I never expected Google Lens to become one of my most-used apps—until it started solving real-world problems during my travels. What began as a tool for identifying seashells and translating grocery labels has turned into an indispensable travel sidekick, helping me spot vacation rental scams, decode foreign menus, and even understand bizarre weather phenomena.
Google recently highlighted new ways travelers can leverage Lens’ visual search this summer. I spoke with Dounia Berrada, Google Lens’ senior engineering director, about how the team is evolving the app into a smarter, AI-powered travel tool.
6 Game-Changing Ways to Use Google Lens While Traveling
1. Instantly Translate Signs & Menus
No more guessing what’s on the menu. Point your camera at text—whether it’s a street sign, train schedule, or restaurant menu—and Lens overlays translations in real time. I use this weekly at my local Cuban and Asian markets.
Pro Tip: Works offline for downloaded languages (limited feature set).
2. Spot Vacation Rental Scams
Found a suspiciously cheap Airbnb? Reverse-image-search the listing photos with Lens. I once uncovered a Costa Rican rental using stolen images from a different country—saved me from a scam.
“Lens wasn’t designed to catch scammers, but it gives travelers visual context to make safer choices.” — Dounia Berrada.
3. Identify Art, Landmarks & Oddities
Staring at a surreal painting at the Dalí Museum, I used Lens to pull up an AI-generated breakdown of its symbolism, history, and cultural significance. It’s like having an art historian in your pocket.
Also works for:
- Historical monuments.
- Local flora/fauna.
- Architectural styles.
4. Decode Strange Weather (or Clouds)
In Oklahoma, I snapped a photo of undulatus clouds (wavy, blanket-like formations). Lens’ “About This Image” feature linked me to weather blogs and fact-checking sites explaining the phenomenon.
5. Summarize or Copy Text from Photos
Need to translate a handwritten note from your Airbnb host? Lens extracts text, translates it, and even lets you copy-paste or ask follow-up questions.
Bonus: Highlights vegetarian options on menus if you ask!
6. Price-Check Souvenirs Instantly
Saw a handmade tote in Lisbon? Lens scans it and shows:
- Prices at other retailers.
- Similar styles online.
- Shopper reviews.
“I used Lens in Paris to compare local vs. online prices—saved me from overpaying!” — Berrada.
Limitations to Know
- Most features require internet (offline mode is limited).
- AI isn’t perfect—double-check critical info (like rental listings).
Why Google Lens Belongs in Your Travel Toolkit
- Free (no subscriptions or fees).
- Already on your phone (via the Google app).
- Solves niche problems (scams, clouds, art, souvenirs).
Final Thought
From avoiding travel scams to understanding surrealist art, Google Lens turns your camera into a context-aware guide. Next trip, try it—you might ditch Google Translate, Tripadvisor, and even your tour guide.
“With Lens, you’re not just searching the web. You’re searching the world.”
