Travel Chess Sets

Travel chess sets are excellent not only for professional players who have to practice during their trips but also chess enthusiasts who want to beat boredom during long travels. Whether you’re in a car, train or plain, a nice travel chess set will keep you entertained. It’s fascinating but travel chess sets were invented way before these fast means of transportation. People used to travel for days and since chess was a very popular game at the time, they come with the idea of  portable chess. The first prototype of today’s travel chess was invented back in the 12th century and it was a folding chess board. Not only did it offer storage for chess pieces but was also more compact to carry around. 

If you’re looking for a productive and entertaining game for your next trip then go for one of our travel chess sets. 

Which travel chess set should you buy?

The market is full of different types of chess sets - wooden, magnetic, glass, Staunto, three person, you name it. This variety doesn’t stop when it comes to travel chess sets. Within this category, you can find options for any taste and budget. Here are some of the most common types of travel chess sets and which occasion they’re suited for the most: 

Magnetic vs. Non-Magnetic 

The first decision that you have to make is whether you want a magnetic chess board or a non magnetic one. Magnetic chess boards and pieces are a great option if you’re planning to play  on the go like in the backseat of a car, on a train or while flying. In other words, they’re great for when you’re in motion. Magnetic boards ensure that your pieces don’t slide. They are also great for children and the elderly, who might have problems with dexterity. Magnetic chess sets usually fold and they come in different sizes, so you can pick one that can be packed easily. If you don’t want to or don’t plan to play on the go then a non-magnetic chess set is as good of an option. 

Wooden vs. vinyl 

Next up is material. Wooden chess sets are hands down far more superior than vinyl ones. They are durable, beautiful and elegant, so you can’t go wrong with a nice wooden travel chess set. On the other hand, vinyl chess boards have proven to be quite handy when you have a shortage issue and can’t fit a wooden chess set in your bag or don’t want additional weight. 

Folding board vs. roll-up. 

Both options entail the same principle - the chess pieces are stored separately in a pouch or a bag. However, there is a difference in size and weight. Roll-ups tend to be much lighter than folding boards, plus they’re easier to fit in a bag. But if you want something steadier than a wooden chess set with a folding board won’t disappoint.

You can find all these different categories at Kaoori!