travel buddy games

Travel Buddy Games

See the world. have fun..

• Track Orders
• Shopping Bag

Why Choose Us?

Every Travel Buddy Games title fits 3 basic criteria: small enough to travel with easily, simple enough to play with new friends you meet while traveling, and thematically tied to an interesting or exotic travel destination.

We want Travel Buddy Games to show you parts of the world you haven’t seen, and make you want to see them in person.

And when you go, we hope you bring your Travel Buddy games with you. Bring them to your hostel. Play with the new friends you make on your travels and share the joys of socializing with fellow travelers over a game.

Joshua Lobkowicz

Founder & CEO

Hello new friend. Thanks for coming to check out Travel Buddy Games! I’m Joshua Lobkowicz and Travel Buddy Games is the merging of two of my greatest passions: Travel and Gaming.

From my earliest years I loved traveling. Road trips and vacations with my family always got me excited to see new places, try new foods, and have new experiences. I love travelling still and that youthful excitement over discovering a new place has never left me.

I have also always had a love of gaming. As a child it was Monopoly, Chess, Heroquest, Omega Virus, and Clue. As a teen it was Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons. These days it’s designer games like Catan, Innovation, or myriad other titles you can find at boardgamegeek.com.

Travel Buddy Games is my way of bringing the world of travel to gamers and introduce the world of games to travelers.

Travel Buddy Games home offices are Located in Fenton, MO.

This is not a retail location. Products are only available for purchase online.

Travel Buddy Games Offices

1760 Chase Dr, Fenton, MO 63026, United States

Connect with us

17 Best Travel Games For Adults To Satisfy Wanderlust At Home

By charlotte dow. this post contains affiliate links to brands we think you’ll love.

Looking for the  best travel games for adults to help satisfy your wanderlust at home?

If you’re like me, your Pinterest board is overflowing with photos of travel destinations, you’re stalking your favorite travel search engine for cheap flights, and you’ve binge-watched every travel documentary on Netflix. If a private jet showed up to take you to an unspecified locale, you’d get on, no questions asked.

You, my friend, have a serious case of wanderlust.

Wanderlust can be difficult to deal with when you can’t get out of town. Maybe your calendar is too full, you’re facing travel restrictions, or your budget just isn’t where you want it to be.

Thankfully, there’s a way to satisfy your craving for adventure from the comfort of your home with travel-themed board games!

We’ve rounded up of the best travel games for adults that will allow you to trek the globe for way less than the price of a one-way flight.

From conversation-starting cards to international adventures, you’ll be sure to find a game that’s right for you.

If you’re looking to plan the ultimate staycation or just want some fun stay at home activities for you and a similarly grounded travel buddy, we’ve got you covered!

Table of Contents

Satisfy Your Wanderlust

Before we dive into the fun travel games for adults, I want to share this free travel personality quiz .

Answer 10 visual questions, and you’ll be told what type of trip you should take based on your answers.

You’ll also be shown suggested experiences — all unique, to take you #BeyondTheGuidebook — for each trip type!

Best Travel Games For Adults

1. Trip Chaser

Created by travel bloggers Dalene and Pete Heck of Hecktic Travels, Trip Chaser is an armchair travel game for competitive people.

Played by 2-6 players, the game mimics the act of travel, but without the need to pack a suitcase or spend $1000+ on a plane ticket.

You’ll collect and play destination cards in order to take trips around the world. Just make sure to plan your journeys strategically so that you have enough money to take each trip!

During the hour of play, expect a mix of challenges as well as enriching experiences to keep things interesting.

Bonus: The game is also packable to take on the road with you. And for every game sold, one tree will be planted via Ecodrrive (powered by Veritree).

2. Travel Banter

Created by a friend of the blog, Nicolette Orlemans of Culture Trav, this fun travel-themed game comes in the form of a deck of conversation starter cards meant to help you re-live some of your favorite trip memories and swap life lessons with your partners.

Questions come in five categories — Arts & Culture, Food & Drink, Life & Lessons, Culture and People — and challenge cards will have you pondering the bigger picture.

While the cards are perfect for connecting with people you meet on the road, they’re also great for a night at home when you’re dreaming of your next big trip.

Moreover, you can use the cards to inspire some fun journal writing prompts related to travel!

3. Passport to Culture

Looking for the best travel board games for adults?

Well, if you binged too much TV and are now in need of some fun Netflix and Chill alternatives for travelers , Passport to Culture can help!

In this board game, you’ll travel the world and test your cultural knowledge, all from the comfort of your own home.

With 636 travel trivia questions and 60 possible cultural scenarios, you’ll definitely expand your knowledge — and will probably also discover a new location to add to your travel bucket list!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Jamie (@reissj) on Feb 22, 2018 at 12:59pm PST

4. Monopoly: National Parks Edition

In this version of the classic property trading game, you’ll plan a cross-country trip to visit over 60 of the parks and historic sites in the United States National Park System while learning a little more about the parks themselves. Go hiking in Sequoia National Park , have an adventure in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains , explore the otherworldly landscapes of Joshua Tree , and more.

The best part?

You can play while supporting the parks themselves, as a portion of the game’s proceeds goes to the National Park Foundation.

5. Around The World In 80 Days

Inspired by the classic Jules Verne novel , you’ll race the other players to be the first to travel around the world from London in just 80 days.

As with all travel, success in the game requires a fair amount of strategy, as you’ll have to manage your savings wisely and make the right moves to come out victorious!

Note that to purchase this travel game, you’ll need to check sites like Amazon, eBay, and BoardGameGeek to find copies.

Bonus: After playing, click here to watch the classic film by the same name.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Jogos na Caixeta (@jogos_na_caixeta) on Aug 20, 2019 at 3:20am PDT

6. Ticket To Ride

Train fans and history buffs alike will love this two-to-five player board game that’s constantly listed as one of the best travel games for adults.

Compete to create the longest train route across turn-of-the-century North America, traveling to different destinations around the continent.

Already conquered the original?

Check out the rest of the series, with versions set in Germany , Europe , London , India , and more. If you love travel-related games, you’ll easily become addicted to this collection.

Ever wanted to help build one of the most awe-inspiring — and unfinished — cathedrals in the world?

In Sagrada, you’ll use dice to create one of the intricate stained glass windows in the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.

A little strategic know-how and artistic flair will take you far in this game, while the gorgeous game pieces will transport you to the storied Spanish basilica.

8. Forbidden Desert

In this game for two-to-five players, you’ll search an ancient desert to find a legendary flying machine buried somewhere in the rolling sandhills.

You’ll have to survive the elements and work with your teammates to succeed in this travel-themed board game that will take you to another world, all from the safety of your own living room.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Lisbon Board Gamer (@lisboardgamer) on Sep 17, 2019 at 3:45pm PDT

9. 7 Wonders

How many of the Seven Wonders of the World can you check off your travel list?

In this travel game, you’ll play as one of the leaders of the ancient world, work to expand your empire and build architectural marvels.

The game moves quickly so you’ll stay engaged and enjoy leaving your mark on history.

10. Discover Lands Unknown

For those who love games about traveling the world, Discover Lands Unknown will easily become one of your favorites.

The board game challenges you and your fellow players will find yourself marooned in the harsh wilderness, searching for survival essentials. As the game goes on, you’ll work together to find your way home.

Each copy of Discover Lands Unknown is unique, featuring different mixes of environments, characters, and storylines; much like traveling, every gaming experience is different!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by onemainemama (@onemainemama) on Dec 21, 2019 at 5:47am PST

This fun game is perfect for outdoor adventurers who might find themselves stuck inside for a while.

It tests your knowledge of the great outdoors while giving you some inspiration for your next camping trip.

Grab a copy of the game’s travel edition to bring along on your next adventure.

12. Ridley’s World Tour Travel Trivia Card Game

Looking for a game that’s a little less complicated — and more travel friendly? Look no further than Ridley’s World Tour Travel Trivia Card Game.

This 2+ player travel game includes 80 questions as well as bonus facts and offers the perfect way to show off your knowledge of world wonders and cultures to your travel-savvy friends.

13. Who Knows Where ?

This fast-moving and easy to play geography board game has 1,000 questions on capitals, major cities and towns, events and facts, major tourist sites and more.

The game’s board is also double-sided, featuring a world map with borders and country names for easier play on one side, and a topographical map on the other for more of a challenge.

As you learn about some of the coolest places on earth, you’re bound to get a few ideas for your next trip.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by The Restless Wonderer (@slshowell86) on Feb 2, 2019 at 4:56am PST

14. Backpacker – The Ultimate Travel Game

Travel bloggers will love this game in which players compete to be the one to bring home the most photos.

In this travel-friendly card game, you’ll trek around the world, visiting as many places as possible without getting sick or missing your plane.

No two rounds of Backpacker are alike, so you’ll want to keep playing this one for a long time.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Mark (@boardgaminginthe6ix) on Feb 29, 2020 at 8:53pm PST

15. Tokaido

In this gorgeous board game, you and your fellow players will travel through Japan across the “East Sea Road.”

Along your way, you’ll indulge in many cultural experiences, collecting interesting things to become the most initiated traveler.

For those who want to relive the memories of their travels to Japan , or those itching to take a trip to the island nation, Tokaido is a great way to experience the country from afar.

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by @parempi_kuin_kimble on Feb 1, 2020 at 4:03am PST

16. Scotland Yard

Anglophiles rejoice!

In this game, you’ll travel through London to track down the criminal mastermind Mister X, a fugitive of Scotland Yard.

You’ll traverse the city by taxi, bus, and underground, visiting great London landmarks like Paddington Station and Piccadilly Circus.

For travel lovers who want to get their Sherlock Holmes on, Scotland Yard is the perfect way to spend an evening in.

17. Globe Runner

With adjustable levels for different ages and abilities, this geography board game is perfect for travel-loving kids and adults.

Use your knowledge of countries, capitals, flags and more to race your fellow players around the world.

As you “travel” to different countries, you can share some of your own stories and get some inspiration for your own travel bucket list.

What would you add to this list of best travel games for adults?

Enjoyed this post on the best travel games for adults? Pin it for later!

Pinnable travel-themed games infographic:

Related posts:

Hi, I’m Jessie on a journey!

I'm a conscious solo traveler on a mission to take you beyond the guidebook to inspire you to live your best life through travel. Come join me!

Want to live your best life through travel?

Subscribe for FREE access to my library of fun blogging worksheets and learn how to get paid to travel more!

Turn Your Travel Blog Into A Profitable Business

Subscribe to my email list to snag instant access to my library of workbooks, checklists, tutorials and other resources to help you earn more money -- and have more fun -- blogging. Oh, and it's totally FREE! :) //  Privacy Policy . 

Check your inbox for your welcome email + resource library password!

Great list! Sagrada looks amazing!!!

Nice, I thank you for sharing the games list.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

PAGES PLACES AND PLATES

Reviews of books, eateries, experiences, and travel

• Products & Services

The Great Barrier Reef Card Game – Travel Buddy Games | Clever And Fun Travel Game For Adults And Kids

Gaming and travelling are two of my favourite things, so products that combine the two are always a win in my mind! Especially an original travel game for adults, which is sometimes hard to come across. I was recently gifted the Great Barrier Reef Card Game by Travel Buddy Games, a tabletop game designed to be easy to play when on the move. It’s focused around building sustainable ocean reefs and is both intelligent and fun to play – let’s dive in and see how it works (see what I did there?).

Travel Buddy Games

From the Travel Buddy Games about page, written by owner Joshua Lobkowicz: “Travel Buddy Games is my way of bringing the world of travel to gamers and introduce the world of games to travelers. Every Travel Buddy Games title will fit 3 basic criteria: small enough to travel with easily, simple enough to play with new friends you meet while traveling, and thematically tied to an interesting or exotic travel destination. 

Travel and Gaming are both, for me, inherently social. And some of my fondest memories consist of staying at a hostel and sitting down in the common area with a deck of cards, making new friends, and chatting about the corners of the world we come from and the destinations we seek to go to.

I want Travel Buddy Games to give you those kinds of experiences. I want my games to show you parts of the world you haven’t seen, and make you want to see them in person.  

And when you go, I would love for you to take your Travel Buddy Games with you. Bring them to your hostel. Play with the new friends you make on your travels and share the joys of socializing with fellow travelers over a game.”

Game Contents

Despite the Great Barrier Reef Card Game being small there are many elements involved, although setting up isn’t complicated. The game includes a variety of different types of card. Reef cards, scoring cards, and reference cards are present, plus some fish tokens, number tokens, scoring markers, and a 1st player token. All elements are small and easily transportable. The set up is the same every time you play, but strategy is different due to the randomised scoring elements.

I love that the game is for two to five players – many games are 3+ so this is great. Always frustrating when it’s just you and your partner! You can easily adapt the game to different numbers by removing a certain amount of cards from the deck.

The cards for the game are durable but sturdy, and very lightweight. I love the design of the fish on the cards however we weren’t actually sure what some of them were so hoping that this will be included in the instructions (which I’m sure it will). It also took me a while to refer to sponges and corals correctly as they are both quite similar. A fault of nature, rather than Travel Buddy Games!

Gameplay & Scoring

I was surprised at how strategic the Great Barrier Reef Card Game actually is. Although it’s easy to grasp within one or two playthroughs I wouldn’t describe it as simple. There’s a lot of think about – the aim is to build the perfect barrier reef by placing cards together, but you have to consider many elements to achieve this.

One element of this collecting as many sponges, corals, and tiger sharks as possible, whilst simultaneously avoiding crown of thorns. The former give extra points, whilst the latter deduct points. There are also five ways to obtain more points by placing fish in certain ways. Each scoring pattern applies to just one fish, chosen at random, which makes it different each time – I loved this!.

The scoring methods have a base amount of points that the players can gain from them, however these can be altered by certain moves which adds another great element of strategy to the game. By covering up sharks and sponges in their reefs, players can adjust the scoring amount either positively or negatively, which can be used either to up the scores of the patterns they’re aiming for, or reduce the scores of the patterns it looks like their opponent is focusing on. This adds another level of competition between players and can really turn a game around at the last second.

I also liked the strategy involved with the method of drawing cards. Each player starts with three cards in their hand, and they place one each turn. Once placed, they pick up one of four displayed cards which corresponds to the middle number of the original card. Sometimes, placing a card for the next card you will get, rather than the fish patterns, can be more important. This can also be used to pick up extra points or get good cards before the opponents can.

Playthrough took around 20 minutes each time, and scoring was all done at the end. The scoring reference cards are quite handy to use for this as then everyone can work up their scores individually.

Suitability

I initially thought that the Great Barrier Reef Card Game would be aimed at younger players, however due to the levels of strategy involved I think that very young players would struggle so it’s definitely more a travel game for adults. However, it may be possible for players with younger children to adapt the game. For example, you could take away the more complicated scoring patterns and perhaps remove the ability to adjust the score amounts.

The game will be of interest to many players of tabletop games. I think players of strategic games like Carcassonne will particularly enjoy it as I noticed some similarities there. It will, of course, also be great for anyone who has a particular interest in fish and the ocean!

Final Thoughts

I haven’t played many tabletop games recently but the Great Barrier Reef Card Game has reignited my love for them. It’s such a fun travel game for adults and kids and, although it requires properly sitting down and reading the rules to get to grips with all of the different elements, once you’ve got it it’s the sort of game you’ll just want to keep on playing. Perfect both for travelling and when you’re stuck in the house, and a guaranteed winner for family bonding time.

Purchase Links

The Great Barrier Reef Card game isn’t out as of yet. However, you can join the mailing list and receive updates by visiting the Travel Buddy Games website.

What’s your favourite travel game for adults? Share in the comments, and don’t forget to like and pin if you enjoyed this review! You can read some of my latest travel articles here:

10 Things To Do When You Can’t Travel My Travel Adventure Bucket List Six Of The Most Sustainable Schools In The World

11 thoughts on “ The Great Barrier Reef Card Game – Travel Buddy Games | Clever And Fun Travel Game For Adults And Kids ”

I love these fun little games like this. Perfect addition for a games night – especially during lockdown!

Definitely! Lockdown is really helping to restore my love of tabletop gaming.

This looks fun! Especially for now when we’re all stuck at home!

It really is! It’s deceptively involved, but it doesn’t last long which I think is great for when you just need something to get you off your phone for a bit!

I bet this is hilarious after a vino or two!! I am loving card games and board games right now! Rosie

Me too! This one is actually so strategic, so I bet it would be quite funny with wine involved!

• Pingback: Fanattik Film & Gaming Collectibles | Pages Places & Plates

This is so cool. I have been snorkeling in The Great Barrier Reef and I have fond memories. This would be a fun game to pick up. Thanks!

I would so love to do that! 😍

The idea of making tabletop games easy to travel with is genius! Games are such a good way to get to know people, they really help break the ice and this seems like a fab way to do exactly that. Not sure I entirely understand the rules though – feels like the kind of game you have to play through once or twice before you ‘get’ it haha! x

Oh it really is – once you get it though, it clicks. It’s actually very strategic for such a short game!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Travel Games for Adults that are Portable and Worthwhile

Why not enjoy some travel games for adults when you travel, whether you're lounging by a pool, at a bar enjoying cocktails, or in your hotel room enjoying the room you booked for your vacation?

Some of these travel games are nostalgic (hello, Uno!) and others are new(er). But regardless, they'll keep you off your phones, away from the TV and interacting with each other.

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post, which means we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase, at no cost to you . We truly only recommend hotels, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our Privacy Policy .

Card Travel Games for Adults

The best thing about card games is their utterly portable and they are very quiet. They're great to play on an airplane with your travel buddy if you're sitting next to each other or together during your trip.

There is no shame in this game. It's an absolute classic card game and the first we ever played as a couple. We still love playing it whether we're home or on the road.

We recommend getting it if you've never played Uno because it's a staple! It's been around for over 50 years.

You can play with two to four players. The game starts when one card is drawn, and then the players take turns matching colors or numbers to keep things going.

The twists come when a play puts down a card that says, “Draw Four” for example, reverses the play to skip the other player's turns, etc. The first player to use all of his or her cards up wins.

We have two sets: one we keep at home and one we keep in the car. The one at home is the one we sometimes pack in our travel backpack to go on vacation with. You can also keep one and gift the other if you buy the Uno two-pack .

We had Sushi Go for so long before we actually played it. I picked it up one day after seeing it in the game aisle of Target, after perusing an aisle nearby for puzzles . I love sushi ….and the game is called Sushi Go. It was a no-brainer and looked easy enough to play. And it is. But it's cute and fun and you can't help but smile as you build your own sushi menu.

Get points as you build up your maki rolls, or accumulate nigiri. You get extra points for things like a dip in wasabi (haha!).

You in no way, shape, or form need to understand or know sushi to play the game. It's just fun if you do because you'll easily recognize the menu items. And if you don't normally eat sushi, it's a good way to learn the words. Think of a “maki roll” as another word for “round column.” In other words, even if the cards were named for the shapes and colors it would be the same concept. They just added a fun twist.

Sushi Go can be played with two players but it's most fun with four.

The tin with the cards is only 8.5 ounces, and measures 4.25″ x 5.75″ x 1.5″.

Exploding Kittens

Friends of ours introduced us to this game when we were hanging out in their kitchen after a BBQ. “Do you want to play Exploding Kittens?” We were utterly confused. When they explained it to us, however, we were game.

Exploding Kittens has sold millions of decks, worldwide. It's won multiple awards. And though the original is fun…why not lean deeper into the adult side of things? Because they have an Exploding Kittens adult, not-safe-for-work deck ! What adult doesn't love that? It's not so much raunchy, by the way, as it is potty humor, perhaps. (The non-adult versions are very safe for kids, by the way.)

You can play with anywhere between two to five players.

The box measures 4.4″ x 6.4″ x 1.5″ and weighs 3.5 ounces.

Scrabble Slam

If word games and spelling are your jam, you need Scrabble Slam in your life. Something about it reminds us of a major twist on Boggle , probably because of the concept you have to make words from different letters.

You start with a set of cards and swap out letters to change the words. For example, BAM can become BAT. LATE become FATE. It can be as easy or as hard as the players' vocabulary and spelling knowledge, who are playing it.

The box measures 0.8″ x 3.6″ x 5.6″ and weighs just 2.4 ounces.

Monopoly Deal

Like the concept of Monolopy but want the convenience of a deck of cards? You'll need a little table space for this but as long as you have that, and the deck of Monopoly Deal cards , you're good to play!

It lasts a lot less time than the board game (you can play a game in 30-minutes) but has similar concepts. You want to have three properties in the end, as you handle House, Property, and Rent cards. Money cards will give you the nostalgia of the printed money in the real game, but you won't have to deal with tiny metal pieces or dice like with the full-size board game.

The box weighs less than 5 ounces, and measures 0.8″ x 3.6″ x 5.6″.

Chat Pack Conversation Cards

If you want to grab a game and head to a bar, we can't recommend Chat Packs enough. It's not a classic card game in terms of strategy or plays; the point with a Chat Pack is to spark intriguing conversations.

Each card poses a question about life, whether goals or dreams and is sure to help you get to know your partner or travel buddy on a deeper level, no matter how long you have known each other. We first discovered these while we were at a wine bar in South Carolina's Old 96 area and we were hooked. We ended up staying for hours because of these cards.

They're also ideal for road trips and their compact size makes them optimal for tossing in your handbag or backpack. If you love your first Chat Pack (and we know you will) they sell several expansion packs .

The card pack and case they're in measure 2.8″ x 1.3″ x 3.8″ and weighs 4.8 ounces.

Our Top Pick for Card Travel Games for Adults

If you're having trouble choosing one game to buy, we recommend buying Uno if you don't already own it because it's a classic that we think everyone should own. We also love Chat Packs if you're in the mood for some intriguing conversation.

The nice thing about the card games, though, is they're so compact and lightweight you can choose a few to buy and travel with. Heck, as we do with Uno , keep one deck in the car!

Travel Games for Adults that Require Table Space

We LOVE this game and were over the moon when we found out there was a travel-size version. The blocks for the full-size version aren't too big, however the travel-size version has tiles that are approximately the size of a traditional scrabble tile. And you can't beat the compactness of that size when it comes to travel games for adults.

The game is one of strategy as you match shapes and colors to try to score the most points. It's a blast and we love pouring some wine, putting on some low-volume music, and playing each other whether a date night at home or now, thanks to the travel size game when we are on the go.

Bananagrams

Have you ever played this classic word-creation and spelling game? The elevator pitch would be that it's a lot like Scrabble without the board. The original version is incredibly portable. The bag is banana-shaped and unzips to enclose all the plastic letter tiles.

But there's an even more compact version! Bananagrams Duel! is for two players (perfect for a traveling couple). It adds in banana-shaped theme cards that add a twist to plays should you choose to add them in. And instead of having letters on only one side of the tiles, like the original, this version has 4-sided cubes with letters on all sides.

The entire game weighs only and 3.2 ounces, and the banana case measures 1.2″ x 4.7″ x 6.7″.

Clue Diced!

Does the sentence, “Colonel Mustard, with the rope in the library,” ring a bell? If that is board game music to your ears you're not alone; it is to us too! It was an absolute favorite game of mine as a kid. (The other was Guess Who. And there's a travel size for that too, though we don't necessarily recommend it for adults. It's too easy when you're older!)

You'll be surprised at how small the travel version is because it's slightly different than the original. They reinvented it and took away the board, added dice, and made two people guilty instead of just one. Luckily, they have kept the famous “Confidential” folder and cards.

You will need a third player for this game, as the instructions say it's for 3 to 4 players.

It's only 10.2 ounces, and 2″ x 6.13″ x 9.5″ in size.

If you love to create words with tiles and have the time for a game that may take a little longer than Uno, for instance, Scrabble is a classic game for any adult. And good news: they have a convenient travel size!

The board folds in half like the full-size game, but unlike the full-size game, it becomes a storage piece for the pieces. The wooden tiles are stored in a cloth bag, that goes inside the foldable board.

The wooden version makes a great travel gift too. The box is attractive and the whole game weighs just 1.5 pounds, and, folded, the board measures 9.8″ x 9.2″ x 1.2″. If you're into wooden pieces and still want that feel on the go, this is the version you want.

If you're serious about Scrabble and “legal” Scrabble words, don't forget to buy the official Scrabble Players Dictionary. There's a Kindle version (yay!) and a paperback version that is 1.5 pounds (same weight as the wooden board).

Want an even SMALLER version of Scrabble? Good news: there is a mini-bo ard, called Scrabble To Go . The coolest thing is that the tile racks have a privacy shield on top that folds down on the tiles, in case you have to pack them up to-go, mid-game.

The lightweight plastic tiles are stored in a cloth bag and snap into place on the board when you're ready for your turn.

If Scrabble To Go is still too big, check out how TINY this Scrabble board is! It fits in the palm of your hand. Wow. (We also found this teeny-tiny version of Operation when we looked that up. How frickin' cute is that? I loved that game as a kid too.)

As far as needing tablespace for this classic game, you'll just need a little bit. You could even play it in a car as long as no one was peeking at the other person's pegboard, and you're mindful of the pieces not bouncing out if you go over a huge bump. (We don't recommend travel Battleship for a bumpy car ride, but a smooth one should be fine.)

Battleship is a classic game that's been around for many decades! You set up your battleship pieces, then guess where the other person has placed them on their board by calling out grid numbers. The pieces in the travel version are small so be prepared to use your dexterity on them!

The Grab and Go Battleship version from Hasbro has a box that measures 1.9″ x 6.3″ x 9.3″, but the actual boards, if you will, inside are smaller. So theoretically you could travel without the box as long as you have the boards and all the pieces inside. It weighs 5.6 ounces.

Travel Size Connect 4

Who doesn't love a good game of Connect 4 , for some good ‘ole fun?

We don't recommend this for an airplane ride or an area where you're with strangers, because no one can mistake the sound of all the plastic pieces crashing down when you start a new game with another noise! But if you're in a hotel room or your own cabin enjoying the Blue Ridge Mountains , for instance, the travel size of Connect 4 is perfect.

The point of the game is to get four colors in a row, horizontally, vertically, or diagonally, to score 4 in a row. You take turns going with another player; Connect 4 is exclusively a two-player game.

The game weighs just 5.6 ounces and measures 1.9″ x 6.3″ x 9.3″.

Magnetic Chess, Checkers, and Backgammon

When we were little, we played these games for hours. They're perfect for traveling because the magnetic pieces stay in place on the board no matter if you hit a bump in the road or airplane turbulence.

We'll assume you know how to play checkers , chess , and backgammon for this so we'll just link you up to the travel versions! All the pieces fit inside the folded-up board, which snaps together to ensure you can safely and securely travel with the pieces.

Each set weighs less than 13 ounces and measures approximately 9.8″ x 9.8″ x 0.8″.

Travel Games for Adults that Fit in Your Lap

Sometimes we just need to play a game solo when we're traveling. For instance, if we're on a plane Dan may want to watch a movie but I get fidgety easily and want to do something like play a game. These portable Smart IQ Games are the perfect travel games for adults! They're sure to keep your mind sharp.

The concept is similar for each of the three we recommend below. The main difference is the design. Each comes with 120 challenge cards.

It comes with the cards and pieces you need to challenge yourself to solve the puzzle.

IQ XOXO has colorful letters, IQ Arrows has directional arrows and IQ Twist adds colored pegs to amp up the challenges.

Each measures 3.8″ x 1.1″ x 5.7″, and weighs less than 6 ounces.

Which Travel Games for Adults is Best for You?

It truly depends on your personality and what you both gravitate towards. Since Dan hates spelling but enjoys intriguing conversation, for instance, we'd steer away from Scrabble and choose a Chat Pack any day. And we truly love Qwirkle .

No matter what, though, pick up some travel games for adults for something to have just in case you need to pass the time or want to challenge yourselves to a little fun on your vacation!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Activity + Adventure
• Sports + Leisure

The 31 Best Travel-sized Games of 2024

Our list has brainy word teasers, multiplayer party games, and everything in between.

Best Card Games

Best board games, best word games, best party games, best for little travelers.

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

Whether you’re in need of kid-friendly games for a long road trip or some cheeky party activities to break the ice with a new group of hostel friends, it’s always worth having a couple of tried-and-true games up your sleeve while on the road.

The following travel-sized games are the best options in our book. These compact card and board games are designed to take up minimal space in luggage, while still offering maximum fun during the inevitable downtime that comes with most adventures (think layovers, long hours on a train , or rainy evenings on vacation). Here are our top picks for all types of travelers.

Mattel Games World's Smallest UNO Card Game

Why We Love It: This teeny card game will fit into the smallest of handbags.

What to Consider: The ultra-compact size might not work for those with vision problems or arthritic hands.

Uno is one of those card games that everybody already knows how to play — and, if they don’t, it takes about ten seconds to learn. That makes this game an excellent addition when backpacking abroad or vacationing with family members of all ages. This option in particular stands out as it’s the “world’s smallest” version of the popular game. The tiny cards are less than three inches tall — that’s smaller than a credit card! – and can easily fit into handbags or luggage without adding any bulk, so you’ll always have an icebreaker at the ready.

The Details : 2-10 players | Ages 7+ | 0.79 x 1.97 x 2.99 inches

Hasbro Gaming Monopoly Deal Card Game

Why We Love It: This rendition allows you to play your favorite board game sans tabletop. 

What to Consider: It can be a bit tricky to catch on at first as there’s a lot of fast-paced action.

Monopoly night at home with friends and family can take you through a serious spectrum of emotions, especially if it’s been dragging on for hours. Then there’s Monopoly Deal. The travel-friendly version of Monopoly is cards only and much faster paced than the traditional board game. You’ll still buy and sell property, collect rent, and pass go as you do in classic Monopoly, but the compact card game can be completed in as little as 15 minutes. It’s also easier to play while at the airport or on a long train journey.

The Details : 2-5 players | Ages 8+ | 15 minutes | 0.75 x 3.62 x 5.63 inches

Mattel Games Skip-bo Card Game

Why We Love It: This family-friendly game is both easy to learn and quick to play.

What to Consider: The cards are a bit flimsy and could be more wear-resistant.

Is it just us or will Skip-bo always evoke childhood memories? The classic number sequencing game was huge in elementary school but was also in major rotation on our grandmother’s kitchen table. Not much has changed since then: the fast-paced card game is just as fun and easy to pick up and play now. It’s also relatively small which makes it great for popping into your carry-on or handbag. Note that although this game is designed for those ages 7 and up, it’s a ton of fun for adults as well as kids.

The Details: 2-6 players | Ages 7+ | 0.98 x 8.46 x 6 inches

Wild Card Games Backpacker: The Ultimate Travel Game

Why We Love It: It helps improve your skills as a traveler while learning about the world.

What to Consider: The instructions are quite long and tedious.

If you’re looking for a travel-themed game (and who doesn’t love a good theme?), then you’ll want to consider checking out Backpacker. The quick-moving travel card game is designed to mimic what it’s like to be on the road and all the potential triumphs and roadblocks that come with traversing the globe. We love that this game comes with actual fun facts about each destination so you still learn about the world around you even while playing close to home. The colorful cards are also visually appealing thanks to the high-quality photography and drawings on each one.

The Details : 2-6 players | Ages 12+ | 5.1 x 0.8 x 3.7 inches

Rubberneckers Everyone's Favorite Travel Game

Why We Love It: This game was specifically designed to be played during a road trip.

What to Consider: It’s not as exciting to play in rural areas.

Road trips are, in theory, a nonstop adventure — but, in practice, they can be long and exhausting. Rubberneckers was designed to put the fun back into long drives. The card game is essentially a game of reverse I Spy with prompts like “credit card logo” and “more than three people in a vehicle” designed to get everyone in the car looking out the window to earn points and win the title of the ultimate rubbernecker. We also appreciate the simple and easy-to-read language so younger kids can participate just as easily as older passengers.

The Details: 2 or more players | Ages 8+ | 3.5 x 1.5 x 5.5 inches

Mattel Phase 10 Card Game

Why We Love It: This card game is a spin-off of the popular Rummikub tile game.

What to Consider: Children may have a hard time keeping up with the rules.

Rummikub, the popular tile game, can be found in a card version with Phase 10. The object of the game is to create various sets using your cards before the other players do. This is a game that can take a while to get used to, but what better time to learn than a 6-hour layover in an airport? Kids as young as seven can play, although older ones may find the strategic element more enjoyable.

The Details: 2-6 players | Ages 7+ | 11.8 x 11.8 x 2 inches

Catan Studio Catan Board Game

Why We Love It: This modern classic is a fan favorite — and, although layered, it’s easy to teach to new players.

What to Consider: There are a fair bit of pieces to keep together while on the go.

Catan is one of those games that seems complicated at first glance, but once you get it, you get it. The strategy board game takes about an hour to play out, but can go for longer — so you’ll want to budget that time while traveling. It’s also important to keep in mind that, even though this is relatively compact and travel-friendly, it still comes with several small pieces so it’s better for playing at your hotel or Airbnb rather than on a train or at the airport.

The Details: 3-4 players | Ages 10+ | 60 minutes | 11.63 x 9.5 x 3 inches

MindWare Travel Qwirkle Game

Why We Love It: This game requires smart strategy but it’s very easy to pick up and run with.

What to Consider: Some of the colors are very similar and can be hard to decipher.

We love the travel-sized Qwirkle game: not only is it super easy to learn but it’s also relatively easy to play while on the go. We love that this option is intuitive for everyone and can easily become a go-to for families with younger kids. The colorful tiles and convenient carrying case make this one great for playing while in transit — but you’ll want to keep in mind that some of the colors (especially orange and red) are very similar and can be a bit tricky to tell apart if you’re not playing in great lighting.

The Details: 2-4 players | Ages 6+ | 30-60 minutes | 5.5 x 6 x 2 inches

Hasbro Gaming Guess Who? Grab and Go Game

Why We Love It: There are only a few pieces to this classic board game.

What to Consider: The plastic is a bit flimsy and will require careful handling.

We’ll always have a soft spot for Guess Who? considering we’ve been playing it pretty much forever. The beloved guessing game requires strategic and creative thinking, but makes a particularly good travel game because there are only a few pieces to keep track of which makes it great for playing on the go, especially on a train or plane, or even while waiting to depart. We also like that the Grab and Go size is super compact and can easily fit in a backpack or carry-on without taking up too much space.

The Details: 2 players | Ages 6+ | 1.89 x 6.26 x 9.25 inches

Sorry! Road Trip Series

Why We Love It: This tiny board game is easy to set up and play on road trips or even flights.

What to Consider: Its extremely compact size is not ideal for bumpy roads or those with arthritis.

Who said you can’t play a whole darn board game while in the car? The road trip edition of Sorry! is super simple to set up and play whether you’re in an airplane cabin or the back seat of a car. The little game is designed to fold out into a full playing board on the go and doubles as its own folding carrying case when all is said and done. We love how easy it is to put together and start playing — but keep in mind, the super tiny pieces might be tricky to play with on particularly bumpy roads. 

The Details : 2-4 players | Ages 6+ | 1.00 x 11.90 x 5.85 inches

Hasbro Gaming Travel Battleship

Why We Love It: This game is quiet and slow-paced which makes it great for playing on a plane or at the airport.

What to Consider: The numerous pieces to keep track of are somewhat inconvenient.

The Grab and Go version of Battleship is small enough to throw into your carry-on bag but large enough to engage in a comfortable game without having to squint or deal with too-small game pieces. The boards and pieces are relatively simplistic compared to the full-sized Battleship, but the idea is the same. We also like that this game is pretty slow-paced which makes it a great option for playing in more quiet spaces like on the airplane or while waiting in a lounge .

The Details : 2 players | Ages 7+ | 1.89 x 6.26 x 9.25 inches

FanVince Magnetic Folding Chess Set

Why We Love It: This sturdy, magnetic game board is perfect for playing on bumpy roads and through turbulence.

What to Consider: The individual pieces feel a little flimsy in hand.

You can’t go wrong with a classic magnetic folding chess board — it’s a travel-sized game staple, afterall. The magnetic design means you don’t have to worry about your pieces falling over while going over bumpy roads or through turbulence, which is a major plus. It’s also super convenient that the board folds into its own carrying case when not in use. Keep in mind that chess is also a very quiet game, so this is absolutely perfect for bringing on a flight with you .

The Details : 2 players | Ages 8+ | 20+ minutes | 9.45 x 9.45 x 0.69 inches

Yellow Mountain Imports Magnetic Backgammon Mini Game Set

Why We Love It: Everything sits inside a compact carrying case that's easy to pack.

What to Consider: There are a lot of small pieces involved that can fall between car or airplane seats.

Backgammon isn't as popular in the United States as other board games, but it's been around for longer than many of them. This board game involves moving your pieces to your opponent's side and then eliminating them from the other side completely. Like any new game, it takes a little time to get used to, but this is a great option on the road, especially if you're bored of chess or checkers. This game uses magnetic pieces that will stay on the board during bumpy rides, and everything can be kept in a convenient zip-up carrying case.

The Details : 2 players | Ages 5+ | 15+ minutes | 14 x 9 x 1 inches

Bananagrams Duel: Ultimate 2 Player Travel Game

Why We Love It: This new take on classic Bananagrams is even more portable than the original.

What to Consider: It’s sort of a watered down version of the grid game.

Bananagrams has always been one of our favorite travel games — like a real banana, it comes with its own carrying case! — but Bananagrams Duel makes it even more travel-friendly. The quick-paced dueling edition is themed and the letter pieces are die-like rather than tile-like, so you won’t see that sprawling word grid from the original edition. But this just means the game requires way less table space to play so you can easily play this one on an airplane tray table without running out of room.

The Details : 2 or more players | Ages 7+ | 10 minutes | 1.18 x 4.72 x 6.69 inches

Winning Moves Games Scrabble To-go Board Game

Why We Love It: The tiny version of Scrabble has snap-in letters that stay in place.

What to Consider: The scaled-down board isn’t as comfortable to use.

Nothing can really compare to Scrabble when it comes to group-friendly word games, but bringing the full-sized board on the road just isn’t practical. That’s why we’re huge fans of the Scrabble To-go board. The compact size makes it easy to throw in your bag while the snap-in letters mean you won’t have to worry about them flying off if you hit a pothole on the road or turbulence in the air. We also love that this one comes with its own carrying case to protect the board and pieces while traveling.

The Details : 2-4 players | Ages 8+ | 30-60 minutes | 10.75 x 10.25 x 6.88 inches

Mad Libs on the Road World's Greatest Word Game

Why We Love It: It’s easy, hilarious, and super portable to play in transit.

What to Consider: The paperback game pages aren’t reusable.

Whether you’re seven years old or 37, Mad Libs will never not be laugh-out-loud funny. Mad Libs on the Road in particular makes for a great travel-friendly option. The silly fill-in-the-blank stories are all about traveling, road trips, and summertime adventures. It’s especially convenient that Mad Libs are about the size of a paperback novel , meaning they won’t take up any space in your luggage. All you need is a pen and a couple of grammar-focused friends and you have all the makings for hours of laughs in the car and beyond.

The Details: 1 player or more | Ages 8+ | 5.25 x 0.2 x 8.38 inches

Ransom Notes The Ridiculous Word Magnet Party Game

Why We Love It: This game combines somewhat crude humor with strategy.

What to Consider: It’s definitely on the raunchy side.

Think of Ransom Notes as a somewhat crude hybrid between those poetry fridge magnets and Cards Against Humanity. You’ll get a prompt and your goal is to create a phrase using only magnets that’ll make some kind of sense to the reader. This ends up being downright hilarious in most cases — and we give the game major bonus points for being magnetic. All the pieces stay firmly in place, making it much easier to use en route to your destination.

The Details : 3 players or more | Ages 17+ | 30-90 minutes | 5.25 x 4 x 4 inches

Hasbro Gaming Classic Boggle Word Search Game

Why We Love It: This word game can even be enjoyed by only one player.

What to Consider: The secure travel lid can be tough to get on and off.

Boggle is going to be a major win in the eyes of Spelling Bee or Wordle fans (so watch out if you’re playing against them). The basic word game requires fast spelling and deduction skills; all you have to do to win is write down as many words as possible from the assortment of letters on the dice to earn the number one spot. It’s a whole lot of fun and takes up minimal space while in transit, too.

The Details : 1 player or more | Ages 8+ | 2.01 x 4.29 x 4.29 inches

Brass Monkey Bin-go Get Some Drinks Bingo Book

Brass Monkey

Why We Love It: This is great for introverts and anyone who would rather observe a party a bit removed.

What to Consider: It might be awkward to whip this out in an actual bar or restaurant.

Bin-go Get Some Drinks makes any kind of night out even more interesting, especially if you’re someone who tends to observe human behavior in social settings. The somewhat snarky bingo card is packed with the weird things you’ll see in a bar (like witnessing an obvious first date or someone taking a photo of their drink for social media) and is the perfect way for people watchers to spend the night — especially if you find yourself alone in a new city and prefer to observe the crowd over fostering friends right away.

The Details: 1 player or more | Ages 21+ 

Cards Against Humanity Tiny Cards Against Humanity Game

Why We Love It: It’s a great icebreaker in a compact and cute format.

What to Consider: These cards are tiny and might be hard for some to read.

Cards Against Humanity provides instant fun, even at the most dull parties or awkward social events, since there’s just something about dirty words in absurd contexts. That’s why the miniaturized Tiny Cards Against Humanity is such a great game to keep in your back pocket while traveling, especially if you intend on staying in hostels. (Hey, you just never know when you’ll need to pull the ultimate icebreaker out of a pocket!)

The Details : 2 players or more | Ages 17+ | 30 minutes or more | 4.44 x 2.66 x 1.97 inches

All Things Equal, Inc. Loaded Questions On The Go Card Game

Why We Love It: This card game gets conversations going while still providing friendly competition.

What to Consider: There are only so many questions, so you’ll eventually run into duplicates.

All Things Equal: Loaded Questions is one of those card games that can lead to side tangents and deeper conversation if you let it — but it’s also a great way to see how well you know your friends' minds by guessing each other’s answers to given sets of questions. This game is super travel-friendly (all you need is a few pads of paper and pens) and it’s guaranteed to evoke some serious laughs and possible side conversations as well.

The Details : 4-6 players | Ages 8+ | 3.6 x 0.8 x 5.5 inches

Exploding Kittens Card Game

Why We Love It: This card game is fast, fun, and easy to learn.

What to Consider: The rules and concepts of the game are a bit basic.

Exploding Kittens garnered a lot of attention when it was first released and it’s easy to see why. The eye-catching title and cheeky illustrations make this game instantly intriguing. As it turns out, the game is a whole lot of fun for all age groups and it can be played in fifteen minutes or less which makes it a great option for waiting at your airport gate or sneaking a quick game in before heading out to dinner.

The Details : 2-5 players | Ages 7+ | 15 minutes | 4.41 x 6.38 x 1.5 inches

What Do You Meme? Shotgun!: The Card Game for Road Trips

Why We Love It: Everyone can play in the car — even the driver.

What to Consider: It’s not quite as funny as the original What Do You Meme?.

Shotgun! was conceptualized by the same folks who gave us What Do You Meme?, which means you can expect the same level of (somewhat) boundary-pushing humor. The road trip-focused card game doesn’t come with memes or visual cues, but instead uses the sights and sounds on the road as prompts. Card prompts like “first person to say which side the gas tank is on wins a point” and “first person who gets a wave from another car wins two points” will keep everyone in the car on their toes for the drive.

The Details: 2 players or more | Ages 12+ | 1-2 hours | 1.5 x 4.5 x 6.5 inches

Singing Machine Carpool Karaoke The Mic 2.0

Why We Love It: Who wouldn’t want to pretend they’re starring in an episode of Carpool Karaoke?

What to Consider: The Bluetooth setting could be higher quality.

The Carpool Karaoke Machine was designed to make road trips a whole lot more fun. The karaoke microphone pairs with your car’s Bluetooth in order to provide a surround sound experience for all passengers involved (whether that’s good or bad, we’re not sure). The microphone can also be used with your smartphone for DIY karaoke parties at your Airbnb or hotel room — you’ll just want to be mindful of the noise levels.

The Details : 1 player or more | 3.6 x 2.1 x 10.6 inches

Cardinal Cinco Linko

Why We Love It: This is essentially an elevated version of tic-tac-toe, so anyone can pick it up quickly.

What to Consider: The tiles aren't magnetic, so they may slide around during bumpy rides.

Up to four players can enjoy this simple (but competitive) game that involves trying to stack five tiles in a row before another player stops you, similar to tic-tac-toe. The game itself is easy to get into with minimal practice and great for kids and adults alike. We also love that it's built for travel — the waterproof pieces can be stacked and clipped onto a bag during transportation.

The Details : 2-4 players | 2.8 x 8 x 2.8 inches

Hasbro Gaming Connect 4

Why We Love It: This game is simple to pick up on.

What to Consider: There are a ton of little pieces involved.

We love Connect Four — it’s a classic for a reason! The simple game is great for little ones who are still practicing spatial recognition, but honestly, it’s just as fun for adults as well. The game is relatively small (it’s less than 12 inches in length) which is enough room for little fingers to easily use but still small enough to pop into a backpack. Keep in mind, though: there are a number of little coin-sized pieces that come with this game, and they can get messy in the car.

The Details : 2 players | Ages 6+ | 20 minutes | 1.6 x 10.51 x 10.984 inches

Winning Moves Games Pass the Pigs

Why We Love It: This cheeky game is all about tumbling — it was essentially made for turbulence.

What to Consider: The game might become repetitive in smaller groups.

Pass the Pigs is hilariously simple, but there’s something about it that is so much fun. The game includes two pig dice, a dice cup, and a pig scoring guide with a scorepad. The aim of the game is to get as many points as possible by rolling the pigs into different positions like the “snouter” or the “sider.” The best part is that this game was literally made to be thrown around so even if you’re dealing with turbulence you don’t have to worry about your pieces tumbling over.

The Details : 2-7 players | Ages 7+ | 1.75 x 4 x 8.5 inches

Briarpatch I Spy Travel Card Game

Why We Love It: This game is a quiet option to play on the plane.

What to Consider: The game is somewhat solitary; not the best for groups of kids.

The travel-sized version of the classic I Spy children’s book provides endless hours of concentration and focus. The stunning visuals are entertaining in and of themselves but having to hunt for the hidden images makes it even more enjoyable. We also like that it can be played solitary and offers something relatively quiet to play while on the airplane or in other spaces where gameplay banter might not be appropriate.

The Details : 1 player or more | Ages 4+ | 0.75 x 3.75 x 5.75 inches

Taco vs. Burrito LLC Taco vs. Burrito Card Game

Why We Love It: This game was created by a kid for other kids.

What to Consider: The instructions on some cards are a little confusing.

Cheeky graphic-focused card games have become pretty popular over the past few years, but we’re still major fans of Taco vs. Burrito. It’s worth noting that the colorful (and super successful) card game was created by a seven-year-old boy with other kids in mind, but it’s just as fun for adults. The basic gameplay is easy to learn and games can be played within 15 minutes — but the action cards are quick to spice things up and add a strategic layer to the game.

The Details : 2-4 players | Ages 6+ | 15 minutes | 7 x 5 x 2 inches

Tricky Riddles for Smart Kids: 333 Difficult But Fun Riddles And Brain Teasers For Kids And Families

Why We Love It: This pack of riddles creates conversation and fosters further curiosity.

What to Consider: There are only about 300 riddles, so the deck might eventually become repetitive.

Kids who love brain teasers will get a kick out of this colorful collection of riddles designed to stump and foster curiosity. The deck is small and easy to transport (it’s about the size of a novel), but it’s packed with hundreds of riddles for kids to work through. The only thing we don’t love is that, while the deck does include lots of options, kids who are keen to work through one after another may deplete them rather quickly.

The Details : 1 player or more | 8-12 | 6 x 0.3 x 9 inches

PlayMonster Take 'n' Play Anywhere Bingo

Why We Love It: Young kids will have fun and work their brains at this matching game.

What to Consider: The marker pieces don't have the strongest magnets.

It can be hard to find games that kids, especially young ones, will find interesting for more than a few minutes at a time. This bingo game might be just what you're looking for — little ones will have fun spinning the spinner (a game in itself) and then using magnetic markers to match the corresponding animals on the board. And as long as your kids are good at taking turns, it can be played by multiple people at once.

The Details : 1 player or more | Ages 4+ | 6.7 x 0.9 x 6.7 inches

Tips for Buying Travel-sized Games

Factor in the needed space.

You’ll want to consider the space required for your chosen game(s) and decide how much luggage space you’re able to offer up. This is where miniature grab-and-go board games and card games will come in handy. Prioritizing card games and smaller games that don’t require a board means you can more easily play your games on the move. If you need a table or flat surface for your game, playing while seated at the terminal or on a train may not be practical.

Figure out the game time

You’ll want an idea of how much time a game takes before deciding to pack it. Card games tend to be faster-paced than board games, and most can be completed in 15-30 minutes. Board games and party games can last a lot longer, continuing for up to two hours in certain cases. This can be great for lazy days at the hotel or Airbnb, but might not be the most practical for passing time at the train station.

Consider player ages

Think of the ages of the players you anticipate sharing games with. If you’re planning a backpacking trip and plan to spend time playing games at your hostel, you’ll probably be safe with just about any card or board game. If you’re meeting up with your family for a vacation, you might want to choose games that are suitable for all ages. Note that some games can be altered to be more PG by removing certain cards or phrases, but it’s best to double-check to ensure everyone in your group can participate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What games are ideal for traveling.

The right games for your travels will greatly depend on what kind of travel you’re doing ( road trip games vary greatly from late-night adult-only games, for example). But, no matter what style of travel you’re up to, you’ll want to look for games that are small enough to easily fit in your luggage without being imposing. Opt for games that don’t have many loose pieces or take up too much space when in use. Card games are your best bet if you anticipate playing on the road frequently, but travel-sized board games can also work (especially if they come in a magnetic format).

Are there travel-sized board games?

Yes! There are plenty of travel-sized board games available and many come with their own carrying case or magnetic material that further simplifies the overall travel experience. You won’t find every single board game available in a travel size, but you’ll definitely be able to find the classics from Hasbro like Clue , Monopoly , and more .

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Travel + Leisure contributor Kaitlyn McInnis used her experience as a travel writer and former lifestyle editor as well as her own research to curate a list of the best travel-sized games available.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

Complete Your Quest®

Role Playing Games

• Board Games

Miniature Games

Historical minis, magic & ccgs, dice & supplies, travel buddy games.

Games & Products by Travel Buddy Games

Filter Products

Filter listing.

1-1 of 1 Products

Product Line (View All)

• — Select All Search Results —
• Card Games (Travel Buddy Games)

Availability

• Out of Stock

Great Barrier Reef - The Card Game, The

By: Travel Buddy Games

Product Line: Card Games (Travel Buddy Games)

Just added to your cart

Just added to your want list

Grading System

Every item in our inventory has been inspected, very strictly graded, and bagged for its protection.

Shrink Wrapped. Still in the original factory shrink wrap, with condition visible through shrink noted. For example, "SW (NM)" means shrink wrapped in near-mint condition.

Perfect. Brand new.

Near Mint. Like new with only the slightest wear, many times indistinguishable from a Mint item. Close to perfect, very collectible. Board & war games in this condition will show very little to no wear and are considered to be punched unless the condition note says unpunched.

Excellent. Lightly used, but almost like new. May show very small spine creases or slight corner wear. Absolutely no tears and no marks, a collectible condition.

Very Good. Used. May have medium-sized creases, corner dings, minor tears or scuff marks, small stains, etc. Complete and very useable.

Very well used, but complete and useable. May have flaws such as tears, pen marks or highlighting, large creases, stains, marks, etc.

• Boxed items are listed as "code/code" where the first code represents the box, and the second code describes the contents. When only one condition is listed, then the box and contents are in the same condition.
• A "plus" sign indicates that an item is close to the next highest condition. Example, EX+ is an item between Excellent and Near Mint condition. A "minus" sign indicates the opposite.
• Major defects and/or missing components are noted separately.
• Boardgame counters are punched, unless noted. Due to the nature of loose counters, if a game is unplayable it may be returned for a refund of the purchase price.
• In most cases, boxed games and box sets do not come with dice.
• The cardboard backing of miniature packs is not graded. If excessively worn, they will be marked as "card worn."
• Flat trays for SPI games are not graded, and have the usual problems. If excessively worn, they will be marked as "tray worn."
• Remainder Mark - A remainder mark is usually a small black line or dot written with a felt tip pen or Sharpie on the top, bottom, side page edges and sometimes on the UPC symbol on the back of the book. Publishers use these marks when books are returned to them.

If you have any questions or comments regarding grading or anything else, please send e-mail to [email protected] .

Turn your old games into cash, no alchemy necessary

We are your portal to all things gaming.

This is a beta version. New features are coming soon! 🚀

Find travel buddies around the world

Enjoy a community of solo travelers.

Destination

Do you want to be found by other travellers?

How does it work?

Tripvibe helps you find travel buddies

Craft your profile

Create your profile in 30 seconds. Describe yourself in a few words and let people know what your passions and interests are.

Create your trip

Design your dream getaway effortlessly by inputting your desired destination, travel dates, and all pertinent information about your trip.

Find travelers

Embark on an exciting journey by connecting with like-minded travelers seeking companionship for their adventures.

Enjoy your trips!

Immerse yourself in the thrill of exploration and discovery as you embark on your carefully crafted journey.

From Solo to Squad

Discover your next destination, find your next friend!

Easy and fast

With just a few clicks, you're seamlessly linked to potential travel companions, ready to embark on unforgettable journeys together

In-App Messaging

Stay connected with potential travel companions without leaving the platform. Use chat for discussing travel plans, sharing ideas, and building relationships!

It's time to explore the world and encounter new adventures. Who will you share them with?

Ready for your next trip?

Let the adventure begin!

Travel Buddy Games

Travel Buddies

Human validation

Stuck? See how to complete the game.

Makeover / Make-up

Touchscreen

​Ice Princess and Island Princess have planned a road trip for this summer. They are going to be the best travel buddies and the girls can't wait to hit the road! They are going to drive down the coast of California and visit some amazing beaches as well as some of the most popular cities of this area. The girls have planned the whole trip, now all that's left to do is to dress up and hit the road! You need to give them a nice makeup that is resistant to water and heat, and a trendy hairstyle. They outfit has to be chic and comfy at the same time, so careful what you choose from the wardrobe, but surely you will make them look absolutely fabulous. Have fun!

Please register or login to post a comment

Perfect Cold Season Wedding

Blonde Sofia: Bridesmaid

Princesses Homecoming Ball

Nerd Transformation

Style Police Officer

Soft Girl Vs E-Girl Bffs Looks

Steampunk Insta Princesses

Monster Girls Missing Summer

Blonde Chibi Fashion Show

Diamond Mermaids

Dressing Up: The Girl

Baddie Outfits

Babs' Spring Wedding

Princess Kawaii Swimwear

Insta Girls First Date Look Tips

TikTok Divas Retro Future

TikTok Girls Cottagecore

Villains Join The Princesses School

Experience Relaxed Friendly Welcoming Sustainable Relaxed Group Trips

"Ericeira surf trip was an amazing trip, one of my best trips. I enjoyed everyday day, with a lot of fun, sport, lovely meetings, good (such good) food, parties, wonderful landscapes and sunsets, thanks to Filippo. Caring, responsible, open-minded, always present, a hell of a dancer, he gave us the joy of surfing and continuing. Thank you so much for this week Filippo!"

"The trip to Sweden with Kathi was great! She is a very friendly, helpful and empathetic person who made sure that everybody had a wonderful time and could enjoy the trip to the fullest. Besides the unforgettable Sled Dog Tour itself, Kathi made sure that everything was planned perfectly, from the accomodation to our stops on the way. I would definitely join another trip with her."

"My first time using JoinMyTrip, was a bit weary about how it might be but i wouldn't fault a single bit of it. Rita did a fantastic job of making the trip unforgettable. She had great adventures planned and if it wasn't for her there was a lot we wouldn't have seen. Definitely one for the memory books and hopefully there will be alot more. Thank you Rita!"

Philippines Island Trip Adventure and Partying!

Captivating colombia: eco-friendly travels and cultural fun, bali bliss: explore ubud, waterfalls, nusa penida island gems and more, late summer trip to my uzbekistan: cities from 1001 nights 🪔🧞🌞, tenerife paradise. come explore the best spots of the island, 🏝️🧑‍💻 malta: working near the pool and enjoying afterwork fun activities 🍹 budget-friendly, safari adventure in 4x4 jeep to masai mara - lake nakuru - amboseli - nairobi🦁all inclusive, party and exploring days in philipines el coron, el nido, puerto princesa, indulge yourself in capri & amalfi coast, 🌊soulful shores: algarve spiritual adventure retreat 🌞, palawan paradise exploration: from el nido to balabac, philippines - white beaches to cultural delights, chillout & adventure sailing trip greek islands to mykonos - with skipper, sailing instructor, travel guide & dj, your browser is out-of-date.

Update your browser to view this website correctly. Update my browser now

UnifyCosmos

10 Fun-Filled Road Trip Games for Adult Travelers

Posted: April 10, 2024 | Last updated: April 11, 2024

Embarking on a road trip can be an exhilarating adventure, but long hours on the road often lead to boredom and restlessness. To transform your journey into an enjoyable and memorable experience, we’ve compiled a list of 10 engaging road trip games specifically designed for adults. From brain-teasing puzzles to creative storytelling, each game on this list promises to keep the spirit of adventure alive, ensuring that your road trip is as exciting as the destination itself.

Did You Hear That?

This game involves one person making up a fictional, often absurd news headline, and others must ask questions to guess if it’s true or false. It’s a great way to stir up laughter and keep everyone’s mind engaged.

The Singing Game

Players take turns singing a song, and the next person must start their song with the last word sung in the previous song. This game is perfect for music lovers and keeps everyone entertained and singing along.

The Alphabet Categories

Choose a category (like animals, cities, etc.) and take turns naming an item in that category starting with each letter of the alphabet. This game is both fun and a brain teaser, perfect for passing time.

The Counting Game

Pick a common roadside item (like red cars or billboards) and count them. This game keeps passengers observant and engaged with their surroundings, reducing boredom.

Name The Song

Someone hums or plays a few bars of a song, and others have to guess the song’s name. This game taps into everyone’s musical knowledge and preferences, creating a fun and competitive atmosphere.

The License Plate Game

Spot license plates from different states or make words out of the letters on them. This game is a classic road trip game that encourages observation and can last throughout the entire trip.

Would You Rather

Players pose scenarios with two difficult choices to others, sparking conversations and laughter. This game often leads to interesting discussions and helps pass the time quickly.

The Movie Game

Connect actors through movies they have starred in, or guess a movie from quotes or plot descriptions. It’s great for movie buffs and keeps everyone’s minds sharp.

20 Questions

Think of something, and others have up to 20 questions to guess what it is. This guessing game is a timeless way to engage everyone’s deductive reasoning skills.

The Storytelling Chain

Start a story and have each person in the car add a sentence to it. This game encourages creativity and often results in hilarious, unexpected storylines.

This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos .

More from UnifyCosmos

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or someone seeking the thrills of city life, these destinations offer a mosaic of experiences that capture the heart and soul of the American spirit.  Read More.

14 Underrated Rom-Coms You Should Watch

Welcome to a curated collection of underrated Rom-Coms that are about to steal your heart and become your new favorites. Read More.

14 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About “Friends”

From behind-the-scenes secrets to the heartwarming tales that shaped the show, these nuggets of trivia will make you see your favorite coffee-loving buddies in a whole new light. Read More.

More for You

'I Had to Accept It': Jeremy Renner Admits He'll Never Fully Recover From Snowplow Accident

Claimed Social Security at 62? Here's One Rule You Need to Know About.

Supreme Court Issues Overwhelming 8-1 Decision on Second Amendment Preservation Act

7 Signs You're Aging Well, According To Geriatricians

How Having A Family Member Steal Money From Me Taught Me To Protect My Finances

Strange Mathematical Pattern Found in The Cells of The Human Body

Tyson Fury Suspended from Boxing Following Defeat to Oleksandr Usyk

No Hope? ESPN Analyst Sees No Positive Future for Jets, Aaron Rodgers

I Was a Flight Attendant & This Is the Best Hack for Keeping Kids Busy During a Flight

Get Paid to Read Books Aloud: (20 Legit Sites for Audiobook Gigs)

This type of supplement may increase heart disease risk, new study finds

High school center fielder sprints across field to tag runner out at home in viral clip

I Can't Help But Laugh At These 15 People Who Had To Learn Lessons The Hard Way

‘Have we made a terrible mistake?’ My brother put our names on the deed to our 88-year-old mother’s home. What should we do?

223 vs 556: What's the Difference?

PFF's QB Rankings: Where Does Patrick Mahomes Land?

Donald Trump's Former Lawyer Pours Cold Water on Bronx Rally Turnout

Botched SpaceX engine test ends in dramatic explosion

72 Cheap Dinner Ideas for Weeknight Meals

California's Wealthiest Billionaire Farming Family Threatens to Tear Down a Small Town