How Much Money Should You Take to Germany on a 13-Day Trip?

Introduction to Traveling with Cash in Germany

Traveling to Germany for 13 days doesn't necessarily require you to carry a large amount of cash. In fact, you can get by with just a few euros, as many towns and cities provide easy access to ATMs. However, it is important to understand the realities of carrying cash, managing it, and the preferred methods of payment in Germany.

Different Scenarios for Cash Usage

How much cash you need to bring to Germany can vary widely based on your specific itinerary and spending habits. In general, carrying only a few euros is sufficient in smaller towns, where most ATMs accept Visa and Mastercard. This is particularly useful for purchasing small items or emergencies.

Personal Experience and General Guidelines

I typically carry around 100 euros, relying on the numerous ATMs spread throughout the country to refill as needed. This method ensures you have enough cash without unduly burdening yourself. A useful rule of thumb is to only carry as much cash as you absolutely need, as this is best for protection against theft, which can occur in any foreign city, regardless of your familiarity with the area.

Be Prepared for the Risk of Pickpocketing

Pickpocketing is a common risk, especially in tourist areas. Unfortunately, even seasoned travelers can fall victim. It is crucial to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, as pickpockets can be remarkably professional. They often employ tactics such as distracting people through questions or conversations just long enough to access your pockets. To safeguard your belongings, keep your cash and cards in hidden pouches under your clothing or in a money belt—never in your pants or coat pockets. Some pre-paid credit cards like Neteller, denominated in Euros, can be a godsend and are available online. These can be especially useful to keep your bank account isolated.

Managing Cash and Card Payments

Despite the growing prevalence of card payments, cash remains preferred in Germany. Not all establishments accept credit or debit cards, especially non-German ones. Therefore, it is advisable to always have some cash, and not entirely rely on card payments. Use your accommodations as a guide: if a hostel costs €30 per night, plan to have around €30 with you. For a more expensive hotel, €150 might be more appropriate. The remainder of your funds should stay on a pre-paid card or debit card, which you can withdraw from a safe ATM as needed.

Additional Tips for Safe Travel

Never write down your card and PIN numbers together or in an easily recognizable format. Scramble the numbers and write them as a series of four-digit prices in reverse order to add an extra layer of security. In case you do need to seek emergency funds, it is always a good idea to keep the card numbers written down in a secure but scrambled location.

Conclusion

Managing your finances during a 13-day trip to Germany requires a balance of preparedness and prudence. By carrying the right amount of cash and using card payments when appropriate, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Germany's preference for cash can be navigated with careful planning and a little common sense, making your trip stress-free and memorable.