Oktoberfest, Christmas markets and ski trips to the Alps make Germany a year-round destination — but this beautiful country truly shines in the summer.
However, COVID-19, European flight chaos and extreme weather conditions across the continent are factors that could affect travelers heading there this summer and beyond. Do you have a trip planned or are you thinking about going to Germany soon? Here are 6 questions you need to ask yourself before you go.
1. Have you packed FFP2 masks?
Wearing a medical mask is mandatory on flights departing to and from Germany during boarding, on the plane and during disembarkation. Only medical masks are allowed (FFP2, KN95 and N95 masks without value), although there may be some deviations when leaving Germany depending on where you are going. To see also : 5 ways to save on last minute summer travel. According to German airline Lufthansa, all passengers over the age of two must wear masks on all flights to and from the US.
Pack at least a few masks, as you’ll also need FFP2 masks when you arrive: passengers are required to wear them on public transport across the country. Get some in advance to be ready for the flight and the journey to your accommodation, but more will be available from pharmacies and supply stores when you arrive.
2. Have you got a €9 public transport pass?
When Germany announced it would launch a new €9 monthly travel card for the summer, it made headlines around the world, delighting locals and travelers heading to the country. Read also : Gay Pilot ponders what it means to travel for curious people.
The ticket, which is valid for the entire calendar month in which it was purchased, allows the holder unlimited travel on all buses, U-Bahns, S-Bahns, trams and local and regional trains. However, this does not apply to long-distance intercity trains such as IC or ICE.
Regardless, the pass is an amazing deal for anyone visiting Germany, allowing travelers the freedom to explore as much as possible on local transport. The ticket offer only lasts until August 31, 2022, so make the most of it if you’re visiting next month.
Explore Germany for €9 this summer: these are the best itineraries
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3. Are you prepared for hot weather?
While Germany generally enjoys hot summers, Europe has already experienced a deadly heat wave in July. On the same subject : How to watch ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ on Prime Video. Much of the extreme heat has so far hit Portugal, Spain and the UK, but Germany has also seen temperatures as high as 38C (100F).
The heat has stopped for now, but August could bring more hot days. Prepare for high temperatures with comfortable clothing and pack a refillable water bottle and use it often.
How to keep cool while traveling as extreme heat waves continue across the US and Europe
4. If it’s hot, have you planned a beach trip?
A day at the beach might not be the first thing that comes to mind when traveling to Germany, but the country is home to incredible lakes, city beaches and coastlines on the Baltic and North Seas. Join the locals as they cool off at some of the country’s most beautiful swimming spots.
5. Is your flight with Lufthansa?
It’s no secret that Europe is among the regions suffering from airport chaos; passengers were affected by long queues, lost bags and canceled flights. Germany’s national carrier Lufthansa canceled thousands of flights this summer, both within Germany and on short-haul routes, due to staffing problems and a strike. A strike by ground staff will take place on Wednesday, leading to the cancellation of most of the airline’s flights to and from Frankfurt and Munich airports, and the fallout could last into the weekend. Although the airline will notify passengers of the cancellation and, if possible, rebook you on another flight, it’s always best to check the status of your flight to make sure everything is set before your flight.
Lufthansa also advises passengers to use their online services as digital check-in is allowed 23 hours before departure. There is also a free digital document verification service for COVID-19 disease documentation that can be used between 72 and 8 hours before travel. This can be used to provide proof of vaccination or test if required for your travel.
Chaos at Europe’s airports: how to manage delays, cancellations and strikes
6. What color is your luggage?
If you’re traveling through Frankfurt Airport this summer, don’t make your bag basically black. According to the Guardian, German media reported that the airport — which is a major transfer hub in Europe — attributed some of the lost luggage delays to too many similar-looking bags, as it takes longer to be identified and returned to their owners.
While the airport’s explanation for the luggage chaos has raised some eyebrows, it’s a good reminder to make sure your luggage is clearly identifiable. When a passenger’s luggage is lost, they must fill out a form describing what their bag looks like: colorful bags, stickers, tags and other personalizations can make it easier to identify your luggage — and therefore return it to you.
Another option is to try packing just a carry-on bag, but if you need more luggage and want to be on the safe side, you can always try electronic baggage tags.
What to do when the airline loses your luggage
