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
Seeing more of Cambodia on this trip? Start with the Cambodia packing list.
Your packing edit
Cambodia: Siem Reap & Angkor
This time of year
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Carry-on18
Carry-on suitcase per personKristina's pick
Packing cubes, one color per personKristina's 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
Travel neck pillow for the grown-ups
Kids' travel pillow
Light blanket or large scarf for the plane
Change of shirt for the grown-upsSpills on a kid mean spills on you.
Baby wipes, even for big kids
Kids' backpack for their own things
Coloring book, sticker book, or activity pad
A new book or two
Gum or mints
Foot rest sling for long flightsKristina's pickHooks over the tray table so your feet are up and your back thanks you after hour six. I never fly long-haul without mine.
Clothing13
Daytime outfits8 per person
Pajamas2 per person
One nicer outfit for dinners and photos
Underwear and socks9 per person
Light sweater or sweatshirt per personPlanes, restaurants, and evenings run cool.
Light rain jacket per person
Leggings or comfy travel pants for the flight
Shorts and skirts
Belt
Sports bra or workout clothes
Socks for closed shoes, plus a spare pair
Pajamas for the first night in the carry-onIf a bag is late, bedtime still happens.
Warm winter coat, hats, and glovesEuropean winters are cold and damp.
Shoes4
Broken-in walking sneakersKristina's pickNever bring brand-new shoes on a walking trip.
Flip-flops or slides for the pool and shower
Dress shoes or nicer sandals
Closed-toe walking shoesTemple steps are steep, uneven, and worn.
Beach & pool1
Mineral sunscreen
Adventure1
Small flashlight or headlampKristina's pickSunrise at Angkor Wat means walking in before dawn.
Little ones13
Diapers and wipesenough for 3 days, buy the rest there
Portable sound machineKristina's pickMakes every hotel room feel like home.
Travel blackout shades
Favorite lovey, plus a backup
Sippy cup or straw cup
Bibs and a few spoons
Portable changing pad
Diaper cream
Baby monitor
Fitted crib sheet from homeA familiar smell helps babies sleep in a new crib.
Outlet covers
Potty seat or folding potty
Soft baby carrier instead of a strollerKristina's pickStairs, cobblestones, or trails make strollers hard here.
Little things19
AirTag in each checked bagKristina's pickYou'll know your bag made the connection before you do.
Stain remover penGelato happens. Photos still look great.
Laundry detergent sheetsOne sink wash halfway through means packing half the clothes.
Gallon zip bags, a handfulWet swimsuits, sandy shoes, and the occasional car-sick emergency.
Pen in your carry-onFor arrival forms, so you're not borrowing one in the immigration line.
Hair ties and a small detangling brush
Hand sanitizer wipes and pocket tissues
Lollipops or gum for takeoff and landingSwallowing helps little ears pop.
A few wrapped surprise toys for the flightUnwrapping buys you twenty minutes. Unwrapping slowly buys thirty.
Stick-on battery night lightHotel rooms are pitch dark, and the bathroom is never where they expect.
Kids' nail clippers and tweezersSplinters from boardwalks and docks are a vacation classic.
Electrolyte packetsHot days and long walks catch up with kids before they say they're thirsty.
Earplugs and an eye mask for the grown-ups
Small foldable tote for souvenirs and laundry
Sewing kit and safety pins
Luggage tags
Collapsible water bottle for the grown-ups
Sunglasses for the grown-ups
Small umbrella
Health & toiletries21
Travel first-aid kit
Kids' fever reducer and allergy medicine
Hanging toiletry bag
Toothbrushes and toothpaste
Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
Deodorant
Hairbrush, comb, and hair ties
Face wash and moisturizer
Makeup and makeup remover
Razor
Contact lenses, solution, and glasses
Prescription medicines in original bottlesKeep them in your carry-on, never in checked bags.
Bandages and blister pads
Kids' thermometer
Anti-itch cream
Hand lotion and SPF lip balm
Feminine products
Clear quart bag for liquids
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 & tech19
Phone lanyard or crossbody case
Portable phone chargerKristina's pick
Kids' ID bracelet with your phone number
Driver's licenses and kids' IDs
Health insurance cards
Travel insurance details
Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees
Some cash in small billsFor tips, taxis, and markets.
Photos of passports and IDs on your phone
Booking confirmations saved offline
Phone chargers and cables for everyone
Multi-port wall chargerOne outlet, every device charged by morning.
Tablet chargers and kids' headphones adapter
Wireless earbuds for the grown-ups
Airplane Bluetooth adapter for seatback screens
Camera and memory card
E-reader
Passports for everyone, valid 6+ months past your trip
Travel plug adapterKristina's pickTypes A, C and G, bring an adapter
The outfit edit
Temple linen
Ivory, wheat, sage, clay
For the grown-ups
For the kids
For photos
- Soft neutrals against colorful markets and temples
- Early morning light, before the heat
Tap any piece to shop the look.
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.