples, and street food scenes.
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