Race Across the World Board Game
The official board game adaptation of the hit BBC television series. Race across continents using only ground transportation and limited funds. No flights allowed. The first player to reach the final destination wins.
Get the Game
Players
2-6
Ages
8+
What's Inside
Race Across the World brings the tension and excitement of the BBC series to your tabletop. Players start with £900 and a randomly assigned travel companion, then race across one of two routes using only ground transportation.
- ✓2-6 players, ages 8+
- ✓Double-sided game board with two routes
- ✓45-90 minutes gameplay
- ✓Travel Companion cards with unique abilities
- ✓Strategic budgeting and route planning
Why Choose Race Across the World
Authentic Experience
Faithfully recreates the TV format with budgeting challenges, ground transportation options, and the iconic race format fans know and love.
Perfect for Families
Simple rules but strategic gameplay. Ages 8 and up can compete, testing planning, budgeting, and decision-making skills together.
High Replay Value
With two different routes, varied cards, and unique travel companions, every game session offers a different experience.
Strategy Meets Luck
Balance speed against cost, manage your budget, and adapt to chance cards that can help or hinder your progress.
Everything You Need to Play
Race Across the World comes complete with everything needed for an exciting game night. The quality components ensure a premium playing experience that matches the TV show.
- Double-sided game board
- Money pack
- Dice
- Chance cards
- Job cards
- Accommodation cards
- Travel Companion cards
- Playing pawns
- Rulebook
What Our Customers Say
"I'm a long time fan of the TV show so had to get this game. The board is double-sided with two routes, one from the first series, London to Singapore and one from the second series Mexico city to Ushuaia in Argentina. We all enjoyed playing both routes, even the cat! I loved the suggestions for ways to change up play including adding taxi options and additional rules."
Paul
"Game takes just the right amount of time (60-80 minutes) and has good pace. You have to plan carefully to get through each stage but 'chance' cards mean can you can win and lose money randomly and keeps the game fun right to the end. Has some features of the real show - such as going out of your way for a job. Very enjoyable for all ages and well made cards and pieces."
AD
"A fun game that captures the spirit of the tv series well. Family love it and it's good playing in teams or individually. Board has two maps reflecting the first two series of (London - Singapore, central & latin America). The tension of speed vs cost defines the game, just as it does in the tv series."
Mikey
About Race Across the World: The Board Game
Race Across the World began as a groundbreaking BBC television series that captured the imagination of British viewers with a simple but compelling premise: contestants race across continents using only ground transportation and a budget equivalent to a single plane ticket. No flights. No smartphones. Just resourcefulness, determination, and the thrill of the open road.
The show's popularity inspired IDEAL Games to bring the experience to kitchen tables and living rooms across the UK. The result is the official Race Across the World board game - a family-friendly adaptation that distils the essence of the television series into an accessible, replayable format for 2-6 players aged 8 and up.
The Game
Players start with £900 and a randomly assigned travel companion, then race across one of two routes: the lengthy London to Singapore journey or the shorter Mexico to Argentina trek. Each mode of transport - walking, bus, train, or boat - carries different costs and speeds, forcing players to make constant strategic decisions about budgeting versus pace.
The companion card system adds another layer of strategy. Each travel partner brings distinct advantages and drawbacks that can fundamentally alter how a player approaches the race. Landing on job stops, accommodation spaces, and chance cards creates unpredictable moments that mirror the real uncertainties of budget travel.
The Community
This site exists to connect fans of the game - sharing strategies, house rules, and experiences. The board game has built a dedicated following among families and casual gaming groups looking for something more engaging than traditional roll-and-move games, but more accessible than complex strategy titles.
Whether playing by the official rules or experimenting with community-developed variants like the Head Start, Knockout, or Taxi house rules, every race tells a different story.
Ready to Race Across the World?
Get Race Across the World Board Game and challenge your family and friends to the ultimate overland adventure.
Shop on Amazon UKFrequently Asked Questions
What is Race Across the World: The Board Game?
Race Across the World is the official board game adaptation of the hit BBC television series. Players compete to travel across continents using only ground transportation and limited funds - no flights allowed. The first player or team to reach the final destination wins.
How many players can play?
The game supports 2-6 players. It works well with any number within that range, though larger groups tend to create more competitive and unpredictable races.
What age is the game suitable for?
The game is designed for players aged 8 and above. The rules are straightforward enough for children to grasp, while the strategic elements keep adults engaged.
How long does a typical game take?
Game length depends on the chosen route. The Mexico to Argentina map offers a shorter experience, while the London to Singapore route provides a longer, more involved journey. Most games run between 45 minutes and 90 minutes.
What routes are available?
The double-sided game board features two routes: London to Singapore (longer game) and Mexico to Argentina (shorter game). Each offers a distinct experience with different checkpoint locations and strategic considerations.
What is included in the box?
The game includes a double-sided game board, money pack, dice, Chance cards, Job cards, Accommodation cards, Travel Companion cards, playing pawns, and a rulebook.
What makes the gameplay different from traditional board games?
Unlike classic roll-and-move games, Race Across the World combines budgeting, route planning, and risk management. Players must constantly balance speed against cost and opportunity.
Are flights or digital tools allowed in the game?
No. Just like in the TV show, flights and smartphones are not allowed. Players must travel by land or sea and make decisions with limited information.
How do travel companions work?
At the start of each game, players receive a random travel companion card. Each companion has unique positive and negative traits that affect gameplay - some make earning money easier, others complicate certain aspects of travel. This system ensures every game feels different.
Is the game mostly luck or strategy?
Race Across the World blends both elements. Strategic decisions about routes, transport modes, and when to work for extra money are crucial. However, chance cards, accommodation draws, and job opportunities introduce unpredictable elements that keep every race exciting.
Is the game competitive or cooperative?
The game is primarily competitive, with one winner at the end. However, it encourages interaction, negotiation, and shared moments throughout the journey.
Is the game suitable for repeat play?
Yes. With multiple maps, varied cards, and different companions, no two games play out the same way.
Are there official variant rules?
The base game includes standard rules, but the community has developed several popular house rules including Head Start (checkpoint bonuses), Knockout (elimination at certain checkpoints), and Taxi (one-time fast travel option). These variants can increase complexity and competitiveness.
Is this the official licensed game?
Yes. Race Across the World: The Board Game is the officially licensed adaptation of the BBC television series, published by IDEAL in partnership with the show's producers.
Is this game a good gift?
Yes. Race Across the World is a popular choice for birthdays, holidays, and family gatherings, especially for fans of travel, adventure, and light strategy games.
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