I don't have a credit card, which is pretty typical here, so I always travel with just cash and debit cards (I have a couple of accounts). But if what you describe is standard - i.e. you get very good service in an emergency - a credit card does sound like a good idea
I have a credit card for bonuses and certain benefits like when renting a car, but as it’s AMEX I need my debit card with me anyway as the acceptance rate is about 70% (of places even taking non-girocard cards) here in Germany. As I automatically pay it off every month and enter all transactions in YNAB, it has no drawbacks.
As an American, 2 credit cards should be the bare minimum. I carry 4 that I use regularly and a 5th that sits as a "break glass in case of emergency". They all get paid off every month, so it costs me nothing.
