My phone died at a food truck and I lost $15 because I had no cash

This happened last Tuesday at lunch. I was at my favorite taco truck downtown, ready to pay with my phone app. My battery was at like 5%, but I thought I had time. Right as I went to tap, the screen went black. The guy was super nice, but they don't take cards, only phone pay or cash. I had zero cash on me, so I had to walk away without my food. I lost the $15 I was going to spend and went hungry. It made me realize how fragile a cashless system is. If your tech fails, you're just stuck. Has anyone else been caught out like this because they didn't carry a backup?

3 comments

3 Comments

hannah3201h ago

Honestly, @willowg88 is right about keeping backup cash. Tech fails all the time on the road too. It's just smart to have a plan B.

phoenix_lewis20m ago

Seriously, how often does tech actually fail that hard? Most places take cards now anyway, so cash feels like extra weight. I just don't buy the whole doomsday prep vibe for a quick trip.

willowg882h ago

Ugh, that's the worst feeling. My car's digital key failed at a gas station once, the app just wouldn't connect. I was stranded for an hour until my husband could bring the physical fob. It's like we're one dead battery or glitch away from being totally helpless. I keep a twenty folded up in my phone case now, just in case.