Inspiring Journeys: Must-Read Travel Books for Kids Ages 8-12

By Tari

Mar 18, 2025

In Children's Travel Guides

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Are you looking to spark your child's curiosity about the world? Do you want to prepare them for an upcoming family vacation, or simply introduce them to new cultures and landscapes from the comfort of your home? Then you've come to the right place! This article is your guide to the very best travel books for kids ages 8-12, carefully curated to inspire young minds and foster a love for exploration.

Why Travel Books for Kids Ages 8-12 Are So Important

In an age of screens and digital entertainment, the charm and educational value of a good book remain unparalleled. Children's travel books offer a unique window into different parts of the world, providing engaging stories, vibrant illustrations, and fascinating facts that capture a child's imagination. These books can:

• Foster a love of learning: By presenting information in an accessible and entertaining way, travel books make learning about geography, history, and culture fun.
• Expand their horizons: Educational travel books introduce children to different ways of life, customs, and perspectives, broadening their understanding of the world.
• Prepare them for travel: If you're planning a family trip, reading travel books for kids ages 8-12 about your destination can help your children feel more excited, informed, and engaged in the experience.
• Encourage empathy and understanding: By learning about other cultures, children can develop a greater appreciation for diversity and a stronger sense of empathy.
• Improve reading comprehension and vocabulary: Reading kids travel guides exposes children to new words and concepts, helping them improve their reading skills.

What Makes a Great Travel Book for Kids?

Not all children's travel books are created equal. When choosing books for your 8-12 year old, consider the following factors:

• Age Appropriateness: Look for books that are written at a level that your child can understand and enjoy. The language should be clear and engaging, and the content should be relevant to their interests.
• Engaging Content: The best travel books for kids tell captivating stories, feature interesting characters, and present information in a dynamic and interactive way. Think beyond dry facts and figures; look for books that bring the destination to life.
• Beautiful Illustrations: Visual appeal is crucial for capturing a child's attention. Look for books with vibrant illustrations, photographs, or maps that enhance the reading experience.
• Accurate Information: Ensure that the information presented in the book is accurate and up-to-date. Look for books that are written or reviewed by experts in the field.
• Positive Representation: Choose books that promote positive representations of different cultures and avoid stereotypes or generalizations.

Our Top Picks: Best Travel Books for Kids Ages 8-12

Now, let's dive into our top recommendations for travel books for kids ages 8-12. These books cover a range of destinations and formats, ensuring that there's something for every young traveler.

1. National Geographic Kids Everything World: Geography, People, and Culture: This comprehensive guide is packed with fascinating facts, colorful photographs, and engaging activities that will bring the world to life for young readers. It covers a wide range of topics, from geography and climate to culture and history, making it a valuable resource for kids who want to learn more about the world.

2. This is How We Do It: One Day in the Lives of Seven Kids from Around the World by Matt Lamothe: This beautifully illustrated book offers a glimpse into the daily lives of seven children from different countries, showcasing their homes, schools, meals, and activities. It's a great way to introduce kids to the diversity of cultures around the world and promote understanding and empathy.

3. Lonely Planet Kids Adventures Around the Globe: This book is a collection of exciting travel stories and adventures from around the world, written specifically for kids. It features real-life explorers, daring expeditions, and fascinating destinations, inspiring kids to dream big and explore the unknown. It highlights diverse landscapes and introduces children to different ways of life, emphasizing both adventure and respect for global cultures.

4. Who HQ series (Who Was…): While not strictly