Our recommendations on the best travel books for children
Kids possess an extraordinary capacity to dream and learn, with reading serving as one of the most powerful tools to nurture these creative skills. Reading not only changes the way our brains work but also provides children with countless educational and emotional benefits, laying a strong foundation for how they later understand and appreciate the world around them. Young minds are remarkably open to traveling and experiencing new places, making books about faraway locations and unknown cultures perfect catalysts to ignite a child's imagination, inspiring them to explore all the wonderful things our planet has to offer. Books also make exceptional gifts for children, offering an easy way to share endless adventures and knowledge. We wholeheartedly agree with the quote popularized by Hodding Carter: "Two of the greatest gifts we can give our children are roots and wings."
The Best Travel Books for Children
The Best Travel Books for Children
Oh, the Places You'll Go, by Dr. Seuss
Oh, the Places You'll Go! isn't just any old tale, but a Seussian journey beyond any trail. With whimsical words and fantastical sights, this book nudges young dreamers to soar to new heights. From mountains to valleys, it serves as a compass for those who dare, speaking to the heart of each girl and boy with unbridled joy. Though aimed at ages four to ten, its wisdom transcends, making it a popular gift for graduates and seekers alike—a literary balloon to give spirits a lift. As Dr. Seuss's final opus, it stands as a crown, a last hurrah from this wordsmith of renown. Whether you're big or still learning to grow, this book whispers secrets all journeyers should know, offering quotes that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Journey, by Aaron Becker
This masterpiece follows the journey of a young girl who, armed with nothing but her imagination and a red crayon, unlocks a portal to a world brimming with wonder and excitement. The series begins with the spellbinding Journey, a 2014 Caldecott Honor book that will ignite the spark of creativity in readers of all ages. As the story unfolds across three magnificent volumes, children and adults alike will find themselves captivated by the power of visual storytelling.
The Travel Book, by Lonely Planet
Ignite your child's curiosity about our amazing planet with Lonely Planet's The Amazing World Atlas. This captivating hardcover brings the world to life for young explorers ages 8 and up, offering a perfect blend of stunning visuals, engaging facts, and beautifully illustrated maps. More than just a book, it's a passport to adventure that sparks imagination and fosters a love for global discovery. Whether used for family travel planning or armchair exploration, this atlas opens doors to new cultures and faraway lands. Give the gift of wonder and watch as it inspires the next generation of world travelers and global citizens.
Atlas Obscura Explorer's Guide
Looking for something to inspire a wanderlust spirit in your kid? Look no further than The Atlas Obscura Explorers Guide for the World's Most Adventurous Kid. This unique travel book will introduce your child to some of the most interesting and off-the-beaten path locations around the world, with pages and pages packed with information about interesting places, cultural activities, weird creatures and other wonders.
Hello, World by Ashley Evanson
The Hello, World series is a treasure trove of travel-themed board books for young explorers just beginning to discover the joy of reading. Each book in this delightful collection focuses on a single world city, bringing it to life through Ashley Evanson's vibrant and charming illustrations. The simple yet engaging format makes these books ideal for little hands and growing minds, fostering a love for both reading and global awareness from an early age. Whether used as bedtime stories or as preparation for family trips, the Hello, World series opens up a world of imagination and learning for our youngest armchair travelers.
Toot & Puddle, by Holly Hobbie
Dive into the adorable world of Toot & Puddle, a book series featuring two pig best friends: globe-trotting Toot and homebody Puddle. Holly Hobbie's delightful illustrations and storytelling serve up the perfect blend of humor, warmth, and friendship that knows no boundaries. While every book is really good for kids, we're particularly fond of the original Toot & Puddle and On Top of the World. These lovable oinkers will charm readers of all ages with their piggy adventures, both at home and abroad. This is one of our top recommendations!
The Harry Potter Series, by J.K. Rowling
Dive into the enchanting world of Harry Potter by reading the books first! While the movies are great, the real magic happens when you open the pages of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone and the rest of the series. J.K. Rowling's words paint a vivid picture of a hidden magical world right under our noses. From the cozy, winding streets of old London to the breathtaking beauty of the English countryside, the books transport you to the heart of the United Kingdom. You'll wander through the bustling shops of Diagon Alley, feel the excitement of your first trip on the Hogwarts Express, and marvel at the grandeur of Hogwarts castle with its moving staircases and talking portraits. The books bring to life the misty moors of Scotland, the mysterious depths of the Forbidden Forest, and the charming village of Hogsmeade with its butter beer and magical sweets. Through Rowling's masterful storytelling, you'll not only follow Harry's adventures but also experience the rich tapestry of British culture and landscapes that serve as the backdrop to this beloved series.
The Passport Project, by Kellie McIntyre
The Passport Project is the true story of two middle school sisters ages 13 and 11 who embark with their family on a five-month journey around the world. Their trip is an amazing real-life social studies class of new cultures and experiences, made even more interesting for two girls navigating the everyday challenges of adolescence. The book is targeted for middle school students and those considering their own family travel adventure.
Ultimate U.S. Road Trip Atlas, by National Geographic
Summer is perfect for family road trips, and keeping kids engaged is key. Our top recommendation: Ultimate US Road Trip Atlas by National Geographic, designed for young explorers. This colorful, easy-to-read guide brims with fascinating facts about each state, entertaining children throughout the journey. Not only does it educate, but it also serves as a cherished souvenir of your family's cross-country adventures, turning your little ones into eager co-pilots along the way.
Madeline, by Ludwig Bemelmans
Step into the enchanting world of Madeline, a beloved children's book series that whisks readers away to a vine-covered old house in the heart of Paris. Within these charming tales, we follow the adventures of twelve little girls living in a whimsical orphanage, led by the mischievous Madeline. This captivating series, which spans seventeen books, was born from the imagination of Ludwig Bemelmans in 1939. With his vivid illustrations and endearing storytelling, Bemelmans created a timeless treasure that has delighted generations of young readers.
Pisa Loves Bella: A Towering Tale of Kindness
Pisa Loves Bella is a charming rhyming story about Italy's famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Told from the perspective of Bella, the tower herself, this tale explores themes of self-confidence and kindness. When Bella overhears hurtful comments about her appearance, she makes a drastic change that worries the locals and tourists alike. With colorful artwork and sprinkled Italian expressions, the book delivers a heartwarming message about accepting yourself and others, all wrapped up in a fun, accessible story for children.
Lonely Planet’s How to be a World Explorer
Lonely Planet Kids offers another gem with their Not for Parents edition of "How to be a World Explorer." This engaging "training manual," ideal for grades 4-6, is a treasure trove of survival tips for extreme environments. From navigating dense jungles to exploring ocean depths, it equips young adventurers with the knowledge to thrive in Earth's most challenging terrains. The book's blend of practical advice and exciting scenarios ignites curiosity and nurtures a spirit of exploration.
This is the World, by Miroslav Sasek
The "This is..." series, created by illustrator Miroslav Sasek between 1959 and 1974, is a beloved collection of children's travel books. Each volume focuses on a different city or country such as London, Paris, or Rome. These timeless travelogues introduce young readers to the unique art, architecture, music, cuisine, and cultural traditions of various destinations around the world. Even today, Sasek's charming illustrations and insightful observations continue to inspire and educate.
Harold and the Purple Crayon
Harold and the Purple Crayon is a beloved children's book that tells the story of a young boy named Harold who creates his own world using nothing but a purple crayon. As Harold draws, the things he imagines come to life, leading him on a fantastical journey. Throughout his adventure, Harold faces challenges and solves problems with his creativity and quick thinking, inspiring children to explore their own creativity and showing how a little imagination can open up endless possibilities. Those thinking about watching the movie just released in 2024 should definitely get the book first!
Kids' Travel Guides Series
Attention parents: Transform your family trip into an unforgettable adventure with the Kids' Travel Guides series! Perfect for curious explorers ages 4-8, these activity books are your secret weapon against travel boredom. Available for major U.S. cities, each guide turns your child into a mini expert, packed with fun facts, puzzles, and engaging activities. Watch your kids' eyes light up as they discover hidden gems and local secrets about your destination. Not just a travel companion, these books become cherished souvenirs, sparking memories and wanderlust for years to come.
The Invention of Hugo Cabret, by Brian Selznick
The Invention of Hugo Cabret whisks you away to 1930s Paris, where a lonely orphan boy hides within the walls of a busy train station. This magical book tells its story through both words and pictures - over 250 pages of beautiful pencil drawings bring Hugo's world to life. Hugo spends his days tinkering with clocks and dreaming of his father, but everything changes when he meets a grumpy old man with a toy shop. Together, they unlock secrets from the early days of movies, including the fantastical films of Georges Méliès. The book inspired the hit movie "Hugo," but the original story on the page has a special charm all its own. It's a tale full of mystery, friendship, and the power of following your dreams - perfect for both kids and adults who love a touch of magic in their stories.
Inside Out & Back Again, by Thanhha Lai
Inside Out and Back Again, Thanhha Lai's National Book Award-winning novel, offers a poignant glimpse into the author's childhood journey from war-torn Vietnam to the unfamiliar landscapes of Alabama. Written in evocative free verse, this compelling narrative chronicles Lai's escape from Saigon during its fall and her subsequent struggles as a young immigrant. The book's unique format and heartfelt storytelling make it an ideal choice for middle-grade readers who seek to understand the complexities of cultural displacement and resilience.
One Girl One Dream, by Laura Decker
One Girl One Dream tells the compelling true story of Laura Dekker, a brave 14-year-old Dutch sailor who dared to chase an incredible dream. In the face of strong pushback from both the government and society, Dekker set out to sail around the world all by herself. She fought hard against those who tried to stop her, showing remarkable determination for someone so young. Finally, aboard her trusty 38-foot sailboat named Guppy, Dekker began her amazing journey. For 518 days, she battled rough seas, loneliness, and countless challenges as she circled the globe. Her incredible feat not only earned her the title of youngest person to sail solo around the world but also showed what humans can achieve when they truly believe in themselves
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, by Jules Verne
Dive into the depths of imagination with Jules Verne's masterpiece, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. This groundbreaking science fiction adventure plunges readers into a world of wonder and mystery, following a French marine biologist's perilous expedition to uncover the truth behind a terrifying sea monster. As the crew finds themselves ensnared by the enigmatic Captain Nemo aboard his advanced submarine, the Nautilus, they embark on a journey that pushes the boundaries of human exploration and scientific understanding. Hailed as a visionary work upon its release, this maritime epic continues to captivate audiences today, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of adventure literature and a crowning achievement in Verne's illustrious career.
The Adventures of Tintin
The Adventures of Tintin is an iconic series of 24 comic books, first unleashed upon the world in 1929, that follows the daring exploits of Tintin, a young Belgian reporter with an insatiable appetite for adventure. From the bustling streets of Brussels to the mysterious depths of the Congolese jungle, and from the desolate peaks of Tibet to the imaginary lands of Syldavia and Borduria, Tintin's globe-trotting quests have enthralled generations. With its perfect blend of mystery, humor, and heart-pounding action, this timeless series continues to ignite the imaginations of children and adults alike, cementing its place as one of the most beloved and enduring works in the comic book pantheon.
Travels with Baby
Looking to travel with your little ones? Travels with Baby is your go-to guide! Written by family travel guru Shelli Rivoli, this gem is packed with practical tips on packing, sleep, health, and family-friendly travel options. It's chock-full of great advice to make your family adventures smoother and more fun. Whether you're planning a quick trip or a big journey, this book's got you covered. It's not just a guide; it's a passport to confident family travel, making it an ideal gift for adventurous new parents eager to share the world with their little explorers.
Unlock worlds with the gift of travel reads. See our recommendations on books that provide the perfect window to inspiration and adventure for friends and family. Click here for some gift ideas!