Charging on the go: charging cards & eMSP tariffs
You don't always charge at home. On trips or in your workday,
you need reliable access to the European charging network — with a charging
card, eMSP and roaming. For explanations of
the technical terms:
What is roaming?,
eMSP (Electronic Service Market Provider), CPO (Charge Point Operator) and
Plug & Charge.
You don't always charge at home. On trips or in your workday, you need reliable access to the European charging network — with a charging card, an app, or direct roaming between the operators. This guide shows the most important options and what matters.
Charging card (RFID)
The classic solution: a physical charging card from an eMSP (Electronic Mobility Service Provider) that you can use at all participating columns. Advantage: no smartphone dependency, automatic billing.
LadeGuide App & Apps
The flexible alternative: with the LadeGuide App you find available stations in real time, start the charging session directly, and compare tariffs. Ideal for spontaneous charging or frequent drivers.
Roaming in Europe
Do you use your German charging card abroad across the entire EU and beyond? Roaming is possible — but not automatically everywhere. We show which networks are compatible and what you should look out for when charging across borders.
What matters when charging on the go
- Faster charging: a good charging card offers fast access to DC fast chargers with several 100 kW — for a quick stop on the highway.
- Transparency: A clear price indication before starting. No hidden costs or unexpected idle fees.
- Roaming partners: Make sure that your eMSP has roaming partnerships with large CPO networks (e.g. Ionity, Fastned, Tesla Supercharger).
- Plug & Charge: The future of charging: simply plug in and drive away — no card, no app, no billing documents.
Charging options compared
| Criterion | Charging card (RFID) | LadeGuide App | Plug Charge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Requirement | An eMSP account required, often linked to a charging-costs account | No minimum amount — charge as much as you need | Requires vehicle & column with NFC/Bluetooth |
| Costs | Varies by provider: monthly costs + charging price | Lower tariffs through LadeGuide App partners, transparent pricing | No additional fee for plug-and-charge; only the standard charging price applies |
| Roaming | Yes, in most European countries — depending on the provider. | Depends on the provider — some apps offer Europe-wide roaming | Depending on network support: not available everywhere |
| Convenience | Simple — hold the card to the column. No smartphone needed. | High — find the station, start and pay directly in the app | Highest comfort: simply plug in, drive away |
Costs when charging on the go
Costs vary depending on region, operator, and charging power:
- At home / wallbox: €0.30–0.50 per kWh (much less with PV surplus)
- On the go / AC charging: approx. €0.50 – 1.20/kWh + if applicable idle fee
- DC-Schnellladen (HPC): approx. €0.79–1.40/kWh – depending on the charging station and grid operator.
Tip: Combine the best method
At home with the wallbox/PV surplus, and while traveling with a flexible app solution and charging card, you can maximize cost and convenience. Also use the LadeGuide App to always find the cheapest column near you.
Sources & notes
- LadeGuide, 30.09.2026: Content on charging cards, eMSP roaming, and charging while traveling as part of the collection "How would you like to charge electrically?".