The Dutch don’t really believe in credit, so many don’t have credit cards or only have one for travel. At the same time, it’s cheaper for businesses to accept bank cards (I’m not sure what they’re called in English, but they’re the ones that take the money straight from your bank account: a debit card?) And especially since the pandemic, you can shop EVERYWHERE with a bank card: even at the market most vendors will accept them – but you’re right, not credit cards. Make sure your debit card can work with the MAESTRO system. There’s an icon on the card if it does. Then make sure there’s enough money in the account and you’ll be able to use it everywhere.
And another thing: no checks. Don’t expect anyone to accept a check from the US – not even banks will cash them anymore – and the same goes for traveler’s checks. You’re better off with a Maestro card or just taking cash out of ATM machines.