The best portable board games to take on the go this summer, with bite-sized games perfect for beach or camping trips.
Ah, the great outdoors… Nothing is better than a good week camping, a trip to the beach, or a hike in the forest to celebrate the great summer weather. Birds chirping, water rushing, sun warming your skin, it’s a great change of pace from stuffy weekends gaming inside.
But after a few hours of those stunning natural views, you may find yourself a bit… bored. Wouldn’t it be great if you could bring more than just a pack of playing cards or a book for entertainment? There’s no need to daydream of your console or game table back home. We’ve compiled a list of eight great board games that are compact, have less components to lose, and are playable just about anywhere.
From two-player strategy and family-friendly titles to party games great for large groups, find something new to play au naturel this summer.Hive Pocket
Sometimes you only have one other person interested in playing a game on a day out. Challenge them to a match of Hive Pocket! This tile-layer is a sized-down version of the classic (Hive) making it a great option for familiar but easily portable play. Your objective is simple: completely surround your opponent’s queen piece. Games move fast, but don’t underestimate this tile placement game – strategies and blocking tactics keep gameplay fresh.
The 26 tiles come in a handy pouch so you’re less likely to lose them. Every piece you play also stays on the “board” until the end of the game so there are no loose pieces to keep track of. Lay out the beach blanket, find a flat log, or dust off a picnic table – you can play anywhere. This makes the game great for travel, and we think the bug-themed tiles shine best in the great outdoors. Take it on the go this summer for some strategic play under the sun! Dice of Pirates
Can’t find a flat surface to roll on? To play Dice of Pirates all you need is the game’s “box”.
It takes up the same space as a tin of mints, so you can definitely bring this refreshing luck-based game anywhere you roam. There is a small bag of tokens, a pirate ship, and seven dice — not much to keep track of even out on a summer trip. Ready to play? Each die has six different symbols: The more matching faces you roll, the more tokens you earn.
