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Lesson 31: Booking a trip by phone

Call a travel agent or airline to book a flight, choose dates and check what's included. About 10 minutes.

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Out and about · A1–A2 Lesson 31 of 42 · Listen · Speak · Check

1. Key phrases

Press 🔊 to hear each phrase, then say it out loud.

  • I'd like to book a flight to Brisbane, please. Say what you want and where you're going.
  • I'm thinking of leaving on the 12th. Give your travel date. 'The 12th' = the twelfth of the month.
  • Is that one way or return? One way = you don't come back. Return = you go and come back.
  • Is there anything earlier in the day? Ask for a different time.
  • Is it a direct flight? Direct = no stops. If it isn't, you change planes on the way.
  • Does that include checked baggage? Ask if a big bag is included in the ticket.
  • Can I change the date later? Ask if the ticket is flexible.
  • Could you email me the booking details? Ask for a written copy of your booking.

2. Listen to the conversation

Play the conversation, then press Practise as "Arjun" to take a part yourself.

3. Say it yourself

Listen, then say each sentence. Fill in your own details where you see "…". In Chrome, Edge or Safari, press 🎤 and your browser checks how clearly you said it.

4. Quick check

Loading questions…

Good to know in Australia

🇦🇺 Australia is a big country, so many people fly between cities instead of driving. Before you pay, check what's included: some cheaper tickets only include a small carry-on bag, and you pay extra for a checked bag.

Frequently asked questions

What are useful English phrases for booking a trip by phone?

'I'd like to book a flight to Brisbane, please.' (say what you want and where you're going). 'I'm thinking of leaving on the 12th.' (give your travel date. 'The 12th' = the twelfth of the month). 'Is that one way or return?' (one way = you don't come back. Return = you go and come back). 'Is there anything earlier in the day?' (ask for a different time).

How can I practise booking a trip by phone in English?

Listen to the key phrases and say them out loud, play the conversation and role-play one side, use the speaking check to hear how clearly you speak, then take the quick quiz. It takes about 10 minutes.

What should I know about booking a trip by phone in Australia?

Australia is a big country, so many people fly between cities instead of driving. Before you pay, check what's included: some cheaper tickets only include a small carry-on bag, and you pay extra for a checked bag.

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