5 everyday English phrases that come from travel

Did you know some of the most common English idioms come from travel? Even if you're not packing your bags, these phrases — rooted in the world of journeys, roads, and adventures — are used in everyday conversations. Let's explore five of them and how you can use them naturally.

Hit the road

This idiom means to leave or start a trip. People use it when they're heading out on a journey, whether it's a long road trip or just leaving a place.

For example:

"We packed up the car and hit the road early to avoid traffic."

"It's getting late — we should hit the road now."

"They hit the road at 5 AM to make it to the beach before noon."

Off the beaten path

If a place is off the beaten path, it means it's not a typical tourist destination. It's somewhere quiet, less crowded, and not as well-known — perfect for travelers who want to explore something different.

For instance:

"They love finding little villages off the beaten path when they travel."

"Our guide took us to a breathtaking waterfall off the beaten path."

"If you want a more authentic experience, try visiting places off the beaten path."

Catch a flight

People say "catch a flight" when they're talking about getting on a plane to travel somewhere. It's a common way to mention flying, whether for a vacation, work, or a quick trip.

Some examples include:

"I'm heading to the airport soon. I have to catch a flight to New York."

"She caught a flight to Paris for a weekend getaway."

"He barely caught his flight after getting stuck in traffic."

Take a red-eye

A red-eye flight is an overnight flight that leaves late at night and arrives in the morning. People take red-eyes to save time, especially if they need to be somewhere early the next day.

For example:

"I took a red-eye to New York and went straight to my morning meeting."

"They always take a red-eye when flying home to make the most of their trip."

"She didn't want to waste a day traveling, so she booked a red-eye flight."

At a crossroads

If you're at a crossroads, it means you have to make an important decision. Just like a traveler choosing which road to take, this phrase is used when someone is facing a big choice in life.

For example:

"After years of traveling, he was at a crossroads — should he settle down or keep exploring?"

"I feel like I'm at a crossroads in my career and don't know which path to take."

"The company is at a crossroads and must choose between innovation or staying the same."

Next time you talk about travel — or life's unexpected detours — try using these phrases. Keep exploring, and you'll pick up even more along the way. 

Language is a journey — keep going! Follow our Daily Dose of Denglisch Docs for more phrases to level up your English.