- The best travel insurance plans for Cambodia
- Current travel safety in Cambodia
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Cambodia?
- Why you should take out travel insurance for Cambodia
- What should travel insurance for Cambodia cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Cambodia
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Cambodia
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Cambodia?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Cambodia: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Cambodia covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost personal belongings.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended to cover potential high medical costs.
3. Healthcare cost: Medical care is limited, and a hospital stay can easily cost thousands of dollars.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Cambodia typically costs between $30 and $60 AUD.
5. Good to know: Australians must complete an e-Arrival Card online within 7 days before flying to Cambodia.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 42 travel insurance policies available in Australia, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Cambodia.
The best travel insurance plans for Cambodia
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 1.6M AUD | Strongly recommended for travel to Cambodia. - high reimbursement limit - repatriation included - few exclusions |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1.6M AUD | Broad cover for various situations and support. - 24/7 medical helpline - trip cancellation cover - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | 800k AUD | Ideal for tourists in Cambodia at a reasonable cost. - good medical cover - emergency assistance - attractive price |
| Travel Pass Monde | 1.1M AUD | Balanced cover for global trips including Cambodia. - high medical ceiling - repatriation - worldwide scope |
| Globe Partner | 480k AUD | Suitable for longer or study stays abroad. - reliable medical care - repatriation included - civil liability cover |
| Globe Traveller | 800k AUD | A practical choice for short, low-risk trips. - essential medical cover - fast reimbursement - support network |
- high reimbursement limit
- repatriation included
- few exclusions
- 24/7 medical helpline
- trip cancellation cover
- no deductible
- good medical cover
- emergency assistance
- attractive price
- high medical ceiling
- repatriation
- worldwide scope
- reliable medical care
- repatriation included
- civil liability cover
- essential medical cover
- fast reimbursement
- support network
Current travel safety in Cambodia
As of June 2025, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises travellers to exercise normal safety precautions in Cambodia, reflecting stable conditions for tourists but requiring vigilance due to situational changes at borders and local risks.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: petty crime such as phone and bag snatching is prevalent, especially in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Travellers should take particular care on motorbikes and in busy night markets.
- Health risks: infectious diseases including avian influenza, dengue fever, and rabies present ongoing risks. In June 2025, fatal H5N1 bird flu cases were confirmed, so avoid contact with birds and seek prompt medical care after animal bites.
- Legal requirements: visa rules are strictly enforced, with detention possible for overstaying. Australians must register with the Foreigner Present in Cambodia System (FPCS) through accommodation providers upon arrival.
- Road and drink safety: road accidents are frequent and deadly due to poor lighting and unsafe vehicles, especially outside cities. Drink spiking and methanol poisoning have led to serious incidents, so avoid unlabelled alcohol.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Cambodia.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Cambodia?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for Australian citizens to enter Cambodia.
While you are not required to show proof of insurance at entry, it is strongly recommended due to the high cost of medical care, limited medical facilities, and the need for upfront payment even in emergencies. Choosing a policy with at least AUD 75,000 medical cover is advisable.
According to our data, 80% of travellers purchase travel insurance before going to Cambodia. This high percentage reflects both the risks of disease and limited access to quality health care.
Why you should take out travel insurance for Cambodia
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Cambodia.
In Cambodia, foreigners usually require treatment at private hospitals in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, such as Royal Phnom Penh Hospital. Costs can be significant, and public hospitals are seldom recommended for foreigners due to limited equipment and English proficiency.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transportation, and repatriation costs to Australia if a serious problem arises.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Cambodia.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Royal Phnom Penh Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 3,500,000 KHR (1,300 AUD) | up to 1,600,000 AUD |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 4,000,000 KHR (1,480 AUD) | up to 1,600,000 AUD |
| I need to be repatriated | 120,000,000 KHR (44,500 AUD) | up to 1,600,000 AUD |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 15,000,000 KHR (5,550 AUD) | up to 1,600,000 AUD |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Cambodia cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital and doctor bills following illness or injury, including medications and emergency care. For Cambodia, a minimum reimbursement limit of 100,000 AUD is highly recommended. |
| ✈️ Repatriation | Pays for evacuation to Australia if medical care is unavailable locally or for return of remains. Choose a limit of at least 150,000 AUD for full protection. |
| 🚑 Emergency medical evacuation | Covers air ambulance or transfer to a better-equipped facility abroad. Opt for a reimbursement limit of at least 120,000 AUD. |
| 💼 Personal liability | Protects you if you cause injury to someone or damage property accidentally. Recommended minimum coverage is 1,000,000 AUD. |
| 🧳 Baggage and valuables | Pays if your luggage or valuables are lost, stolen, or damaged during your trip. Look for cover of at least 5,000 AUD. |
| ❌ Trip cancellation or curtailment | Reimburses non-refundable expenses if your trip is cancelled or cut short by emergencies (medical, family, disaster). Set a sum insured of 10,000 AUD. |
| 🦠 Infectious diseases | Covers expenses for medical treatment if you contract an infectious disease such as dengue or avian flu. Minimum recommended cover: 100,000 AUD. |
| 🚘 Road accident cover | Includes emergency transport and medical costs if injured in a motor vehicle or scooter accident. Minimum recommended limit: 80,000 AUD. |
For Cambodia, a minimum reimbursement limit of 100,000 AUD is highly recommended.
Choose a limit of at least 150,000 AUD for full protection.
Opt for a reimbursement limit of at least 120,000 AUD.
Recommended minimum coverage is 1,000,000 AUD.
Look for cover of at least 5,000 AUD.
Set a sum insured of 10,000 AUD.
Minimum recommended cover: 100,000 AUD.
Minimum recommended limit: 80,000 AUD.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often comes with lower benefits and many exclusions. For better financial security, choose a reputable insurer offering comprehensive coverage. Use HelloSafe to compare top options and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Cambodia
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | 38 AUD |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | 64 AUD |
| 1 month | 35 years old | 99 AUD |
| 1 month | 70 years old | 186 AUD |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance for Cambodia is influenced by several key factors: your age, trip duration, the destination's risks, your level of cover, and any optional add-ons like cancellation. Being aware of these will help you select a suitable policy, ensuring you have adequate protection for your trip.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Cambodia
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Cambodia while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip duration | Insurance costs increase with the length of your stay. Shorter trips reduce your total cost. | Buy a plan that only covers your travel dates. Extending later is often possible if your trip goes longer. |
| 🎒 Type of activities | Some activities like motorbiking or trekking increase risk and premiums. | Select only the activities you plan to do. Extra adventure or sports coverage increases the price. |
| 👫 Number of travellers | Family or group policies may offer better value for multiple travellers vs separate contracts. | Look for family or couple bundles, which are often discounted compared to individual policies. |
| 💊 Level of coverage | Higher coverage means higher premiums, especially for medical and repatriation expenses. | Choose limits that suit Cambodia’s real risks but avoid excessive sums beyond embassy recommendations. |
| 🛫 Policy excess | Excess is your financial contribution in case of a claim. Lower excess means higher cost. | Opt for a moderate excess to save money but still limit your out-of-pocket risk in case of a claim. |
| 🎂 Traveller’s age | Premiums increase with age due to risk factors, especially for older travellers. | Consider that Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, which may save money if you qualify. |
| 🌏 Worldwide vs region | Global coverage is pricier than regional Asian options and not always necessary. | Select a policy valid only in Asia or Southeast Asia if you are not visiting other regions on your trip. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Cambodia?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your current cover—like public health insurance, private health insurance, or credit card insurance—can protect you during a trip to Cambodia. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient, particularly for medical emergencies or hospitalisation abroad. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Cambodia? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance | Never | No overseas cover except for rare government agreements. Medical costs and hospitalisation not covered. | Travel insurance reimburses up to unlimited AUD for overseas medical expenses and hospital stays, plus assistance and mediation. |
| Private health insurance | Limited coverage | May cover medical emergencies up to 10,000 AUD but rarely includes repatriation or cash advances. | Travel insurance covers emergencies up to unlimited AUD, repatriation, and emergencies beyond the limits of private health insurers. |
| Classic credit card (ANZ, NAB, Westpac) | Limited coverage | Basic accident or hospital expenses up to 2,500 AUD. No routine treatments or adventure sports included. | Travel insurance reimburses up to unlimited AUD for medical, repatriation, and additional risks like theft, missed flights or rabies. |
| Premium credit card (Amex, Qantas, CBA) | Limited coverage | Enhanced benefits, health cover up to 20,000 AUD but strict limits and many exclusions, especially for risks in Cambodia. | Travel insurance pays up to unlimited AUD, covers medical emergencies, personal liability, lost bags, and infectious disease treatment. |
Example
While exploring near Siem Reap, Liam crashed his scooter, suffering a severe leg fracture. The emergency surgery and hospital stay cost AU$45,000. His standard bank card insurance excluded scooter use, and his Aussie health fund offered no cover abroad, leaving him to pay the entire crippling bill himself.
Expert advice
Your credit card or health fund often excludes key situations like trip cancellation for a family emergency. Carefully check your policy's fine print to avoid shock bills overseas. For peace of mind, it's always safer and more reassuring to buy dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Cambodia?
Yes, Australian citizens need a visa to travel to Cambodia. You can apply for an e-visa online or obtain a visa on arrival at certain points of entry. Your passport should be valid for more than six months from the date you arrive. Always check for the latest entry and visa requirements before your trip.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Cambodia?
First, compare options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the best plan for your needs. Next, check the cover and exclusions, making sure the policy addresses Cambodia’s specific risks such as medical expenses and adventure activities. Buy your policy online. Once purchased, you’ll receive your insurance certificate by email.
Are there any special health risks travellers to Cambodia should be aware of?
Yes, travellers to Cambodia should be aware of risks like avian influenza, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, malaria, and rabies. It's important to avoid contact with animals, use insect repellent, and take care with food and water. Check with your doctor about recommended vaccinations before your trip.
What happens if I get sick or have an accident in Cambodia?
Medical care in Cambodia may be limited, especially outside of Phnom Penh. If you need medical treatment or hospital admission, you may be required to pay upfront, and medical facilities can be expensive. Travel insurance with a high medical cover limit is strongly advised to cover these costs.
Can travel insurance cover me if my belongings are stolen or lost?
Most travel insurance policies cover loss or theft of belongings, such as passports, luggage, money, and electronics. Check the policy’s limits for single items and total claims, and keep receipts or proof of ownership where possible, as you may need these for a claim.
Does travel insurance cover problems caused by natural disasters or civil unrest in Cambodia?
Travel insurance may provide cover if your trip is affected by natural disasters or civil unrest, such as flight changes or trip cancellations. Always read the policy’s terms to ensure these events are included, and take note of any exclusions or restrictions related to pre-existing situations or government travel warnings.
Do I need a visa to travel to Cambodia?
Yes, Australian citizens need a visa to travel to Cambodia. You can apply for an e-visa online or obtain a visa on arrival at certain points of entry. Your passport should be valid for more than six months from the date you arrive. Always check for the latest entry and visa requirements before your trip.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Cambodia?
First, compare options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the best plan for your needs. Next, check the cover and exclusions, making sure the policy addresses Cambodia’s specific risks such as medical expenses and adventure activities. Buy your policy online. Once purchased, you’ll receive your insurance certificate by email.
Are there any special health risks travellers to Cambodia should be aware of?
Yes, travellers to Cambodia should be aware of risks like avian influenza, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, malaria, and rabies. It's important to avoid contact with animals, use insect repellent, and take care with food and water. Check with your doctor about recommended vaccinations before your trip.
What happens if I get sick or have an accident in Cambodia?
Medical care in Cambodia may be limited, especially outside of Phnom Penh. If you need medical treatment or hospital admission, you may be required to pay upfront, and medical facilities can be expensive. Travel insurance with a high medical cover limit is strongly advised to cover these costs.
Can travel insurance cover me if my belongings are stolen or lost?
Most travel insurance policies cover loss or theft of belongings, such as passports, luggage, money, and electronics. Check the policy’s limits for single items and total claims, and keep receipts or proof of ownership where possible, as you may need these for a claim.
Does travel insurance cover problems caused by natural disasters or civil unrest in Cambodia?
Travel insurance may provide cover if your trip is affected by natural disasters or civil unrest, such as flight changes or trip cancellations. Always read the policy’s terms to ensure these events are included, and take note of any exclusions or restrictions related to pre-existing situations or government travel warnings.
