Universal Travel Prep
Essential pre‑trip checklist and a 7‑day fast‑track language plan for any destination.
TravelChecklistsCrash Plan
Pre‑trip Checklist
- Emergency contacts card in local language (print + phone wallpaper)
- Offline maps + key pins (lodging, pharmacy, hospital, embassy)
- Transit phrases screenshot (ticket, platform, schedule, directions)
- Cash + contactless options; tipping norms; SIM/eSIM plan ready
- Local etiquette quick notes (greetings, formality, gestures)
- Health and meds list (generic names) translated and saved
- 3 must‑eat foods + 3 must‑see places learned in target language
- Key address written in local script (for taxi/driver)
- Download language pack/audio for offline practice on plane
- Backup plan: card saying “Please help, I’m learning [Language]”
7‑Day Fast‑Track Plan
- Day 1: Numbers, time expressions, “I need/I want/Where is…”
- Day 2: Food & orders (allergies, preferences, common dishes)
- Day 3: Transit & directions (left/right/straight, station, platform)
- Day 4: People & politeness (you/formal, please, sorry, thank you)
- Day 5: Emergencies (help, doctor, pharmacy, lost, stolen)
- Day 6: Lodging (reservation, keys, towels, check‑in/out)
- Day 7: Small talk (where from, how long, favorite places)
Crash‑course technique
Use 10‑minute micro‑sessions: read aloud, shadow audio, then recall from memory. Keep a single “cheat card” for each day’s theme. Recycle them on the plane.
See also
LingoCrush
Crush language barriers in 40 languages