It takes some planning and preparation for the ultimate Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany. Last year, I didn’t anticipate the large expenses that I would endure during my short stay there but with some preplanning, you can save a dollars.

Book your stay as early as possible. Hotels can range from $200 to $700 a night! Do your research. My friends and I booked an apartment on AirBnB for $100 a night. People do become quite “shady” though. As soon as our host discovered that we were visiting during Oktoberfest, she increased it to $150 a night plus $50 a night for a 3rd person. We didn’t book a room right in the epicenter but a room right off a train station. The train ride into the city was only 15 minutes and we didn’t have any issues getting in or out of Oktoberfest.

 

Most if not all are dressed wearing dirndls or lederhosen. Get the authentic stuff. If you’re an America, please don’t wear a halloween costume. It makes you look sleazy and it could be a little offensive to some. I purchased my dirndl at a German District in my hometown for about $125 but you can also order them online. If you are strep on time, you can always purchase one while you are there!

Entrance to Oktoberfest is completely free, however it’s recommended to make reservations in the Hofbrauhaus (beer tents) if you’re planning on enjoying a few liters. Our group did not make reservations last year. We had to make quick friends with strangers to get a seat or camped out early. One day, we arrived at the beer tents at 10am only to be moved several times to accommodate those who had made reservations. By the late evening, the tents were packed. If you’re planning on stepping out for some fresh air, your only way to re-enter is a reservation slip. Luckily, we found a group of English men who were willing to adopt us into their group.

If you’re planning on visiting on a weekend, come early. The tents get pack. If one is filled, keep going down the line until you’re able to be accommodated. There are 15 tents!!!

Before entering the tents, your bags do get checked. Don’t bring things like hairspray. My girlfriend decided to carry her entire bag without unpacking anything and she had to hide some goodies away.

Bring Some Spare Change

Oktoberfest is not just about drinking, it’s a huge fair where families can bring their kids. I went on a few rides and found some yummy finger foods.

I only recall splitting 2 meals with 2 of my girlfriends during my entire 4 day stay in Munich. By day 3, we felt miserable and missed our flight home to the States. The only foods that we could find in the tents were pretzels and doughnuts. They serve meals in the early mornings and when you reserve a table. If you didn’t make reservations, don’t sweat. A wonderful beer girl walks around with a basket filled with small delights. Flag her down and get some yummies in that tummy.

We met a lot of people from all over Germany and the world. We drank together, toasted and learned a few Traditional German songs. It was one of my favorite travel experience and I wish to return again real soon.

Now there you have it. Things to prepare you for Oktoberfest in Munich.