How to Handle Common Travel Emergencies in Mandarin
Essential Mandarin phrases and survival strategies to stay calm and in control when things don’t go as planned
When Things Go Wrong Abroad, Language Can Be Your Lifeline
You’ve planned your trip meticulously. Your flights are booked, your suitcase is packed, and your Mandarin phrasebook is neatly tucked into your carry-on. But as every traveler knows, even the best-planned adventures can hit a bump in the road—and when you’re in a country where English isn’t widely spoken, a small issue can quickly feel overwhelming.
Lost passport? Medical emergency? Missed train?
These situations are stressful enough at home—let alone in a Mandarin-speaking country where the signs are in characters and emergency operators might not speak English.
That’s where even a basic command of emergency Mandarin can make a massive difference. You don’t need to be fluent to ask for help, explain what happened, or get the assistance you need. What you do need is a clear head, a few critical phrases, and the ability to communicate quickly and respectfully.
This guide will show you exactly how to prepare for common travel mishaps in China, Taiwan, or any Mandarin-speaking region—so you can travel with peace of mind, knowing you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.
1. Lost Passport or ID
Losing your passport is one of the most stressful travel emergencies—but it’s also one of the most common. If this happens, head to the nearest police station (派出所, pàichūsuǒ) and then your country’s embassy or consulate.
Key phrases:
我把护照丢了。 (Wǒ bǎ hùzhào diū le.) – I lost my passport.
我需要报警。 (Wǒ xūyào bàojǐng.) – I need to report to the police.
最近的派出所在哪里？ (Zuìjìn de pàichūsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?) – Where is the nearest police station?
Tip: Take photos of your passport and visa before your trip so you can show them if needed.
2. Medical Emergencies
Whether it’s food poisoning or a sprained ankle, you may find yourself needing a doctor or hospital. In larger cities, there are usually international clinics, but in smaller towns, only Mandarin may be spoken.
Key phrases:
我生病了。 (Wǒ shēngbìng le.) – I’m sick.
我需要看医生。 (Wǒ xūyào kàn yīshēng.) – I need to see a doctor.
请叫救护车！ (Qǐng jiào jiùhùchē!) – Please call an ambulance!
我过敏。 (Wǒ guòmǐn.) – I have an allergy.
我对……过敏。 (Wǒ duì… guòmǐn.) – I’m allergic to…
It’s also smart to carry a card that lists any allergies or conditions in Chinese.
3. Lost Phone, Wallet, or Belongings
Losing your phone or wallet can be more than inconvenient—it can affect your ability to access money, navigate, or even translate.
Key phrases:
我丢了手机。 (Wǒ diū le shǒujī.) – I lost my phone.
我的钱包被偷了。 (Wǒ de qiánbāo bèi tōu le.) – My wallet was stolen.
有没有失物招领处？ (Yǒu méiyǒu shīwù zhāolǐng chù?) – Is there a lost and found?
If you can, use another device or ask a hotel staff member to help you track or report the item.
4. Getting Lost or Missing Transportation
Missed your train? Got on the wrong subway? Can’t find your hotel?
Google Maps won’t always save you, especially if you're in an area with poor connectivity or no English support.
Key phrases:
我迷路了。 (Wǒ mílù le.) – I’m lost.
你可以帮我吗？ (Nǐ kěyǐ bāng wǒ ma?) – Can you help me?
我错过了火车。 (Wǒ cuòguò le huǒchē.) – I missed the train.
我住在这儿。 (Wǒ zhù zài zhèr.) – I’m staying here. (Show the address on your phone.)
5. Emergency Contacts and Essential Info
Make sure to keep these numbers handy when traveling in China or Taiwan:
🇨🇳 China
Police: 110
Fire: 119
Ambulance: 120
🇹🇼 Taiwan
Emergency Services (All): 119
Police: 110
Also, save your hotel’s business card, and have your embassy or consulate info ready just in case.
FAQs: Travel Emergencies in Mandarin
Q: What’s the Mandarin word for “emergency”?
A: 紧急情况 (jǐnjí qíngkuàng) – emergency situation.
Q: What if I can’t understand the person helping me?
A: Stay calm and say: “请说慢一点。” (Qǐng shuō màn yìdiǎn.) – Please speak more slowly.
Q: Can I call 911 in China or Taiwan?
A: No—emergency numbers are different. Learn and save the local numbers before you go.
Q: Are police stations friendly to tourists?
A: Generally, yes. They may not speak English, so having phrases or translation apps will help.
Q: Should I rely on translation apps during emergencies?
A: They can help, but network access may be limited. It’s best to learn key phrases and carry a cheat sheet or translation card.
Q: What if I have a serious medical condition and can’t communicate it?
A: Prepare a medical ID or card in Mandarin before you travel, listing allergies, medications, and emergency contacts.
Be Prepared Before You Need to Be
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