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My Fair Mahjong Anywhere Tiles Review After a Transatlantic Cruise

Update after our transatlantic cruise: This set is no longer just a promising travel purchase. We played with it almost every day of the crossing, and I would now choose it over a full-size set for every trip.

I purchased the Pink Mini Anywhere Tiles and optional mini mat myself. This post contains an Amazon affiliate link, which may earn me a commission at no additional cost to you.

Quick Verdict After Nearly Daily Cruise Play

The My Fair Mahjong Anywhere set handled four-player games, three-player games, Siamese Mahjong and beginner lessons across several ship venues. The tiles stayed readable, the mini racks worked perfectly, the mat performed well on every table, and the entire set returned home without visible wear. Its small size was an advantage—not a compromise—when we were working with lounge tables and carry-on luggage.

The only real learning curve is the nontraditional artwork. Most players read the tiles easily, but people who are accustomed to traditional designs may need a little time. The small reference card from My Fair Mahjong was especially helpful when we taught a new student.

For more of my tested packing strategy, see how I pack a Mahjong set for a trip without regretting it.

How We Used the Set on a Transatlantic Cruise

We played almost daily. My mom, my best friend, her parents and I rotated through games, with my best friend and her parents joining me most nights. My mom, my best friend and I also played in the concierge lounge, where our setup attracted attention from other guests. Two students wanted to learn, so we ended up holding a couple of informal lessons for our new friends. My best friend and I also played Siamese Mahjong in the lounge.

We initially tried playing at 687, but the space was too dark and not especially comfortable for a full game. For games outside the concierge lounge, Vista Lounge became our preferred spot. The compact set was ideal in both lounges because it did not overwhelm the available table space.

Four-Player Play, Racks and the Mini Mat

The mini racks held the tiles securely throughout our games. The optional mini mat also worked perfectly on every table we tried, so I still consider it an essential addition rather than an optional extra.

Four-player play did not feel cramped. We played “messy” instead of building formal walls and used the included bag as a draw bag. That saved even more table space and made the compact setup practical in busy ship lounges.

Readability and Teaching Beginners

Despite their tiny size, the markings were very readable for our regular players. One student's mother, who preferred traditional Mahjong tiles, was less enthusiastic about the nontraditional designs. That is the main drawback I would flag for traditionalists or brand-new players.

For beginners, the My Fair Mahjong reference card helped bridge that gap. Once players became familiar with the artwork, the set was a joy to use—and we received many compliments from people who saw it.

Durability After Heavy Travel Use

After nearly daily cruise play, lessons and repeated packing, the tiles, wooden racks, mini mat and carry bag are all still in fantastic condition. Nothing loosened, broke or showed meaningful wear.

I packed the set in my backpack on the way to the cruise and in my carry-on suitcase on the way home. It never went in checked luggage. At under 2.5 pounds for the tiles, racks and mat, the weight and size simply cannot be beaten for air and cruise travel.

Would I Travel With a Full-Size Set Again?

No. After this trip, I would not travel with a full-size Mahjong set. The Anywhere set gave us everything we needed for frequent group play while taking a fraction of the space and weight. Full-size tiles remain wonderful at home, but for travel this is now my unequivocal choice.

My Original Review and Set Details

 

If you’ve ever tried to travel with a full Mahjong set, you already know the struggle—they are HEAVY. Like… carry-on regret heavy.

So when I started planning upcoming trips, I knew I needed a lightweight, portable Mahjong set that wouldn’t take up half my suitcase—but still felt fun and high quality.

After a few weeks of research, I finally found it: the My Fair Mahjong Anywhere Tiles… and honestly? I’m a little obsessed.



Why I Chose a Travel Mahjong Set

My goal was simple:

  • Something lightweight and compact
  • Easy to bring on trips (or even toss in a tote)
  • Still cute and aesthetic (because obviously that matters)

I’m also hoping to find some fellow Mahj players while traveling—but even if not, I fully plan to enjoy a little solo mahjong (solomahj!) moment wherever I go.

What Comes in the My Fair Mahjong Anywhere Set

I went with the Pink Mini Anywhere Series, and here’s exactly what you get:

  • 160 mini Mahjong tiles
  • 4 mini wooden racks
  • 2 dice
  • Tile grab bag
  • My Fair Mahjong Carry-All bag
  • Zipper tassel
  • (Optional add-on) mini mat (highly recommend!)

Everything fits neatly into the included carry bag, making it one of the most travel-friendly Mahjong sets I’ve found.






How Small (and Lightweight!) Are These Tiles?

Let’s talk size—because this is where the magic happens.

  • Mini Anywhere Tiles: 0.8” x 0.5” x 0.4”
  • My Standard Tiles (Purple Confetti): 1.25” x 0.9” x 0.7”

And the weight difference?

  • My regular tiles alone: ~10 pounds
  • Full Mini Anywhere set (tiles + racks + mat): under 2.5 pounds

That’s a massive difference—and exactly what makes this the best mahjong travel set I’ve personally used.




Are Mini Mahjong Tiles Still Easy to Read?

This was my biggest concern—and I was pleasantly surprised.

Even though the tiles are small, the design and markings are super clear and readable. I tested them out with a game of solo mahjong right after they arrived, and had zero issues.

They’re perfect for:

  • Travel
  • Coffee shop Mahjong dates ☕
  • Small-space play
  • Casual games with friends

Color Options + Where to Buy

The Anywhere Tiles currently come in:

  • Pink (what I chose 💗)
  • Green
  • White (often backordered on the main site)

You can find them:

👉 If you’re planning to buy, I recommend checking both—availability changes quickly!

Final Verdict: Are These Worth It?

If you love Mahjong and want a portable, lightweight, and actually cute travel set, this is 100% worth adding to your collection.

For me, it solved a real problem—how to bring Mahjong along without sacrificing half my suitcase.

And now I’m already planning where Walt, Lilly, and I are taking Mahjong next 🐾

More American Mahjong Guides: Visit my American Mahjong Guides page for beginner tips, house rules, tile-set reviews, accessories, and travel advice.



As an Amazon Affiliate I may earn commission should you choose to purchase at no cost to you.

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Location: Arlington, TX, USA

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