Trip Planning
The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.
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Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.
Travel Essentials
Routine vaccinations are typically sufficient for Germany. Ensure you’re up-to-date on:
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MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)-
Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)-
Varicella (Chickenpox)-
Polio-
Annual flu shotConsider Hepatitis B if you might get a tattoo or piercing. Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is recommended if you plan to hike or camp in rural areas. Always check recent health advisories before you travel.
vaccination requirementsWhen I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.
These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Germany, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.
There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.
Get your e-sim for GermanyCulture & Customs
Punctuality is key in Germany. Always arrive on time for meetings or social gatherings. A firm handshake with eye contact is the standard greeting. Use formal titles and last names unless invited to use first names.
In restaurants, tipping around 5-10% is customary. Cash is often preferred, so carry some with you.
For LGBTQ+ travelers, Germany is generally accepting, but discretion is advised in smaller towns. Women should feel safe traveling solo, though standard travel precautions apply, especially at night.
Avoid discussing World War II unless it’s brought up by locals. Refrain from jaywalking, as it’s frowned upon and can result in fines.
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Germany.
- Sauerbraten: A pot roast usually made with beef, marinated in a mixture of vinegar or wine, water, and a variety of seasonings before being slow-cooked. It’s a hearty dish that’s a staple in German home cooking and showcases the country’s love for robust flavors.
- Bratwurst: These grilled sausages are a street food favorite and come in several regional varieties, each with its unique spices and herbs. They’re typically served with mustard and a bread roll, making them a quick and satisfying bite.
- Schnitzel: A breaded and fried meat cutlet, usually made with pork or veal. While originally Austrian, schnitzel is a beloved dish in Germany and often served with potato salad or fries, reflecting the country’s penchant for simple but flavorful meals.
- Rouladen: Thinly sliced beef wrapped around fillings like onions, bacon, pickles, and mustard, then braised. This dish is traditionally served on Sundays or special occasions, highlighting its role in family gatherings and festive meals.
- Spätzle: A type of soft egg noodle found in the Swabian region, often served as a side dish or topped with cheese and onions for a comforting main course. It’s a great example of how German cuisine excels at hearty, satisfying carbs.
Tap water in Germany is very safe to drink, and locals consume it regularly. It’s perfectly fine for tourists to drink straight from the tap. No need for bottled or filtered water unless you prefer a specific taste.
The main language in Germany is
German. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your German skills have become a bit rusty.
Want to understand locals better?The complete Travel Guide for Germany includes 52 essential words and phrases — greetings, thank-yous, ordering food, transport, numbers, and common local expressions you'll actually hear.
Get your local basic phrases 👉
Get the Travel Guide - In Germany,
English is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas, tourist destinations, and among younger generations. Most Germans, especially those under 40, have learned English in school and are comfortable using it in conversation. Major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt have a high concentration of English speakers, and many restaurants, hotels, and shops cater to international visitors with English menus and signage.
In contrast, rural areas may have fewer English speakers, and communication can be more challenging. Nonetheless, Germans are generally accommodating and often willing to help, even if their English is limited. It’s also common for people to switch to English if they notice a visitor struggling with German.
While English proficiency is high, learning a few basic German phrases can enhance your travel experience and is appreciated by locals. Overall, travelers should find navigating Germany relatively easy thanks to the widespread use of English, but being open to using German can enrich interactions.
Money & Payments
The local currency of Germany is EUR (€).
ATMs: Germany is well-equipped with ATMs, and you’ll find them in most towns and cities. They’re your best bet for getting euros at a decent rate. Just make sure your bank doesn’t charge hefty foreign transaction fees.
Cash vs. Card: While major cities are quite card-friendly, smaller towns and traditional eateries prefer cash. Always have some euros on hand for small purchases or emergencies.
Currency: Forget about dollars; bring euros or withdraw from an ATM. Exchanging cash is becoming a rarity, and exchange booths often offer poor rates.
Card Acceptance: Germany loves its ”EC Karten” (debit cards), but don’t stress—Visa and Mastercard are usually accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. American Express? Not so much.
Exchanging Money: If you must exchange cash, do it at a bank rather than airport kiosks. Rates are typically better, though ATMs usually give you the best deal.
In Germany, tipping is less obligatory than in the U.S., but rounding up the bill or adding about 5-10% is appreciated for good service. Hand the tip directly to your server instead of leaving it on the table. Always check if a ”Bedienung” (service charge) is already included in the bill.
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Over the years, I've learned the importance of packing minimally. It's so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you're headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
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Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.