Kampot Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Essential Preparations

Pre-Departure Timeline

Organize your trip with these chronological steps for a seamless journey.

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Confirm passport validity (6 months beyond departure).

Visa Research

Determine visa type; apply for e-visa online.

Flight Booking

Secure international flights to Phnom Penh (PNH) or Sihanoukville (KOS).

Month Before

Health Check

Consult travel health professional for vaccinations/prescriptions.

Travel Insurance

Arrange comprehensive policy (World Nomads recommended).

Initial Accommodation

Book first few nights in Kampot (high season/holidays).

Week Before

Trip Confirmation

Double-check flight times, accommodation, pre-booked tours.

Document Copies

Organize digital/physical passport, visa, insurance, tickets.

Packing & Funds

Pack for climate/activities; obtain some US Dollars currency.

Advance Bookings

Securing these bookings beforehand streamlines your travel arrangements.

Booking Priorities

International flights.
Cambodian visa (if applying for an e-visa).
Your first few nights' accommodation in Kampot.
Any specific tours or activities that are popular.

Further Research & Home Prep

Preparation extends to understanding culture and securing your home.

Pre-Trip Actions

Read up on Cambodian culture and history.
Familiarize yourself with basic Khmer phrases.
Check current travel advisories issued by your government.
Inform family or friends of your itinerary and arrange for house care.

Document Checklist

A list of essential documents for your journey.

Travel Documents

Passport validity confirmation.
Visa documentation.
Flight tickets.
Accommodation vouchers.

Health & Safety

Travel insurance policy.
Emergency contact information.
Prescription medications.
Insect repellent.

Connectivity & Funds

Local SIM card details.
Credit/debit cards.
Some US Dollars cash.
Universal power adapter.

Important Travel Advisory

Always review current travel advisories from your government before finalizing plans. Conditions can change.

Arrival Checklist

Manage your initial entry and settle into Kampot with these steps.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear immigration:
Obtain your visa on arrival or present your pre-arranged e-visa.
2
Collect luggage:
Retrieve your checked bags from the baggage claim.
3
Purchase local SIM card:
Buy a local SIM card at the airport (Phnom Penh International Airport offers good options) for immediate connectivity.

Initial Setup & Orientation

Withdraw local currency:
Use an ATM to withdraw US Dollars; most dispense USD.
Arrange transfer to Kampot:
Secure your transportation from the airport to Kampot.
Orientation strategies:
Get a local map and locate landmarks in Kampot town.

Arrival Orientation Details

Local Orientation

Locate the river, the central market, and the Durian Roundabout.

Take a short walk around the immediate neighborhood of your accommodation to get your bearings.

Currency & Essentials

ATMs are the easiest way to get USD. Most dispense US dollars.

Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival. Consider exchanging some US dollars for Cambodian Riel for small purchases.

Local Transport

Use a pre-arranged pick-up service, a local taxi, a tuk-tuk, or the PassApp ride-hailing service to reach your accommodation.

Agree on the fare beforehand to avoid issues.

Arrival Considerations

Pre-arranging airport transfers or having the PassApp ready streamlines your arrival process.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure from Kampot for a smooth exit.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

Purchase Kampot Pepper or other souvenirs well in advance of your departure.
Check for airline weight limits if flying.
If you bought larger items, inquire at the local post office about international shipping services.
Cambodia does not have a VAT (Value Added Tax) refund system for tourists.

Pre-Departure Timing & Packing

For international flights from Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), allow ample time for travel from Kampot (3-4 hours by road).
Add an additional 2-3 hours at the airport for check-in, security, and immigration.
Pack liquids appropriately for carry-on versus checked baggage, adhering to airline rules.
Consider exchanging any remaining Cambodian Riel into US Dollars, or spend it on small purchases.

Departure Aspects

Important reminders for a trouble-free departure.

Final Checks

All documents (passport, flight tickets) are accessible.
Confirm your bus or train times and pick-up locations in Kampot.
Arrive at the station with sufficient time before departure.
Consider exchanging any remaining Cambodian Riel into US Dollars.

Smooth Exit Strategy

Confirm flight details and pick-up times.
Plan route to airport/station to allow extra time.
Ensure all souvenirs adhere to baggage allowances.
Convert any leftover local currency.

Efficient Departure

Confirm all travel arrangements well in advance. Allow generous travel time to the airport, especially from Kampot.

Image Credit: Wikimedia.org

Kampot Travel Checklist