18 Best Picture Books About Travel
Spark a wanderlust in your little explorer! Dive into our list of the 18 best picture books about travel. Whether your little ones dream of far-off adventures or you’re looking to inspire wanderlust, these 18 captivating books are perfect companions for young explorers.
You might also enjoy this list of the best travel board games.
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18 Best Picture Books About Travel
To get your little adventurer excited about exploring the world, here are some captivating picture books about travel that bring the magic of travelling to life.
1. The Usborne Children’s Picture Atlas by Ruth Brocklehurst and Linda Edwards
The Usborne Children’s Picture Atlas by Ruth Brocklehurst and Linda Edwards is a captivating visual journey for young readers, offering an exploration of the world’s diverse landscapes—from the sun-soaked plains of Africa to the icy expanses of the Arctic. Each intricately illustrated map highlights countries, capital cities, renowned landmarks, major rivers, and towering mountains, enriching children’s understanding of global geography. Complemented by engaging picture stories, this atlas serves as an excellent introduction to maps, world cultures, and geographical concepts, making it ideal for pre-school children aged 4 to 7.
Price: £9.35
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Popularity: 1,011 ratings
2. Travel Guide for Monsters by Lori Degman
Travel Guide for Monsters by Lori Degman is a delightful and humorous companion for young readers embarking on a summer road trip or a family beach holiday with their favourite mythical creature. This imaginative guide offers essential tips to ensure both you and your monster enjoy the journey, while cleverly helping to avoid any monster-related mishaps. Perfect for children aged 5 to 8, this book combines practical advice with whimsical fun, making it an ideal addition to any travel adventure.
Price: £17.30
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Popularity: 25 ratings
3. Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney
Barbara Cooney’s timeless tale of Miss Rumphius, who dreams of travelling the world, living by the sea, and leaving behind a more beautiful world, continues to captivate young readers. Inspired by the real-life “Lupine Lady,” Miss Rumphius leaves a lasting legacy of blooming lupines along the Maine coast, a testament to her belief in spreading beauty. Winner of the American Book Award, this book resonates with children aged 5 to 8, encouraging them to dream big and make a positive impact in their own way.
Price: £17.85
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 3,038 ratings
4. The Boy Who Loved Maps by Kari Allen
The Boy Who Loved Maps by Kari Allen is an enchanting picture book that captures the imagination of young readers through the adventures of a map-making boy. When a girl requests a map of the perfect place—a toes-in-the-sand, treasure-filled, birthday-scented paradise—the Mapmaker is stumped. His quest to fulfil her whimsical request leads them on a delightful exploration of their neighbourhood, ultimately revealing that the perfect place, home, has been right in front of them all along. This creative and charming story not only celebrates the concept of home but also encourages children aged 4 to 8 to appreciate the world around them and even learn to create their own maps.
Price: £14.24
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Popularity: 44 ratings
5. How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World by Marjorie Priceman
Marjorie Priceman’s delightful picture book, How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World, whisks young readers aged 3 to 7 on a whimsical culinary journey around the globe. When the local market is unexpectedly closed, the resourceful protagonist sets off on an adventurous quest for ingredients. From gathering semolina wheat in Italy to acquiring fresh milk in England and picking apples in Vermont, the story cleverly combines a simple apple pie recipe with geography and cultural exploration. With vibrant illustrations and a playful narrative, this book not only entertains but also educates, making it a must-have for every preschool and primary-grade classroom.
Price: £6.54
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 1,188 ratings
6. Tiger Family Trip by Becky Friedman
Tiger Family Trip by Becky Friedman takes young readers on an engaging journey with Daniel Tiger and his family as they travel to visit Grandpere. Based on a beloved episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, this delightful 8×8 storybook invites children to follow along on Daniel’s map, sharing in his excitement for the big family trip. As Daniel eagerly anticipates giving his grandfather a special gift, the story highlights the many fun activities and sights encountered during the long journey. Perfect for children aged 5 to 6, this book is inspired by the timeless charm of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood and continues to captivate a new generation.
Price: £7.04
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Popularity: 344 ratings
7. The Airport Book by Lisa Brown
The Airport Book by Lisa Brown offers a captivating and practical exploration of a family’s journey through the complexities of a modern-day airport. This engaging picture book takes readers through the entire airport experience, from checking in bags and navigating security to the long wait at the gate and finally taking flight. Adding to the adventure, the youngest family member’s sock monkey goes missing, and its amusing journey is chronicled at the bottom of each page, mirroring the family’s own travels. Perfect for children aged 5 to 7, this book is as informative as it is entertaining, making it an ideal read for young travellers.
Price: £14.14
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Popularity: 205 ratings
8. My Africa Vacation by Ozi Okaro
My Africa Vacation by Ozi Okaro is a vivid and educational picture book that follows five-year-old Arinze and his older sister Cheta as they embark on an eagerly anticipated journey to Africa. After hearing their parents’ stories about the continent’s wonders, the children finally experience its vibrancy firsthand. Starting in Kenya, the family travels through ten African countries, witnessing breathtaking sights like Victoria Falls and Mount Kilimanjaro and exploring rich cultural and historical landmarks. The highlight of their adventure is visiting their grandfather’s village in Nigeria, where Arinze and Cheta develop a deeper connection to their heritage. Illustrated with vibrant photographs, this book beautifully showcases Africa’s diversity and richness, inspiring children of all backgrounds to appreciate and explore this unique continent. Ideal for children from baby to 9 years old, it instils pride in their roots and encourages future travels.
Price: £6.99
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Popularity: 39 ratings
9. Carl’s Summer Vacation by Alexandra Day
Join Carl the lovable canine and his young friend Madeleine on a delightful summer adventure in Carl’s Summer Vacation. Instead of napping as planned, Carl and Madeleine sneak off to enjoy a day filled with canoeing, blackberry picking, picnicking, and even a game of baseball at their summer cabin by the lake. Written for children aged 3 to 6, this charming picture book captures the essence of a carefree summer holiday, complete with playful illustrations that bring their escapades to life. Perfect for inspiring young imaginations and reminding us all of the joy of simple pleasures during vacation time.
Price: £12.58
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Popularity: 156 ratings
10. Hiking Day by Anne Rockwell
Hiking Day by Anne Rockwell is a beautifully crafted picture book that celebrates a child’s first mountain hike. The story follows a young girl and her family as they embark on an adventurous climb up a nearby mountain. Along the way, they encounter a variety of natural wonders, from a friendly toad and a prickly porcupine to tall leafy trees and tiny red berries. With simple, lyrical text and vibrant illustrations by Lizzy Rockwell, this book vividly brings to life the joy and excitement of spending an afternoon in the great outdoors. Ideal for children aged 4 to 7, Hiking Day captures the unforgettable experience of reaching the mountain’s summit and the beauty of nature.
Price: £5.94
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 169 ratings
11. Grand Canyon by Jason Chin
Grand Canyon by Jason Chin offers an awe-inspiring journey through one of the world’s most remarkable natural wonders. Through detailed illustrations and engaging narrative, readers follow a father and daughter as they explore the vast, intricate landscape of the Grand Canyon, uncovering its rich history and diverse ecosystems. The book’s innovative use of die cuts allows children to see fossils transform into ancient creatures, seamlessly blending past and present. Complete with a breathtaking double gatefold, an intricate map, and extensive back matter, this book is an educational treasure for children aged 7 to 12, revealing that the Grand Canyon is far more than just a hole in the ground.
Price: £17.68
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 410 ratings
12. Ty’s Travels: All Aboard! by Kelly Starling Lyons
Ty’s Travels: All Aboard! by Kelly Starling Lyons, with illustrations by Niña Mata, is a delightful addition to the My First I Can Read series, perfect for young readers aged 4 to 8. This engaging story follows Ty, a young boy who, when his family is too busy to play before dinner, uses his vivid imagination to embark on an exciting adventure. With simple, rhythmic text and vibrant, joyful illustrations, this book celebrates the power of imagination and family time. Designed for emergent readers, it features basic language, word repetition, and whimsical art, making it ideal for shared reading and encouraging children to continue their reading journey.
Price: £16.98
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 248 ratings
13. Sammy goes on an aeroplane by Charlotte Olson
Sammy Goes on an Aeroplane by Charlotte Olson is a charming picture book that captures the excitement and apprehension of a child’s first flight. As Sammy embarks on his journey, he feels a bit worried but is reassured by his loving parents, who are taking him on a sunny family holiday. Through rhythmic text and engaging illustrations, young readers aged 3 to 7 can follow Sammy’s adventure from the car ride to the airport and finally the thrilling experience of flying. This delightful story is perfect for preparing children for air travel and celebrating the joy of family vacations.
Price: £5.99
Rating: 5 out of 5
Popularity: 4 ratings
14. A Day at the Airport by Richard Scarry
A Day at the Airport by Richard Scarry invites young readers aged 3 to 7 to join Huckle, Sally Cat, and Lowly Worm on an exciting adventure at the airport. Rudolf von Flugel takes the children on a memorable journey in his aeroplane-car, showcasing the bustling activities of airport life. With vibrant illustrations and engaging details to discover on every page, this book is packed with fun and educational opportunities. It’s a delightful read that captures the imagination and curiosity of children about air travel and the excitement of exploring new places.
Price: £5.43
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Popularity: 1,374 ratings
15. First Experiences Going on a Plane by Anne Civardi
First Experiences Going on a Plane by Anne Civardi is a charming picture book designed to gently introduce young children, aged 1 to 4, to the experience of flying. Featuring Stephen Cartwright’s delightful illustrations, the book offers plenty of engaging details for children to explore and discuss. It serves as an ideal starting point for parents and caregivers to initiate conversations about first experiences, making air travel accessible and enjoyable for little ones. This book not only entertains but also educates, helping children understand and feel comfortable with new and unfamiliar situations in a friendly and amusing manner.
Price: £3.50
Rating: 4.4 out of 5
Popularity: 129 ratings
16. Spot Goes on Holiday by Eric Hill
Join Spot on a delightful holiday adventure with Mum and Dad in Spot Goes on Holiday by Eric Hill. Toddlers aged 1 to 3 will adore lifting the sturdy flaps to discover Spot’s playful escapades at the beach, from building sandcastles to swimming in the ocean and making new friends. This classic picture book not only entertains but also encourages early learning through interactive exploration. With charming illustrations and a storyline that sparks curiosity, Spot Goes on Holiday is perfect for nurturing fine motor skills and fostering a love for discovery in young children.
Price: £6.50
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Popularity: 591 ratings
17. What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday by Julia Donaldson
Join the mischievous duo of Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh in a thrilling city adventure in What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks. This rhyming picture book, perfect for children aged 2 to 5, introduces a host of noisy zoo animals and the clever crime-busting ladybird. When Len and Hugh hatch a plan to steal a monkey from the zoo and use it for a daring jewel heist, they underestimate the resourcefulness of the ladybird on holiday. Packed with humour, vibrant illustrations, and a clever plot, this tale not only entertains but also teaches young readers about bravery and clever thinking. Fans of Julia Donaldson will delight in this lively addition to the Ladybird series, offering more adventures to enjoy.
Price: £7.35
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Popularity: 3,298 ratings
18. Topsy and Tim: Go on Holiday by Jean Adamson & Gareth Adamson
Embark on a delightful holiday adventure with Topsy and Tim in Topsy and Tim: Go on Holiday by Jean and Gareth Adamson. This beloved duo, known for their engaging stories that reassure young children during new experiences, takes readers on an eventful journey with Mum and Dad. Perfect for ages 3 to 6, the Topsy and Tim series has been updated with contemporary artwork that retains their timeless charm while appealing to a new generation of readers. With its familiar characters and reassuring narrative, this book not only entertains but also helps guide parents and children through the excitement and challenges of travel and new adventures.
Price: £5.99
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Popularity: 179 ratings
Share Your Favorite Picture Books About Travel
So there you have it, our 18 picks for the best picture books about travel! We hope this list has ignited a spark of wanderlust in your little adventurer. Maybe you’ve even spotted the perfect book to fuel their next pretend passport stamp adventure.
What about you? Do you have a favourite travel-themed picture book you’d recommend to other parents and caregivers? Share your picks in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you!
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