As of November 12, 2026, Laos is cheaper than Cambodia for travelers: a mid-range day costs about $58 in Laos against $62 in Cambodia, a gap of 6.2%. Over the past year Cambodia has moved more in the US-dollar traveler's favor (+0.9% after inflation, against −0.4%). Both sit at US advisory Level 2. Cambodia is the easier of the two to travel.
| Measure | Cambodia | Laos |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-range day | $62 | $58 |
| Lean day | $29 | $27 |
| Comfortable day | $134 | $127 |
| Real change, 12 months | +0.9% | −0.4% |
| Exchange rate alone, 12 months | +2.5% | +4.9% |
| Versus 5-year average | +3.0% | −4.0% |
| US advisory | Level 2 · Increased caution | Level 2 · Increased caution |
| Ease of travel | 3.4 · Workable | 2.8 · Rough edges |
| Index score | 67 | 63 |
| Best months | Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb | Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb |
| Shoulder months | Mar, Oct | Mar, Oct |
The better figure in each row is in bold. Costs are modeled estimates per person, excluding international flights.
Angkor, a relaxed coast, and a dollarized economy that hides currency moves.
The catchMost prices are quoted in US dollars, so a weak riel does little for you. Healthcare is thin: serious cases go to Bangkok.
Slow rivers, karst mountains, and a currency that has lost most of its value.
The catchInfrastructure is basic outside three towns, card payments are rare, and medical evacuation means Thailand.
Source: Trip Arbitrage (triparbitrage.com), reading of November 12, 2026. How this is calculated.