💡Head Up
What you will learn from this article?
Whether Cambodia’s tap water is safe to drink
How to stay hydrated without overpaying
Showering and water access in cities and beyond
Insider tips for long-stay travelers and expats
🚱 Can You Drink Tap Water in Cambodia?
No, tap water is not safe to drink directly.
Although treated in cities, pipes and water storage systems may not be clean.
Safe Options:
Boil water before drinking (let it boil for 1–2 minutes)
Buy bottled water very affordable and widely available
Optional: Use a portable filter or water purifier, especially for long treks or rural stays
How Much is Bottled Water?
Cambodia is hot, and staying hydrated is easy and cheap:
| Size | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 500ml | $0.25 – $0.50 |
| 1.5L | $0.50 – $1 |
| 20L bottle | ~$5 (first purchase), $1 refill |
You’ll find bottled water in:
Convenience stores
Street stalls
Hotels and guesthouses
💡 Pro Tip from Expats: If you’re renting an apartment (non-serviced), buy a 20-liter water jug for around $5 and refill it for just $1. It’s cheaper, eco-friendly, and convenient.
Is Shower Water Safe?
Yes, in cities and towns, water used for showering, washing hands, or brushing teeth is generally clean.
No special filters are needed for basic hygiene.
Exceptions:
In some rural or remote areas, clean water access may be limited
Most travelers won’t visit these places unless on deep community or eco-tourism trips
💡 Tip: If you have sensitive skin or are prone to waterborne illness, consider using bottled water for brushing teeth.
Using Water for Daily Needs
Most of cafés provide filtered for free to their customer
Hotels typically offer 1–2 free bottles of drinking water per night, some provide Re-fillable bottle
Ice in drinks is usually factory-produced and considered safe. (Local really love ice in their drinks)
