Useful Information for Backpacking Vietnam & Cambodia

You'll use a different currency in each country:

• Vietnam: Vietnamese dong (VND). ATMs are easy to find but most cap each withdrawal, commonly at 2–5 million VND.
• Cambodia: US dollars are used alongside the riel (KHR), with small change given in riel. ATMs usually give out dollars; bring clean, untorn notes if you carry any from home, as damaged ones are refused.

Use up your dong before the border, as it's hard to change in Cambodia.

Cards and phone payments work in hotels and larger restaurants, but street food, markets and small shops are cash only. If an ATM offers to convert the amount into your home currency, choose to be charged in the local currency.

This trip runs all year. November to April is the driest overall. Cambodia and southern Vietnam are at their best from December to February, while northern Vietnam can be cool then (around 10–15°C at night) and central Vietnam, around Hoi An, can stay wet until December. February to April is a good all-round window, though it gets very hot from March.

From May to October it's rainy season in the south and in Cambodia, usually short, heavy afternoon downpours, and central Vietnam's heaviest rain and typhoon risk falls from September to December. See our Vietnam and Cambodia weather guides.

Yes. Covering up is a sign of respect for the temple and the monks who often live there, and at some sites, including Bangkok's Grand Palace and Angkor Wat, you'll be turned away if you don't.

• Cover your shoulders and knees: long trousers or a long skirt or dress, and a top with sleeves.
• Avoid vests, crop tops and low-cut or see-through clothing.
• Take your shoes off where you see others doing so.

A light scarf or sarong in your daypack makes it easy to cover up on the go.

We have a minimum age requirement of 18 years old to join the tour. Group members aged 16-17 years old are welcome to join the tour but only with a family member that will act as their guardian whilst on tour. Aside from that, no age requirements at all! While our target age is 20-45, what matters most is mindset. If you’re looking for a backpacking-style experience, with hostel-style stays, local transport, and optional evening activities - you’re welcome to join us.

We highly recommend that you travel with insurance for complete peace of mind. Please click here.

Can’t convince your mates? No worries! Most of our travellers come solo, and it’s one of the best ways to experience a new destination.

You’ll join an instant crew, meet amazing people, and make new friends from day one. Plus, you can keep your travel plans flexible and fully your own.

Ready to roll solo? You won’t be alone for long.

Absolutely. Your payment is secure. Backpacking Tours is a licensed tour operator in Thailand (TAT Licence No.11/12642), and we use trusted international payment providers. Your booking is safe, and our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Your group leader will email you around 1 day before the tour starts.

Your passport must have at least six months’ validity and two blank pages. You should also have proof of onward travel.

Call your group leader using the number sent in your welcome email. They will assist you.