12 English Idioms for Talking About Travel and Holidays
It’s that time of year again: the sun is mostly out, the sandals have re-emerged from the back of the wardrobe, and many of us are quietly plotting an escape—whether that means a fortnight abroad or a cheeky long weekend closer to home.
To celebrate the season (and to help you sound wonderfully natural in English), I’ve gathered a dozen of my favourite idioms for talking about travel, holidays, and time off work. Slip them into conversation, and you’ll sound like a seasoned traveller in no time.
Off the beaten track
Meaning: Somewhere far from the usual tourist routes.
Example: We stayed in a tiny village completely off the beaten track and loved the peace and quiet.
Hit the road
Meaning: To set off on a journey, usually by car.
Example: Let’s hit the road at dawn tomorrow and beat the traffic.
Get away from it all
Meaning: Escape everyday life to relax and recharge.
Example: After such a busy term, I need to get away from it all and switch my phone off for a week.
Make your way (somewhere)
Meaning: Travel towards a place, often gradually or with stops along the route.
Example: We made our way down the coast, stopping at every little seaside town for ice cream.
Live out of a suitcase
Meaning: Keep travelling without settling anywhere; never fully unpack.
Example: I’ve been living out of a suitcase since May, and I’m oddly enjoying it.
Catch the travel bug
Meaning: Become passionate—perhaps even obsessed—about travelling.
Example: He caught the travel bug after his first solo trip and hasn’t stopped exploring since.
Get itchy feet
Meaning: Feel a strong desire to travel or move on.
Example: I’ve only been home a fortnight and already I’m getting itchy feet again.
Pack everything but the kitchen sink
Meaning: Take far too many things on a trip.
Example: She packed everything but the kitchen sink for a weekend in Brighton.
Be in holiday mode
Meaning: Feel relaxed and mentally away from work, even before the holiday starts.
Example: Don’t bother me with spreadsheets—I’m in holiday mode already.
Catch some rays
Meaning: Spend time in the sun, usually sunbathing.
Example: We headed to the park to catch some rays before lunch.
A breath of fresh air
Meaning: A refreshing change of scene or experience.
Example: That weekend in the Lake District was a real breath of fresh air.
Go with the flow
Meaning: Relax and accept things as they happen, without fixed plans.
Example: We didn’t book every detail; we just went with the flow and discovered brilliant little cafés along the way.
Whether you’re jetting off somewhere exotic or enjoying a staycation, these idioms add colour and authenticity to your English. Try slipping one or two into your next conversation—or even your out-of-office reply—and see how natural it feels.