May 13, 2018 Like in every country around the world, staying vigilant while traveling is essential. Even though scam techniques and situations may differ from one continent to another, countless travelers fall victim to fraud each year globally. To help you sidestep mishaps during your Cambodia trip, we've catalogued the most common traps that target tourists.

Scams and Transportation in Cambodia

Tuk-tuks and Rickshaws: Pitfalls to Watch Out For

Bag Snatching

Bag snatching is a well-known issue across the world, and Cambodia is no exception. The technique is typically straightforward: thieves steal bags and phones from passengers traveling in tuk-tuks. Since these vehicles move relatively slowly, it's easy for motorbikes—usually carrying two riders—to grab your bag and speed away without being caught.

Short-Changed on Change

Before hailing a tuk-tuk or rickshaw, make sure you're carrying small notes rather than large bills. This will spare you the situation where some drivers claim they can't make change and demand you pay more than the agreed fare.

Detours and Inflated Fares

Many tuk-tuk drivers take advantage of tourists' unfamiliarity with the city by taking lengthy detours. Using apps like PassApp and Grab (available in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap) becomes invaluable for knowing your fare in advance and tracking the route taken during your journey.

Check the Meter Reading

Most rickshaws (2-3 passenger seats) have a kilometer meter to determine the final fare. Glancing at the price displayed at the end of your ride ensures you pay the correct amount. Some drivers artificially inflate the fare and quickly reset the meter so you can't see what was charged.

Helmet Safety in Cambodia

While not strictly a scam, riding a motorbike without a helmet—as many Khmer locals unfortunately do—can be costly. First, it's crucial to remember that traveling in Cambodia doesn't exempt you from prioritizing safety. In fact, road safety awareness isn't as strong as in Western countries, and accident risks are very real. If you decide to rent a scooter in Cambodia, wear a helmet even if it's hot. Second, not wearing one is a traffic violation, and police won't hesitate to fine you.

Taking the Bus in Cambodia

Bus: Stop Announcements

If you're planning an overnight bus journey between cities, setting an alarm for your arrival time can save you considerable hassle. Some night bus drivers don't speak English and don't announce stops by name. Make sure you can get off at the right place!

Booking Buses Online

Between reservations not being honored, buses that never show up, and other complications, it's not advisable to book bus tickets online during your stay in Cambodia the way you might in Western countries. One reason cited is that priority is given to passengers who have already paid, leaving those with online reservations in the lurch. Your best bet is to go directly to the bus company's office to make a reservation.

The Money Trap

Currency Exchange Offices

Beware of counterfeit notes at currency exchanges. Dishonest operators have been known to slip fake bills into the bundles they exchange. It's best to ask your hotel or check travel forums for a trustworthy exchange office.

Watch Out for Large Denominations

It bears repeating: Cambodia is a developing nation. At many small shops, making change for 100,000 riels (roughly $25) can be difficult. Imagine trying with a $100 bill. If you need change, your best options are banks or supermarkets. If neither is available, taking a photo of your note before exchanging it can be invaluable. Some scammers will take your bill and exchange it for a counterfeit, then claim your original note was fake. With a photo, you'll have the serial number to verify it's yours.

Damaged Notes

When receiving change, pay close attention to the note's condition. Bills marked with ink stains, "repaired" with tape, or torn—even slightly—won't be accepted. Don't hesitate to refuse a damaged note. Older bills, identifiable by their yellowing, are perfectly usable.

Visits and Activities in Cambodia

Haggling at the Market

Tourists often pay more than locals when shopping for food or souvenirs at markets since prices aren't marked. Remember to negotiate.

From Relaxation to Disaster

You'll find massage parlors throughout Cambodia offering various services at very competitive rates. However, keep a close watch on your bag while you're enjoying your treatment.

Cambodia Postcards

While sending a postcard from your Cambodia trip to loved ones is a lovely gesture, some recipients may not care—they'll simply peel off the stamp to resell it.

Charlène NomadaysAs Nomadays' earliest SEO writer, now content manager and head of communications, Charlène has championed the adventure from its inception with passion and dedication. After seven years living across Asia—from China to Thailand, Mongolia to South Korea—she's made travel a way of life. A lover of words, nature, and human connection, she strives to convey in her writing a thoughtful, responsible, and wonder-filled vision of tourism. For her, every article is a bridge between curiosity, respect, and discovery.