How to Say “Safe Travels” in Dutch

goede reis
/ˈɣudə rɛi̯s/word by word
The English phrase "safe travels" is translated into Dutch as goede reis.
You use goede reis when someone is departing on a trip, whether by car, train, plane or any other means of transport.
Meaning: bon voyage (intj)

What does it mean word for word?

The phrase goede reis literally translates to "good journey".

Which one should you use?

The plural form goede reizen can be used, but the singular goede reis is the standard idiomatic way to wish someone safe travels. The phrase fijne reis is a common alternative that is used interchangeably with goede reis.

Is it said differently in some regions?

Behouden vaart means "safe journey" and is used in coastal areas of the Netherlands.

How do you pronounce it?

/ˈɣudə rɛi̯s/

Did you know?

  • The word reis is an unexpected relative of the English words 'rise' and 'raise'.
  • In the alternative phrase fijne reis, the word fijne literally means 'thin' or 'fine'.
  • In coastal regions of the Netherlands, you might hear behouden vaart instead of goede reis. This specific phrase is rooted in maritime history and refers specifically to a safe voyage by water.

Examples in context

  • Goede reis naar Amsterdam!
    Safe travels to Amsterdam!
  • Ik wens je een goede reis.
    I wish you a safe journey.

Example conversation

Emma is seeing Daan off at the train station.

  1. Emma

    De trein vertrekt bijna, Daan.
    The train is leaving soon, Daan.
  2. Daan

    Ja, ik moet nu echt gaan.
    Yes, I really must go now.
  3. Emma

    Goede reis, tot snel!
    Safe travels, see you soon!
  4. Daan

    Dank je, Emma. Tot snel.
    Thank you, Emma. See you soon.

Sources

  • IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (goede, reis) and can differ in connected speech.
  • Word origins: Wiktionary entries goede, reis, CC BY-SA 4.0.
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Anna Jennifer
Anna JenniferHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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