I recently started my 2024 journal and I had to consider which notebook to get. My first journal dates back to 2005, and it was a basic A6 hardcover notebook with lined pages. Nothing fancy, but it was enough to kickstart a lifelong journaling habit in me.
If you’re still on the hunt for the perfect notebook for daily journaling, this guide is meant for you!
I’ve looked through many reviews and using that and my own experience, I’ve listed tips and recommendations for picking the best notebooks for journaling.
How to Pick a Notebook for Journaling
The sooner you pick a notebook for your new journal, the quicker you’ll start writing. There are many amazing journals out there, but it’s not uncommon to get stuck in choice paralysis while picking your favorite. I mean, selecting the ideal notebook for your new journal is kind of a big deal, right?
Before you make your choice, you should consider what characteristics your perfect journaling notebook should have. Here are all the factors to take into account while choosing the best journal for your needs:
Paper quality
This is probably the most important trait you’ll need to pay attention to. Depending on the writing tools you’ll use, you’ll want paper that feels good to write on and most importantly, doesn’t bleed. What color paper do you like, white, ivory, or maybe you’re more experimental and like craft paper.
You should also consider the paper layout of your choice. I’ve been loyal to lined notebooks since forever, but I’m spicing it up with a dotted notebook for 2024.
Notebook size
Do you understand what A4, B6, etc. mean? If you’re new to journaling, these letter-number combos might be confusing to you. For instance, the most frequently used notebook size is A4 (297mm x 210mm), followed by the A5 size (210mm x 148.5mm), which is equivalent to half of the dimensions of an A4 piece of paper.
If you keep forgetting which means what, ’ve made this helpful chart of all the common paper sizes in centimeters and inches:
Notebook cover
There are basically only two choices here: hardcover or soft cover notebook. It’s entirely up to your personal preference which one you want to use. There are benefits and downsides to both. The best notebook for journal writing should be comfortable to you, easy to carry, and store. For instance, a hardcover notebook will have more longevity, but would be heavier and more inconvenient to carry around as opposed to a softcover journal.
Notebook binding
Notebook binding types dictate the aesthetics and functionality of your journal. Again, it’s down to personal preference which binding method you prefer. Some methods are more long-lasting than others, while other binding types make it easier to discard unwanted pages without damaging the rest of the book.
Some popular note book binding types are hardbound binding, case binding, and soft binding. For the most part, you’ll make a choice between a sewn on, glued pages, or spiral spine.
The Best Journals for 2024 and beyond
I figure that by now you’ve made up your mind about how you want your ideal journal to look like. It’s also essential to set your goals for this book: do you need a notebook for work, are you looking for the best notebooks for college, or do you simply need a space to brainstorm daily?
I’ve looked at various online sources and the following list includes the most popular planners for the daily writer, the organizer, and the common note-taker:
PAPERAGE Lined Journal Notebook
Best journal notebook for: daily journaling, note-taking, planning, doodling
This best-selling notebook journal measures 5.7″ x 8″ and has a durable vegan leather cover that is water-resistant. With premium 100 gsm acid-free paper in light ivory color, the Paperage journal provides a thicker and higher quality writing surface compared to average notebooks.
Designed with 160 college-ruled lined pages, an inner expandable pocket, sticker labels, ribbon bookmark, and an elastic closure band for added functionality. What’s cool about the lay flat design is that it caters to both right and left-handed users.
My favorite part is that you can personalize your journal cover and spine with the provided sheet of sticker labels, adding a unique touch to your journaling experience.
Leuchtturm1917 Slim B6+ Paperback Notebook
Best for: daily planning and organization, bullet journaling, travel journaling, note-taking, commonplace book.
This is the journal notebook I’m currently using! I fell in love with the gorgeous pastel cover and I’ve already used other Leuchtturm1917 products before so I know the quality of their products is excellent.
The Leuchtturm1917 Slim B6+ Notebook is a versatile choice that comes in various paper layouts (lined, dotted, plain) and an array of cover colors (I’m using sage green because it matches my room aesthetic.) There are softcover and hardcover variants. These notebooks boast 219 numbered pages with 80 g/m² paper—the perfect canvas for your thoughts.
The notebook includes 8 perforated and detachable sheets, a back cover pocket, a blank table of contents, and numbered pages for organized note-taking. With a page marker, 2 elastic enclosure bands, and a thread-bound design that opens flat, these notebooks provide both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The ink-proof paper ensures a smooth writing experience, complemented by a sticker for labeling and archiving. With dimensions of 125 x 190 mm, the Leuchtturm1917 Slim B6+ Notebook combines elegance with practicality, making it an excellent companion for diverse writing preferences and styles.
Moleskine Classic Notebook
Best for: the timeless classic of journaling notebooks, sketching, illustration, personal journal.
I remember the Moleskine Classic Notebook as the staple journal on popular Tumblr blogs back in the day. It’s ideal for daily diaries, college classes, or meetings. Moleskine notebooks are renowned for their slim design, making them a favorite among travelers and bullet journaling fans.
The durable leather-like cover, elastic closure band, and inner storage folders ensure a secure repository for your journal logs. With thick, ivory paper pages, these notebooks are fountain pen-friendly, making them excellent for long-term scribbling.
Available in various colors and either hardcover or softcover, the Moleskine notebook makes for exquisite gifts for yourself or others who keep a journal.
Rhodia No. 19 Yellow Pad
Best lined notebooks for journaling, taking notes, school journaling, sketching, work notebook, recipe journal.
The Rhodia Legal Pad provides a superior writing experience with its high quality fountain pen-friendly paper. With 80 sheets of super smooth, acid-free, pH neutral yellow paper, it stands out as a reliable companion for all your note-taking needs.
This A4+ size (21cm x 31.8cm) pad features micro-perforation at the top for effortless and neat sheet removal. This makes it easy to discard pages that you no longer want in your journal. The cover folds over neatly, and the stiff back cover ensures easy writing or sketching. Crafted in France, the Rhodia Legal Pad combines functionality with elegance, making it an excellent choice for fountain pen enthusiasts and meticulous note-takers alike.
Hobonichi Techo 2024 English Cousin Book
Best for: a versatile A5 daily planner, commonplace book, reading journal
I’ve been seeing the Hobonichi Cousin all over the place these last few years and it’s definitely becoming a staple for anyone who enjoys writing in a journal.
This beautiful Japanese journal is ideal for daily planning, memo-taking, and creative use, it suits both work and family needs. The graph paper ensures optimal writing comfort, and each month is color-coded. Featuring a thread-stitch binding for easy flat lay, it uses thin and durable Tomoe River S paper.
The 2024 edition improves resistance to bleed through and offers a smoother writing surface. Alongside daily pages, it includes sections for schedule management and bonus pages. Compatible with various A5 covers, the Hobonichi Cousin is a versatile and customizable companion and I’ll definitely order this one for myself in the future!
Leuchtturm1917 Bullet Journal Edition 2.0
Best for: one of the best notebooks for bullet journaling
As you can tell by the name, the Leuchtturm1917 Bullet Journal Edition 2.0 is specifically designed for the bujo method. This journal notebook is your key to an organized and productive life.
In the popular A5 format, this hardcover beauty boasts 206 numbered pages with a dotted grid layout, offering the perfect canvas for your thoughts and plans. The 120 g/sqm paper is extra smooth, ensuring a premium writing experience without any pesky bleed-through.
Inside you’ll find a handy grid guide for added precision. Plus, you can add a creative flair with the included set of stickers featuring days of the week and months. Available in Black, Blush, and Blue colors, each with a blind embossing of “Bullet Journal,” this edition is your ticket to organized elegance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right notebook can significantly impact your journaling experience. Whether you prefer lined, dotted, or blank pages, the key is to find a notebook journal that resonates with your style and enhances your creativity. The best notebooks for journaling listed above are just a glimpse into the diverse options available online or at your local supplier. Experiment with different styles, consider your individual needs, and start keeping a journal that is both fulfilling and enjoyable. Happy journaling!
FAQ
Are there any recommendations for the best notebooks for journaling on Reddit?
Absolutely! Many Redditors share their experiences and recommendations on the best notebooks for journaling. Check out r/journaling and other relevant communities to get insights from others who keep a journal.
What are the best notebooks suitable for both journaling and school?
The ideal notebooks for combining journaling and school notes should offer durability, ample space, and useful features such as a built-in pocket. Look for options with sturdy covers and versatile layouts. Some of the best notebooks for journaling and school are the Kokuyo campus notebooks, Leuchtturm1917 hardcover notebooks, and the Paperage hardcover lined journal notebook.
Which are the best notebooks for journaling and drawing?
You can certainly combine both journaling and drawing in the same notebook. For those who love combining writing with artistic expression, notebooks with thicker pages and a variety of layouts are great choices. Consider options such as Moleskine Art Sketchbook and the Leuchtturm1917 Sketchbook Square.
What are the best notebooks for journaling designed specifically for women?
Women-focused notebooks often feature elegant designs, personalized touches, and thoughtful details. Brands catering to women’s preferences offer a unique and enjoyable journaling experience. Excellent choices of journals for women would be The Five Minute Journal, Mantra Planner Gratitude Journal For Women, or The 6-minute diary.
Can you use spiral notebooks for journaling?
Yes, spiral notebooks can be excellent for journaling, offering flexibility and easy page-turning. You can remove pages without ruining the overall design or integrity of your notebook. Consider those with sturdy spirals and high-quality paper for an optimal journaling experience.
Can you bullet journal with a lined notebook?
While traditional bullet journals use dot grids, many people successfully use lined notebooks for bullet journaling. It’s all about personal preference and adapting the system to fit your style.