Admittedly, I’m a bit of a paper and pen snob. I like smooth writing surfaces with thick, luxurious paper. I like looking back and decoding my handwriting of the past to connect with myself and my journey.
I also love a good pen. We’ll leave writing utensils for another time.
The goal of today’s post is to help you connect deeply with your travel experiences by encouraging you to take up travel journaling. Although I’m a big fan of journaling for many reasons, maintaining a travel journal can be an essential link between the lovely experience you have having (or about to have) and your life as normal post-trip.
Please note, this post includes affiliate links. If you purchase any of these items, you get a lovely product and I get a small commission for connecting you.
Best Lined Journals
It’s hard to beat an old-fashioned lined notebook for travel journaling. It’s my daily go-to and what I always take with me when traveling. Here are some of my beloved journal options.
Pukka Pad Composition Notebooks
I buy these notebooks in packs of 12 and I think I’m on my 3rd pack. I use them daily – for work, home, brainstorming, writing, and of course, travel journaling.
The come in a variety of styles, feature thick and smooooth paper that has little bleed through (I always use both sides of the page). Get these! I’m ordering more right now.
Details: 9.75″ x 7.5″; 140 pages; $15, 3-pack, Amazon
Dynta Hardcover Journal Notebooks
If you don’t take me up on the Pukka Pad notebooks, a good hardcover alternative comes from Dynta. These also offer thick, smooth paper, a range of color options, and affordable pricing.
These feature a rubber band close and a more compact size to easily slip into any traveling bag.
Details: 8.4″ x 5.8″; 200 pages; $37, 10-pack, Amazon
Best Prompted Journals
Sometimes the hardest part of getting started with journaling is figuring out what to write. Prompted journals can be a great way to both get you going, but also, to keep your journaling somewhat consistent over time. Here are a couple of my favorites.
Moleskine Passion Journal
It’s hard to go wrong with a Moleskine journal. This travel version includes a dustcover to protect your journal into the future and I am in love with the olive green color.
Pages feature planning pages, reflection prompts, and a lot of open-space for you to use as you please.
Details: 5″ x 8.25″; 400 pages; $35, Amazon
Nook Theory Personalized Travel Journal
With a bit of a different flavor from Moleskine, Nook offers a luxury travel journal option with a linen hardcover with a photo slot. Available in multiple colors (unless you love olive, you can get it here too!) this journal can accommodate reflection on 12 trips via guided prompts.
Share your favorite memories and activities alongside your favorite photos in this journal.
Details: 9.25″ x 8.1″, 114 pages; $26, Amazon
DUNCAN & STONE PAPER CO. Travel Journal
With an upscale feel, this travel journal is similar to the one offered by Nook, but includes more detailed prompts. If you want to document your actual day-to-day more closely, I like these prompts better. The suggestions encourage you to not only record but reflect on your trip and what you experienced.
If you want more freedom of expression, this journal might not be the best fit for you. I might recommend some of the non-prompted options below instead.
Details: 9.25” x 7.75”; 110 pages; $26, Amazon
Whatever your style, I hope these journal recommendations encourage you to grab a book and a pen and keep a personalized record of your travels. After making such a significant time and financial investment to go in the first place, be sure your memories translate back to your daily life when you return.
Cheers,
Andrea
