Baggage Claim and Customs
Upon arrival at the destination, passengers proceed to the baggage claim area to collect their checked luggage and then go through customs and immigration procedures.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
baggage claim
The area in an airport where passengers pick up their checked luggage after arriving. It's essential for travelers to know this to collect their bags.
carousel
A moving belt or conveyor where luggage appears for passengers to grab. Use this word when asking about the specific spot for your flight's bags.
bag tags
Labels attached to luggage showing the flight and destination. Check them to ensure your bags are correctly identified and routed.
tagged
Past tense of 'tag,' meaning to attach a label. In travel, it means your luggage has been marked for the right place.
customs
The government office at borders where officials check passengers' luggage for illegal items. You go through customs after baggage claim.
declare
To officially report items like money or goods to customs. If you have nothing to declare, it means your luggage is clear and simple.
declaration form
A paper or digital form you fill out to list items for customs. Prepare it in advance to speed up the process.
proceed
To move forward or continue. In airports, it's used by officials to say you can go to the next area.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Where's the baggage claim for flight BA286?
This is a polite question to ask for directions in an airport. Use it right after landing to find your luggage area. Note the specific flight number for clarity.
Let's follow the signs. Look for 'Baggage Claim' or 'Luggage Reclaim'.
This suggests navigating by airport signs. It's useful for beginners as it teaches practical phrases for orientation. 'Look for' means to search for something visible.
I hope our bags made it. Did you check our bag tags earlier?
Expresses worry about lost luggage and asks about preparation. 'Made it' is informal for 'arrived safely.' Use this to discuss travel concerns with companions.
Do you have anything to declare?
A standard question from customs officers. It's important to understand for answering honestly. The structure is a yes/no question for official checks.
No, officer, we do not. Here are our passports and the completed declaration form.
A polite response to customs, showing respect with 'officer.' 'We do not' is formal negative. Use this when you have nothing to report, and always offer documents.
Welcome to [Destination Country]. You may proceed.
Official welcome phrase allowing passage. 'You may' is polite permission. Learners should recognize this as a sign of clearance in immigration or customs.
That was smoother than I expected. Let's find a taxi stand.
Expresses relief after an easy process. 'Smoother than' compares positively. Use after travel steps to suggest the next action, like getting transport.