Before leaving your home country, ensure that you are in good physical health. The demands of traveling can take a toll on your health, so ensure that you have ample stamina and strength to be able to travel. If you have any medication needed to help stay healthy, be sure to pack it along in your carryon luggage and have an ample supply to last you throughout your journey. This way, you avoid any complications of having to find your replacement medication in case of delayed, lost or stolen check-in luggage.

Another practical travel safety tip to keep in mind is to make sure you have adequate medical insurance when you travel. Most health insurance policies do not extend coverage outside of your home country. This means you may need to purchase travel health insurance that will cover your medical emergency needs while you are abroad. There are many excellent medical facilities in Germany, should the need arise. Also, English-speaking medical personnel are available, especially in the urban areas. However, many doctors and hospitals may only accept cash payment from non-German residents so be prepared to pay upfront for any medical treatment, just in case.

Travelers should make copies of their travel documents when traveling. There is no need to carry your original passport with you as you go around Germany. Carrying some other form of identification or a photocopy of your passport may suffice. Keep your original travel documents in your hotel safe. Also avoid carrying all your cash with you as you travel. Carry only what you need for the day and leave a spare credit card and your remaining cash locked in your luggage or the hotel safe.

As with any country, pickpockets are present so travelers should still be mindful of their belongings. Unsuspecting tourists could still become victims of crime. As a precaution, avoid drawing attention to your self by refraining from wearing your flashy jewelry and other expensive watches and gadgets. Be mindful of your belongings and do not leave your things unattended.

Travelers should be aware that there are some inherent risks to being in a foreign land. Going out late at night, especially in certain areas carries with it a higher risk of danger. Travelers should avoid the red light district of major cities, as well as avoid areas where locals and other travelers can get drunk. Drunken skinheads and other locals can get rowdy and even dangerous, attacking unsuspecting travelers at times.

Victims of crime should report the incident to the authorities right away. Travelers who need to call the police should dial 110. Those who need emergency medical care and need an ambulance should call 112. Those who need to get a replacement passport should contact their local embassy.

Travelers going to Germany will find that the road conditions in the country are quite excellent. There is no need to get a German driver’s license for travelers who don’t plan on driving in Germany for longer than six months. However, travelers should be aware of the posted speed limits in the country, especially in the autobahn. You need to be at least 18 years old to operate a vehicle. Travelers who plan to drive should also be aware that there are some differences in the driving laws in the country. For example, is it illegal to pass another vehicle from the right side? When leasing a vehicle or before getting behind the wheel, ensure that you have adequate auto insurance liability coverage to cover your needs in case you are found at fault in an auto accident.

Another thing to be aware of on the streets of Germany is the number of bicyclists. There are dedicated bike lanes in the country, usually marked red. Travelers should exercise caution when making turns and when crossing the street as there might be unseen bikers on the road. Bikes have the right of way on these lanes. Pedestrians should stick to the sidewalk and avoid using the bike lands when walking.

It is also illegal to operate a vehicle in Germany with a blood alcohol level that is greater than 0.5 pro mille (.05 blood alcohol level). Another thing to remember is that using the cellular phone while driving is illegal in the country. Yellow diamond lanes are considered priority lanes. Drivers unused to driving such high speed limits, are unaware of the driving laws and are unfamiliar with the roads should refrain from driving and rely on public transportation instead. The public transportation system in Germany is very safe and reliable.

The currency used in Germany is the Euro. When entering the country, travelers might be asked to declare their cash. Those who are carrying more than 10,000 worth of Euros should declare it to the customs official, as failure to do so would subject you to fines. Aside from cash, this value includes traveler’s checks, money orders and checks. This rule does not apply to travelers traveling to and from another EU-member country.

Unlike other countries, credit cards are not as widely accepted compared to other developed nations, as cash is preferred. ATM machines are readily available in the country. When using the ATM, be aware of your surroundings, cover your PIN number and use the machines in well-lit areas.

Travelers going to another country should respect and obey the laws and traditions in the country. Travelers should show some sensitivity especially with regards to Germany’s World War II past. It is illegal to use or display Nazi symbols and other paraphernalia, such as flags and other memorabilia. Even music that glorifies fascism or the Third Reich is illegal in the country.

Travelers often find that one of the best things about traveling is enjoying the food and drink available in the country. Travelers should be aware that there are some areas wherein alcoholic beverages are not served. This is especially true in the pedestrian zone of Munich and in Marienplatz. If you want to savor German beer you should not drink excessively since you might compromise your common sense and lose inhibitions that may place your safety at risk. Also, some of the food may be too rich and greasy for some travelers, which could lead to indigestion. Pack along the proper antacids and other digestive aids just in case.

These are just some practical and useful Germany travel safety tips that travelers should keep in mind. By exercising normal safety precautions, travelers could be assured of a safe and enjoyable stay in Germany. Travelers can learn more about Germany using our Germany travel guide to learn more about this beautiful and exciting country.