Traveling solo can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be challenging at times, especially during long layovers or flight delays. Fortunately, there are plenty of board games that you can play to pass the time and keep yourself entertained. In this article, we will explore some of the best solo travel board games that are perfect for any solo traveler looking for a fun and engaging way to spend their time at the airport or on the plane.
Solo travel can be a liberating experience full of adventure, but there may be times when you need a quiet night in. For those moments, board games can be a great way to pass the time and keep your mind engaged. If you’re looking for the perfect solo travel board game, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best options available to keep you entertained on your journey.
Benefits of Playing Board Games
Playing board games offers many benefits beyond just entertainment. Board games can help improve your critical thinking skills, increase your creativity, and reduce stress. Additionally, board games can also help you meet new people and make new friends, making them perfect for solo travelers looking to socialize and connect with others.
Critical Thinking Skills
Board games require players to think critically and make strategic decisions. Players must analyze the game board, think ahead, and anticipate their opponents’ moves. This type of thinking can help improve problem-solving skills, decision-making abilities, and overall cognitive function.
Creativity
Many board games require players to use their creativity to come up with unique solutions to challenges or problems presented in the game. By using their imagination and thinking outside the box, players can develop their creativity and find new ways to approach problems in their everyday lives.
Stress Reduction
Board games can also help reduce stress by providing a fun and engaging distraction from the stresses of everyday life. Playing a board game can help you relax and unwind, which can have a positive impact on your mental and physical health.
Now that we’ve discussed the benefits of playing board games let’s dive into some of the best solo travel board games.
1. Onirim
Onirim is a solo card game that is perfect for travelers. The game is easy to learn, but it offers plenty of depth and strategy. In Onirim, players must navigate a dream world by collecting cards and unlocking doors to escape. The game is small and portable, making it perfect for playing on a plane or in an airport lounge.
2. Friday
Friday is a deck-building game that is specifically designed for solo play. The game is challenging but rewarding, and it offers plenty of replayability. In Friday, players take on the role of Robinson Crusoe’s loyal friend, Friday, and must help him survive on a deserted island. The game is small and portable, making it perfect for playing on the go.
3. Sprawlopolis
Sprawlopolis is a city-building game that is perfect for solo play. In Sprawlopolis, players must work together to build a city while overcoming various challenges and obstacles. The game is small and portable, making it perfect for playing on a plane or in an airport lounge.
4. Hive Pocket
Hive Pocket is a two-player game that is perfect for solo play. The game is easy to learn, but it offers plenty of depth and strategy. In Hive Pocket, players must use their insect pieces to surround the opponent’s queen bee while protecting their own queen bee. The game is small and portable, making it perfect for playing on a plane or in an airport lounge.
5. Sushi Go!
Sushi Go! is a fun and easy-to-learn card game that is perfect for solo play. In Sushi Go!, players must collect different types of sushi and score points based on their selections. The game is small and portable, making it perfect for playing on a plane or in an airport lounge.
FAQs for Best Solo Travel Board Games
What are the benefits of playing solo travel board games?
Playing solo travel board games has numerous benefits. Firstly, it can help ease boredom while traveling, especially during long hours of waiting. Secondly, it is a great way to exercise the brain and improve cognitive skills. Thirdly, it can provide a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction while completing a challenging game all on your own. Additionally, it can help cultivate creativity and critical thinking skills.
What are the best board games for solo travel?
There are many great board games that cater to solo travel, and the options are vast depending on personal preference. Some of the best solo travel board games include Patchwork, Onirim, Friday, Marvel Champions, and Pandemic. These games are perfect for traveling alone as they are portable, easy to learn, and require minimal set-up time.
Are there any board games that can be played with a friend when traveling?
Yes, there are many board games that can be played with another person when traveling. Two-player board games that are great for travel include Jaipur, Unearth, Hive, and Codenames: Duet. These games provide social interaction instead of playing by oneself and can be a great way to spend time with a travel companion.
Where can I buy solo travel board games?
You can purchase solo travel board games in many places, including board game stores, online retailers like Amazon, or at big-box stores like Target or Walmart. Additionally, you can purchase board games directly from the publishers’ websites or even find them at local flea markets or garage sales.
What are some essential features to look for in solo travel board games?
When looking for a solo travel board game, it’s essential to consider factors such as the game’s size, portability, playtime, replayability, and difficulty level. Board games that are compact, can be played in a short amount of time, and offer a high replayability value are perfect for traveling solo. Additionally, it’s essential to find games that can be learned quickly without complicated rules so that you can get started playing right away.