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It's a big world out there, with a thousand sounds to take in and experience. According to the World Ethnologue, there are 7,000 languages spoken worldwide today. And while you might not encounter each and every one the next time you travel, it's likely your $5 phrase book won't cover every conversation.
Luckily, there are a number of language translation and dictionary apps available that offer everything from personal word banks to real-time conversation translation. Whether you're ordering dinner in Tokyo, asking for directions in Madrid, or reading signs in Marrakech, having a good translation app can make all the difference.
Don't settle for a blank stare being your way of picking up the local language - check out these five translations apps that can make your overseas trip more simple.
Note, pricing and features are correct as per 23 February 2026.
1. Google Translate
Best for: All round, no-nonsense translation.
Google Translate remains the most versatile travel translation app available, with support for up to 249 languages and features that cover almost every scenario from text to conversation translation.
Standout features
- Text translation
- Offline translation packs you can download before travel
- Camera translation - point your phone at menus or signs for instant results
- Conversation mode - real-time two-way spoken translation
- Handwriting input for tricky scripts
Things to know
- Offline features aren't available for every language - best performance usually comes with online use.
- There is no paid version, all features are available for the free app.
Price & availability
Free; available on iOS and Android.2. Microsoft Translator
Best for: Group conversations and offline travel
Microsoft's translation app is a strong alternative to Google, especially when you want to involve multiple people in the conversation.
Standout features
- Offline language packs
- Multi-person conversation mode - everyone joins and sees translations in their preferred language
- Text, voice, and camera translation
- Phrasebooks for essential travel phases
Things to know
Language coverage is smaller than Google's, but still solid for most travel needs.Price & availability
Free; available on iOS, Android and web.3. iTranslate
Best for: Speech-focused travellers
iTranslate offers intuitive speech-to-speech and text translation between 100+ languages, with a clean, user-friendly interface.
Standout features
- Voice, text and camera translation
- Keyboard extension for instant translation in messaging app
- Offline packs (with Pro subscription)
- Phrasebooks and pronunciation help
- Apple Watch support
Things to know
Some of the best features - including offline translation and camera translation - require the Pro subscription.
Price & availability
The app is free on iOS, Androidand web. Pro subscription unlocks full features for $14.99 per month or $49.99 per year.
4. DeepL Translate
Best for: Natural and accurate phrasing
DeepL has gained serious traction thanks to its AI-driven translations that often feel more natural and nuanced than competitors - especially for European languages and longer text.
Standout features
- 100+ languages
- High-fidelity text translation
- Context-sensitive output that reads more naturally
- Document translation functionality
- Website browser extension
- Tone options (formal/informal) - handy for emails and communications
Things to know
Supports fewer languages than Google or Microsoft, and some advanced features are behind a subscription.
Price & availability
Free tier available with limits on iOS, Android and web, or Premium subscription for full access at $10.49 per month or $8.74 per month for an annual subscription.
5. Naver Papago
Best for: Asian language travellers
Papago (by Naver) specialises in Asian languages - particularly useful if your travels take you to Korea, Japan, China, Thailand, or Vietnam.
Standout features
- Text, voice and camera translation
- Offline packs
- Website browser extension
- Strong support for Asian language pairs
- Conversation translation
Things to know
Language coverage is narrower overall - but the quality for supported languages is excellent.
Price & availability
Free; available on iOS, Android and web.
Travel-Ready Tips
- Download offline language packs before you go - especially useful in remote areas or where roaming is expensive.
- Test a few apps before your trip to see which interface feels most natural to you.
- Combine tools - eg. use Google Translate for text and DeepL for written content you want phrased just right.
Bottom Line
Your phone can be a powerful travel interpreter. Just pick one - or two - of these apps to make navigating foreign languages easier and more enjoyable.
Travel Insurance
We all know that the good times can take a slight detour when travelling. When the going gets tough, Travel Insurance Direct policies may assist with travel insurance cover if your tech items are lost, stolen or damaged, to help keep your trip moving in the right direction - so you can focus on the fun.
Cover is subject to the policy terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions. Consider the PDS and TMD and if the product is right for you.