Asia & Pacific · Best Nov–Feb
Siem Reap and Angkor packing list for families
Angkor is hot, sprawling, and full of steep steps, and its temples ask for modest clothing. A few thoughtful pieces make the early starts and long temple days much easier for kids.
Photo by allPhoto Bangkok on Unsplash
Kristina's notes on Cambodia: Siem Reap & Angkor
- Angkor's temples ask for shoulders and knees covered, and some upper levels are strict about it. Loose linen pants and tees with sleeves are cooler than you would expect.
- Plan temple visits for early morning and late afternoon, with a pool and nap break in between. Kids stay curious much longer when the midday heat is out of the picture.
- The Angkor pass is issued with a photo of each visitor. Children under 12 usually enter free, so bring their passports to show their age.
Best timeNov–Feb
PlugsTypes A, C and G, bring an adapter
MoneyCambodian riel (US dollars widely used)
PassportYes
Your packing edit
Cambodia: Siem Reap & Angkor
This time of year
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Carry-on8
Carry-on suitcase per personOur pick
Packing cubes, one color per personOur 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
Clothing5
Daytime outfits8 per person
Pajamas2 per person
One nicer outfit for dinners and photos
Underwear and socks9 per person
Warm winter coat, hats, and glovesEuropean winters are cold and damp.
Shoes2
Broken-in walking sneakersOur pickNever bring brand-new shoes on a walking trip.
Closed-toe walking shoesTemple steps are steep, uneven, and worn.
Beach & pool1
Mineral sunscreen
Adventure1
Small flashlight or headlampOur pickSunrise at Angkor Wat means walking in before dawn.
Little ones5
Diapers and wipesenough for 3 days, buy the rest there
Portable sound machineOur pickMakes every hotel room feel like home.
Travel blackout shades
Favorite lovey, plus a backup
Soft baby carrier instead of a strollerOur pickStairs, cobblestones, or trails make strollers hard here.
Health & toiletries6
Travel first-aid kit
Kids' fever reducer and allergy medicine
Hanging toiletry bag
Cooling towelHelps on hot, humid temple mornings.
Electrolyte powder packetsKids sweat a lot climbing temples.
Insect repellent wipesMosquitoes are active around the jungle temples, especially at dusk.
Documents & tech5
Phone lanyard or crossbody case
Portable phone chargerOur pick
Kids' ID bracelet with your phone number
Passports for everyone, valid 6+ months past your trip
Travel plug adapterOur pickTypes A, C and G, bring an adapter
The outfit edit
Temple linen
Ivory, wheat, sage, clay
For the grown-ups
- Loose linen pants and midi skirts
- Light tops that cover the shoulders
- A scarf for temples and sun
For the kids
- Breathable cotton sets
- Shorts that reach the knee for temple visits
- Easy slip-on shoes for shoes-off sites
For photos
- Soft neutrals against colorful markets and temples
- Early morning light, before the heat
Month by month
Cambodia: Siem Reap & Angkor 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 | Cool dry season: sunny, lower humidity, and the busiest time at the temples | Peak holiday crowds, so plan sunrise and the big temples carefully |
| February | 92°F 33°C | Cool dry season: sunny, lower humidity, and the busiest time at the temples | |
| March | 95°F 35°C | Hot season: very hot and humid, with dusty paths | Around the spring equinox, the sun rises over Angkor Wat's central tower |
| April | 96°F 36°C | Hot season: very hot and humid, with dusty paths | Khmer New Year in mid-April, with festivities and some closures |
| May | 95°F 35°C | Hot season: very hot and humid, with dusty paths | |
| June | 92°F 33°C | Rainy season: afternoon downpours, lush jungle, and full temple moats | |
| July | 90°F 32°C | Rainy season: afternoon downpours, lush jungle, and full temple moats | Green season reflections in the Angkor Wat ponds and fewer visitors |
| August | 90°F 32°C | Rainy season: afternoon downpours, lush jungle, and full temple moats | Green season reflections in the Angkor Wat ponds and fewer visitors |
| September | 89°F 32°C | Rainy season: afternoon downpours, lush jungle, and full temple moats | Green season reflections in the Angkor Wat ponds and fewer visitors |
| October | 88°F 31°C | Rainy season: afternoon downpours, lush jungle, and full temple moats | Green season reflections in the Angkor Wat ponds and fewer visitors |
| November | 87°F 31°C | Cool dry season: sunny, lower humidity, and the busiest time at the temples | |
| December | 87°F 31°C | Cool dry season: sunny, lower humidity, and the busiest time at the temples | Peak holiday crowds, so plan sunrise and the big temples carefully |
Questions families ask
Cambodia: Siem Reap & Angkor with kids, answered
When is the best time to visit Cambodia: Siem Reap & Angkor with kids?
The best time is Nov–Feb. Cool dry season: sunny, lower humidity, and the busiest time at the temples
What's the weather like in Cambodia: Siem Reap & Angkor?
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: Siem Reap & Angkor?
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: Siem Reap & Angkor?
Types A, C and G, bring an adapter.
What's your top tip for Cambodia: Siem Reap & Angkor with kids?
Angkor's temples ask for shoulders and knees covered, and some upper levels are strict about it. Loose linen pants and tees with sleeves are cooler than you would expect.
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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.