One of the great things about backgammon is that you can play it almost anywhere. That’s even more true today with online backgammon, but there are many situations where you don’t have a reliable internet connection — and in any case, backgammon is still a game best enjoyed face to face, with a real opponent.
The problem is obvious: carrying a full-size backgammon board in a suitcase or on a plane is rarely practical.
So what are your options?
Below is our selection of the best backgammon sets to travel, so you can take the game with you wherever you go.
Choosing the Right Size for Travel
The first thing you need to consider when buying a travel backgammon set is size.
A professional or competition-size board is simply too large to travel with comfortably, especially by plane. Travel backgammon sets are designed to be:
- compact
- lightweight
- easy to unfold and play anywhere
The sets below all focus on portability, while still offering a pleasant playing experience.
WE Games Blue Magnetic Backgammon Set
This is our first pick for travel, and it’s a great option if you’re looking for something small, practical, and easy to carry.
This backgammon set comes in the form of a leather-style handbook with a zipper. It’s very easy to pack and transport, making it ideal for playing on a train, at the beach, or anywhere your adventurous spirit takes you.
The checkers are magnetic, but not overly strong. They move easily during play, while still holding well enough to prevent pieces from sliding around — even if you’re playing in a car or on an uneven surface.
The set includes:
- 30 checkers
- Two sets of dice
- Doubling cube
- Dice cups
- Removable carrying strap
The board features a navy blue leatherette surface, matching dice cups, and a compact size of approximately 14 × 9 × 1 inches when open. For this category, it offers excellent value for money.
👉 Check the WE Games Blue Magnetic Backgammon Set on Amazon
Sondergut Roll-up Portable Suede Backgammon Game Set
Our second selection is a roll-up backgammon set, perfect for travelers with very limited luggage space.
This set is cleverly designed with a detachable pouch that holds the checkers and dice together. The leather quality is very good for the price, and the whole set feels durable and well thought out.
One small downside is that one corner of the board can sometimes roll up slightly, so you may need to weigh it down a bit. That minor inconvenience doesn’t take away from the pleasure of playing, especially considering how compact and affordable this set is.
If saving space is your top priority, this is a very solid option.
👉 Check the Piboshi Travel Backgammon Set on Amazon
Get The Games Out Backgammon Set
If you don’t like the idea of playing backgammon on a roll-up or magnetic surface and still want the feeling of a real board, this is an excellent compromise.
These travel backgammon sets are available in three sizes (small, medium, and large) and offer a traditional folding-board experience at a very reasonable price.
They come in several designs, but my personal favorite is the version featuring a world map, which fits perfectly with the travel spirit. All versions include:
- Classic felt playing surface
- Well-finished dice cups
- Solid construction
The playing sensation is surprisingly close to what you get on a full-size board, making this the best choice for travelers who don’t want to sacrifice style and comfort.
👉 Check Get The Games Out Backgammon Sets on Amazon
Final Thoughts
You no longer have any excuse not to take backgammon with you wherever you go.
Whether you choose a magnetic set, a roll-up board, or a compact folding board, there is a travel backgammon option for every type of player and every type of journey.
And remember — when you play backgammon outside, you’re also on a mission: introducing the game to new people. That’s how backgammon keeps spreading.
May the dice be with you.