Use body language: Pointing, gesturing and pantomiming will all help you get your point across.
Carry around a pad of paper on which you can write figures and draw pictures.
Hand your pen and paper to the person across the counter when you don't understand how much something costs; most people will get the idea and write down the number.
Go to travel stores and look for books or laminated cards with pictures of items related to food, lodging, transportation and entertainment; these are especially useful in restaurants and hotels.
Be aware that many English words and name brands are understood almost universally: American, taxi, sexy, Coca-Cola, OK. String these together creatively and you'll be surprised how much you can accomplish.
Let pictures tell the story. Take photos of your home, your family or whatever else is important to you to share with people you meet on the road.
