1. Have multiple payment cards
   You should have multiple and different types of payment cards. In situations where one particular payment card solution does not function, you will then be able to pay with one of your other cards. Commonly used payment card networks in Norway include BankAxept, Visa and Mastercard.
   
   You should have least one physical BankAxept card as some of the current contingency arrangements for payments are limited to this type of card. Payment cards in apps on mobile phones or other digital devices will not necessarily function in a contingency. Physical payment cards are also reliable contingency solutions if you lose your mobile phone or have a drained battery.
2. Keep some cash on hand
   We advise you to have some cash on hand. You will be able to use cash even if all electronic payment systems fail. However, it may be difficult to obtain cash if the solutions for withdrawing cash are not functioning or if a large number of people try to withdraw cash from banks or ATMs at the same time.
   
   How much cash you should available have depends on the amount of emergency supplies you have at home and what else you may potentially need in an emergency. We recommend that you have smaller denominations of cash as merchants may have limited change when cash usage increases.
3. Have accounts in several banks
   You should hold accounts in more than one bank, with some deposits in each account. This will enable you to make payments even if the systems in your primary bank are unavailable.

The banking system and payment system is well-protected

Well-protected systems and sound contingency solutions implemented by banks and other key participants in the payment system ensure robust banking services. Disruptions and adverse incidents are rare occurrences but, unfortunately, can never be completely ruled out.

Norwegian banks are solvent and liquid. Furthermore, your bank deposits are secured under the deposit guarantee scheme, up to NOK 2 million per member bank. It is therefore not the case that you need payment preparedness because you risk losing your bank deposits.

Payment preparedness increases the likelihood that you can make essential payments when you need to, even if parts of the payment system are unavailable.

More good advice on individual emergency preparedness

The Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB) emphasises the importance of household preparedness and how this is important for individuals and society as a whole. DSB’s guidance is based on households being self-sustained for one week. during events that entail a failure in electricity supplies, water supplies, the internet or other critical infrastructure. By being prepared, you can help to keep yourself and your loved ones safe, at the same time as you relieve pressure on Norway’s overall defences. In a crisis, municipalities and emergency agencies can prioritise those who cannot manage without help.

Visit dsb.no/en/Safe-everyday-life/Self-preparedness/ for more advice on how to prepare for a crisis or an emergency.