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Traveling to a Spanish-speaking country is always an exciting adventure, but navigating the airport might feel a bit overwhelming if you’re not confident in Spanish. Therefore, knowing key phrases in Spanish can make your airport experience smoother and more enjoyable. In this blog, we’ll guide you through 23 must-know Spanish phrases that you’ll need from the moment you arrive at the airport to the time you board your flight. With these phrases in your pocket, you’ll feel more at ease and ready to explore your destination!

Arriving at the Airport

The first step of your journey begins as soon as you step into the airport. The following phrases will help you get started on the right foot.

Greeting and Introduction

A friendly greeting is always a good way to start a conversation. If you need help or directions, start with a polite greeting:

1. “Hola, ¿cómo estás?” (Hello, how are you?)
2. “¿Dónde está la entrada principal?” (Where is the main entrance?)

These simple sentences can help you approach airport staff or fellow travelers confidently.

Asking for Directions

Finding your way around a large airport can be tricky, especially if the signs are in a language you’re still learning. Here’s how to ask for directions:

3. “¿Dónde está el mostrador de facturación?” (Where is the check-in counter?)
4. “¿Cómo llego a la terminal de vuelos internacionales?” (How do I get to the international flight terminal?)

Checking In

The check-in process is a crucial part of your airport experience. Here’s how to handle it in Spanish.

General Check-In Phrases

When you reach the check-in counter, you’ll need to provide your flight details and perhaps ask some questions. These sentences will come in handy:

5. “Tengo una reserva para el vuelo a…” (I have a reservation for the flight to…)
6. “¿Cuál es mi número de puerta de embarque?” (What is my gate number?)

These questions will help ensure you’re on the right flight and headed to the correct gate.

Baggage

Dealing with luggage is not as stressful as you thought, if you master these two sentences:

7. “¿Cuántas maletas puedo facturar?” (How many bags can I check?)
8. “¿Dónde recojo mi equipaje?” (Where do I collect my luggage?)

Security Check

Going Through Security

Security checks can be a bit nerve-wracking, but these phrases will help you get through smoothly:

9. “¿Necesito quitarme los zapatos?” (Do I need to take off my shoes?)
10. “¿Hay algo en mi equipaje de mano que no se permita?” (Is there anything in my carry-on that isn’t allowed?)

These questions ensure you’re following the rules and can pass through security without issues.

Special Requests

If you have a tight connection or need special assistance, these phrases will be useful:

11.  “Tengo una conexión, ¿puedo pasar por seguridad más rápido?” (I have a connection, can I go through security faster?)

This phrase can help you move quickly if time is tight.

At the Gate

Flight Information

These questions will keep you updated on your flight status.

12. “¿Cuándo comienza el embarque?” (When does boarding start?)
13. “¿Hay algún retraso en mi vuelo?” (Is there any delay on my flight?)

Changing Seats

If you need to change your seat for any reason, here’s how to ask:

14. “¿Es posible cambiar mi asiento?” (Is it possible to change my seat?)
15. “¿Puedo tener un asiento junto a la ventana?” (Can I have a window seat?)

On the Plane

Communicating with Flight Attendants

Whether you need a drink or just some information, these sentences will help you communicate with the flight attendants:

16. “¿Puedo tener agua, por favor?” (Can I have some water, please?)
17. “¿Cuánto tiempo falta para aterrizar?” (How much time until we land?)

Addressing In-Flight Concerns

If you’re feeling unwell or uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to speak up:

18. “Me siento mal, ¿puedo tener una bolsa para mareo?” (I feel sick, can I have an airsickness bag?)
19. “¿Puedo cambiar de asiento? No me siento cómodo.” (Can I change seats? I’m not comfortable.)

Arrival and Customs

Navigating the Airport After Landing

After landing, you’ll want to collect your luggage and find transportation to your next stop:

20. “¿Dónde está la recogida de equipajes?” (Where is the baggage claim?)
21. “¿Hay un servicio de transporte al hotel?” (Is there a shuttle service to the hotel?)

These questions will help you transition smoothly from the plane to your final destination.

Customs and Immigration

Getting through customs is the last step before you’re free to explore. Here’s how to handle it:

22. “¿Necesito declarar algo?” (Do I need to declare anything?)
23. “Estoy aquí de vacaciones/trabajo.” (I’m here on vacation/work.)

Traveling in a Spanish-speaking country becomes much easier when you know a few key phrases. By familiarizing yourself with these 23 essential Spanish sentences ahead of time, you’ll be able to navigate the airport with confidence! 

Want to expand your vocabulary before your trip? Check out the FluenDay app! You can learn more travel phrases through structured courses or practical clips, giving you a feel for the language before you go. Download the app for free and get well-prepared for your next adventure!