7 Best Translation Apps for Traveling

As an educational company, we’re passionate about trying to learn different languages from scratch, but even the most committed language learners may need a quick translation in a pinch! Here are 7 of our top recommended translation apps to download before you head out on an ACIS educational tour overseas.

Google Translate

We couldn’t have a list without mentioning Google Translate! This ubiquitous app remains the most popular language translation app due to its extensive language database. And there are so many more features than the classic mode of typing in one language to get the text of another. Now, the Google Translate app has an image reader, where you can point your phone at a line of text and get a direct translation. There are also opportunities to have conversations with native speakers, transcribe audio in real time and download language translations in advance for when you don’t have internet access.

Downloadable Through: Google Play and iOS

Microsoft Translator

Microsoft Translator supports translation capabilities in text, voice, and image translation across a number of platforms, from iOS to web. One of its coolest features is Conversation Mode. Sharing a conversation code with multiple participants, users can have conversations that are translated in the recipient language in real time. There are also pre-downloadable phrase books and language databases that will be extremely helpful for travelers going abroad without a data plan.

Downloadable Through: Google Play and iOS

iTranslate

iTranslate provides translations in over 100 languages with options for text, voice, and web. Be sure to download the keyboard extension ahead of your travels: When you activate the app and type in a message in one language, you can get an automatic translation for your texts. If you need something to do on the plane, there is also a lessons feature on the app that will let you practice your language skills with simple games and quizzes.

Downloadable Through: Google Play and iOS

Papago

Are you heading to an Asian country on your ACIS Educational Tour? You’ll want to consider Papago! This app excels in translating Asian languages such as Korean, Japanese, and Chinese, with or without internet. The camera translation function is particularly useful in countries that do not use a Phonecian alphabet – After all, it’s hard to have cognates without the same characters!

Download Through: Google Play and iOS

TripLingo

If you’re looking for more than just a word-for-word translation, this is the app for you. TripLingo goes beyond basic translations by offering cultural insights, local dialects, and essential phrases for travelers. Users have the option to translate their own voice or integrate the voice of a native speaker, and the app offers more than 30,000 pre-recorded audio clips to practice with listening.

SayHi

SayHi is Amazon’s entry into the translation app market. It specializes in voice translations, allowing users to speak in their native language and instantly hear translations in over 90 languages. Camera, text and audio translations are available, and you have the ability to slow down the translated phrase, as well as the gender of the speaker. You do need internet in order to use the app, so it is best for travelers with an international data plan or access to local wifi.

Downloadable Through: Google Play, iOS and the Amazon app store

DeepL Translator

DeepL Translator uses AI to deliver high-quality translations across multiple languages. It supports text and document translations and is favored for its natural-sounding translations, making it a great tool for travelers. Don’t like the initial translation provided? There is an Alternative Translations feature that lets you explore other options as well.

Downloadable Through: Google Play and iOS. Note document translation is available through iOS only!

FAQs on Translation Apps

Are translation apps accurate?

This is the big question. Translation apps, unless otherwise specified, are not always going to give you the most natural expression of a phrase or understand popular colloquialisms. With the apps listed above, you can count on getting your point across, but you may find the translation is very formal. In the best scenario, that direct translation can serve as an opportunity to get a different perspective from a native speaker.

Do translation apps work offline?

Many of those featured in this list work offline! If you’re going abroad with limited internet access, you can still use the apps in their offline mode and download dictionaries, guides, and keyboard extensions prior to departure.

Do translation apps support local dialect?

Some apps, such as TripLingo and SayHi, do offer dialect options. Be sure to read about each individual app’s capabilities before you go!

ACIS has everything you need to bring your language classroom to life overseas. With culturally enriching activities and plenty of opportunity for speaking with locals, your students will see the maximum benefits of language immersion. Discover our recommended tours for Spanish, French and German teachers or download our guide to planning an educational tour below.