I'll be writing an update for my blog post I wrote last year on hints and tips for those racing RatN in the next couple of weeks, but something I think people should be aware of now so they can prep.
In light of the current pandemic, a lot more places are not accepting cash. And a lot of these places are only accepting MAESTRO AND V-PAY DEBIT CARDS.
I mentioned this last year, and a lot of people said "It's ok I have my credit card!" No, it's not OK. Unless your card says Maestro or Vpay, it is very very unlikely to work. You may get away with it at certain touristy places, hotels, NS ticket machines, and some places in central Amsterdam. But outside of these, you have no chance. This includes Cafe de Prologue. Last year I helped a couple of Brits by buying their drink on my card and taking their cash. I won't be doing that this year. When I tell you that your UK cards don't work, I really mean it, this also includes the Jumbo supermarket next to the start. No I won't be bailing out the person behind me who claimed 10 minutes earlier that their card would work here cos they have a credit card.
I don't know if prepay v-pay or maestro cards can be obtained by Brits, or if any UK banks issue them on request, but you have under 2 months, so maybe worth a bit of research to check. Last year I told people to make sure they had some cash just in case, this year that is much less of an option. Get a card that works here.
J