If you feel like you’re battling with screen time at the moment, be kind to yourself – we’re living in unprecedented times, and technology is assisting many of us as we navigate our working and home-schooling days. However, these unusual times can also present an excellent opportunity for family bonding.
Carving out an hour to play a board game with your kids is not only a good way to alleviate parental guilt about screen time, but it’s also a chance to enhance their knowledge of the world sneakily. We’ve rounded up ten of the best board games for little travellers.
For Adventure Lovers: Lost Cities
This two-player card game allows players to take turns moving adventurers along routes, mounting expeditions to some of the remotest corners of the Earth. It’s perfect for small explorers who enjoy a bit of risk-taking. Players can journey to the Himalayan mountains, Central American rainforest, Egyptian desert, mysterious volcanoes, and the depths of the sea while facing various challenges along the way.
Age profile: 10+
For Junior Trainspotters: Ticket to Ride
This classic game aims to build railway routes from different destinations based on the continent or country version you select. Though initial investment in understanding the rules is necessary, it eventually transforms into a fun and fast-paced way to learn geography. Some versions incorporate early 20th-century place names, enriching the experience with historical context.
Age profile: 8+
For Budding Cartographers: Mapominoes
Based on the principles of dominoes, Mapominoes uses cards to connect countries across a continent. This game educates players without them realizing they are learning. The cards include flags, country outlines, and borders, helping players build their geographical knowledge as they play. Versions are available for Africa, the Americas, Asia & Australasia, Europe, the UK, and the USA.
Age profile: 8+
For Enthusiastic Passport Holders: Landmark Lotto
Created by the British educational games company Orchard Toys, this delightful game has young children match cards with images on their passports. Landmarks from around the world appear, helping them identify some of the globe’s iconic sites while prompting discussions about passports and their importance. Each passport card even has a fact file on the back for continued learning.
Age profile: Players aged 4 to 7 years
For Crimestoppers: Scotland Yard
This game is perfect for kids who enjoy a bit of intrigue while learning about key London landmarks. One player takes on the role of the elusive Mr. X, evading capture from the detectives who use brief sightings and London transport options to catch him. There’s even a ‘junior’ version designed for 6-year-olds.
Age profile: 8+
For All the Family: Monopoly
For younger players, Junior Monopoly introduces them to the classic game, featuring properties like ice cream parlours and bowling alleys. When they grasp the basic rules, numerous destination-specific Monopoly sets are available, from New York City to England’s Yorkshire county, allowing for travel-themed fun even when you cannot physically travel.
Age profile: 8+
For Strategic Thinkers: Around the World in 80 Days
Inspired by the thrilling adventures of Phileas Fogg and Passepartout, players aim to circumnavigate the globe in as few days as possible. Players must manage ‘rumour’ cards alongside their finances, making this game perfect for developing strategic thinking while learning about Victorian-era travel.
Age profile: 8+
For Solo Players: Brainbox World Traveller
Selecting the travel-focused version, this simple memory game covers various themes, allowing you to choose between the UK, Cities of the World, or even The World itself. It’s an excellent way for children to learn about different subjects. Notably, this game can also be played solo, making it suitable for independent players.
Age profile: 6+
Best for Learning About Europe: Where is Moldova?
Could this be the best name for a travel-related family board game? While it may teach players about Moldova’s location, the primary objective is to connect countries through strategy, trivia, and luck—an engaging blend of Risk and Trivial Pursuit. Be prepared to invest some time in understanding the rules while being open to intriguing trivia and questions.
Age profile: 8+
For Geography Lovers: 10 Days In Europe
If you’re fortunate enough to discover this gem in your home, this game offers a simple yet enjoyable way for families to brush up on their geography. Starting with a hand of cards, players strategize to travel across the continent in ten days by swapping cards and making connections. Other versions also exist for Africa, the Americas, and Asia, making it a worthwhile game to seek out.
Age profile: 10+
