Danes stranded abroad after leaving payment cards at home

Danes who travel abroad without a physical payment card risk being unable to pay for goods and services, SJF Bank warns, as contactless mobile payments are not universally accepted outside Denmark.

The bank reports a rise in customers contacting them from abroad after realising they cannot complete transactions without a physical card, according to department head Helle Andersen.

“We’ve fully embraced digital solutions like phone or watch payments at home, but abroad, you can find yourself in real trouble without the card,” Andersen said.

Noah Jensen, who has lived in Germany, said he has repeatedly faced embarrassing situations where he could not pay because he lacked a physical card or cash, noting that cash withdrawals also require the card.

Sira Angeliqune Buchholdt admitted she often forgets her card, forcing her to return home to retrieve it before leaving.

SJF Bank advises travellers to bring at least one physical payment card, preferably two stored separately, and to keep bank contact details accessible. It also recommends checking payment options at the destination in advance and memorising PIN codes.