The smoothness of your trip to Germany often depends on some easily overlooked details: cash preparation, business hours, and train ticket rules. While Germany is generally safe, it’s still important to watch your belongings—especially cash and documents—in crowded stations and tourist spots. The following ten tips come from real experience and are worth reviewing before you go.

1. Germany uses the euro: The euro symbol is €. It’s different from the British pound, so prepare your currency separately or use a bank card for international trips.
2. Cash is still important: Many small restaurants and bakeries only accept cash. It’s safest to carry around 100 euros and try to get smaller denominations like 10 and 20 euro notes.
3. Sundays are closed: Shops are legally required to close, so plan your shopping for Saturdays or weekdays.
4. Book train tickets in advance: DB’s Sparpreis (saver fare) tickets are cheaper the earlier you buy them. Prices go up closer to the travel date, especially during peak seasons.
5. Use regional day passes wisely: If multiple people are traveling within the same state in one day, a group day ticket (Quer-durchs-Land-Ticket or similar) can be more economical than individual tickets—but these usually only cover regional trains. You’ll need to select the date and number of travelers at the ticket machine in advance.
6. Buy your ticket before boarding: Ticket checks in Germany are strict, and fare evasion can result in fines and a record. Always purchase or validate your ticket before getting on the train.
7. Tipping etiquette: If the service charge isn’t included on the bill, tip 5%–10%. You can also simply tell the server your total including tip to make giving change easier.
8. Plugs and voltage: Germany uses Type F plugs with two round pins and 230V. You’ll need a plug adapter for appliances from some countries, but no voltage converter is necessary.
9. Book Oktoberfest accommodations early: Hotel rooms and beer tent seats in Munich during Oktoberfest fill up fast—book several months in advance.
10. Emergency numbers: Dial 110 for police, and 112 for fire and medical emergencies. 112 is the EU-wide emergency number, and English may be spoken.

Germans value rules and order. As long as you stick to schedules, follow ticketing rules, and respect local habits like waste disposal and business hours, your trip will likely go very smoothly. Pace yourself, and you’ll get to enjoy the warmth and hospitality beneath Germany’s reputation for precision.

For budgeting, the three most effective ways to save are: booking Sparpreis train tickets in advance, using regional day passes, and eating some meals at supermarkets or bakeries. Save your extra money for castle entry fees, museums, and an authentic Bavarian dinner—the satisfaction will be greater.

Save this checklist to your phone before you go, and refer to it when you run into issues during your trip. It’ll help you stay calm and prepared.