The Best Travel Journals for Your Holidays 2024

I’m super excited to reveal my picks for the top travel diaries that’ll make every second of your adventure memorable!

Our #1 Best Travel Journals

Travel Journal Notebook

Pros:

✅The integrated pockets are perfect for storing keepsakes and tickets.

✅Its compact size fits neatly in any travel bag without taking up too much space.

✅The premium faux leather cover feels durable and gives a touch of luxury.

Cons:

❌The sticker section, while plentiful, can feel a bit overwhelming to use optimally.

❌Due to its specialization, it might not be as versatile as some more general organizers.

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Its rose gold cover isn’t just chic; it’s sturdy and survived being hastily shoved into my backpack more times than I can count.

The journal’s elastic band kept everything secure as I roamed, so I didn’t have to frantically search for that elusive page I needed.

Three ribbon bookmarks proved invaluable. They allowed me to mark the sections I accessed most frequently—my itinerary, expenses, and the day’s highlights.

Still, I’ll admit, I occasionally wished for a bit more writing space, especially on days packed with adventure.

Admittedly, I was initially skeptical about the sticker collection — but they turned out to be a delightful way to add personality to my entries, even if I didn’t use them all.

Best Travel Journals

Whether you’re a casual scribbler or a dedicated diarist, my roundup includes various options to match your travel style.

Get ready to document your adventures with the perfect companion by your side!

1. Travel Journal to Record Trips

Travel Journal to Record Trips

Pros:

✅Thoughtful prompts spark rich storytelling

✅High-quality linen cover feels luxurious and durable

✅Flat lay spine design allows easy writing and photo pasting

Cons:

❌Size may be bulkier than ideal for light packers

❌Limited to tracking 15 trips, which may not suffice for frequent travelers

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I can’t recommend this journal enough for anyone who cherishes documenting their travels with a touch of elegance and organization.

The linen cover exuded sophistication, and I felt a sense of pride jotting down my experiences each evening.

The journal opened completely flat, making it super comfortable to write in, even when perched on my less-than-stable hotel desk. Plus, the space for photos helped me visualize the trip even better as I reflected on my adventures.

I especially enjoyed the guided sections of the journal. They nudged me to recount details I might otherwise overlook, like the flavor of street food I tried or the sound of the bustling markets.

The bucket list page excited me even before my trip started, and the thoughtful “Favorite Things” pages let me summarize the highlights.

Also, I travel quite often, and the 15-trip limitation means I’ll fill it up quickly.

Lastly, the price is a consideration—it’s a premium choice compared to other journals, but for the quality and features, I found it to be a worthwhile investment.

2. Travel Journal Diary

Travel Journal Diary

Pros:

✅Vegan leather cover exudes a chic, classic vibe

✅Ideally sized for slipping into your day bag

✅Pages open flat for effortless, edge-to-edge writing

Cons:

❌Some might prefer a larger page count for extended trips

❌Vegan leather may not appeal to all aesthetes

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If you’re passionate about preserving your travel memories, this journal is an exquisite companion for your adventures.

Recalling the feel of the Journal’s vegan leather in my hands often brings back the rush of stepping into new cities.

Its rich cover doesn’t just look sophisticated; it safeguards my memories elegantly.

The journal’s dimensions mean it easily fits into my bag, ensuring it’s always on hand when a moment worth noting strikes.

I’ve found the flat-laying pages invaluable. Writing near the spine can be a hassle with other journals, but not with this beauty.

3. Travel Journal with Prompts

Travel Journal with Prompts

Pros:

✅Its lay-flat design ensures comfort while chronicling adventures

✅The paper quality is top-notch, handling ink without any bleed-through

✅An inbuilt pocket keeps keepsakes safe, turning the journal into a time capsule

Cons:

❌Linen cover, though stylish, may require extra care to prevent wear

❌Specific prompts may not suit everyone's journaling style

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I think every traveler should grab this journal—it’s like having a personal travel guide bound in linen.

The paper felt luxurious beneath my pen, and I did not see ink seeping through to the other side—no matter how many times I recounted the taste of local delicacies or the details of spontaneous encounters.

The prompts guided me through documenting each trip without feeling overwhelmed. From noting down my bucket list before departure to adding photos and memorabilia after, this journal was my organized companion.

Each time I flipped to the inner pocket stuffed with tickets and postcards, I relived wonderful moments.

Although meant for 12 adventures, rooms and street names started to live permanently within its pages.

4. Adventure Writing Journal | A5

Adventure Writing Journal | A5

Pros:

✅Durable, vegan leather cover and secure magnetic buckle

✅Refillable A5 paper is perfect for long-term use

✅Pages lay flat for effortless writing

Cons:

The pen loop could be tighter to secure different pen sizes

Light yellow paper might not be everyone's preference

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This journal immediately became my constant travel companion for its inspiring design and practical features.

I was initially drawn to this journal’s nautical theme, which sparked a surge of excitement for my upcoming travels.

It fits comfortably into my bag, and the tough, faux leather cover withstands the rough and tumble of day-to-day adventures. The compass engraving is a nice touch, reminding me every day is a journey.

Holding the journal, the soft touch of the cover is noticeable. The magnetic buckle clicks satisfyingly shut, protecting my musings from prying eyes.

The pen that comes with it glides smoothly across the thick, ink-proof pages. I never worry about my writing bleeding through, which is a testament to the paper’s quality.

After filling it with memories, I appreciated the refillable aspect of this journal.

Switching in a fresh set of pages is a breeze, indicating that this isn’t just a one-time-use notebook—it’s a sustainable choice.

The ribbon bookmark is invaluable, saving me time when I’m quickly jotting down fleeting thoughts.

5. Travel Journal Hardcover

Travel Journal Hardcover

Pros:

✅Magnetic closure keeps it snug and secure

✅Pocket-sized for convenience

✅Inner pocket for storing treasured keepsakes

Cons:

❌Limited to 144 pages for those extended trips

❌Some may prefer unlined pages for more freedom

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Its hardcover resisted wear and tear splendidly, taking on everything from crowded markets to serene beach days without a scratch.

Thanks to its magnet closure, I never fretted over loose pages or a flapping cover.

The journal fits perfectly in my day bag, making it a breeze to jot down notes whenever inspiration strikes.

Each evening, as I recounted the day’s escapades, the journal’s paper quality—a soft hue that’s easy on the eyes—allowed me to write comfortably for hours.

The little pocket inside was a gem, safely keeping train tickets and postcards that would later spring life to my tales.

Although the 144-page limit pushed me to summarize my experiences more concisely, avid writers might hit the last page sooner than expected.

Also, while I found the lined pages helpful for neat writing, others who prefer sketching or less structure in their entries might find it restrictive.

6. Travel Photo Journal Notebook

Travel Photo Journal Notebook

Pros:

✅The linen cover exudes elegance and withstands the rigors of travel.

✅Its lay-flat design means writing is a breeze, even on the go.

✅The journal prompts are a creative guide to documenting memories.

Cons:

❌Limited to 15 trips, which might not suffice for frequent travelers

❌The fixed structure may restrict those who prefer free journaling

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Upon holding the Journal, the first thing I noticed was its natural linen cover, which gave it a timeless look. Its strong build signaled that it could endure being tucked in my bag through multiple airports and hostels.

I admired the gold embossed title that added a hint of luxury to my travel gear.

The prompts and structured pages coaxed out memories I might have overlooked, ensuring I captured all aspects of my trips.

One of my favorite features was the bucket list section, where I got to jot down all the experiences I’d dreamed about.

Sure, it’s designed for 15 trips, but that limitation made me focus on the adventures that mattered most.

7. Guided Travel Journal with Prompts

Guided Travel Journal with Prompts

Pros:

✅Spacious and reflective spaces for personal musings

✅Intriguing prompts that elevate the travel experience

✅Chic design with a practical ribbon marker

Cons:

❌Cover can be prone to stains and marks, detracting from its look

❌The specialized focus might not suit those who prefer unguided journaling

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The guided prompts invited me to observe and reflect on details I often overlook. It turns out the richest memories can come from not just the sights but the insights gained along the way.

The feel of the journal in my hands as I jotted down thoughts was delightful.

The soft cover is elegantly designed, with foil stamping that catches the light beautifully. However, while its aesthetic is certainly appealing, I found that it got a bit scuffed inside my daypack. It’s not major, but it’s something to consider if you like things to stay pristine.

Now, given the journal’s structure with its predetermined prompts, it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. If your style is more freeform, the guided aspect might be too restrictive.

Still, as someone who’s often unsure of what to write, I found the journal encouraged me to think outside the box and record meaningful moments I’d otherwise forget.

8. Guided Notebook for Travelers

Guided Notebook for Travelers

Pros:

✅Seamless blend of planning and reflection sections

✅Durable hardcover with a stylish linen finish

✅Handy rear pocket for storing keepsakes from your travels

Cons:

❌Might be too structured for those who prefer freeform journaling

❌Linen cover can be susceptible to wear if frequently used in rough travel conditions

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If you’re a travel enthusiast like me, this journal is a game-changer for documenting your adventures with a personal touch and convenient prompts.

The built-in planner section was a lifesaver. I effortlessly mapped out my days, ticking off “must-sees” while leaving room for spontaneous discoveries. With everything from an itinerary to a packing list, it kept me organized and focused on the joy of exploration, not the stress of planning.

Post-trip, the Memory Keeper Pocket came into its own.

It’s a tactile treasure trove stuffed with ticket stubs, a pressed flower, and a few sandy remnants of a beach day.

9. Basics Journal | 2-Pack

Basics Journal | 2-Pack

Pros:

✅The paper quality stands up to different pens without bleed-through

✅Robust binding contributes to durability

✅You get two journals, adding value for your money

Cons:

❌The size might be smaller than expected for those used to larger journals

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The paper took to my fountain pen beautifully, with no feathering or bleed-through, a common issue with less sturdy pages.

Handy to toss into my daypack, their size is just right for on-the-go musings or sketches.

I appreciate the tactile pleasure of their covers—the shagreen finish feels more luxe than the price suggests.

The duo pack provided me with a welcome surprise—two distinct colors. These are perfect for separating different types of entries: one for daily reflections and the other for sketching the varied landscapes I encountered.

While momentary confusion struck when determining which end was which, it’s a small obstacle to enjoying these notebooks’ overall quality and feel.

10. Lined Journal Notebooks | 8 Pack

Lined Journal Notebooks | 8 Pack

Pros:

✅The leather cover feels luxurious and protects the pages well.

✅The elastic pen loop and closure band add convenience and security.

✅Varying colors make organization fun and personalized.

Cons:

❌It might be smaller than expected for some.

❌The elastic band could stretch out over time with heavy use.

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The leatherette cover endured being tossed in and out of my bag and faced some unexpected drizzles.

Writing was a breeze, thanks to the notebook’s ability to lay flat, and I found the elastic pen loop incredibly convenient for keeping my favorite pen handy.

Perhaps my favorite aspect was the joy of choosing a different color for each destination—my notes from Rome in red and Paris in purple were so vivid and memorable.

11. Lined Leather Notebook

Lined Leather Notebook

Pros:

✅The suede-like soft cover feels luxurious to the touch, yet the hard cover offers durability.

✅Pages are thick and ink-proof, making writing with various pens a breeze.

✅The expandable pocket is a nice touch for keeping extra notes and small items.

Cons:

❌The pen that comes with it may not impress everyone.

❌Might not be rugged enough for environments like construction sites.

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This journal blends quality with style, making it a must-have for anyone who values a good writing experience while traveling.

There’s a certain pleasure in scribbling down my travel memories in this journal. Its creamy, thick pages are a delight to write on, and there is no bleed-through, even with my trusty fountain pen.

The faux leather cover is tactile and sturdy, protecting the pages within while looking refined enough for any meeting or interview.

It’s a charming mix of practicality and professionalism.

The expandable pocket has been a lifesaver more times than I can count. Slipping in receipts, tickets, or even my smartphone has never been more convenient – this feature alone makes the journal an indispensable ally for the organized traveler.


If you liked this blog post about the Best Travel Journals, please leave us a comment below to tell us about your experience with them.

Michael Schubert
Michael Schubert
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