Phnom Penh - Post Report Question and Answers
Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
Yes, yes, yes. Though some have been known to issue fake bills. - May 2024
Larger stores always accept credit cards, but most smaller stores don't have the technology to accept credit cards. ATMs are common and generally ok to use, but there have been some instances in the past where machines have card readers that steal information and other ATMs have given out fake money. Recommend vigilance and looking closely at your money as soon as you receive it from the ATM. What most people use these days is a local bank account called ABA that you can use to basically e-pay for everything. - Jul 2021
I only use ATMs that are physically attached to a branch bank. Stand alone ATMs often have fake money. People use credit cards for groceries and shopping at western style shops, but I don’t. - Nov 2020
Larger stores and expensive restaurants catering to expats will accept them, as will AEON mall. Otherwise this is a cash society ATMs are generally easy to find. Use the normal precautions that you would anywhere. - May 2017
I rarely (never? ) used credit cards. It's a cash economy and the US dollar is widely accepted. - Oct 2016
Credit cards are only used at hotels and big restaurants. Cash is better but US$20 bills and lower. - May 2015
I never carried or used ATM or credit cards. - Feb 2015
Some of the bigger hotels will accept credit cards (with steep overhead charges) but otherwise it is best and easiest to use cash for everything. Make sure to have plenty of small bills (ones, fives, tens) when you arrive because you will be using them for everything. - Aug 2013
Generally no problem, though lots of the banks charge about a $4 access fee (on top of whatever your home bank charges). It usually makes more sense to open a local account. - Jan 2012
We only used the ATM machine located in the Embassy. - Aug 2011
Cash economy, cc only in five star hotels. - Aug 2011
You can withdraw money at most ATMs, especially ANZ Royal bank - however, you will pay at least $3 or $4 in surcharges. Cambodia primarily uses the dollar. - Oct 2010
There are lots of ATMs in PNH and a few in provincial capital cities. Several banks offer free ATM withdrawal in US$. Others allow US$ withdrawals for a US$2 fee. Credit cards are becoming usable in Phnom Penh but generally only in upscale businesses. - Feb 2008
