Asia & Pacific · Best Nov–Feb
Cambodia packing list for families
A family trip to Cambodia usually revolves around the temples of Angkor, where long, hot days and strict dress rules shape everything you pack. A few smart pieces keep everyone cool, covered, and ready for those early sunrise starts.
Photo by Sasha Kaunas on Unsplash
Kristina's notes on Cambodia
- Most family trips center on Siem Reap and the Angkor temples, sometimes with Phnom Penh or a few beach days, and often added to Vietnam or Thailand. I fly between cities to skip long road days and give Angkor at least three nights so temple time can be split into short mornings and late afternoons. The new Siem Reap airport is about an hour's drive from town, so plan arrivals with that in mind.
- US citizens need a visa. I apply for the official e-visa ahead of time rather than waiting in the arrival line, and complete the online arrival card before the flight. Cambodia has been updating its entry forms, so check the current rules a few weeks out.
- Temples ask for covered shoulders and knees, and the upper level of Angkor Wat is checked closely. Late March through May is the hottest stretch of the year, so in those months I plan the temples for early morning and keep afternoons for the pool and naps.
Best timeNov–Feb
PlugsTypes A, C and G, bring an adapter
MoneyCambodian riel (US dollars widely used)
PassportYes
Where to go
Where to go in Cambodia
Splitting your trip across a few stops? Each place has its own detailed list, weather, and notes.
Your packing edit
Cambodia
This time of year
Shop this list
Every item links to what Kristina would buy. Tap Add to bag on what you're missing, then check out on Amazon in one tap.
Carry-on18
Carry-on suitcase per personKristina's pick
Packing cubes, one color per personKristina's pickEveryone knows exactly which cube is theirs.
Kids' headphones, volume-limited
Tablet with downloaded shows
Snack box with dividers
Reusable water bottles
Change of clothes for each kid
Car seat travel bag
Travel neck pillow for the grown-ups
Kids' travel pillow
Light blanket or large scarf for the plane
Change of shirt for the grown-upsSpills on a kid mean spills on you.
Baby wipes, even for big kids
Kids' backpack for their own things
Coloring book, sticker book, or activity pad
A new book or two
Gum or mints
Foot rest sling for long flightsKristina's pickHooks over the tray table so your feet are up and your back thanks you after hour six. I never fly long-haul without mine.
Clothing14
Daytime outfits8 per person
Pajamas2 per person
One nicer outfit for dinners and photos
Underwear and socks9 per person
Light sweater or sweatshirt per personPlanes, restaurants, and evenings run cool.
Light rain jacket per person
Leggings or comfy travel pants for the flight
Shorts and skirts
Swim cover-ups
Belt
Sports bra or workout clothes
Socks for closed shoes, plus a spare pair
Pajamas for the first night in the carry-onIf a bag is late, bedtime still happens.
Lightweight long pantsCover knees for the temples and help with sun and mosquitoes.
Shoes4
Broken-in walking sneakersKristina's pickNever bring brand-new shoes on a walking trip.
Sandals
Flip-flops or slides for the pool and shower
Dress shoes or nicer sandals
Beach & pool13
Swimsuits2 per person
UPF rash guardsKristina's pick
Mineral sunscreen
Wide-brim sun hats
Swim diapers
Hyperlite life jacket for boat and ocean daysKristina's pickA properly fitted life jacket for boats and open water.
Lightweight beach tote
Goggles
Sand toys that nest flat
Pool float or swim vest for little swimmers
Waterproof phone pouch
After-sun aloe
Sand-free beach towel
Adventure2
Bug spray
Cooling towelsKristina's pickTemple days are hot, with shade mostly from trees.
Little ones12
Diapers and wipesenough for 3 days, buy the rest there
Portable sound machineKristina's pickMakes every hotel room feel like home.
Travel blackout shades
Favorite lovey, plus a backup
Sippy cup or straw cup
Bibs and a few spoons
Portable changing pad
Diaper cream
Baby monitor
Fitted crib sheet from homeA familiar smell helps babies sleep in a new crib.
Outlet covers
Potty seat or folding potty
Little things22
AirTag in each checked bagKristina's pickYou'll know your bag made the connection before you do.
Stain remover penGelato happens. Photos still look great.
Laundry detergent sheetsOne sink wash halfway through means packing half the clothes.
Gallon zip bags, a handfulWet swimsuits, sandy shoes, and the occasional car-sick emergency.
Pen in your carry-onFor arrival forms, so you're not borrowing one in the immigration line.
Hair ties and a small detangling brush
Hand sanitizer wipes and pocket tissues
Lollipops or gum for takeoff and landingSwallowing helps little ears pop.
A few wrapped surprise toys for the flightUnwrapping buys you twenty minutes. Unwrapping slowly buys thirty.
Stick-on battery night lightHotel rooms are pitch dark, and the bathroom is never where they expect.
Kids' nail clippers and tweezersSplinters from boardwalks and docks are a vacation classic.
Kids' sunglasses
Wet bag for swimsuits
Electrolyte packetsHot days and long walks catch up with kids before they say they're thirsty.
Earplugs and an eye mask for the grown-ups
Small foldable tote for souvenirs and laundry
Sewing kit and safety pins
Luggage tags
Collapsible water bottle for the grown-ups
Sunglasses for the grown-ups
Small headlampSunrise at Angkor Wat means walking in the dark over uneven stone.
Crisp small US billsDollars are used everywhere, and torn or worn notes are often refused.
Health & toiletries18
Travel first-aid kit
Kids' fever reducer and allergy medicine
Hanging toiletry bag
Toothbrushes and toothpaste
Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
Deodorant
Hairbrush, comb, and hair ties
Face wash and moisturizer
Makeup and makeup remover
Razor
Contact lenses, solution, and glasses
Prescription medicines in original bottlesKeep them in your carry-on, never in checked bags.
Bandages and blister pads
Kids' thermometer
Anti-itch cream
Hand lotion and SPF lip balm
Feminine products
Clear quart bag for liquids
Documents & tech18
Portable phone chargerKristina's pick
Driver's licenses and kids' IDs
Health insurance cards
Travel insurance details
Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees
Some cash in small billsFor tips, taxis, and markets.
Photos of passports and IDs on your phone
Booking confirmations saved offline
Phone chargers and cables for everyone
Multi-port wall chargerOne outlet, every device charged by morning.
Tablet chargers and kids' headphones adapter
Wireless earbuds for the grown-ups
Airplane Bluetooth adapter for seatback screens
Camera and memory card
E-reader
Spare passport photosUseful for a visa on arrival or a local SIM card if you need one.
Passports for everyone, valid 6+ months past your trip
Travel plug adapterKristina's pickTypes A, C and G, bring an adapter
The outfit edit
Temple linen
Ivory, wheat, sage, clay
For the grown-ups
For the kids
For photos
- Soft neutrals against colorful markets and temples
- Early morning light, before the heat
Tap any piece to shop the look.
Month by month
Cambodia weather and what's happening
Typical daytime highs and what each month feels like with kids.
| Month | Typical high | What it's like | Don't miss |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 89°F 32°C | Dry season, warm with lower humidity, the most comfortable months for temples | |
| February | 92°F 33°C | Dry season, warm with lower humidity, the most comfortable months for temples | |
| March | 95°F 35°C | Hot season, very hot and dry, with the first afternoon storms arriving in May | Around the March equinox, the sun rises directly over Angkor Wat's central tower |
| April | 96°F 36°C | Hot season, very hot and dry, with the first afternoon storms arriving in May | Khmer New Year in mid-April, with water play, games, and busy temples |
| May | 95°F 35°C | Hot season, very hot and dry, with the first afternoon storms arriving in May | |
| June | 92°F 33°C | Green season, with afternoon or evening downpours, lush scenery, and fewer crowds; heaviest rain in September and October | |
| July | 90°F 32°C | Green season, with afternoon or evening downpours, lush scenery, and fewer crowds; heaviest rain in September and October | Full moats and green jungle give Angkor its best reflections and quietest paths |
| August | 90°F 32°C | Green season, with afternoon or evening downpours, lush scenery, and fewer crowds; heaviest rain in September and October | Full moats and green jungle give Angkor its best reflections and quietest paths |
| September | 89°F 32°C | Green season, with afternoon or evening downpours, lush scenery, and fewer crowds; heaviest rain in September and October | Full moats and green jungle give Angkor its best reflections and quietest paths Pchum Ben, a major family festival in September or October, when many businesses close |
| October | 88°F 31°C | Green season, with afternoon or evening downpours, lush scenery, and fewer crowds; heaviest rain in September and October | Full moats and green jungle give Angkor its best reflections and quietest paths Pchum Ben, a major family festival in September or October, when many businesses close |
| November | 87°F 31°C | Dry season, warm with lower humidity, the most comfortable months for temples | The Water Festival, usually in November, with boat races in Phnom Penh |
| December | 87°F 31°C | Dry season, warm with lower humidity, the most comfortable months for temples |
Questions families ask
Cambodia with kids, answered
When is the best time to visit Cambodia with kids?
The best time is Nov–Feb. Dry season, warm with lower humidity, the most comfortable months for temples
What's the weather like in Cambodia?
Typical daytime highs range from about 87°F (31°C) in November to about 96°F (36°C) in April. See the month-by-month table on this page.
Do I need a passport for Cambodia?
Yes. Bring a passport for everyone, including babies, and make sure each one is valid for at least six months past your trip. Check visa and entry rules before you go.
What kind of plug adapter do I need for Cambodia?
Types A, C and G, bring an adapter.
What's your top tip for Cambodia with kids?
Most family trips center on Siem Reap and the Angkor temples, sometimes with Phnom Penh or a few beach days, and often added to Vietnam or Thailand. I fly between cities to skip long road days and give Angkor at least three nights so temple time can be split into short mornings and late afternoons. The new Siem Reap airport is about an hour's drive from town, so plan arrivals with that in mind.
let's stay in touch
New destination lists, seasonal tips, and the gear we're loving.
Want the whole trip handled?
I'm Kristina, and planning family trips is what I do.
As a luxury travel advisor with KM Luxe Travel, I plan the hotels, the flow of the days, and the little details, often with perks like breakfast and upgrades when available.