Written by: Luan Cavallaro, Founder & CMO, BeConfident

Traveling abroad is a dream for many Brazilians, but language difficulties can generate insecurity. Data from the tourism sector shows that more than 70% of Brazilians feel anxiety when communicating in English during international trips. This guide brings together 15 essential English phrases for different moments of the trip, such as airport check-in and emergency situations, as well as showing how practicing with BeConfident can help you use them naturally.

With the right phrases on the tip of your tongue, you can get through the airport stress-free, order in restaurants clearly, or ask for help in critical moments. By the time you finish reading, you will have a clear path to prepare and transform your next trip into a smoother and more enjoyable experience.

Why does learning travel-specific English phrases make a difference?

Knowing phrases aimed at travel situations brings security and independence. You don't need to speak English fluently to communicate well in moments like check-in or asking for directions. Mastering practical expressions avoids confusion that can complicate the trip, such as missing a flight or not being able to get help when needed.

Knowing single words is useful, but using complete sentences, like "Excuse me, where can I find the nearest bathroom?", shows politeness and facilitates communication. This improves your safety, enjoyment of the local culture, and ability to get by on your own.

When you feel prepared to speak, confidence grows. This encourages exploring more, talking to locals, and experiencing moments that many miss out on due to fear of the language. Start now with a free trial and get ready for your next trip.

15 English phrases to handle any travel situation

1. At the airport: from check-in to luggage

At the airport, communication defines the start of your trip. Mastering phrases for check-in, gate location, or baggage issues reduces stress. Preparing for these interactions helps prevent setbacks from the very first moment.

Some useful phrases include:

1. "I have a reservation under the name of..."

2. "Where is the check-in counter?"

3. "Can I have a window/aisle seat, please?"

4. "What gate is the flight to [destination] leaving from?"

5. "My luggage is missing."

6. "I'm connecting to another flight."

Improvising on the spot can be difficult, especially with the tension of the environment. Practicing in advance allows you to focus on the procedures, not on the words. With BeConfident, you simulate airport conversations with AI tutors, receiving feedback on pronunciation and tone to face any situation calmly.

2. At immigration: clear answers to get through smoothly

Going through immigration requires clarity to avoid complications. Knowing how to answer about the reason for the trip facilitates the process and demonstrates security.

Important phrases are:

1. "I'm here for tourism/business."

2. "I'll be staying for [number] days/weeks."

3. "This is my first/second visit."

4. "I'm staying at [hotel name/address]."

5. "Can I see your ID, please?"

Officers value direct answers. Hesitating or sounding confused can lead to extra questions. Practicing these phrases ensures you pass through this stage with confidence. At BeConfident, the Conversation Mode simulates immigration interviews with different accents, preparing you to interact naturally.

3. Transportation: how to get around by asking for directions

Getting around in a new city requires autonomy to ask for directions or understand instructions. Knowing specific phrases helps you use public transport or a taxi without relying on expensive guides.

Phrases to use:

1. "How much does a taxi to the city center cost?"

2. "Does this bus go to the airport?"

3. "Can you tell me how to get to...?"

4. "I'm looking for the nearest subway station."

5. "What time does the last train leave?"

Many Brazilians avoid public transport for fear of not being able to communicate. Learning these expressions opens doors to local and economical experiences. With BeConfident, you practice asking for information in scenarios like the London Underground or a New York taxi, improving your understanding and security when getting around.

4. At the hotel: ensuring comfort with simple requests

Communicating well at the hotel improves your stay, from checking in to small requests. Knowing expressions for check-in or requesting extra items makes daily life easier.

Practical phrases include:

1. "I have a reservation under the name of..."

2. "Can I get a late check-out, please?"

3. "Could I have an extra towel/pillow?"

4. "Is breakfast included?"

5. "What time does the pool/gym close?"

Not being able to express your needs can compromise your comfort. Practice these interactions with BeConfident, simulating conversations with receptionists via WhatsApp. Learn vocabulary and polite ways to ask, ensuring better service. Take a free trial and get ready for your stay.

5. In restaurants: clear ordering for good experiences

Eating out is a highlight when traveling, but misunderstandings can ruin the moment. Using polite and precise phrases improves service and avoids ordering mistakes.

Phrases for restaurants:

1. "Can I see the menu, please?"

2. "Do you have vegetarian/vegan options?"

3. "I'd like to order..."

4. "Could I get the check, please?"

5. "Is there anything you recommend?"

Communicating dietary restrictions is also essential for your health. On BeConfident, you simulate ordering with AI tutors representing waiters from different cultures, learning etiquette and timing for each situation.

6. Shopping: asking about prices and negotiating

Shopping abroad is easier with basic vocabulary for prices and products. These phrases help clarify prices, ask for sizes or payment methods, making the experience less frustrating.

Phrases to use:

1. "How much is this?"

2. "Do you have this in another size/color?"

3. "Can I pay with credit card?"

4. "Where is the fitting room?"

5. "Do you offer any discounts?"

Many travelers pay more or buy the wrong items due to lack of communication. Practice shopping scenarios on BeConfident, from large department stores to local markets, learning to negotiate and understand commercial customs of each place.

7. Emergencies: asking for help in critical moments

In emergency situations, knowing how to express yourself can save the day. Simple phrases help you ask for help or report problems like lost documents.

Essential phrases:

1. "I need a doctor."

2. "Call the police!"

3. "I've lost my passport."

4. "Where is the nearest hospital?"

5. "Can you help me, please?"

6. "I don't speak English very well."

Crises happen without warning, and nervousness can hinder even those who know English. Practice scenarios like asking for medical help or reporting lost documents on BeConfident, learning to convey urgency clearly.

8. Social interactions: connecting with new people

Talking to people during a trip enriches the experience. Knowing phrases to start a conversation or act politely in shared spaces helps build connections.

Phrases to socialize:

1. "Nice to meet you!"

2. "Where are you from?"

3. "What brings you here?"

4. "Can I join you?"

5. "Would you like to grab a coffee?"

6. "Sorry for the mess."

Many miss out on making friends due to insecurity with the language. On BeConfident, you simulate conversations in bars or hostels, learning to communicate naturally. Free trial now and start connecting across the world.

How does BeConfident help you speak English with confidence on trips?

Unlike traditional methods focused on grammar, BeConfident prioritizes real conversation practice. For travel, this means learning to use phrases in practical situations, with immediate feedback to improve.

The platform offers more than 10 AI characters with varied accents, such as American, British, and Australian. This allows you to practice the same phrases with different speech patterns, adapting to any destination.

You can simulate a dialogue about lost luggage in the morning, practice ordering in a restaurant in the afternoon, and practice an emergency at night, all at your own pace, with personalized guidance.

Besides teaching phrases, BeConfident builds your confidence to use them. Interactions start simple and evolve as you progress, always respecting your level and offering appropriate challenges.

Travel safely by mastering English for practical situations

Learning English phrases for travel does not mean speaking perfectly. The goal is to gain confidence to handle common moments naturally. Each practice on BeConfident is a step toward exploring the world without fear of the language.

Traveling safe and confident changes everything. By knowing these 15 phrases, you invest in richer experiences and genuine connections. Do not let the language barrier get in the way of your plans. Get started with a free trial and prepare for your next adventure.

Common questions about travel English

Do you need to speak fluent English to travel?

No, you don't need to be fluent. Mastering specific phrases for situations like airports, hotels, or emergencies already ensures safety and autonomy. The focus is on practicing until these expressions flow naturally. BeConfident helps with this through repetition and immediate feedback.

How do I prepare to understand different accents?

Exposing yourself to diverse accents is important, as you will meet people from various backgrounds. On BeConfident, you practice with AI characters that have American, British, and Australian accents. This trains your ear to understand and be understood anywhere.

Can I practice situations like emergencies?

Yes, BeConfident offers simulations of real scenarios, such as medical emergencies or lost documents. Practicing in a safe environment ensures you know what to say, even under pressure, communicating your needs clearly.

What sets BeConfident apart from other English apps?

The difference lies in the focus on practical conversation. Unlike apps that teach grammar or vocabulary through repetition, BeConfident puts you in real dialogues with AI tutors, available at any time. You receive immediate feedback and follow a plan tailored to your level, gaining confidence to use English during travel.

How long does it take to feel ready to travel?

The time depends on your level and dedication, but many BeConfident users notice improvement in 2 to 4 weeks with regular practice. Short sessions of 15 to 20 minutes a day, with immediate feedback, are more effective than long, spaced-out study sessions. You practice whenever you can, whether on your commute to work or at home.