Traveling to Germany: Essential Questions to Consider This Summer
Oktoberfest, Christmas markets, and ski trips to the Alps make Germany a go-to year-round destination. However, this beautiful country truly shines in the summertime.
Moreover, COVID-19 precautions, European flight chaos, and extreme weather conditions may impact travelers heading to Germany this summer and beyond. If you have a trip planned or are considering going to Germany soon, here are six essential questions to ask yourself before you embark on your journey.
1. Have You Packed FFP2 Masks?
Wearing a medical-grade mask is mandatory on flights heading in and out of Germany during boarding, on the plane, and while disembarking. Only FFP2, KN95, and N95 masks without valves are permitted. However, there may be variances based on your departure location. According to German airline Lufthansa, all passengers over the age of two are required to wear masks on flights to and from the US.
Consequently, be sure to pack several masks, as you will need FFP2 masks upon arrival. Passengers must wear them on public transport throughout the country. It is advisable to have a few masks ready for your journey to your accommodation, but additional masks will be readily available in pharmacies and shops upon your arrival.
2. Have You Got a €9 Public Transport Pass?
Germany has gained worldwide attention with its newly launched €9 monthly travel pass for public transport, delighting both locals and travelers. This pass allows unlimited travel on buses, U-Bahns, S-Bahns, trams, and local and regional trains for the entire calendar month when purchased. However, it does not apply to long-distance intercity trains like IC or ICE.
This offer represents an incredible opportunity for visitors, providing freedom to explore as much as possible on local transport. Therefore, if you’re visiting soon, make the most of this opportunity while it lasts.
3. Are You Prepared for Hot Weather?
Germany typically enjoys warm summers, but Europe has recently faced a deadly heat wave. While much of the extreme heat has impacted Portugal, Spain, and the UK, Germany has experienced temperatures as high as 38°C (100°F).
It is essential to remain prepared for potential high temperatures in August. Ensure you bring clothing that keeps you comfortable, and don’t forget to pack a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your travels.
4. Have You Planned a Beach Trip If It’s Hot?
A beach day might not be the first thought when planning a trip to Germany, but the country boasts incredible lakes, city beaches, and coastlines along both the Baltic and North Seas. Join the locals as they cool down at some of the country’s most beautiful swimming spots.
5. Is Your Flight with Lufthansa?
With European airports experiencing significant chaos, passengers are currently facing long queues, lost bags, and canceled flights. Lufthansa, Germany’s national carrier, has canceled thousands of flights this summer, affecting journeys within Germany and short-haul routes due to staffing issues and strikes. A ground staff strike could lead to further cancellations, particularly for flights to and from Frankfurt and Munich airports.
Consequently, travelers are urged to check their flight status regularly to avoid any last-minute surprises.
Lufthansa is advising passengers to take advantage of digital check-in, which opens 23 hours before departure, and utilize their free digital document check service for COVID-19 documentation within 72 to 8 hours before travel.
6. What Color Is Your Luggage?
If you’re traveling through Frankfurt Airport this summer, it’s wise to avoid basic black luggage. Reports suggest that the airport has attributed some lost baggage delays to a surplus of similar-looking bags, making them harder to identify and return to their owners.
Therefore, ensuring that your luggage is easily recognizable is vital. Consider personalizing your bag with distinct colors, stickers, or tags to facilitate easy identification. Additionally, if you require more luggage, using electronic baggage tags may be a beneficial option.
