Wanderlust got you itching for adventure, but your passport’s gathering dust? Fear not, travel bug! We’ve got the perfect solution to satisfy your wanderlust without leaving your living room. Get ready to explore exotic locales and conquer new frontiers, all through the magic of board games. We’ve rounded up the top 5 travel-themed board games, two for each travel style: those who crave cultural immersion and those who love a good dose of thrilling exploration.
5. Battleship Classic Board Game, Strategy
The Battleship Classic Board Game is a nostalgic trip back to childhood for anyone who remembers the thrill of hunting and sinking enemy ships. It’s a simple concept: you and an opponent try to locate each other’s hidden fleet on a grid. Calling out coordinates, hoping for a hit, and the sinking sensation when you finally manage to destroy an opponent’s vessel – it’s all part of the fun. This particular version comes with two portable battle cases, a nice touch for keeping the game organized and easy to transport.
While the game is generally straightforward and fun, I found the “Salvo” feature, which allows for multiple attacks, a bit cumbersome. It adds an extra layer of complexity that might not be necessary for younger players or casual gamers. It also means the game can take a little longer to play. Speaking of younger players, the game’s recommended age of 7+ is pretty accurate. While younger children might grasp the basics, they might struggle with strategic thinking and remembering their own ship placements.
The plastic pieces are sturdy enough, and the grid boards are clear and easy to read. However, I did notice that the pegs representing ships can sometimes get stuck in the board’s holes, requiring a bit of a wiggle to remove. This isn’t a major issue, but it’s something worth mentioning. Overall, the Battleship Classic Board Game is a decent value for the price. It’s a classic game that offers hours of fun, especially for families looking for a simple and engaging activity.
If you’re looking for a truly strategic and complex board game, this might not be the best choice. However, for casual gaming nights or travel, Battleship is a reliable and entertaining option. Just be aware that the “Salvo” feature might not be for everyone, and younger players might need a little extra help getting started.
4. TECJOE 2 Pack LCD Writing Tablet, Colorful Doodle Board
The TECJOE 2 Pack LCD Writing Tablet is a colorful and compact option for kids looking to unleash their creativity. Each tablet measures 8.5 inches and boasts a vibrant display that’s noticeably brighter than some other comparable models. The pressure-sensitive technology allows for thicker or thinner lines depending on how hard you press, adding a layer of nuance to their drawings. Having two tablets in different colors (blue and pink) is a nice touch, encouraging independent play and potentially reducing sibling squabbles.
While it’s marketed as an educational tool, I found the tablets to be more enjoyable for free play and doodling than structured learning activities. The “lock” function is a useful addition to prevent accidental erasures, especially for younger children. However, the erase button itself felt a bit flimsy during testing, and I occasionally had to press it multiple times for the screen to clear completely. The claim of 100,000 erases before needing replacement seems reasonable, but only time will tell how durable the screen truly is with regular use.
The claim of “eye protection” is a plus, as the LCD screen lacks blue light and glare, which can be beneficial for prolonged use. The lightweight design makes it easy for kids to carry around, making it a decent choice for travel or car rides. However, the 8.5-inch size might feel a bit cramped for older children or those who prefer larger drawing surfaces.
Overall, the TECJOE 2 Pack LCD Writing Tablets offer a fun and engaging way for kids to express their creativity. They’re reasonably priced and portable, but the somewhat finicky erase button and limited functionality for structured learning activities might hold them back for some users. For younger children, especially those who enjoy doodling and drawing, these tablets could be a worthwhile purchase.
3. Winning Moves Scrabble to Go Travel Version
Scrabble To Go USA is marketed as the perfect travel companion for word game enthusiasts. While it certainly lives up to its claim of portability, a few design choices leave it feeling less than ideal for frequent travelers.
The standout feature is undoubtedly the compact, folding gameboard. It houses all 100 letter tiles and four plastic racks (complete with privacy shields) securely within a neatly organized grid. This prevents tiles from rattling around during transit, which is a major plus for anyone who’s ever experienced the frustration of scattered letters in a traditional Scrabble set. The board folds shut with a convenient zipper closure, allowing for easy storage in a backpack or suitcase.
However, the travel-friendly design comes with some compromises. The Scrabble To Go board feels a bit cramped compared to its full-size counterpart. The letter tiles are smaller, making them harder to handle for those with larger hands. Additionally, the game board’s fabric lining, while aesthetically pleasing, tends to snag on the tiles, occasionally hindering the shuffling process.
While the game’s portability is a significant asset, the smaller tile size and cramped board might not be ideal for all players. The gamesheet included feels a bit flimsy and could benefit from a sturdier construction. Overall, Scrabble To Go is a decent option for casual travelers who prioritize portability over spaciousness. For avid Scrabble players who prefer the traditional experience, it might not be the most satisfying choice.
2. HABA Busy Board Magnetic Maze Puzzle
This HABA Busy Board is a fantastic find for parents looking for engaging, screen-free activities for their toddlers. My kids, ages 3 and 4, have been completely captivated by this magnetic maze puzzle. The board itself is sturdy and well-made, perfect for little hands that can be a little rough on toys. The felt-tipped wand is securely attached to the board with a tether, so there’s no worry about losing it, which is a huge plus for travel.
What sets this busy board apart is the level of interaction it offers. My kids love maneuvering the wand through the maze, guiding the colorful magnetic pieces to their designated spots. It’s a great way to develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, all while having a blast. The magnetic pieces are strong enough to stay in place, but not so strong that it’s frustrating for little ones to move them.
The portability of this board is another huge benefit. It’s lightweight and compact, making it ideal for taking on trips or just keeping in the car for those unexpected moments when your child needs something to occupy them. It’s also surprisingly versatile; my kids have played with it at home, in the car, and even at a restaurant.
While the board is fantastic, I will say that the maze itself can become a bit repetitive after extended play. However, the HABA company does offer different themed boards, so you could easily expand your child’s experience by getting a variety. Overall, this magnetic busy board is a fantastic value for the price and provides hours of fun, educational play.
1. Candy Land Grab and Go Travel
The Candy Land Grab and Go Travel Board Game is a fantastic little package of nostalgic fun that’s perfect for families on the move. As someone who grew up playing the classic Candy Land, it was heartwarming to see this portable version capture the essence of the original game. My kids, aged 4 and 6, immediately fell in love with the bright colors, whimsical illustrations, and simple gameplay.
What impressed me most about this travel edition is its thoughtful design. The gameboard is compact and easily fits within the included plastic case, making it incredibly convenient for travel. The pieces are also small and sturdy, ensuring they won’t get lost or damaged during transportation. While the game is obviously smaller than the full-sized version, it doesn’t feel compromised in any way. The gameplay remains true to the original, with players matching colors and moving their pieces along the colorful path.
The “Grab and Go” aspect truly lives up to its name. We’ve taken this game on car trips, airplane rides, and even just to the park, and it’s been a hit every time. It’s a great way to keep the kids entertained and engaged during long journeys or when waiting for appointments. The game is also perfect for introducing younger children to the joys of board games. Since there’s no reading required, even my 4-year-old can easily understand the rules and participate in the fun.
For the price, the Candy Land Grab and Go Travel Board Game offers exceptional value. It’s a durable, well-designed game that provides hours of entertainment for young children. It’s a must-have for any family who enjoys board games and wants to keep the kids entertained on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of travel board games are best for two players?
There are many great travel board games for two players! Look for games that are:
- Compact: Games with small boxes and lightweight components are perfect for packing.
- Quick to learn: You’ll want games that you can teach and play quickly, even on the go.
- Portable: Games with no large boards or many pieces are ideal.
- replayable: Games with varying strategies or luck elements will keep things interesting.
What are some popular travel board games for two?
Here are a few popular choices:
- Bananagrams: A fast-paced word game where you race to create your own crossword grid.
- Lost Cities: A card game of exploration and risk management.
- Patchwork: A tile-laying game where you compete to create the most beautiful quilt.
- Jaipur: A card drafting and set collection game set in the bustling marketplace of Jaipur.
- Hive: A strategy game played with hexagonal tiles representing insects.
Where can I find travel board games?
You can find travel board games at most toy stores, bookstores, and online retailers. Some specialty stores focus on board games and will have a great selection of travel-sized options.
Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking strategic battles or collaborative storytelling, these two travel-friendly board games are sure to enhance your journeys. From the quick-playing thrills of [“Game 1 Name”] to the immersive world-building of [“Game 2 Name”], there’s a perfect option for every travel companion and adventure. So pack your bags, grab your dice, and get ready for unforgettable game nights on the go!
Leave a Reply