Best language software for travelers

Language software provides excellent options for travelers who are looking to pick up practical phrases rather than master a language. Many companies tailor their products for travelers by emphasizing speaking and offering travel-specific vocabulary. Mobile options and downloadable vocabulary lists enable travelers to practice their skills on the road.

Language software suits travelers' needs

One of the main complaints reviewers have about language software is that it can only get you so far. Many believe the products work best as a supplement to a traditional course for serious students, or as a resource for travelers.

Web-based language software products excel in this category by catering to travelers who don't want to wade through cumbersome software. Experts and reviewers appreciate the simple, straightforward setup and easy-to-navigate interfaces of companies like Babbel, Rocket Languages and Mango Passport, which features whimsical images of travel spots like the Eiffel Tower. While they don't include some of the bells and whistles offered by bigger competitors, they are much cheaper and focus on conversational skills so you can exchange pleasantries, ask for directions, shop and order at a restaurant.

Language resources designed just for travelers

The best options for language learners with wanderlust are Rocket Languages Premium and Mango Passport. While Rocket Languages is a PCMag Editors' Choice for best language software, the reviewer notes that its interface "could stand a little more refining." Mango Passport has "an intuitive user interface" but its flashcard-style design forces users to constantly click through exercises, notes PCMag, which provides the most in-depth review of language software options. Rocket Languages Premium is available in 12 languages, while Mango has 16, plus 12 ESL (English as a second language) courses.

Traditional language software companies like Tell Me More also produce travel-specific content, and Tell Me More and Rosetta Stone provide tailored products for business. Their travel and business software garners hardly any reviews, however. Pimsleur's conversational audio lessons are suitable for travelers but don't offer tailored content. Babbel is great for on-the-go learning and has a travel vocabulary section, but it is not developed specifically for travelers. Powerspeak will soon release a Travel & Business software package ($59) in 7 languages, including English for Spanish and Chinese speakers.

Features and exercises to get you talking

Audio exercises, vocabulary, portability and voice comparison tools are all important features for travelers. Rocket Language Premium's online program relies on audio lessons and speech recognition technology to get its users speaking. Reviewers at Amazon.com, PCMag and Third Age say that its cultural lessons and narrative style -- including conversations between two native speakers -- are effective (and even entertaining) resources. There aren't many Amazon.com reviews for any web-based language software, but one by a frequent traveler notes that Rocket Languages Italian is "invaluable" for conjugating verbs and even includes slang and idioms. 

Mango Passport's desktop application uses a combination of audio lessons and flashcards to teach travel-focused vocabulary in "fun and engaging interactive lessons," according to Language Magazine. Like most language-software companies, it also offers voice recognition tools to help learners assess their pronunciation, but it doesn't have online resources (aside from its mobile apps) or chat forums.

Both Rocket Language and Mango Passport offer downloadable content, which is important for travelers who may not have online access in far-flung locations. Video or audio chats would enhance both Rocket Languages and Mango Passport, but aren't vital for folks looking to pick up essential phrases before traveling.

Rocket Languages Premium is the Best Reviewed Language Software for Travelers

Rocket Languages' unique approach uses characters, stories, slang and traditional instruction to help travelers to feel less intimidated about conversing in a foreign tongue. Jill Duffy at PCMag calls the lessons "engaging, insightful, and downright helpful," summing up nicely what many reviewers state about Rocket. Reviewers caution that its audio-intensive programs won't work for everyone, however. Frugal travelers will want to consider Mango, which is the least expensive software we reviewed and is available in thousands of U.S. libraries.