Searching for the best travel chess sets might not be common for everyone, but for chess enthusiasts who relish the game on the go, it’s a typical query.
Chess, a strategy game from the 6th century, has a charm that extends beyond grand tournaments to spontaneous matches. Ideal for both seasoned players and beginners, travel-friendly chess sets enable enjoyment of the game anywhere.
This article is your ultimate guide to explore various options and select the best portable chess set that suits your needs, ensuring a delightful mobile gaming experience.
9 Best Travel Chess Sets Reviewed
This section brings you the top-rated travel chess sets online.
We’ll delve into the details and features of each to help you make an informed choice.
Genuine Leather Roll-Up Travel Chess Set
The Pitkin Stearns International, Inc. Genuine Leather Roll-Up Travel Chess Set by Sondergut is a game changer in the world of travel chess sets. Its unique design, incorporating high quality materials and compactness, make it a top contender for any chess enthusiast.
Firstly, this set is made from genuine, soft pliable leather, giving it a unique feel and aesthetic that’s pleasing to the touch and eye. The chess/checkers board is carefully embossed on the leather, maintaining the traditional 8×8 grid. The pieces are also made of quality materials, adding to the overall premium feel of the set.
The set rolls up into a compact cylinder measuring a mere 10 x 2 inches, easily fitting into most bags or backpacks. When unrolled, the board measures 10 x 12 inches, offering a decent play area while maintaining its portability. The magnetic pieces are stored in a velvet pouch, keeping them safe and secure during transportation.
One notable feature is its dual functionality. The set can be used to play either chess or checkers, making it a versatile choice for those who enjoy multiple games. The chess pieces are denoted by traditional symbols, while the checkers pieces are plain, fitting into the simplistic aesthetic.
QuadPro Magnetic Travel Chess Set
Moving on to a more traditional design, the QuadPro Magnetic Travel Chess Set with Folding Chess Board stands out for its compact size, strong magnets, and robust construction. This is a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality or functionality.
This set’s main feature is its magnetic design. The magnets are strong enough to keep the pieces in place during gameplay, while still being easy to move. This is perfect for on-the-go gaming, whether you’re in a car, plane, or just sitting in a park.
The chess board folds in half for easy storage and portability. When folded, it’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to slip into a bag or carry on. Once folded you can store the chess pieces inside it, ensuring they stay organized and protected.
The board itself is a standard 9.8 x 9.8 inch square, providing ample playing space. The design is simple yet effective, with clearly marked squares and traditional chess piece designs. This makes it an ideal choice for beginners and younger players, but equally suitable for seasoned players who want a no-fuss, reliable travel set.
Finally, this set is durable. It’s made of high-quality HIPS plastic, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of travel and regular play. The pieces are also sturdy and well-made, promising longevity and consistent performance.
Yellow Mountain Imports Magnetic Travel Chess Set
The Yellow Mountain Imports 2-in-1 Magnetic Travel Chess Board Game Set is another dual-function game set that promises hours of fun. This set impresses with its larger playing surface, excellent craftsmanship, and inclusion of two popular games.
The main feature of this set is its size. Measuring 12.5 inches when unfolded, it’s larger than most travel sets, offering a spacious playing surface. This is ideal for those who prefer a more traditional-sized board, while still valuing portability.
The set also includes both chess and checkers pieces, which are magnetically attached to the board. This 2-in-1 functionality offers variety and allows you to switch between games easily. The pieces are well made, and the magnets are strong enough to keep them in place.
The board folds in half for convenient storage and transport. Inside, the pieces are stored, keeping them secure and organized. The external casing is robust, providing additional protection for the pieces and board.
The craftsmanship of this set is apparent. The board and pieces feature detailed designs and well-defined markings, making it easy to identify each piece. The checkered pattern on the board is clear and attractive, and the magnetic pieces are well-sized and easy to handle.
Finally, the quality of materials used in this set is commendable. The board is made of high-quality plastic, ensuring durability and a smooth playing surface. The pieces are also well made, offering a comfortable feel and good balance.
Get The Games Out Travel Chess Set
If you value the traditional aesthetic of wooden chess sets, the Get The Games Out Wooden Magnetic Travel Chess Set is a great pick. This set combines the beauty of a handcrafted wooden board with the convenience of a foldable design, making it an excellent travel companion.
First and foremost, the aesthetic appeal of this set is undeniable. The chessboard is made of high-quality wood, with each square carefully carved and polished. This gives it a rustic, timeless appeal that’s perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
The chess pieces are also made of wood and feature felt bottoms for smooth movement across the board. Each piece is carefully carved with attention to detail, creating a beautiful and functional set.
In terms of portability, this set is foldable, which makes it relatively easy to carry around. When unfolded, it measures a substantial 14 x 14.25 inches, providing a generous playing area. When folded, it’s still large compared to other travel sets, but the aesthetic and playability make up for the size.
Inside the folding board, there’s a lined storage area for the pieces, keeping them secure and preventing them from scratching the board. The pieces are magnetic, ensuring they stay in place during gameplay.
Yellow Mountain Imports Magnetic Travel Chess Wallet
The Yellow Mountain Imports Magnetic Travel Foldable Chess Wallet Set offers a unique design that’s both compact and practical. This set, measuring just 7.9 inches, is perfect for those who need a truly portable option.
The set’s standout feature is its wallet design. The board folds up to look like a wallet, with a secure snap closure to keep everything in place. This makes it extremely portable and perfect for slipping into a pocket or small bag.
The chess pieces are magnetic, ensuring they stay in place during gameplay. They’re also detailed and well-made, considering their small size. This set may be compact, but it doesn’t skimp on playability.
The board is made of quality materials, offering a smooth playing surface and clear markings. The wallet casing provides excellent protection for the board and pieces, ensuring they stay in good condition even with regular use.
Despite its compact size, this set offers a full game of chess, with all the pieces and a complete 7.9 x 6.6 board. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want a portable set but don’t want to compromise on the full chess experience.
Finally, this set’s affordability is a big plus. It offers great value for money, considering its quality, portability, and functionality.
Big Mo’s Toys Magnetic Foldable Travel Chess Set
The Magnetic Travel Chess Set by Big Mo’s Toys is a cleverly designed set that transforms from a compact case into a full chess board. This set combines practicality, functionality, and affordability into one package.
This set’s unique feature is its transformation design. The case opens up to become a full-sized chess board, while the pieces are stored securely inside. This all-in-one design makes it extremely portable and convenient for travel.
The pieces are magnetic, ensuring they stay in place during play. They’re also well-made, offering a good balance and comfortable grip. The board itself is marked with clear squares and offers a smooth playing surface.
This set is also robust and durable. The case/board is made of sturdy plastic that can withstand regular use and travel. The pieces are also durable, ensuring they won’t chip or break easily.
Despite its compact size, this set doesn’t compromise on playability. It offers a full game of chess, with all the pieces and a complete board. This makes it a great choice for those who want to play chess on the go, without carrying a large set.
Finally, this set is affordably priced, offering excellent value for money. Its combination of functionality, durability, and affordability makes it a top choice for a travel chess set.
Mini Travel Chess Set by Vikutu
The Vikutu Foldable Magnetic Mini Chess Set is the perfect pick for those who prefer a truly pocket-sized option. At just 5.11 inches, it’s one of the smallest travel chess sets available, but it still offers a full game of chess.
The compact size of this set is its primary feature. The board folds into a small square that can easily fit into a pocket or small bag. Despite its small size, it opens up to a full chess board, providing a complete gaming experience.
The chess pieces are magnetic and small, but still well detailed. They stick to the board well, ensuring your game won’t be disrupted by movement. The pieces are stored inside the folding board, keeping them safe and organized.
The board itself is well-made, with clear square markings and a smooth surface. The folding design is sturdy and secure, ensuring the set stays in good condition even with regular use.
Despite its mini size, this set is fully functional. It offers a full game of chess with all the pieces and a complete board. This makes it perfect for those who want a compact, portable chess set that doesn’t compromise on playability.
COBER Genuine Leather Roll-Up Travel Chess Set
The COBER Leather Roll-Up Chess Set is a stylish and portable option for those who value aesthetics as well as functionality. This roll-up set is made of genuine leather, giving it a sophisticated look and feel.
The most notable feature of this set is its roll-up design. The board is made of soft, pliable leather that rolls up into a compact cylinder for easy transport. The pieces are stored in a velvet pouch, keeping them safe and organized.
Despite its portable design, this set offers a full game of chess. The board, when unrolled, provides a decent play area with clear, embossed squares. The pieces are well made and aesthetically pleasing, fitting into the overall sleek design of the set.
Finally, this set’s aesthetic appeal is worth noting. The black and white color scheme, combined with the leather material, gives it a sophisticated look. This makes it an excellent gift for chess enthusiasts, as well as a stylish addition to any travel kit.
Chess Armory Travel Chess Set
Last but not least, the Chess Armory Folding Magnet Travel Chess Set offers a balance of size, functionality, and aesthetics. At 9.5 inches, it’s small enough for travel but large enough for a comfortable gameplay.
The foldable design is the standout feature of this set. The board folds in half for easy storage and transport. Inside, there’s a special slot for each piece, ensuring they stay organized and protected during transit.
The chess pieces are magnetic, providing a secure gameplay on the go. They’re also well-crafted and easy to handle, despite their small size. The set even includes two extra queens, a nice touch for those who prefer using the optional rule of pawn promotion.
The board itself is well made, with clear square markings and a smooth playing surface. The folding design is sturdy and secure, ensuring the set stays in good condition even with regular use.
Finally, this set’s affordability is a big plus. It offers great value for money, considering its quality, portability, and functionality. It’s a perfect choice for kids and adults alike, making it a versatile option for family trips.
Understanding Travel Chess Sets
Before the digital age, chess lovers who travelled often were presented with a unique challenge—how to play their favorite game on the move.
The answer was the travel chess set—compact, convenient, and designed for portability. Unlike standard sets, travel chess sets are created with mobility in mind.
They are usually smaller in size, often foldable, with dedicated spaces for each piece, and sometimes even magnetic to keep the pieces from moving around.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Travel Chess Set
When choosing your travel chess set, consider these factors:
When looking for a travel chess set, you must take into consideration several factors that can significantly influence your playing experience. Let’s explore each one in detail.
Portability
Travel chess sets should be easy to carry around. Consider the size and weight of the set. It’s also important to check if it comes with a protective case or a pouch for easy transportation.
Durability
The set should be robust and durable to withstand the rigors of travel. Some sets come with a soft-felt interior to protect the pieces from scratches.
Piece Design
The pieces should be well-crafted and stable. They should have a pleasant feel in your hands and should not easily topple over.
Board Design
A good board should have clear and distinct squares. It should also lay flat when unfolded.
Magnetic or Non-magnetic
Depending on your needs, you may want to opt for magnetic pieces that stick to the board, preventing them from moving around during travel or outdoor play.
Tips on Caring for Your Travel Chess Set
Caring for your travel chess set can significantly extend its lifespan. Clean the pieces gently and avoid harsh chemicals. When not in use, store the set in a secure place to prevent losing any pieces. Handle each piece properly to maintain its shape and integrity.
Enhancing Your Chess Experience while Travelling
To take your chess experience a notch higher, consider using chess apps and online platforms to play against opponents worldwide. If you’re keen on physical gameplay, organize mini-tournaments or chess meetups with fellow travelers. Remember, practice makes perfect. Use travel time to hone your skills and strategies.
Whether you’re a grandmaster or a chess enthusiast, a quality travel chess set allows you to enjoy this splendid game wherever your travels take you. While this guide provides a comprehensive starting point, your perfect set will ultimately depend on your personal needs and preferences. So, embark on this exciting journey, and may the best player win!
