Travel essentials in English, with pictures
This page covers essential English words for packing, navigating cities, and using public transportation. Try to name these items aloud the next time you take a trip.
suitcase
/ˈsuːtkeɪs/
A large bag with handles used for carrying clothes on a trip.
“He packed his clothes into a heavy suitcase.”
/mæp/
A drawing that shows roads, rivers, cities, and landmarks of an area.
“She checked the map to find the museum.”
guidebook
/ˈɡaɪdbʊk/
A book with helpful information and advice for visitors traveling somewhere.
“This guidebook lists the best local restaurants.”
runway
/ˈrʌnweɪ/
A long paved road where airplanes take off and land.
“The airplane waited on the runway for clearance.”
/ˈpæsəndʒər/
A person who rides in a vehicle without driving it.
“Every passenger must wear a seatbelt during takeoff.”
tourist
/ˈtʊərɪst/
Someone who travels to a new place for fun and sightseeing.
“Many tourists take photos near the old tower.”
hostel
/ˈhɒst(ə)l/
A cheap place to stay, usually with shared bedrooms and bathrooms.
“Backpackers often stay in a friendly hostel.”
keycard
/ˈkiːkɑːrd/
A small plastic card that unlocks a hotel room door electronically.
“Hold your keycard against the electronic lock.”
elevator
/ˈɛlɪveɪtər/
A moving box that carries people up and down inside buildings.
“Take the elevator up to the fifth floor.”
escalator
/ˈɛskəleɪtər/
Moving electric stairs that carry people between different levels.
“Stand on the right side of the escalator.”
subway
/ˈsʌbweɪ/
An underground train system used for public transport in large cities.
“We took the subway across the busy city.”
ferry
/ˈfɛri/
A boat that carries people and cars across a body of water.
“The ferry departs for the island every hour.”
tram
/træm/
An electric street vehicle that travels along metal tracks on roads.
“Hop on the tram to reach the market.”
bus stop
/ˈbʌs stɒp/
A marked place on a street where large public vehicles pick up riders.
“A crowd waited patiently at the bus stop.”
