‘Cash’ warning issued to UK tourists going to France this summer 'at all times'

British tourists heading to France this summer have been warned to carry cash with them at all times by a travel expert.

The warning has been issued after a widespread power outage crippled Spain, Portugal and much of France earlier this week, plunging entire cities into darkness and causing chaos for stranded holidaymakers as well as panic buying.

Due to the crisis, people in the UK have been told to start stockpiling cash in case something similar ever happens here - as cash machines and card machines may not work during a power cut or longer-term power outage. And the same is true for tourists going abroad too. Chris Jones, director of PSE Consulting, is urging people to always carry cash with them in case of emergencies like the power blackouts seen on the continent this week.

He said: “The widespread outages across Spain, Portugal and some parts of France earlier this week are a stark reminder of why cash remains essential. As digital transactions dominate more aspects of daily life, we risk overlooking the fundamental resilience that physical money offers during periods of disruption.

“When systems fail — whether due to technical issues, cyberattacks, or power outages — access to cash ensures that people can still buy essential goods and services. In emergencies, cash becomes more than just a payment method; it is a vital safety net.

“While cash usage continues to decline across Europe, events like this reinforce why maintaining robust access must remain a priority. This includes identifying and supporting critical services – such as supermarkets, petrol stations and pharmacies – to ensure they can continue accepting cash when digital systems are down. Countries like Sweden and Norway have already recognised this, encouraging citizens to keep emergency cash and reinforcing cash acceptance in key parts of the economy.

“As we continue to move towards a more digital economy, policymakers and businesses must not lose sight of the need for balance. Protecting access to cash isn't just about supporting vulnerable groups — it’s about ensuring the whole economy can function when digital systems falter. [This week's] outage is a clear reminder: in times of crisis, cash still counts.”

Spain has now recovered more than 99% of its power following an unprecedented blackout that brought much of the country and Portugal to a standstill.

The blackout saw thousands of train passengers stranded and left millions of people without phone and internet coverage and access to cash from ATMs across the Iberian Peninsula.

It was the second serious European power outage in less than six weeks after a March 20 fire shut down Heathrow Airport in the UK, and it came as authorities across Europe guard against sabotage backed by Russia.