Prepare to communicate when problems arise

• First, describe the location, time, and specific problem.
• Keep your name, booking number, ticket, and phone number handy.
• Short sentences, numbers, and written information are often easier to understand.
• Save a note with the most important contacts and alternative options.
• Translation tools saved for offline use will still be available if the network goes down.
• In an emergency, use the locally valid emergency number; 112 is the central emergency number in the EU.

Start with a simple sequence: Where am I, what happened, when did it happen, and what help do I need? If you miss a connection, include your ticket number, original destination, and desired onward journey. For arrival and transportation, note the specific details for the station, terminal, transfer, or vehicle.

For accommodation, the name, address, reservation number, and arrival date are especially useful. Keep these details in your digitally backed-up travel documents and also on paper. If you need to stay overnight at your destination, choose accommodation based on its location. If you lose an ID card or passport, contact the relevant embassy or consulate; keep any copies of your passport and personal documents handy.

Write down the most important details in the local script and in a readable transliteration. For an address written in an unfamiliar script, keep the original name and transliteration together with the district and house number.

For everyday situations, short phrases are often enough: I need help, please speak slowly, please write it down, where is the ticket office, my train has been cancelled, or I have this booking. Add numbers, times, and names in writing. The essential words for everyday situations can be a useful starting point. If the local script is different, it also helps to save original names and place names.

If anything changes, note the new departure time, platform, or terminal immediately. Don’t just ask whether a service has been cancelled; also ask which connection you can take next and whether your ticket is still valid. For long-distance journeys, long-distance buses and ferries often use different terminals or departure points. For the first leg at your destination, transfers and local public transport are important onward-journey details.

Keep a small reserve in case you need to pay for an extra night, a transfer, or a new ticket. Keep your card, cash, and a second payment option separate. For reserves, contacts, and a Plan B, also save the details of someone you can reach and an alternative option.

If you lose something or become ill, first say what is missing or what symptoms you have, and give your current location. For medical issues, keep an up-to-date note with the medication name, allergies, and a contact person somewhere easy to access. To stay safe while travelling, keep copies of important documents and emergency contacts on paper as well.

If you are in immediate danger, call the local emergency services and give your location, describe the situation, and provide a way to call you back. You can reach emergency services on 112 in all European Union member states; outside the EU, use the emergency number for the country you are in. Important documents and contacts should be available on more than one device and on paper.

A short example sentence prepared in advance is easy to write down clearly along with a name, number, and address. A calm, well-organized presentation makes it easier to ask follow-up questions and reduces the risk of confusion.

What information do I need if a connection is cancelled?

The most important details are usually your ticket number, original destination, current station or terminal, planned time, and desired onward journey.

What can I do if I don’t speak the language well?

Have short sentences, names, addresses, and numbers ready in writing. A translation saved for offline use can make it easier to show someone what you mean.

When should I call emergency services?

If you are in immediate danger, there has been a serious accident, or you have an urgent medical problem. State your location, the problem, and a way to call you back as clearly as possible.

How should I store emergency information?

Save it on two devices and also on paper. Share the most important contact details with someone travelling with you.