travel journals with prompts

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Get Inspired With These 50 Travel Journal Prompts

Travel Journal Writing Prompts

Struggling with ideas for your Travel Diary? Try these travel journal prompts to get you inspired and create amazing memories from your adventures and destinations!

There are so many reasons you should try writing a travel journal for your next vacation. Keeping a travel journal is a fantastic way to prepare for a trip, help you stay organized during a holiday and to keep those amazing travel memories alive long after your adventure has finished. 

Trying to come up with ideas on what to write about can be hard work though…especially if you are tired after a day of sightseeing! It can also be hard to know where to start as you have often seen and done so much in a day of travel !

Create a travel journal you are going to treasure for many years to come with the travel prompts below. They will help you capture all the sights, feelings and experiences you have that make your trip worth remembering.  

Table of Contents

Travel Journal Prompts

So, what do you write in a travel journal?

It’s normal to feel a little stuck with writing. Usually just starting is the hardest part and once you begin writing you will find the ideas flow easily.

Using journal prompts like the ones below is a great way to get stop the writing block. 

If you use your travel diary to help plan your adventure then it’s a great idea to get into the habit of journaling before you leave. 

Travel Prompts For Before The Trip

• What are your expectations of this destination or experience?
• What is on your destination bucket list? And why do you want to see or experience these things? 
• What part of this trip have you enjoyed planning for the most?
• Have there been any pre-trip disasters? 
• Why did you choose this adventure or destination?
• Are you worried about anything?
• What advice have you read or been given about your destination?
• What are you most excited about? ( it could be food to try or a tour you have booked).
• What has been your favorite vacation/adventure ever? 
• What  souvenir do you want to bring home?
• What do you want to learn on this adventure?
• How have you saved up for this trip?
• What are some interesting facts you have researched about your destination?

To really make the most of travel journaling it is a good idea to create a habit. Maybe get up half an hour early to write about your day before, or make sure you leave some time at the end of the day to journal. Try to journal every day as it is amazing how quickly you can forget all those small details.  Try the below journal prompts to inspire you while you are traveling. 

Journal Prompts While Traveling

• What was the first thing you noticed/felt when you reached your destination
• What was the most amazing thing you did today?
• What was the worst thing that happened today?
• Did you try something new?
• What made you smile, laugh, cry?
• What did you eat?
• What people did you meet today?
• Did something go wrong today? ( Travel disasters can sometimes end up as funny stories later on)
• What are clear things you remember feeling, seeing, touching, smelling or hearing? Evoking senses is a fantastic way to bring back memories when you reread your travel journal.
• What are you missing about home?
• What cultural experiences have you had today?
• How did you feel waking up in a new place?
• Describe the place you are in detail ( add smells, tastes, sounds, and feelings as well as what you see)
• Write down some interesting facts or history about your destination
• What makes this place similar or very different from where you are from?
• Did something put you outside of your comfort zone? Why? How did you feel?
• What is happening in the news at your destination? Are you seeing/feeling/being affected by this while you travel?
• How did an experience, person or site make you feel today?
• What music are you listening too?
• What books/magazines are you reading?
• Did you learn any new words or phrases today? How did you learn them? Where did you use them?

Writing in your travel journal at the end of your adventure is the perfect way to reflect. You could journal on the flight home, or wait until you are already home and unpacking to see what your lasting memories and emotions are about a vacation. Below are some holiday journal prompts to help. 

Post Vacation Writing Prompts

• Would you visit again? Or change something in your itinerary if you could go back?
• Did you learn anything?
• How would you describe what you did and saw to a friend or someone that was thinking of traveling to the same destination?
• What was your favorite…. ( could add food, tour, place to visit, experience, person you met.)
• Recall something funny that happened on your trip.
• What were the highlights of your adventure?
• What were some low points of your trip?
• How did your trip differ/live up to your expectations?
• Did your adventure change you or help you grow in any way?
• Where do you want to go next? Why?
• What  souvenir did you bring home?
• What item did you wish you had packed? Or things you realized you didn’t need to pack!
• What is one thing you didn’t get to do but wish you had?
• What is one thing you did do but wish you hadn’t?
• Is there a new food, or tradition from the trip that you are going to bring into your everyday life?
• How did you feel coming home from your adventure?

Want these as a printable to take with you on your adventure? Download your FREE travel Journal Prompts HERE

Travel Journal With Prompts

Want to make it even easier? Why not buy a travel diary that already has travel writing prompts?

Here are some travel journals with prompts we love!

Travel with Meraki – Remember, when you are wondering what to record in a travel journal to not just stick with the facts ( I went here, it was hot today). Add lots of descriptions using all your senses! As well as what you saw, you want to remember the smells, textures, and sounds of a destination. Be sure to also write how all these things made you FEEL !

Travel Quotes To Use In Your Travel Journal

Quotes About Journeys

Vacation Quotes For Families

The Best Travel Quotes

PIN FOR LATER!

Holiday Journal Prompts

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31 Travel Journal Prompts + Creative Travel Journal Ideas

Looking for travel journal prompts and creative travel journal ideas ?

Then you’re in the right place! 

Especially right now as travel is limited and people are searching for ways to travel at home, such as through relaxing staycations , keeping a travel journal can be a great way to relive your favorite trip memories. 

Moreover, it can keep travel alive, allow you to explore the world from home, and help you stay curious. 

Keep reading for a list of fun journal writing prompts related to travel as well as tips for creating something tangible that truly helps you feel inspired. 

Table of Contents

Downloadable Travel Journal PDF

Before we dive into the post, though, I want to offer you the chance to grab my free printable travel journal . 

The trip journal includes 56 prompts in total. 

This inspiring printable and fillable journal is great for exercising your creativity while traveling from home as you remember your favorite trips. 

Grab it, and then feel free to message me on Instagram ( @jessieonajourney ) to let me know which travel journal writing prompts were your favorite and why.

I plan to update the journal in the future — and you’ll get any revisions I make — so your feedback is appreciated!

What Is A Travel Journal?

A travel journal is a place where you can document your trip memories, whether you’re spending 7 days in Cancun , going on a solo USA road trip , off completing the world’s best hiking trails , or something else.

These can be paper or digital, bound or looseleaf, thin or thick. And— when it comes to how to write in a travel journal — it can include just text or a variety of mediums.

The point is, it offers a way to record what happens to you on the road — though you’re welcome to take your entries and give them a fictional twist for fun! 

Choosing Your Travel Journal

I may be a little biased, but if you’re looking for the best travel journal with prompts, I recommend grabbing my free printable journal here . 

Because I made it fillable, you can also use it as a travel journal online!

Additionally, there are loads of inspiring options online if you’d prefer to purchase one. A quick note that the below journal links are affiliate links. 

On Amazon, I love this vegan leather option as well as this mindful travel journal .

Additionally, I’m a huge fan of the travel journals at Modcloth. Click here and search “journals” to view their latest collection.

Creative Travel Journal Ideas

Wondering how to be creative in your journal?

First of all, remember that a journal doesn’t just have to be writing. Use markers, paints, stickers, glitter, and even momentos from your travels to really bring the text to life. 

Of course, don’t forget about travel-themed accents, too, like stamps, tickets, postcards, and maps — you can even cut out sections of a map to showcase your favorite destinations. 

If you’re artistic, you might also consider bullet journaling and other techniques to make your journal more visual. 

In terms of keeping your travel writing fresh, having details to pull from can be a huge help.

When possible, try to experience a place with all five senses so you have more to draw from later. I personally like to take notes right after any experience I think I may write about later. 

Keep in mind, being fully present in this way is also just an overall healthy practice. 

If you’re having trouble remembering details, try to sit in silence and do a visualization. Personally, when I do this exercise I aim to not only see myself in a place, but to put myself back in the place so that I am seeing the scene through my own eyes. 

Feeling writer’s block?

Sometimes all that it takes is a change of scenery to get inspired again. Try going for a walk or trying a new cafe to see if that helps.

If not, put the journal away, give yourself some mental space, and pick it back up tomorrow. 

And if you’re proud of what you’ve written, feel free to post it on social media, share it in an email with friends or, of course, keep it to yourself. 

How To Keep A Travel Journal: Quick Tips 

As an avid journaler myself, these are some of my personal tips for having fun, feeling creative, and staying inspired while writing.

As with travel tips and trip styles, everyone has their own process when it comes to journaling, and something that works for me may not work for you. Feel free to try out this advice, keep what works, and let go of what doesn’t.

Overall, the goal is that you get something beneficial out of these pages.

Tip #1: Journal when you feel most creative.

For instance, you might choose some mindful ways to start your day and have completing daily journal prompts be one of your morning rituals. 

However, if you find you feel more creative in the afternoon or evening, plan your writing for then.

Tip #2: Don’t edit as you write.

Allow your first draft to be all about getting your ideas and thoughts down onto the paper and getting into a creative flow state.

You can always tweak things later.

Tip #3: Remember the power of lists.

This is one of my favorite trip journal ideas!

Writing in lists can be helpful when you’re:

• having trouble getting started
• wondering what things to put in a travel journal
• feeling like your sentences just aren’t flowing together

This way, you can at least get your ideas down and edit them together in a cohesive manner later on.

Tip #4: Write stories.

While this isn’t mandatory, those who are curious how to write a travel journal that’s worth reading should consider writing your thoughts as stories instead of in a stream-of-conscious fashion. 

To write a story, make sure you have a beginning, middle, and end. Actually, if you really want to do it right, you should also consider character, plot, setting, and tension.

For a lesson in storytelling, make sure to check out this video on how to improve your creative storytelling skills for more engaging writing:

Tip #5: Go beyond text.

Wondering what to put in a travel journal?

Realize there is no right or wrong answer to this question!

Keep it text-based, or add paintings, drawings, stickers, momentos from your trip, and more. 

Personally, I’ve started writing out my journal entries and then drawing them to add some additional creativity and really bring the pages to life. 

The Best Travel Journal Apps

Prefer a digital journal option over paper? 

There is an app for that! 

I’ve talked about my favorite travel safety apps before, but here are a few of my favorite apps for keeping a travel journal:

Travel Diaries .  This free app allows you to create both public and private journals. The layouts are customizable, and you can easily add text, photos, and even maps. 

One really neat feature of this app:

You can turn your travel diary into a physical creation to be shipped to your home!

Day One Journal . This is another great travel journal app that makes it simple to record your memories using photos, videos, drawings, and even audio recordings. 

The “On This Day” feature allows you to go back in time to revisit your favorite trip moments, while automatic backups ensure your content never gets lost. 

Unique app feature:

You can handwrite in your journal using your finger or Apple Pencil. 

This travel app has both free and paid premium versions. 

Polarsteps . Dubbed “the personal travel log in your pocket,” Polarsteps is an app that helps you plan your trips as well as record them along the way in a visually-appealing manner.

In fact, this app puts an emphasis on adding experiences to maps and using video to document, so you can really bring your trips back to life later on. 

A feature I love:

You can turn your travel memories into a stunning hardcover book to keep!

Unique Travel Journal Examples

Looking for some travel journal inspiration?

Here are some mood boards with journal examples to help get your creative juices flowing.

These are also helpful if you’re wanting to learn how to make a travel journal.

By the way:

Check out the bottom right photo in the top collage if you’re looking for travel journal layout ideas.

Travel Writing Prompts – Quick Picker 

If you’re like me and often feel indecisive when choosing a prompt, I’ve got a fun little tool that can help:

The above video moves through the list of writing prompts quickly.

To use it as a quick picker, press play, turn your gaze down, and then stop the video at a random moment.

Then, voilà , you’ve got your travel writing prompt chosen for you! 

31 Travel Journal Prompts

Whether you’re physically traveling or at home dreaming of the road, use these travel prompts for your journal.

I love these prompts for when I’m feeling stuck and am searching for things to write in a travel journal:

1. Remember a time when you met people while traveling that felt like family. Describe your time with them in great detail.

2. Write a postcard to a friend from a place you’ve loved visiting.

3. Think about a problem that exists in travel. Now, invent a solution to the problem. Hey, could this journal help you come up with your next million-dollar idea?

4. If you could go on a trip with anyone, dead or alive, who would you go with? Where would you go and what would you do?

5. Share a time you were lost or that you lost something while traveling. 

6. How has travel changed or shaped you? Note: This is one of my favorite self-discovery journal prompts!

7. Start your travel story with the following: “It was a dark and stormy night…”

8. What is the first vacation memory that comes to mind? Come up with your memory in 10 seconds or less!

9. Think back to the most beautiful place you’ve ever been to. Now, describe it using all five senses.

10. Write about a multi-destination trip — from the perspective of your backpack.

11. What is a sticky situation you’ve gotten out of on the road? Hint: Allow this to also be a reminder of your strength!

12. What is a fear you’ve overcome while traveling? How?

13. Take your story from the previous prompt about overcoming a fear while traveling and rewrite it from the perspective of an onlooker.

14. What has been your craziest transportation experience?

15. Write a review of the best hotel you’ve ever stayed in.

16. Write a review of the worst hotel you’ve ever stayed in using humor.

17. Write a letter of gratitude to someone who showed you an act of kindness on the road .

18. Write about the last trip you took — from the perspective of yourself in the year 2600.

19. Write about a hike you loved doing using all five senses.

20. “Travel makes me feel _____.” Why?

21. Write about a trip you took last year from the perspective of your favorite book or movie character.

22. What is the biggest lesson that travel has taught you? Share a story that brings this to life.

23. Pretend that you were given an extra day on a trip you loved. What would that day have looked like?

24. Choose a trip you haven’t written about yet. Now choose a different time period, and write about the trip as if it happened in that time period.

25. In your opinion, what is the biggest misconception about travel?

26. Think back to an interesting conversation you’ve had while traveling and begin your story with that dialogue.

27. Transport yourself to a beautiful beach you’ve visited. Suddenly, a message in a bottle washes up onto the shore. What does it say? How do you react?

28. Here is a road trip journal idea! Write about a road trip you went on, but have someone else from the trip be the narrator. Hint: If you traveled solo, have the car or an onlooker be the narrator.

29. Think of a time you went on a trip that took you out of your comfort zone. Write the end of the story, then the middle, then the beginning.

30. What is one piece of advice you’ve been told by a local while traveling? Have you applied it to your life? Why/why not?

31. If you were to write a travel memoir, what would the first chapter look like?

Bonus: Pair Your Journal Prompts With Self-Care

In my opinion, the best way to enjoy time spent journaling is by pairing it with other self-care activities.

In the video above, I share my top 10 favorite self-care tips and rituals for travelers — though they can also be enjoyed at home!

My recommendation:

Make a day of it! Use the journal prompts and the self-care rituals to create your own DIY retreat .

Want more travel-themed prompts?

Don’t forget to grab my free downloadable Inspired Storyteller Travel Journal — featuring inspiring quotes, writing tips, and 56 fun prompts to help you recount your favorite trip memories and write creatively. 

Do you have any travel journal prompts to add?

What are your favorite creative travel journal ideas, related posts:.

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These prompts are just the inspiration I needed to capture my thoughts about travel. Not only do they tap into my travel memories, but they feed my creative spirit. Who says you have to actually go anywhere to be well-traveled? 😉

I have trouble keeping a journal, but have always want too – these are such good prompts ill have to give it another try!

Wow, what an incredible article! I’m so grateful to have come across this treasure trove of travel journal prompts and ideas. The suggestions provided here are truly inspiring and have sparked my wanderlust even more. From capturing the sensory details to reflecting on personal growth, these prompts cover every aspect of a fulfilling travel journal. The beautiful descriptions and practical tips have motivated me to start documenting my adventures with a renewed passion. Thank you for sharing such a valuable resource that will undoubtedly enhance my future travel experiences. Keep up the fantastic work!

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Artjournalist

101 Travel Journal Ideas: Page Examples, Inspiration & Prompts

Use these 101 travel journal ideas as prompts and inspiration to fill your travel journal no matter where your next adventure might be.

These 101 Travel Journal ideas will help you fill up a notebook of all sorts of adventures – whether it’s an exotic voyage or the everyday journey in life. 

And of course, please, please, please DO NOT feel like you have to do every single thing I put on this list – especially all in one journal. {That would be one awfully big, heavy book to lug around!} 

Whether you’re off to a grand exotic adventure, dreaming of places you want to go or maybe just enjoying a stay-cation and local points of interest, I hope you will find this post of travel journal ideas inspiring to document your next creative adventure.

101 Travel Journal Ideas: What to Put in a Traveler’s Notebook

1. start with a map.

Maps are always great in a journal. You can paste or tape them in or even make pockets and envelopes with them. Drawing maps can be a lot of fun also.

There are also a lot of ways to get maps:

• Google Maps: You could even print out a satellite/street view version or the directions.
• Maps Category on Wikimedia Commons : Lots of great free maps you can download and print out.
• Old Books & Atlases: If you have an old set of encyclopedias that’s way outdated and not of collector value, there are likely a lot of great maps to use in your journals. I love finding an old atlas at the thrift store or book sales.
• Marketing Maps: Many welcome centers, tourist agencies and travel rest stops have all sorts of maps available in marketing brochures. 

Staying local? Why not make a map of where you live? It could be your neighborhood, the backyard or even your kitchen. Doodles and sketches are perfectly 100% awesome here.

Another idea is to cut out shapes from old outdated maps you have. I sometimes buy old atlases and books with maps just for this purpose! These hearts shown below were cut out using a heart shaped punch similar to this one on Amazon .

I love scrapbook punches for so many different things in my art journals – you don’t even need that many of them and you can get perfect cut-outs anytime. These are great to make in advance before you travel somewhere – and you can get all sorts of different shapes! Circles, tags, you name it.

2. Can’t Decide Where to Go? Make a Mind Map

As creative people, making plans and staying organized is sometimes a challenge. I know when I go anywhere it sometimes feels overwhelming to keep track of all the details or even just decide what I want to do. Sometimes I don’t even know where I want to go or what I want to do. 

Mind Maps are great for easily mapping out ideas, dreams, plans, thoughts – especially if you’re not sure how to really organize them. You can draw them out on paper or even use mindmap software to create one you like and then print out and decorate.

Sometimes just making a mind map of an ordinary place can be fun – this mindmap of things to do in Ohio actually makes me excited to go there this summer. {Living next door in PA sometimes causes me to take all the neat things to explore in Ohio for granted.}

Even if you’re only going as far as your imagination, a mind map is a great way to explore all sorts of different ideas and concepts.

3. Packing List & Trip Prep

If you are using your travel journal as part planner, part journal, making a packing list and a to-do list before leaving is a great idea.

This is not only practical, as it will hopefully help you remember everything, but it can also help document some of the excitement and anticipation for the trip before you even arrive at your destination.

4. What’s In Your Bag?

While similar to a packing list, it can sometimes be fun to either snap a quick photo or sketch and doodle a picture of your suitcase and bags.

This can also be a fun way to document different day trips – it’s always interesting to see what sorts of things you consider essential to carry with you – especially if you find yourself looking back 5 – 10 years later. I am still in awe that fanny packs are coming back in style . 

5. Make a Bucket List

A bucket list is a list of all the things you want to do. Maybe this is a list for while you are at a specific location for a period of time – or this could even be a list of all the different places you want to visit during your lifetime.

Some of the examples of things you could create for a bucket list:

• Places you want to go
• Region Specific Foods you want to try
• Things you want to do
• People you hope to see 

6. Found Things: Collecting Ephemera & Other Treasures

Lately I’ve been keeping my eyes on the ground whenever we go places. I’ve found all sorts of very interesting things by keeping my eyes and my head open to finding stuff at random.

I’ve found old coins and pennies, tokens, dropped business cards – all sorts of interesting stuff. A lot of times people may think this stuff is just trash, but if it’s flat enough it can fit into a journal and a great way to document things you’ve encountered while out exploring the world. You never know what you might find on a sidewalk.

7. Save Those Receipts

Receipts are a great way to keep track of different things you do and need during your trip. Maybe you need a special airline approved travel bag you buy before the trip, or it’s the receipt for lunch at that adorable sea-side cafe you stumbled across.

Usually these sorts of things also have geographic information printed on them, so it can make even the national/international chains a little more interesting.

I always joke that doesn’t matter where we go or how well I plan I usually end up at a Wal-mart buying supplies we forgot – but hey, at least it’s fun to see your Wal-mart receipt has a different city and state printed on it. 

8. Attach an Envelope or Pocket for Collecting & Storing Supplies 

Speaking of ephemera and found things, another great idea for things to include in your journal is an envelope you can use as storage. The pocket for collage supplies is one of my favorite things about Dylusions Art Journals – so handy for holding stuff!

Since most of my journals are either 7×10″ or 6×9″,  I like to use the 6×9″ mailing envelopes and glue them or tape them into my notebooks and journals to use as a pocket for holding stuff. They are great for fitting all sorts of paper scraps and other things you might find on the trip!

If you are like me and realize what a deal it is to buy 100 clasp envelopes on Amazon , you can use the envelopes to make many, many more junk journals and art journals in the future! 

Beyond just envelopes, there are also a lot of other ways to display and store things inside of a journal, and one of the great things to use for this are the pocket page protectors often used in pocket scrapbooks.

If you are trying to keep things small and simple while traveling, Simple Stories is one brand with a wide variety of differently configured 6×8″ Pocket Page Protectors that can be a great way to hold and display items you might find in your adventures. Bonus : No glue stick needed. 

9. Keep a Record/Log of Daily Events

I know sometimes when I actually DO go on a real vacation, I don’t always have time to keep track of everything we do. One good way to get around this, without necessarily having to write a whole lot or spend the day drawing and gluing things in the book is to keep a very simple log each day. 

This doesn’t have to be elaborate. Keep it simple – use the actual date or the day of the week and challenge yourself to j ust write one word for each day . This will help you remember details of the trip long after it happens. 

• Monday – Beach
• Tuesday – Friends
• Wednesday – Museum

Keeping a log helps you remember things so that you can continue to fill the book up with memories and ephemera from the trip long after you return.

10. Method of Travel: Document Your Transportation

There are plenty of ways to get from one place to another. You can ride a bus, take a train, or fly up high in a fancy jet plane! 

Once you arrive at your destination, there can also be a lot of additional things to note about getting around town, especially if you are traveling somewhere that drives on opposite sides of the street or relies primarily on bicycles or scooters for transportation. 

All of these things make for great ideas for stuff to doodle, sketch, and write about!

11. Accommodations – Where Are You Sleeping?

Whether you’re staying in a hotel, airBNB, fancy resort or maybe your RV, there are plenty of things to document about where you are staying during the trip. 

Some ideas for ephemera might be brochures, print-outs of your reservation confirmation, map directions to the location. You can also always do a sketch of your room or view out the window. 

12. How’s the Weather?

Weather is one of those things that might be considered “small talk” but it’s also something I know can really influence what types of activities we do when we are on a trip.

We do a lot of camping – so if it’s warm and sunny, you’ll find us hiking, kayaking, and fishing. If it’s rainy, you might find us playing card games, visiting shops, or checking out area museums.

Sometimes bad weather can even make a trip more fun than expected – you might check out something new you ordinarily would have skipped, or maybe you will come home with a funny story of events.

You can record different weather events bullet journal style in your notebook or just draw different weather related symbols whenever you jot down any notes.

13. First Impressions – Any surprises?

Once you arrive at your destination, take a note of some of the things you notice right away or any different thoughts you might have about the trip there so far. This is especially a good idea if you are going somewhere completely new that is not like anything you have done before.

You might also want to take note of what expectations you had prior to leaving the trip – Is there anything that surprised you once you got there? Did you over estimate or under estimate what it might be like? Sometimes the anticipation before a trip can be much different than the actual reality once you get there!

14. Paint Backgrounds in Advance to Pack Less Art Supplies

Something I like to do in art journals when I’m traveling is to paint the pages before I go with acrylic paints I like to use. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate – maybe some simple stripes for writing on, or you can even use by block-by-block art journal technique to prep different page sections in advance.

This gives your pages a nice background and start for any type of journaling or doodles – and you don’t have the hassle of having to pack or carry around a whole lot of supplies. All you need from there is a couple of favorite pens and maybe a glue stick.

15. Try Watercolors for Compact & Portable Art Supplies

If you do want to paint while you are on your trip, a set of travel watercolors is a great option because they are generally very compact and easy to clean up and carry around – some pocket field sets could literally fit in your pocket and are smaller than most cell phones!

Watercolors are a great fun way to give your pages a little hint of color – and of course you can always use the opportunity to try out some new and different watercolor painting techniques !

16. Portrait Sketches

Meeting new people, or sometimes just seeing new people can be very inspiring to practice sketching different portrait drawing techniques. 

Portraits of new faces and people can be a great way to practice and hone in on your skills in drawing and painting faces – it can also serve as a springboard for additional art to make even when you return from the trip.

If the idea of sketching or painting a portrait makes you nervous, do not worry – there are lots of great resources to help you out here, like Mixed Media Portraits With Pam Carriker – Jane Davenport also has lots of great books such as this one which can be a wonderful resource to start with.

17. Draw & Sketch Landmarks

No matter where you go, there are sure to be landmarks. These can be great sources of inspiration for stories and drawing practice. 

Some landmarks are famous {such as The Statue of Liberty in NYC or The Sistine Chapel in Vatican City} – other landmarks are more of directional markers or might have personal significance to you. One example is a water tower we always look for when we drive past it on the highway.

18. Architecture

Wherever you find yourself, take some time to notice different architectural details such as windows, doors, gates, fences and roofs. Make a page inspired by the different things you see! This can be a detailed sketch or simply a whimsical doodle like the photo shown above.

19. Make a Cityscape

After you pay some attention to the different architectural details, it can be fun to incorporate this into cityscape art.

It can be a very fun challenge to recreate a drawing or doodle of the places you visit in your journals, and of course you can always combine these with other drawings or collage and ephemera.

Many of the Watercolor Doodle Cities here and other city-inspired paintings I make start from inspiration from real-life cities and towns I’ve visited.

20. Capture the Landscape

Sketching or painting the landscape can be a wonderful way to document all the beautiful views in nature. You can also photograph these scenes to inspire you to make more art when you get back home.

Maybe it’s an early morning sunrise or a field you drive past on the highway, the waves at the beach or even the way the mountains look in the distance.

21. Use Whatever You Can Find for Art Supplies  

I like to pack light when I’m traveling, and so that usually means sadly most of my art supplies have to stay at home. The good news is the lack of supplies can push you to try using everyday materials in creative ways.

For example, say you go out for tea – you can use the tea in your cup or a used tea bag to create tea stains on your papers. {Just be careful not to smear any ink from pens unless that is your desired effect!}

Over the years I’ve used all sorts of things to create with in my journal beyond traditional materials. A dandelion can often be used to get yellow coloring on paper – you could even use makeup like lipstick or eye shadow and blush on your pages.

22. Pay Attention to Special Events & Holidays

While you don’t need a special event or holiday as an excuse to explore the world, often times we do go places depending on the season and traditions we like to celebrate. 

If your journaling happens to fall around a certain holiday or you attend a special event in your adventures, there can be all sorts of seasonal things you can add onto your pages – hearts for Valentine’s Day, Flowers in the Spring, Pumpkins for Halloween, Christmas Decorations, etc.

23. Everybody Eats: Food is Never Ending Inspiration

There are some places I would visit again just with the sole purpose of eating amazing food. Food also makes for an endless source of things to put in your journal. You might not need to record every single meal or snack, but if you enjoy something good – make a note of it or use it as inspiration for art.

Another thing you can do, especially if you visit different countries is save food wrappers. Different languages, different wrappers – all these things can easily be added into your journal and will even help you remember what foods and restaurants you like if you should visit that place again.

24. Street Signs & Names

As someone who loves all things words, letters and numbers, I can’t help but feel gravitated towards interesting signs we see in different places. These can be great starting points for drawings, sketches or even things to photograph and add to your pages at a later time.

25. Read any good books?

Sometimes the books we read can inspire our travels – or a book can help us pass the time on a long bus ride or flight. Vacation is also a good time to catch up on books you’ve been wanting to read.

I love books so some of my favorite places to visit while traveling are small bookstores and libraries – I always find some nice treasures that way!

26. Foreign Language

If you’re traveling to a country where English is not the native language, it can be very fun and interesting to find different things that have the country’s language in your journal.

Whenever I’m shopping at used book sales, I often find a lot of foreign language dictionaries. These make for excellent paper backgrounds to use in junk journals, or you can always have fun copying the words to practice your foreign language skills.

Staying local in your own hometown? Have some fun visiting regular mundane places by learning or practicing a different language. 

¡Vamos a cocinar papas en la estufa!

Even a place as mundane your kitchen can be more fun if you learn fun ways to explore it as a traveler. This can also be a great way to help your kids practice their foreign language skills. 

27. Everyday Life

What do the people who call the place you are visiting home everyday? Take some notes, sketches or photos of a day in the life of a local.

Another thing that can be fun to do is to imagine for a moment if this place was your home, and not just a place you were visiting. What might you like or dislike about staying in that one place long-term?

28. What are other tourists doing?

Every time we’ve visited tourist-destination types of places it is always fascinating to watch the other travelers and what they are doing. Maybe you see hundreds of people with cameras, or you see people waiting in line to get their picture taken next to a certain attraction.

29. Trees & Flowers

I spend most of my vacations immersed in nature and I love drawing and painting trees and flowers. You might also want to keep some wax paper in your notebook – this can be a great way to preserve flowers or leaves.

30. Birds of a Feather

When we visit cities I always notice pigeons, and I always see seagulls at the beach. I love photographing ducks! Sometimes places we go have aviaries to visit. When we go camping, we love looking for woodpeckers, cardinals, and other birds.

You can fill your journal with bird related images or just make a list or doodles of the different birds you might encounter.

31. Animals

If you love animals, this is another great source of inspiration while you are traveling. Maybe you go to a nearby zoo, or maybe friends you are staying with have a friendly cat. 

Some places you visit may even have animals you don’t typically see that often. I remember when I visited Toronto in Canada I saw so many moose statues everywhere we went!

32. Notes From History

Most places have historical centers – even small towns often have an interesting past. If you enjoy historical points of interest, there all sorts of ways to incorporate this on your pages.

Use cut outs from brochures or old books, record facts, or even attempt to recreate a scene from history in your journal. This is a great way to use up some of your favorite vintage ephemera also!

33. Famous People / Persons of Interest Who Lived there

Almost every place has people who are famous or played an important role in the history of the area. It can be very interesting to research before you go some different people who have lived in that place – and maybe even tour some of the different things that would have been part of their daily life.

One example of this is when a friend of mine in high school was slightly obsessed with all things Trent Reznor and Nine Inch Nails. She had learned he grew up in boring old Mercer, PA {not so far from the same boring town we lived in} – so we decided to go up one day to check it out.

It was very neat to think hey, here’s this little town in Pennsylvania just like our little town in Pennsylvania, he was a band dork, we were band dorks. It is always neat to see these sorts of places, especially if it someone who is inspiring to you, because in a way you can see the kind of environment that inspired them to become the creative person they are.

34. Music Playlist

Speaking of Trent Reznor – let’s talk about another favorite aspect of traveling for me – plenty of opportunity to listen to music!

I can’t think of a better way to enjoy a long ride than to come prepared with a good music playlist.  If you’re riding passenger on long trips, a good music playlist and a sketchbook is a great way to help pass the time.

I also like to listen to different music that is popular in different areas. It’s way more fun to listen to Blue Grass music if you are in the Mountains of Virgina or a little country music on the city streets of Nashville.

There are so many different types of music around the world, and all of it can be very inspiring to listen to while writing or creating.

Need more ideas for how to incorporate music into your journals? Our list of creative music inspired art prompts can help inspire you!

35. Textures

Make a page about different textures you might encounter on your trip. Maybe it’s the sand between your toes, the concrete on the sidewalks or the familiar softness of your favorite shirt in a place where everything is different. 

You can even optionally include some of these textures into your journal, especially if you encounter things like fabric swatches or handwoven items.

Another idea is to use different textures from objects around you as unique stencils and stamps. You can do all sorts of mark making with different textures in your book!

While I suppose this could fall under “food” – coffee for me is more than just a tasty caffeinated beverage. Draw a Picture of Coffee with the different backdrop of the place you visit. Save ephemera like napkins, coffee stirrer or receipts from shops you visit.

Pay attention to ways coffee is prepared and served. If you are visiting a place that grows and produces coffee, this too can be very fascinating to learn about and try different flavors native to the area. 

37. Souvenirs

Do you collect anything? Some people collect pennies, spoons, key chains, salt shakers – you name it! Collecting is a fun low-stress hobby and traveling can be a great way to find new things.

If you are a collector of something, it can be fun to make a page about different sorts of things you like to collect. If you don’t have a collection yet – what is one you might you be inclined to start or find interesting? 

Many different places you might visit often also have souvenir shops with all sorts of interesting things for the area. Even if you’re not a collector, you may enjoy sketching or making a list of the sort of things you notice. 

 38. Pick Up a Newspaper – Local, National & Global News

It’s always interesting to read the news somewhere you aren’t. It gives you a greater understanding of what types of things the residents who live in a place might experience on a regular day to day basis and what is important to them.

Another bonus is often times when you visit a new area the newspaper may syndicate different feature columns than your papers back home. This could mean new recipes, different horoscopes, puzzles, comments, and opinion pieces.

Newspapers are also great to use in collage and art you might be inspired to create, especially if you have very limited access to art supplies.

What does the place you’re visiting smell like? Maybe you can smell freshly baked bread drifting across the plaza, or it’s the smell of the ocean next to you, or even just the smell of pine trees in the woods. 

Paying attention to how all of your different senses experience the place can help you remember the adventure all that much more.

40. Include Conversations With the People You Talk To

One thing I enjoy doing when traveling is meeting and talking to new people and listening in on what people might be saying at the different places we visit. 

It’s funny, but some of the conversations I remember are not exactly quotable, but totally memorable enough to document in a journal. One time when we were at a beach an old man was talking to us and told us we needed to visit a place that was about 6 hours away.

“They have the most unbelievable peaches! Miles and miles of orchards…” he said. Well, after talking to him we decided to go that way the next day and yes, they did have peaches, but we were mostly awed by the unbelievable beautiful beaches!

Had we not talked to that stranger on the beach that day we never would have discovered one of our favorite beaches in the U.S.

41. The Local Dialect

I live in the Pittsburgh area and we are sorta famous for our unique dialect. Many local shops sell Yinzer stickers and other Pittsburghese types of things that are always popular with tourists and would make great journal fodder.

If you happen to be somewhere, pay attention to different words and phrases people use for things. You might be surprised how many sayings and words you pick up that aren’t in any foreign language dictionary!

42. Quotes About the Area and/or General Traveling

There are all sorts of great quotes that can be a great way to add to the journal. You can include general travel quotes in your journal while you are getting ready for the trip – or of course you can always add these once you are back. 

43. Interview The People Traveling With You

It’s always interesting how two different people can have two different options and memories about a trip! Traveling with kids? Ask them their thoughts – and of course don’t forget to encourage them to create their own travel journals!

44. Hidden in Plain View – Important or Sensitive Information 

It’s always a good idea to have a paper copy of important info while you are in a different place – especially if WiFi access or phone reception might be hard to come by. 

While I don’t recommend keeping sensitive info in plain sight in a journal, sometimes you can give yourself cryptic ways only you would know to have a reference for things like addresses or bank account info.

Some ways you can do this is by drawing the numbers in a certain specific pattern, or you could even make up your own secret code. 

45. Reference Lists & Safety Info

I’m sorta neurotic about safety, so I like to include helpful safety info in my notebooks, especially because we spend so much time outdoors. This might be something as simple as a mini first aid guide or a list of emergency numbers for the area. If you are traveling in a foreign place, you may even want to list some emergency contacts in the notebook.

I also like to print out this type of information to keep in planner binders. For the planner I keep in our camper, I included printed information for dog medications and first aid, since our dog has a habit of finding bees nests, eating fishing rods and getting into all sorts of trouble.

46. Currency From Different Countries

Many foreign countries have different types of currency that can be very interesting to keep in a journal. If you have a few smaller value notes leftover from a trip they can be a great thing to put in a journal or slip into a clear pocket you attach to the pages.

47. Track Your Budget

Budgeting might not seem exciting, especially while supposedly on a vacation! Still, it is definitely an inevitable part of life that doesn’t go away just because you are somewhere different! 

Fortunately, it can be way more fun to do when you find a way to express your creativity in your journal or planner. Keep records of expenses while you are traveling and think about different ways you can save money.

If you haven’t left for your destination yet, there are lots of great ways to plan a trip without spending a lot. Make a page about how you will save for an upcoming trip or make a list of ways to you can see the world without going into debt.

48. Random Fun Facts

Do you enjoy games like trivial pursuit? Something that can be fun to do before you leave is read up on different fun facts about an area, or you can even just jot down these things as you experience them in the place you visit.

Random Fun Fact Example: We can thank computer scientist Scott Fahlman at CMU in Pittsburgh for the widespread use of the smiley face symbol . 🙂 Pittsburgh is also home to another famous smiley face – the Eat ‘N Park Smiley ! 

49. Local Business & Industry

Do you ever need to travel for work? Business travel can sometimes create all sorts of new interesting opportunities to see sights and document parts of a place that don’t exactly make it to the city guides!

Many cities are also famous for different things related to businesses and industries. Factory Tours can be super fascinating and educational – they also make for a great activity during rainy day travels.

50. Movies, Plays & Film

Many places you wouldn’t expect have been featured in movies – other times there may be films or movies that take place in the very same places you visit.

One example is the time we visited Savannah, Georgia. My husband loves the movie Forest Gump so naturally this meant we had to visit Chippewa Square and the famous park bench at the Savannah History Museum when we explored the city.

51. The Clothes We Wear

Just like food and money, most of the time we typically need to also wear clothes. You don’t have to be a fashionista to appreciate unique clothing styles in different places you visit.

Depending where you travel to, the culture and weather can be very different from where you live and so the style of clothes and things people wear and do can be fascinating. 

Don’t forget to also pay attention to the clothes you are wearing. Maybe it’s a raincoat because it’s raining or you bought something special to wear for the trip.

52. Travel Shoes

Going places usually means lots of walking and standing – which means the pair of shoes you wear can make all the difference! Sketch a pair of your shoes and take note of whether they have reliably served you well in your travels, or if they’ve caused you pain, agony and misery. 

53. Hobbies & Interests

When I visited NYC my top must-see destination was the Sketchbook museum at the Brooklyn Art Library of course!

One of the ways I documented that visit was to put a safety pin in one of my pages once I got home because I noticed one of the journals there was completely bound with safety pins and I thought that was pretty unique and I didn’t want to forget it! 

Your different hobbies and interests can always overlap in travel – and sometimes in the most of unexpected ways. If you have a specific hobby or interest you enjoy, take some time to research different clubs and organizations in the area. You can find groups and points of interest for almost anything!

54. What’s Trending Now

Do you notice any interesting trends about the place you visit? Maybe there is an activity that is popular or something you notice everyone is doing.

This could be something like a TV show everyone is watching, something seasonally related or it could even be many of the homes decorated with certain pieces or in a certain style.

55. Funny Stuff

One thing you should always bring along any adventure is a good sense of humor. I love this one picture we snapped while we traveled through VA – antique tables made daily!

There are also lots of great travel-themed jokes you could use in your journal.

What travels around the world but stays in one corner? A stamp.

{Sorry, I couldn’t resist, I love punny bad jokes!} Speaking of stamps…

56. Postage Stamps: Send Yourself Some Mail Back Home

Postcards and foreign stamps can make for an excellent addition to any type of travel journal. You can mail yourself a letter or post card, or even pick up some post cards where you are visiting to add to your pages.

Shown above: A photo of some of the vintage postcards I have in my ephemera collection. If you have friends and family members who travel a lot, be sure to offer to pay for postage and ask them to mail you things!

57. Color Combos

Do you love color? Different places can be great inspiration for unique color combinations or even noticing things you may ordinarily ignore. Take a look at your surroundings and try to create a color palette based on what you see around you.

58. Rainbow Page

Another fun travel journal idea is to try to make a page that includes something of every color of the rainbow you see while you are on a trip. This could be done with ephemera or even just making notes and drawing in your sketchbook to add in photos later.

59. Inspiration is Everywhere

What do you see that inspires you to create while you are traveling? Maybe you notice an interesting pattern on textiles being sold at a shop or you like the way the vase on your table looks at a restaurant.

Take note of these little details that inspire you and sketch or jot them down. These can be great sources of inspiration for those days you need a little kickstart to create.

60. Bottle Caps, Drink Labels and Coasters

Many bottled beverages have labels and unique bottle caps that can make for great things to include in a journal. You may also notice several restaurants have coasters that are nice to save after your meal.

Bottle labels and coasters are two types of things that are normally thrown away but can make for great ephemera to include in your journal and help document the trip.

61. All the Different Shapes

Another idea for different places you visit is to create pages based on different shapes. For example, you could have a page for things that are round, such as wheels, windows, or stones.

You could also easily do this for things that are square, rectangles, triangles, etc.

62. Define Some Travel Words

What does adventure mean to you? What do you consider to be a journey?

There are lots of different travel-themed words and they often mean different things to different people. Write your own definition for words, or you could even find these words in a dictionary and cut them and paste them to the page in your book.

Here’s a couple more words you could use on the page or define:

63. Why do you love travel?

People travel for different reasons, and of course the reasons we enjoy it are also usually unique to us. What do you like the most? Is it meeting new people? Seeing something different? Learning new things?

Write or illustrate your favorite things and the reasons you enjoy discovering new places.

64. Stickers

Stickers can be found anywhere, whether it’s a price sticker on something you buy or even a marketing sticker they give away at a promotional event. Some places you visit may even have shops that sell unique stickers for the area.

65. Technology & Apps

There are many apps and websites that can make traveling a lot easier, and it can be something fun to document in your journal. These apps can help you find new places or even possibly read reviews and get special coupons and deals. 

Another thing to think about is how the place you are visiting uses technology. Do they seem advanced or are they behind compared to where you currently live?

66. Trip Stats

Another fun thing to record in your journal are trip stats. Your might record your odometer reading, number of miles you traveled, or if you have a fitbit you could make a note of how many steps you walked that day.

67. Try Zentangle

Zentangle is a super portable form of art and very relaxing so perfect if you’re going on vacation to unwind. All you need is some paper and your favorite Micron 01 pen.

You can start with basic shapes or just tangle freely on the pages of your journal. Who knows – some places you visit may even be home of certified Zentangle instructors and classes may be available during your trip!

68. Practice Creative Lettering

There are so many great ideas and ways to have fun with creative lettering in your journal. You can try different styles of letters, mix up big and small writing. 

Hate your handwriting? Our post on creative lettering ideas can give you lots of inspiration for ways to add unique text without necessarily mastering calligraphy.

69. Stencil It

Stencils are flat and portable – so very easy to bring with you along your travels and keep right inside your notebook. There are TONS of inexpensive stencil sets on Amazon or you could even try making your own journal stencil templates.

A couple of stencils can definitely can help you with making shapes, layouts, and different designs in  your journal – no fine art skills required!

70. Bodies of Water

Water is always a source for inspiration, relaxing, and feeling refreshed – and where there is life, you are sure to find water! As the author of How to Read Water points out, you can learn just as much about water from a puddle as you can from the sea. 

Create a page in your journal based on what you like to do in the water – whether you go fishing, swim laps in the pool on a cruise ship or just admire the sailboats out on the bay.

71. Make a List of Things to Research

While you are on your trip, you might find yourself curious to learn more about stuff you encounter. Make a list or note of this in your journal so you can read up on it when you come back home.

Before you go somewhere new it’s also a very good idea to research different laws, customs and practices. This to-research-list can be a great thing to add in your journal before you leave to remind you to actually learn about these things before you get there!

72. Visiting a Sports Town?

Sports teams around the world have some very loyal fans and this can be another thing worth documenting if you are in a place that takes their sports seriously. In some areas it’d be impossible not to take note of arenas and stadiums!

Even if you’re not a sports fan, you may notice where you are visiting what important sports games are happening and what teams people proudly wear on their t-shirts, jerseys and hats. If you do visit an event, don’t forget to save your ticket stubs and program with the team roster!

73. Stick to the Grid

Grid lined pages can be nice to have when you are writing or drawing, because they also make it super easy to try to draw things when you want to be mindful of things like ratio and perspective relationships.

You can also have fun just arranging different elements in a grid-like fashion – draw your own freehand grid and fill each box with different memories or images you cut and tear out of a local magazine or newspaper.

74. What Are You Really Good At When Traveling?

Do your planning skills shine as you come up with the perfect trip itinerary? Have you mastered the fine art of packing a suitcase with all the right things? Have a knack for strumming up conversation with the locals? Or, maybe you’re just really good at getting lost! 

Whatever your strengths and skills are when it comes to travel, these should be celebrated and certainly worthy of being documented in your travel journal! Draw yourself an award, make a list of your best strengths, and celebrate all the hard work that goes into exploring.

75. Gratitude

You can never go wrong keeping track of things you are thankful for. See our list of gratitude journal prompts for even more ideas of ways to incorporate thankfulness in your journal pages.

76. No Place Like Home

Sometimes distance makes us all the more appreciative of home. What things do you miss the most while you are away from home? Draw pictures, doodle, paint, or make a list! 

77. Wish You Were Here

Sometimes when we go someplace new we can’t help but think of family or friends back home. Is there anything specific where you are that reminds you of someone? Write about it or tuck those little pieces of ephemera you find on a page.

78. What Went Wrong

It’s tempting to only document the good parts of a trip but sometimes the mishaps of travel become great funny stories after a few years…like my husbands famous melt down over a lack of parking or that time we went camping and got flooded out. 

These sorts of things aren’t exactly fun in the midst of the trouble, but years later we can look back and at least say the trips were memorable!

79. What Did You Learn?

Every trip is an opportunity and discovery is synonymous for learning. What did you learn during your trip?

Maybe you learned something new about the cultures, customs and history of the place. Or, if staying local… maybe you learned to always bring sunscreen or bug spray or how to avoid rush hour traffic.

80. Document Digitally

While I will forever be a pen and paper kind of girl, I know I also enjoy the convenience of digital art journaling – especially when it’s not always easy to pack lots of supplies! This is especially true for trips that aren’t necessarily for fun or I know I’ll be spending a lot of time indoors.

You can edit and arrange photos in a photo editing app or software program, or you can even enjoy the creative fun of painting digitally. I love using my laptop and Wacom Intous tablet to paint with Photoshop. You can also have a lot of fun creating designs with an iPad and Apple pencil. 

81. Draw a Clock

Clocks are fun and easy enough to draw – all you need is a circle! It can be fun to compare clock times all around the world, especially if you have ventured to a different time zone.

Another idea is to doodle clocks for when you want to make note of times on your itinerary and schedule.

82. Make a Chart

Charts are a creative visual way to display information and a great idea for adding some art to your travel journal. You could create a table of train and bus times, a pie chart for how you spent your time on the trip, or a Venn Diagram comparing and contrasting your first trip somewhere to the second trip there.

For those who are particularly dorky like me, you might even consider making a histogram or scatter plot in your journal!

83. Healthy Matters

If you are into all things health, wellness and fitness in everyday life, it would only make sense for this to overflow into your journals while traveling.

Whether you note healthy foods you eat, exercise, changes in your mood, how much you sleep, number of glasses of water you drink each day, or have a list of medications to take daily, noting these things in your journal can help you stay on track with all the excitement and routine disruptions from traveling.

84. Design Your Own Travel Symbols & Icons

There are many common symbols and icons used for travel – an airplane, a map, a suitcase, a backpack, a compass, cars, directional arrows, trains, etc. 

All of these things are a great starting point to give you some ideas for things to doodle in a travel journal. You can make them flat, line-art style, or even make them 3-D complete with shading. 

85. Travel Role Models

Do you know someone who is a great inspiration for your travel aspirations? This could be a person who inspired you to be more courageous and explore new foreign places, or could just be someone you know who has real-world experience in traveling the globe and taught you a lot of things. 

86. Favorite Travel Blogs

Speaking of people who inspire us to travel – I know many of the places I find inspiration are various travel blogs I like to follow! Seeing their pictures is always great motivation and inspiration to go to new places I may not have considered on my own.

Whenever I am not sure of where I might like to go or what to do when visiting an area, I also love to read different blogger’s guides on attractions to visit and travel tips to make it a smooth trip.

87. The Road Not Taken – Add Some Poetry to Your Pages

There are lots of great travel inspired poems you can include in your journal, or you can even try your hand at writing your own poems.

Not a natural wordsmith? Prefer to stick to something more visual? Check out our post on found poetry in your journal pages.

88. Challenge Yourself 

Sometimes a little bit of a challenge can make even the most mundane of places a bit more exciting. You could challenge yourself to take a photo every day, or challenge yourself to visit a different neighborhood or part of town each day you are in the city.

You could also challenge yourself to commit to a certain type of art each day – a doodle a day, or a watercolor a day, or a pencil sketch a day.

Challenges should be fun – so if the idea of this sounds like a chore or one more thing to add to already a jam packed schedule, skip it or save it for the next adventure.

89. Paper Clips & Binder Clips Are Your Friends

Paper clips, binder clips and other page fasteners are wonderful and practical things to include in your journal. They are super handy when you are on the go to attach all sorts of papers and notes – no glue stick required!

Also, they make TONS of travel themed paper clips. I mean, I don’t know if you would really need 40 of them, but how adorable are these airplane shaped paper clips ? They also make ones that come in assorted animal shapes ! 

So many different styles of paper clips, I actually made an Amazon Idea List with some of my handpicked favorites – I couldn’t believe I found over 40! See all my favorites on my list: All the Pretty Paper Clips . 

90. Pins, Patches & Badges

I love collecting small novelty pins, patches and badges – but I don’t always have a great way to display or wear them. One way around this is to add them to your journal pages!

You can decide to either pin or sew the item directly onto the page, or you can attach it to a small piece of fabric that you attach into the page. You can often find these at gift shops or even while you are at different places that give them away for free as promotional materials.

91. Have a Stamping Good Time

There are LOTS of ways to use rubber stamps and ink pads in a journal. But… I also like to keep my supplies very minimal, especially when on the road. Something I like to do to prep my journal pages is stamp things in advance. 

You can use simple ink dabbers to create patterns or add a distressed effect to your empty pages – and of course if you already have travel themed stamps this is a great opportunity to put them to good use, whether before or after the trip!

In the page above I tried to use some of my rubber stamps and realized one of my very well-loved ink pads was finally starting to dry out after years of use.

I used the ink pad itself to stamp the page with the remaining ink on the edges to create journaling block areas. I also used the edge of the ink pad to make the lines – perfect for impromptu lists or quick daily notes.

92. Travel Tags

There are all sorts of tags that can be useful while traveling. Luggage and suitcase tags are also a great way to add some interesting stuff to your favorite journal pages. 

You can also opt to use paper tags – I love to start with small round tags like these ones and use them for doodles or quotes. Standard shipping tags like these are also like mini blank canvases waiting for your creative touch! 

93. Travel Bingo: Inspired by My Favorite Road Trip Game as a Kid

A long time ago, when dinosaurs roamed the earth without technology, we played a game called Auto Bingo in the car. If you drove past something like a railroad crossing or a cow, you would slide the little marker over the picture when you spotted it and try to get them all before the end of the trip. 

This gave me a great idea to make a list of different things to look for while I’m at a certain place and then check it off if I saw that thing. It’s a like a scavenger hunt game – can you find these things in your surroundings?

94. A Boost of Encouragement

We tend to glamorize travel a lot – but sometimes it can be hectic, chaotic, stressful and even a little bit scary.

As much as I love traveling, I don’t always like the packing & preparing, and I also admittedly have no sense of direction – I still get lost on roads less than 10 minutes away from my house!

If this sounds like you, adding some encouraging words and positive affirmations can be a wonderfully uplifting thing to see if you are in unfamiliar territory or stressed out.

95. Spiritual Sense

If you are a spiritual person, or maybe just someone curious to learning about the different spiritual practices of different cultures, there are many ways this can be reflected in your journal.

You could include prayers and blessings for travelers, visit spiritual places of interest, or even just spend a few moments in quiet meditation. It can also be interesting to explore and document the various practices and traditions in the culture you are visiting. 

96. Which Way Up? Arrows & Directional Signs

I love the treasure-map style dashed and dotted lines with arrows. They really grab a person’s attention when they look through your completed journal. It makes one ask: now where does this lead?

Arrows can be used in so many different ways for a lot of different travel journal page ideas. Call attention to a specific phrase or photo, or add them to continue a story on another page. In some ways, you could make your journal a sort of “Choose Your Own Adventure Book” where the reader {or even yourself} – can explore a place in a different kind of way.

97. Attention Please! Highlights

If you are the sort of person who might fill an entire page with a LOT of words while journaling your thoughts and experiences, highlights are a fun way to call attention to things that are important or most notable.

You can choose to highlight things like dates, or just pick words and phrases you like. If you don’t have or want to use highlighter markers, you could also accent different things by using colored pencils and pens or simply by circling and underlining different things. 

This can also be a very fun thing to do with newspapers or other printed ephemera style things you might find in your travels.

98. If You Had to Do It Again…

Would you go on this trip again? Do you want to go back? What would you want to do differently? What would you want to do the same? These are all great questions to think about while you reflect on the trip on the return back home.

99. Return to Reality

What did you have it do when you got back from your vacation? Sometimes remembering responsibilities and “real life” can make us all the more appreciative and nostalgic for the time spent away!

100. Actually Print Out Your Vacation Photos

I’m totally guilty of taking a bazillion pictures…and then never printing them. They go on my external hard drive/cloud storage to never be seen by another human being again…that’s not good!

One of the things I’m making a more concentrated effort to do is actually print out photos we take. You can choose to print them from home on your own home printer, or upload them to your favorite photo print website.

101. Where to Next?

Did this trip make you want to visit any other new places you hadn’t considered before? Where do you want to go next? Or, perhaps, after all these adventures, maybe you are content to stay-cation for awhile?

I know this is a super long list, and if you made it this far, I hope you found these ideas inspiring and encouraging! Travel journals are a ton of fun to make and I’d love to see what you create!!

And of course, if you have ideas for things to include that aren’t on this list – I’d love to hear your creative ideas in the comments below!

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AWESOME post!

Thanks Andi, glad you enjoyed it!

What an absolutely FANTASTIC list! I do a lot of journaling when I travel and already do several of the things on this list, but there are tons I’d never even thought of. I’m particularly in awe of the color palette idea. Brava!

Thank you Naomi, glad it inspired you!

This is the BEST post – thank you sooooo very much! Although it is overhwhelming how much there is because I am a newbie when it comes to this kind of art form, it has given me so many awesome ideas and inspiration and I will try to do some but not all LOL! Thank you again!

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21 Creative Travel Journal Ideas & Prompts for Your Next Trip

February 29, 2024

Journaling is a great way to make the most of any trip. Here are some of our favourite creative travel journal ideas.

Travel Journal Ideas

Photos and videos aren’t the only ways to capture your travels. A travel diary can help you enjoy the trip you’re on and help you relive all those memories once you’re home. After all, how often do you look back through your phone’s photos?

I’ll be honest. Completing a travel bullet journal is something I often dream about more than I manage to complete, particularly when travelling with young children. But over the years, the travel journals I have managed to complete have brought me great joy and prompted my ageing brain to remember sights, smells and tastes more vividly than ever.

So, don’t get hung up on making it pretty and perfect. Just concentrate on enjoying your trip and use these travel journal ideas to deepen that enjoyment. Don’t let them turn into one more burden or chore to complete!

What is a Travel Journal?

A travel journal is whatever you want it to be, baby! Or in more standard talk:

A travel journal is a personal, written account that documents an individual’s experiences, observations, and emotions during their journeys. It serves as a dedicated space for recording details such as daily activities, cultural encounters, and reflections on the places visited.

Typically, travel journals include a mix of narratives, anecdotes, and practical information. Whether handwritten or digital, a travel journal is a valuable tool for preserving travel memories, fostering self-reflection, and creating a tangible record of one’s explorations and discoveries around the world.

Although, don’t think you need to write reams. We’ve plenty of creative travel journal ideas if writing doesn’t happen to be your thing. We’re all about the easy way to fill those travel journal pages.

Where to Find the Perfect Travel Journal

The romantic in me says that the best travel journal is found on the road. But the practical side of me knows that it’s easier if you pick one up before you go.

In my experience, you want a book that will stay flat when you fold it open and ideally have a tie or piece of elastic to hold it together again, to stop things falling out.

I also like travel journals with a space for a pen as that makes it more likely that you will actually have a pen with you when the time comes to write. In my experience, the best way to make sure that something happens is to remove as many obstacles as possible.

Personally, I prefer blank pages but I know that many prefer grids or lines. And I’ve never got to grips with a digital journal but if they work for you, then great!

A hard cover can protect from the bumps and bruises of life on the road but, then again, a soft cover is lighter to carry around.

Here are some lovely travel journal examples you can find on Amazon:

• Vegan Leather Beechmore Travel Journal
• Adventure Travel Journal with Prompts
• Moleskine Hardcover Travel Journal

Note: if you buy through any of the links on this page, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Why Bother Keeping a Travel Journal in the First Place?

Firstly, because it’s fun! However, keeping a travel journal also has a number of other benefits.

Such as…

Memory Enhancement:

• According to a study published in the journal Memory, the act of writing helps to consolidate and enhance memory. By documenting your experiences, in your own travel journal, you’re more likely to remember details of your journey. And that fits with what I learned when I was studying Neuroscience at Cambridge.

Stress Reduction:

• A study by the American Psychological Association suggests that expressive writing can help reduce stress and promote overall well-being. Journaling about your travel experiences allows you to process emotions and relive positive moments.

Increased Cultural Awareness:

• Research conducted by the Cultural Intelligence Center indicates that keeping a travel journal can contribute to the development of cultural intelligence. Writing about local customs, traditions, and interactions with residents fosters a deeper understanding of different cultures.

Reflection and Personal Growth:

• Psychologist James W. Pennebaker’s research on expressive writing reveals that reflecting on experiences through writing can lead to personal growth and self-discovery. A travel journal provides a space for introspection and learning.

Enhanced Creativity:

• Again, the busy American Psychological Association suggests that engaging in creative activities, such as writing, can boost cognitive function and creativity. Documenting your travels in a journal encourages creative expression.

Capturing Details:

• Studies on eyewitness testimony indicate that people tend to forget details over time. Keeping a travel journal helps in preserving the specifics of your experiences, ensuring a more accurate recollection later on. Not that we hope you’ll end up in court. More, that we hope you’ll remember the highlights of your trip.

Improved Communication Skills:

• Journaling encourages the practice of effective communication. Documenting your thoughts and experiences helps refine your ability to articulate ideas and stories.

Digital Detox and Mindfulness:

• A study by the Pew Research Center found that 85% of adults in the United States use the internet. Keeping a physical travel journal offers a break from screens, fostering mindfulness and a deeper connection with your surroundings. Little details can bring about a big sense of calm.

Goal Setting and Achievement:

• Again, the good old American Psychological Association notes that setting and achieving small goals, such as completing a journal entry each day, can boost motivation and self-esteem. A travel journal provides a structured way to set and accomplish writing goals.

Legacy and Sharing:

• According to a study by Ancestry.com, 77% of adults believe it’s important to preserve their family history. A travel journal can serve as a legacy, allowing future generations to gain insights into your experiences and perspectives.

So, how about that? Not just a pretty page after all.

21 Gorgeous and Creative Travel Journal Ideas

OK, let’s get to the fun part! Creative travel journal ideas!

Collect Ticket Stubs

Ticket stubs may not seem so glamorous at the time but they’re one of those travel journal ideas that’s quick and easy to do, with great rewards later on. If you find yourself too busy on the trip, just shove (ahem, collect) them as you go along in one envelope. Once you’re home, you can then arrange them in a scrapbook or bullet journal along with notes and photos.

Carry Some Lightweight Supplies

It’s easier to keep up with your travel diary if you have the right tools with you. No-one needs to carry about an entire artist’s briefcase but a few pens, pencils and a roll or two of washi tape can help make it manageable.

Not sure what washi tape is? It’s like sellotape only comes with a pattern and is much more forgiving when unrolling and using it. You can pick up some washi tape here . It’s a great option to make sure things don’t always fall out along the way.

Brush up on Some Writing Tips

A travel diary shouldn’t feel like homework. But it will be more rewarding to write and definitely more pleasurable to read if you brush up on some writing techniques before you go.

We run a range of writing courses to get you started, including:

• Freelance Writing Masterclass
• Write Better, Write Now
• The Writing Boost

So, whether it’s a quick weekend away or a road trip journal that spans several months, you’ll feel more confident about what goes into your own travel log.

Pick up Some Postcards

This is one of my favourite creative travel journal ideas.

Now, we’re not talking about standard tourist postcards here (although, obviously, that’s fine if that’s what you want to do. It’s your travel diary, right?!)

We’re talking about flyers and postcards for art galleries, live music, exhibitions and special events. Business cards from cafes. Anything you saw and enjoyed and which gave you a taste of the place.

Collect the Cash

Spend more than a few days in a destination and the local money soon becomes a background event that you stop noticing. But when you’re back home, it’s a connection to the place.

So, if you can spare some of the lower denomination notes, it’s a great idea to tape a few into your travel journal.

Keep the Maps

You know those maps that are folded back and forth, torn, soggy and scribbled over? Keep them! It’s amazing how quickly you forget the detail of a place but a scribbled note and the white fluff along a folded map seam brings it back right away. New places, new maps.

Make the Food to Go

At the risk of sounding like a hoarder, look out for sweet wrapper, chopstick wrappers, beer labels and more that really fit the local food you had in a destination.

I always look out for local flavours in particular, so this method of scrapbooking (sounds better than hoarding) works well for me.

Flower Press Stress

Sometimes, pressing flowers or leaves works wonders. And, sometimes, it just makes a mess. This is one of those travel journal ideas that you need to do just right: ideally with a big patch of sellophane rather than just a strip of washi tape.

Be careful, though. Some countries, most notably New Zealand and Australia, are very strict about flowers and seeds crossing their borders. Probably best to avoid this if you plan on heading there.

Sketch Skills

Small sketches and beautiful drawings can really bring a travel diary to life. If you can draw, that is.

If not, never fear. While we can’t all be the best at everything, we can all master a few basic techniques.

It’s a good idea to just relax and have a go.

Learn the Lingo

As everyone knows, with a few local phrases, you’ll get a better reception wherever you go. Yet, with age, it’s alarming how quickly that knowledge fades.

Write down those phrases while they’re fresh! It’s a fun way to nurture those brain cells.

Stick in Those Lists

Have you used a packing list? A leaving the house checklist? A bucket list? To-do list? If so, stick them in! They’ll be surprisingly interesting to look at come the end of your trip. Don’t let your trip planning go to waste!

And if you don’t? Check out our collection of packing lists and pre-travel checklists here .

Use Some Travel Journal Writing Prompts

When inspiration fails, fall back on these. Don’t worry if you feel cheesy. No-one has to read this but you.

Travel Journal Prompts Before You Go

• Outline your expectations and goals for the upcoming journey. What do you hope to achieve or experience during this trip?
• Share your pre-trip excitement and any pre-travel rituals or preparations you engage in before embarking on a new adventure.
• Detail the research you’ve conducted about the destination, including its culture, history, and notable attractions. What aspects are you most eager to explore?
• Reflect on any pre-trip concerns or uncertainties. How do you plan to address them or prepare for potential challenges?
• Describe the anticipation you feel about trying the local cuisine. Are there specific dishes you’re looking forward to sampling?
• Outline your itinerary and the key activities you have planned for each day. What landmarks or attractions are a must-see for you?
• Consider the local customs and etiquette of the destination. How do you plan to respect and engage with the local culture?
• Share your thoughts on the packing process. What essentials are you making sure to bring, and what strategies are you using to pack efficiently?
• Reflect on any language barriers you might encounter. Have you learned a few basic phrases or expressions in the local language to enhance your experience?
• Write about your overall mindset and emotions as you approach the trip. What are your hopes, fears, and anticipations for the upcoming adventure?

Travel Journal Prompts For on the Road

1. Describe your initial impressions upon arriving at your destination. 2. What local cuisine or dish did you sample, and how would you rate your experience? 3. Reflect on a memorable encounter with a local resident or fellow traveller. 4. Share a moment when you stepped out of your comfort zone during your journey. 5. Detail the sights, sounds, and scents of a particular place that left a lasting impression on you. 6. Write about a unique cultural tradition or festival you experienced during your travels. 7. Describe a hidden gem or off-the-beaten-track location you discovered. 8. Share a humorous or unexpected anecdote from your trip. 9. Reflect on a challenging situation you encountered and how you overcame it. 10. Write about a place that surpassed your expectations and why. 11. Document a day spent exploring nature, whether it’s a hike, day at the beach, or wildlife encounter. 12. Discuss the impact of local art, music, or architecture on your overall experience. 13. Capture the essence of a local market or shopping district you visited. 14. Reflect on how the local history and heritage influenced your perception of the destination. 15. Write about a moment of tranquillity or relaxation during your journey. 16. Share your thoughts on the transportation methods you used and any interesting experiences. 17. Describe a sunrise or sunset that left you in awe. 18. Document a day focused on immersive cultural experiences, such as workshops or language classes. 19. Write about a place you’d love to revisit and explore further in the future. 20. Reflect on the personal growth or insights gained from your travel experiences.

Travel Journal Prompts for Once You Get Back

• Reflect on the overall experience of your journey. Did it meet, exceed, or differ from your initial expectations?
• Capture the emotions you feel upon returning home. What aspects of your routine are you excited to resume, and what do you miss from your travels?
• Share your favourite moments from the trip and how they contributed to your overall satisfaction.
• Write about any unexpected discoveries or surprises that occurred during your travels.
• Reflect on the impact of the journey on your perspective and personal growth. In what ways do you feel changed or enriched?
• Describe the local cuisine that left a lasting impression on you. Are there any dishes you wish you could recreate at home?
• Outline any challenges you faced during the trip and how you successfully navigated them.
• Consider how the cultural experiences have influenced your worldview. What lessons or insights will you carry forward from your travels?
• Share your thoughts on the souvenirs or mementoes you brought back. Do they hold special meaning or memories?
• Write about your plans for future travels. Are there destinations you’re now eager to explore based on this recent experience?

We hope you’ve enjoyed this collection of creative ways to catalogue different places and, more importantly, what they meant to you.

For all we’ve talked about the benefits of travel journaling, the important thing is that it’s fun. Don’t let your travel journal become a chore. Like all goals and tools, it’s just a way to help you fall even more in love with life.

Journal entries should make you think or make you smile. And that’s enough.

Why not bookmark this article on creative travel journal ideas on Pinterest for later?

More on Preparing for Your Next Trip

• The Only International Travel Checklist You Need
• Printable Holiday Packing List PDF: The Only Checklist You Need
• The 21 Best Souvenir Ideas for 2024
• 27 Long Haul Flight Essentials and a Flight Checklist for You
• The Best Flight Booking Hacks For Savvy Travellers
• The 10 Travel Skills Every One of Us Should Know
• The 50 Best Travel Websites and Travel Resources

Why not pin these creative travel journal ideas on Pinterest for later?

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33 Terrific Travel Journal Ideas, Tips + Prompts!

Looking for the best travel journal ideas to help you remember your next trip–plus some prompts to help you think of what to write?

You’ve come to the right place!

As a lifelong lover of both journaling and travel, I have experimented with all kinds of travel journals over the years, ranging from the time-consuming to the simple, from the unique to the very basic.

I absolutely love the travel journaling system that I use now (more on that below), but depending on your habits and writing style, there is no limit to the number of ways to preserve your travel memories on the written page.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

This guide to travel journal ideas and prompts covers everything from the physical kind of travel diary to use, to tips on journaling effectively, to travel journaling prompts to help you get your writing started.

Remember, though, that the #1 rule of travel journaling is that there are no rules!

Anything that helps you preserve the intense memories of your travel experiences counts.

That being said: here are some of the best travel journal ideas out there!

Table of Contents

Terrific Travel Journal Ideas

Travel journaling tips, inspiring travel journal prompts, planning a trip.

While there are plenty of beautiful travel journals on the market, don’t feel like you need one to keep a memorable travel diary!

I’ve kept travel journals in everything from a $0.99 composition notebook to elaborate leather-bound notebooks to the Notes app in my phone, and I can confidently say that the best travel journals come from the heart–the physical place you put them is the least important function.

That being said, if you are looking for beautiful travel journal examples, I highly recommend these!

One Line a Day Journal

This is my current favorite travel journaling system, and I’ve been using it for nearly 5 years now!

Here’s the format: each page in this diary has a date at the top (say, August 17), and 5 small sections to write 1-2 sentences below it.

For 5 years, keep a daily journal of a memorable moment, and at the end, you’ll be able to look back and, on a single page, see what you did on all your August 17ths.

While this isn’t specifically a travel journal, I absolutely adore using it as one: the tracking of time through both days and years simultaneously is incredible, and the short time commitment is perfect for my lifestyle that already includes lots of writing.

I do still try to keep a long-form travel journal once a week or so, too, but I love my One Line a Day Journal so much that I recently bought two more, just to ensure I have the next decade covered if they stop making them!

Page A Day Travel Journal

Looking for something formatted for you, but with more of a travel theme and more of a long-form approach?

The Page A Day Travel Journal is perfect for that!

In addition to space to write about your day, there are spaces to note your destination and event the weather.

Classic Leather-Bound Journal

What reading-and-writing nerd among us hasn’t dreamed of owning a leather-bound journal to track their travels in?

I have always enjoyed this journal style and have owned a few in my life!

There are tons of similar ones on the market these days, given how popular they are, but I love the compass detail and great reviews on this one .

Postcards To Yourself

Looking for more unique travel journal ideas?

Consider sending postcards to yourself from the road!

In many destinations, you can mail yourself (or someone else) a postcard right from the souvenir shop where you purchase it–so bring a pen along, write some quick thoughts about your day, and drop it in the mail.

By the time you get home, you’ll have a collection of memories delivered right to your front door that you can save forever.

Travel Checklist Journal

If you’re the kind of traveler who wants to make sure they don’t forget a thing, the Travel Checklist Journal is the perfect choice!

With daily prompts covering everything from the restaurants you ate at that day to your most memorable moment of the day, it’s an in-depth log of your adventures.

I’ll be honest: I could never keep up with this much travel journaling on a daily basis.

But, some people absolutely can!

If you find yourself not sure what to put in some sections, though, don’t worry about it–better to skip a prompt than make your journal feel like work instead of fun.

Bullet Journal

A classic bullet journal like this makes a fantastic travel journal idea!

In addition to writing, consider including drawings, hand-drawn maps, charts, and more.

Standard Notebook

You don’t need anything fancy to keep a beautiful, memorable travel journal!

Anything from a simple composition notebook to the back of a receipt will do in a pinch, and I would never recommend putting off writing because you don’t have the “perfect” vessel to store your memories in.

If you’re looking for a fairly standard, lined notebook that is durable without including much formatting to get in the way of your creativity, though, I love these notebooks .

I’ve owned them in various colors and designs for years, going out of my way to replace my old ones with the same brand when they get full.

Buy one on the road!

While I definitely recommend keeping a travel journal from hour one (airports and train stations are great places to write!), there’s also something special about buying a diary on the road.

If you find a journal you love while you’re traveling, consider picking it up and journaling there from then on.

On Your Computer or Phone

I’ll admit, I’m very biased toward analog travel diary ideas–it’s just my style!

But if you prefer typing to writing, or you just don’t want the hassle of carrying a physical journal on the road, you can easily keep a detailed travel journal on your phone or laptop!

Evernote is a fantastic app for journaling on your phone, though a basic Notes app works fine too.

A Word document or Google Doc can work as well.

Alternatively, you can type and send emails to yourself and store them in a certain folder in your inbox!

There is no wrong way to keep a travel journal–whatever works for you, is more than fine.

That being said, based on my personal experience of keeping travel journals over the years, here’s my best advice for preserving your memories!

Try to write as often as possible.

Here’s the sad truth: you will forget much of your vacation.

Even if you remember the basics such as where you went, what you did, and who you were with, the passing years will steal the sensory details from your memory, jumble the order of events, and soften the edges of your stories, making it hard to recapture the emotions of your travel experience.

While some of that is the inevitable result of living a full, exciting life packed with beautiful memories, a travel journal can absolutely help preserve those experiences for you for decades to come.

The period of time that I was worst at keeping a travel journal– the first year of our full-time travels –is also the one where memories have faded the most.

It’s my #1 travel regret that I didn’t keep a detailed travel journal that year!

Imperfection is better than procrastination.

Don’t have time to write pages and pages?

Can’t find the right words to capture exactly how you felt seeing the Eiffel Tower for the first time?

Don’t worry about it: a couple of sentences jotted down that afternoon while waiting for your coffee to arrive will capture your emotions far better than waiting weeks to find the right words.

Write what you can’t see.

Photographs and videos can do a lot to preserve visual and even auditory memory–but they can’t capture scents, or the feeling of the humidity lingering in the air, or how soft the dog you stopped to pet was, or the expression on the waiter’s face as you managed to order lunch in a language that you barely speak.

These kinds of recollections, paired with photos and videos, are invaluable for helping place you back in that moment of travel, even years after it has passed.

You don’t have to be a “good” writer.

Forget the English essays of your youth: whether you consider yourself a skilled writer or not, you can absolutely keep the world’s most perfect travel journal for yourself.

Because travel journaling is nothing but a conversation with your memory, and you know exactly how to talk to yourself!

It doesn’t matter if you wouldn’t want to publish it as a memoir or that other people wouldn’t understand what you’re trying to say, because you’re the only audience!

Trust me, as a professional writer of sorts, the things that I write publicly–even in more personal blog posts like this –are not nearly as unguarded as the conversations I have with myself when preserving my own travel memories.

Don’t edit yourself.

This goes somewhat with what I wrote about being a “good” writer, but it’s a solid tip for travel journaling even if you’re a very confident one.

Each of us sees the world in a completely unique way and will use entirely different experiences and criteria to jog our memories.

If none of the travel journal prompts in this blog post speak to you, ignore them.

Write about literally anything you like–anything that speaks to how you experienced your day.

The uniqueness of how we each see the world is never more obvious to me than when I compare the things that Jeremy writes in his travel journal to what I write in mine–many times, we each remember things that the other person didn’t even notice!

Save more than words.

Ticket stubs, brochures, boarding passes, postcards, even foreign currency–anything small and tactile that you can tuck into your travel journal is a fantastic addition.

If you print out any photos along the way or purchase any of the cheesy-but-fun souvenir photos for sale around the world, those can be great components of a travel diary, too.

Full maps are often too big to save in a traditional travel journal, but you can save them separately–or cut out your favorite section(s) and place them in your journal!

Sadly, the ink on receipts tends to fade within a couple of years, but you can try storing a few memorable ones for a while as well.

Depending on your travel journaling style and how much you collect, you may want to tape these extra items to individual pages or keep them tucked into a separate pouch (cheap and fun cloth zip pouches can be found at souvenir markets across the world–maybe you can buy one along the way!).

For something more fun than basic tape, buy a few souvenir stickers along the way and use those to secure your mementos to the page!

Avoid spiral notebooks.

If you want a very inexpensive place to save your memories, opt for a composition notebook over a spiral one–trust me.

Between the spirals being pulled out of place from being moved around so much during your adventures to the fact that they’ll scratch up anything they’re stored near (like your laptop, for example), they’re just not worth the trouble.

I learned this lesson the hard way and will never use a spiral notebook (without a cover, that is) for anything while traveling again!

Always keep your travel journal in your carry-on.

I’ll admit, I’ve broken this rule before, but it’s terrifying checking your travel journal–especially when, like my current one, it contains years worth of irreplaceable memories.

Much better to keep careful watch over it in your carry-on/hand luggage!

Wondering what exactly to write down in your travel diary?

These travel journal writing prompts will get you started!

Choose any of these travel journal topic examples from below and expand upon it in detail, and before you know it, you’ll find yourself jotting down details of memories that would otherwise be lost to time.

As always, the point of travel writing prompts like this isn’t to limit what you write–it’s to provide a jumping-off point.

If you find yourself veering off in a different direction after a few sentences, just roll with it!

What did you do today that you’ve never done before?

Make a list of everything you bought today, from food items to metro tickets.

Describe the most memorable person you interacted with today.

What was your favorite thing you ate today?

What new thing did you learn today? How did you learn it?

Describe your morning routine in detail: what was different from home?

What was your most memorable form of transport today?

What animals did you see or interact with today?

What was the weather like? How did it impact your day?

What were you wearing today? How did it impact your day?

Did you use any words in a language you don’t speak today? What were they?

What’s the big news where you are right now? Is it the same as at home?

What’s the funniest thing that happened today?

What’s the most memorable thing that you physically touched today?

What did you eat for breakfast?

Look up, and describe everything that you see in detail.

If you took a tour: describe your tour guide, including their name!

What did you do today that you didn’t expect to do before your trip?

What’s an interesting story or legend from your destination?

Describe your route from where you’re staying to your first destination of the day.

What’s your favorite word to say in the language of your destination?

What was your least favorite moment of the day?

What was the most surprising thing you saw today?

What interesting conversation did you overhear today?

None of these travel journal ideas or prompts speak to you?

Have something different in mind?

There’s no wrong way to keep a travel diary–whatever feels right when you’re on the road, that’s the best travel journal for you.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

1 thought on “33 Terrific Travel Journal Ideas, Tips + Prompts!”

Thanks for posting this up , this is a very informative article surely.

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40 Creative Travel Journal Ideas & Writing Prompts to Save Your Best Travel Memories

Last Updated on January 17, 2024 by Michela

It’s so easy to let our travel photos get buried in our camera roll or to say “I’ll remember this night forever” and forget the details that made it so special just a few months later. That’s where keeping a travel journal becomes such an important part of your trip! These travel journal ideas & writing prompts will make you fall in love with trips all over again and keep your favorite memories alive.

Travel journaling is therapeutic, fun, and provokes self-reflection and creativity. While we travel, we can be pretty busy – exploring different places, sleeping on planes, meeting new people. But just because you’re busy during your trip doesn’t mean you can’t keep a travel journal!

Keeping a travel journal is even more rewarding when you can make it personal with mementos (and other travel journal ideas I’m sharing below!)

And if you’re just here for the prompts, you can jump to the bottom of the post or download the free ‘Where She Goes’ Travel Journal Prompts list from The Travel Library .

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Let’s get into everything there is to know about travel journaling and the creative ways you can go about your trip memory-keeping.

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All About Travel Journaling: What It Is, How To Do It, & Should You Keep A Travel Journal?

Keeping a travel journal is simply about recording memories from a trip. You can even keep track of and plan future trips in a travel journal (which I, as someone in love with lists, do often!)

There’s no one way to journal about travels. You could write during or after your trip, keep a travel bullet journal, track you running bucket list, save travel tips for your next trip – the important thing is to be creative and reflective!

Travel journaling is an amazing tool to see how travel has influenced us to grow as a person, from conquering fears to gaining self-confidence.

It can be used to beat the lonely times of solo travel or try to escape the post-trip blues by reliving those memories just made.

While we travel, there are so many highs, lows, emotions, funny moments and more that we say we will never forget. But to really never forget them, we have to reflect on them and document them! That’s where keeping a travel journal comes in handy.

The Best Travel Journals

There are lots of different options for travel journals. You could use a plain basic notebook or write in a travel diary with printed prompts and exercises. So, how do you know which one to choose?

The truth is, you can go through a lot of travel journals. Maybe you’ll get the chance to experience multiple different kinds! If you are naturally more creative, choose a mostly blank travel journal to which you can add personal touches.

If you struggle with what to write about, opt for journals with prompts built into them (or scroll down to the prompts below and download the list!)

Two travel journals that are both cute and interactive are the Wander Always Journal and the Page A Day Journal . These have prompts and activities within them, so there’s a bit less room for creativity. But, it also makes the process easier and faster with these bonuses.

Another travel journal that is perfect for those wanting a more sleek and clean look is the WNDRD Trip Planning Journal . As it says in the name, you can use this notebook for journaling and for trip planning with the specially printed planner pages.

Travel journals can also be great sentimental gifts for friends and family (or for yourself – I won’t tell!)

Travel Journal Apps

Everything has an app these days, right? Travel journaling can even be done on your phone! Some apps for travel journaling include:

• Travel Diaries

There’s also a sweet app called Journi, where you can create photo albums with diary entries and track your trip on a map. Then you can print or share these mini albums! You can group your photos while traveling or after so that they are easy to find. This way won’t be lost in your camera roll!

Creative Travel Journal Ideas

If you want to do more than just write in your travel journal, then there are many ways to make it special and personalized!

These unique travel journal ideas are meant to get you thinking about how to make your love for travel or the travels themselves come alive.

Look for inspiration everywhere. Maybe you have a ton of extra coins lying around from your trip to Italy . Or you saved those flowers you picked near the coast of France and they are now dried. These can all be accessories used to bring your travel memories back to life in your journal!

Photo Pocket

The first travel journal idea is to add a photo pocket to the back or front of your journal. This is a super simple way to create a little storage of your photos without having to spend time doing a complete album!

Simply take a piece of cardstock or stiff paper and cut it into a rectangle large enough to hold your photos. You can even create a scoop like mind so they peek out.

Then add adhesive to the bottom and sides and attach it to wherever there is a sturdy spot on your journal. Voila, you have a place to put all those photos instead of letting them get buried in your phone!

Scrapbook Layout

While the first idea to making your travel journal more creative was a simple way to include photos in your journal, this version takes a bit more time and creativity.

In your travel journal, you can either leave space on the pages as you write or write and layout photos at the same time to create a commemorative mini travel scrapbook.

You’ll need small adhesive, scissors, and some creative juices flowing to transform blank pages into something beautiful.

Decorating your travel journal is another way to give it more personality and bring out the fun of your trips.

You can opt for inexpensive sheets of stickers or find specific decals you fall in love with to tell the story of your trip!

Good places to buy unique stickers and decals are Etsy , Amazon , and Society6 .

Here are some of my favorites for an aesthetic travel journal cover and pages!

• Go Travel Decal
• Trip Planning Stickers
• Vintage Vinyl Stickers
• Gold & Black Aesthetic Travel Stickers

Add Your Own Art

Take the design of your travel journal to the next level by channeling your inner artist. Use paint to decorate the outside. Doodle your favorite places on the pages or the cover to bring you back to a place.

Whatever artistic addition you can make to your travel journal, the more personal to and reflective of you it will be.

Preserving Tickets, Passes, & Other Mundane Mementos

One of the best travel journal ideas is to preserve all of the extra bits from your trip – things like train tickets, museum passes, and local maps – to add to your writing entries.

They may seem useless after your trip, but these tokens of your travels are the real elements that bring your memories to life. Seeing a word can help you imagine a place, but physically touching your metro pass or gallery ticket takes you right back to the moment you used it.

Tape these small papers to page corners, stuff them in the photo pocket, or even use them as little bookmarks to organize your journal.

Choose Something to Collect

Make your travel journal completely unique by sticking with a theme. This idea for travel journals will take some time to execute throughout your travels, but it can be a special way to remember each place you’ve been to.

Whether it is stamps, postcards, or boarding passes, build up a consistent collection of them from wherever you travel.

Then when it comes time to assemble your journal, you have a cute consistent theme and a visually appealing diary to document every place you have been.

Travel Journal Prompts for Reflection & Memory-Keeping

Travel journal prompts are ways to combat writer’s block and inspire creativity. To make these prompts easier to reference, you can download the free printable of ‘Where She Goes’ Travel Journal Prompts from The Travel Library, where you’ll also have access to resources like my girl’s packing list and Lightroom photo presets.

The Journey

• What was the journey like to be here? What happened on the way to your destination?
• Did you learn anything new on the journey?
• Who did you meet while traveling to this place?
• What was your favorite part of the journey?
• Did you reach here by car, plane, train?
• Was it a long journey? How did you feel once you reached your destination?
• What songs did you listen to on the way that take you back to this trip?

The Destination

• Describe your current surroundings.
• How does this place make you feel?
• Why did you want to be here? Did you want to be here?
• What surprised you most about this place?
• Who are you traveling with?
• What have you learned about this place since arriving?
• What’s a funny story you would tell your friend about this trip?
• Where did you explore off-the-beaten-path?
• Did you try any unique foods?
• How would you describe this place to a friend or family member?
• Name one thing you never want to forget about this place.
• What is a memory you’ll cherish forever from this trip?
• Did you enjoy your trip? If not, why?
• What did you learn about yourself after visiting this place?
• What could have gone better?
• How do you feel after leaving? Would you return?
• Name three things you are grateful for from this trip.
• Describe your favorite photo from this trip.

General Memory-Keeping

• Write about the first travel memory that comes to mind.
• Doodle a monument or favorite place you have visited that made you want to pinch yourself.
• Describe your first travel experience. What were you feeling? Scared? Excited? Anxious?
• Make a list of all the people you’ve met while traveling.
• What’s one thing you would change about travel?
• What’s one thing you want to do better while traveling?
• Where’s your favorite place to travel with family? Describe it in vivid detail.
• Describe a place you’ve visited through using all five senses.
• If you could choose one place you’ve been to stay forever, which one would it be?

Final Tips for Travel Journaling

Hopefully with all these travel journal ideas and writing prompts, you feel more comfortable and excited to document your travels! Here are some extra tips to make travel journaling work for you:

• Keep your travel journal with you as you are on the go. This may seem obvious, but when you think about it, we don’t want to pause our day to go write about what’s happening that very second. Instead, have your journal with you to doodle your surroundings or write down specific feelings you have at the moment. You can elaborate later!
• Write down keywords to escape writer’s block. If you have trouble getting started, jot down a few words that come to mind when you are looking at a prompt. Often when writing, we get overwhelmed by what the finished product should look like that we can’t even start! Start as small as keywords and as your ideas come in the writing will flow.
• Use every sense for details. An easy way to get more creative and describe a moment well is to think about it from the perspective of all five senses you experienced with. What sounds did you hear, things do you see, flavors did you taste?

Let me know what you think of these travel journal ideas, prompts, & tips with a comment!

Save this guide to Pinterest for later reference!

The more memories we make, the more important it is to jot them down so we have them forever. Tell me if you’re excited about travel journaling like me!

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and time-saving quick itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

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52 Travel Journal Prompts That Will Inspire You

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52 Creative Travel Journal Prompts

Are wondering what to write in a travel journal? Here are 52 travel journal prompts to inspire you!

I used to keep SUPER detailed travel journals, which are great to look back on, but time-consuming to actually keep up with. Now I make shorter bullet-point lists at the end of every day when I’m traveling, and make notes on my phone throughout the day to capture my thoughts.

No matter how you decide to document your trip, you will be glad you did it! It’s so fun to be able to look back on your memories and re-live your memories.

You also never know who else will enjoy your travel journals one day… I loved reading my grandmother’s travel journals decades later and I’m so glad I have them!

So here are 52 travel journal ideas to get your creativity flowing.

Related:  15 Creative Travel Bullet Journal Ideas

Best Travel Journals

While you can use any notebook for travel journaling (or even use your phone!) there are a lot of cool dedicated travel journals/planners out there which I love!

Here are two great options for travel planners that also have a lot of space for journaling:

This Erin Condren travel planner is small and easily fits in your purse, but contains tons of pages for planning AND journaling! Document every aspect of your trip with this travel journal.

This spiral-bound travel planner and journal is another great option for both keeping the details of your trip organized, and journaling all your travel memories as you go. 

If you’re just looking for a blank notebook to use as a travel journal, you can’t go wrong with a classic Moleskine notebook which is what I personally use for my travels!

And without further ado, here are the 52 travel journal prompts for you to use!

Pre-Trip Travel Journal Prompts

Before your trip and even on the way to your destination, writing about these travel journal prompts will allow you to document your anticipation for your adventure.

• What are you most excited about?
• Is there anything you are nervous or worried about?
• Why did you choose this particular destination?
• How much did you pack for this trip?
• What is the first thing you’ll do when you arrive?
• What’s on the itinerary for your trip?
• Have you had any pre-trip disasters?
• What are some interesting facts about your destination?
• How are you feeling on the way there?

Journal Prompts While Traveling

Capture your feelings and experiences while traveling forever with these journal prompts to be answered during your trip. I recommend setting aside a small amount of time every morning or evening to write about your day while it’s still fresh on your mind! 

• What were your first impressions of your destination?
• How did you feel when you first arrived?
• Was anything different from how you expected it to be?
• Make a list of what you did today..
• What has surprised you so far?
• What were the highlights of today?
• What about the lowlights of today?
• Is there anything you’re missing from home?
• What’s a conversation you overheard today?
• How do you feel about where you’re staying?
• What was the best thing you ate today?
• Did anything go wrong today?
• Make a list of the scents, sounds, and sights you experience.
• What have you learned about your destination?
• Did anything funny happen today?
• What are you reading/listening to?
• What emotions are you currently feeling?

Post-Trip Travel Journal Prompts

Reflect on your trip and share your memories with these post-travel journal ideas.

• Would you visit this destination again?
• What would you change if you could re-do your trip?
• What are some lessons you learned from your trip?
• Did you have any travel disasters?
• What were the funniest moments from your trip?
• What was the best meal you ate on your trip?
• Did you bring home any souvenirs?
• What were your favorite things about the destination?
• What are some things you wish you had packed?
• Did you feel let down by anything?
• Make a list of the best and worst moments from your trip.
• What is one thing you wish you had gotten to do but didn’t?
• What is one thing you did but wish you hadn’t?
• How do you feel about being home?

General Travel Journal Prompts

Even when you aren’t traveling, you can always write about past trips, or dream about future trips! Here are some general travel prompts to get your creativity flowing.

• What’s on your travel bucket list?
• What are your favorite travel memories?
• Make a list of the best and worst trips you’ve ever taken.
• Who are the most interesting people you’ve met while traveling?
• What is one time you got lost while traveling?
• If money was no concern, where would you go?
• What is a time you went out of your comfort zone while traveling?
• What are the funniest travel moments you’ve had?
• What is the most beautiful place you’ve ever been?
• Are there any places you have no interest in traveling to?
• What are the best meals you’ve ever had while traveling?
• What are the best and worst places you’ve stayed while traveling?

Related: 37 January Bullet Journal Ideas to Inspire You

More Ways to Document Your Travels

These are the best travel journal prompts to inspire your creativity!

In addition to keeping a travel journal, you might also consider starting a travel blog to document your travels. (You can even make money from travel blogging!)

I have a whole series on starting a travel blog, which you can navigate through below:

• How to Start a Travel Blog for Beginners
• Travel Blog Names: How to Choose One + Ideas
• How to Make Money with a Travel Blog
• 6 Best WordPress Themes for Travel Blogs
• 50 Travel Blog Post Ideas
• Travel Blog Income Report Roundup

Hopefully you found these travel journal prompts helpful. Happy travels! 🙂

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About Denise Cruz

Denise is a marketing executive who escaped corporate to travel the world… twice. A Brazilian native living in the U.S., she’s lived in 4 countries and visited 35+ others. After side-hustling her way to financial independence, she curates solo destination guides, slow travel tips, and travel blogging advice on Wander Her Way. When she’s not on the road, you can find her in Miami with her dog Finnegan.

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100 Travel Journal Ideas & Prompts For Any Adventure

There’s nothing like traveling somewhere new and experiencing once-in-a-lifetime moments. You can never have enough travel journal ideas to help stretch out those moments a little further, to make them last a little longer.

One way we can remember those moments is with a pen and a journal. Having lots of travel journal prompts is a great way to make sure you can relive your favorite memories you’ve made while traveling. 

Here are 100 travel journal ideas and prompts for any adventure.

We’ve taught you how to create a travel journal , but the list for creating and writing in these little books of paper goes on and on. Whether you want to draw, collage, write, use bullets, or simply write from prompts. There are so many ways to keep a travel journal.

First things first, check out a paper journal or a digital journal app, like Journo.

Journals like the Quintessential ‘North Star’ Travel Journal , the Personalized Boarding Pass Journal , and The World is a Book’ Travel Journal are great options for starting your first travel journal.

If you’re looking for something more digital-friendly, download the Journo app . Create your own story with Journo – From classic journal writing to travel maps, and photo books, you’ll be able to document your adventures, print your journals, publish your travels online, and much more.

We give you the tools you need to immediately start writing your own amazing story!

Determine when you want to create your travel journal. 

Do you want to write out prompts before your trip starts? While you are traveling and exploring new places? Or after you come home?

Travel journals are created by you and for you, so you can decide when and where to start creating the perfect journal for you.

Determine the overall layout and aesthetic of the journal.

Before we get to writing, take a look at different creative ideas of physically crafting your journal on Tumblr and Pinterest. Some people turn theirs into a sketchbook of each place they visit, then add more as they go along.

Will you add art? Will it strictly be journal entries or prompts? 

Consider making it a bullet journal, or parts of it. 

Bullets and lists are a great way to remember your favorite things about a place or a road trip. But they are also great for writing down before you leave – list things you want to see, experiences you want to have, locals you want to meet.

The opportunities for lists and bullets are endless! You can craft your trip around lists too. Do you want to learn about a new place through their coffee shops? Bars? Parks? Public transportation? I vow to explore London through it’s coffee or tea shops. What’s on your bucket list bullet list?

Be prepared to decoupage.

Decoupage? That sounds like a fancy term, and it is. But this is your journal, so it can be whatever you want it to be! Tape in receipts, notes, and all the little pieces of papers that end up in your carry-on. Include brochures, maps, tickets, and draw sketches too. Make it look pretty, or not. It’s yours! 

Create a photography challenge or photography bingo. 

This is a fun way to ensure you see all you want to and take pics of all the fun things at your travel destination. Simple create a bingo board in your journal, and then list things in the boxes that you’d like to have pictures of.

This can include landmarks, sights, street food , nature, textures, flowers, sunset, ‘in my bag’, and so many other fun ideas. A great way to get creative in your travel journal!

Psst! If you’re using a digital journal like Journal, you can add these photos right onto the app whenever you take them. 

Now it’s time to start writing. 

Here are 100 writing prompts to get you started: 

General writing prompts.

Write a postcard to a friend or family member from a place you’ll never forget.

You’re traveling around the world in 180 days, what will you bring?

You’re going on a 5-country tour of Europe: What do you eat?

Write a letter home to your best friend describing what you miss about home.

Taking a cruise with your best friend, but when you arrive at the ship you find it’s a senior citizen cruise. Describe your first day.

Your flight is cancelled and you are stuck in the airport for 34 hours. Write about your time at the airport.

How can you feed your sense of adventure, without leaving home?

What’s more important, the journey or the destination?

How has travel changed your life?

What is one event around the world you would love to attend? Why? 

If you were a tourist in your own city for a day, what would you do? 

If you could go on a trip with anyone, dead or alive, who would you go with and where?

Share a time when you got lost while traveling. 

What fear have you overcome while traveling?

Write a review of the best hotel, hostel , or Airbnb you’ve ever stayed in.

Write about a hike or outdoor experience you enjoyed – using all five senses.

If you were to write a travel memoir, what would the first chapter be?

Think of the most beautiful place you’ve ever been to. Describe it using all five senses.

Think back to an interesting conversation you’ve had while traveling and begin your story with that dialogue.

What do you think is the biggest misconception about travel? 

What is the biggest lesson that travel has taught you?

Choose a trip you haven’t written about yet. Choose a different time period, and write about the trip as if it happened in that time period.

Visit a beautiful beach. A message in a bottle washes up onto the shore. What does it say? 

Imagine you had an extra day on a trip you loved. What would you do?

Write a letter of gratitude to someone who showed you an act of kindness while traveling.

Write about a trip with multiple destinations, from the perspective of your backpack.

What is one thing you’ve learned from a local while traveling? 

Write about a road trip you went on, from the perspective of someone or something else (maybe your car, wallet, side mirror, etc.).

Remember a time when you met people while traveling that felt like family. 

Have you gotten out of any sticky situations on the road? Tell us! 

If you could change anything about any of your trips, what would it be and why? 

What languages do you speak?

What countries and places around the world fascinate you?

What is your next adventure? 

Have you fallen in love while traveling? Talk about how you met and how your love progressed. 

What have you explored locally or regionally in your home country that has made you feel adventurous? 

Where would you go to learn more about your ancestors? Is it a dream trip? 

What is one destination that you will never forget?

What is one destination you could permanently move to? 

Where do you get your sense of wanderlust from? 

What’s the weirdest food you’ve tried around the world?

Would you rather see a bunch of cities in one trip for a shorter amount of time or spend more time in each city, and visit fewer? Why?

Have you visited any of the Wonders of the World?

Have you visited any UNESCO World Heritage sites? Which do you want to visit?

Have you visited any sites lived in or frequented by your favorite musicians? Or celebrities?

If you could speak, write, and read one additional language to your own, which would it be? Why?

What is the best local fast food you’ve had in a foreign country?

Do you prefer to travel alone? Or in a group? 

Which literary city would you love to visit? Why? 

What’s your favorite travel show? Why?

Prompts before you go

What is on your bucket list at this destination? 

What have you enjoyed about planning this trip the most? 

Why did you choose this itinerary?

What are your expectations of this destination or experience?

What are you most excited about? Why?

Are there any local delicacies you can’t wait to try? 

What is something new you want to try at this destination?

What souvenir do you want to bring home? And for whom?

What do you want to learn on this adventure?

What have you researched about this destination already? 

Is this a solo trip or are you traveling with friends or family?

Are you hoping to relax or go on adventures on this trip? 

What do you know about this destination? 

Give yourself a piece of advice before you leave on the trip. 

Prompts while you’re there

What was your first impression of your destination? What did you see, hear, smell first?

Draw a local landmark. 

Describe your hotel lobby/room or Airbnb residence.

What did you experience today that you enjoyed? Even the small things…

What was the worst thing that happened today?

Did anything make you smile, laugh, or cry? 

Did you try something new? 

What has been a total surprise about this destination? 

What are the cultural differences between your culture and theirs?

Which traditions would you like to adopt? 

Describe how people dress for work and play.

What meal can you eat again and again? 

How do the people here spend their time on the weekends?

What emotions have you felt during this trip?

Are there any current events at your destination that are affecting you?

How did an experience, person or place make you feel today?

Have you met any locals? Describe them.

Did you learn any new words or phrases today? How did you learn them? 

Sketch a moment you want to remember.

Describe an everyday activity you observed. 

Have any of your perceptions or opinions changed?

What will you miss when you return home?

Have you tried a local beer or wine yet?

Prompts after you’ve left

Overall, would you visit again? 

Would you change anything about the way you visited – the accommodations, the transportation, activities, etc.?

What was your favorite meal? 

What was your favorite tour or activity?

What were the highlights of your trip?

Did this adventure help you grow?

Where do you want to go next and why? 

What is one thing you wish you would’ve done?

Recall something funny that happened on this trip.

Were there any trip disasters?

Describe your favorite day or evening on this trip.

How did you feel when you arrived home? 

What’s one piece of advice you would give someone else going on this trip? 

Now that you’ve seen our list, what do you think? Leave us a comment below! 

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Travel Journal Ideas, Tips and 75 Brilliant Prompts

One of the best souvenirs from your travels may just be a travel journal of your experiences that YOU create: the people you encountered, the places you visited, the beaches you loved, and the mishaps you faced along the way.

Keep the memories alive long after the suntan fades and the jet lag has passed.

Discover why keeping a diary of your travels is a must for your next trip and get some inspiration with the best travel journal ideas, tips and prompts.

Bonus * 75 travel journal prompts to get your creative juices flowing!

Table of Contents

What is a Travel Journal?

As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This page may contain affiliate links. I would love your support through clicking on the links. Read the full disclosure here.

A travel journal is more than simply writing down what you did on a trip. 

A travel journal is a place for reflection on the vacations you take and the adventures you experience; it may include the new foods you try, the people you meet along the way, and the memories you hope to keep alive.

Travel journal ideas may include:

• Your travel preparation and research
• Your day-to-day travel diary as you explore
• Keepsakes you collect along the way

I believe a travel journal is one the essentials of travel: before, during and after your trip. 

Why Keep a Journal?

I have been journaling my personal and family history diligently for well over 40 years and the information, memories, and experiences are a treasure. I am anticipating the future when my grandchildren read for the first time what their moms (my daughters) were like at their age.

This post shares reasons why you need to “just start” journaling —specifically your travels—with the hope that you’ll discover journaling is a hobby you love whether you are on the road or at home.

If you put a little time and effort into personalized journals—travel or otherwise—you will create something you can look back on and treasure long after your adventures have ended. 

The Wall Street Journal touts the benefits of journaling as: “One of the more effective acts of self-care is also, happily, one of the cheapest.” Whether you want to create a journal of your life or journal your travels, my best piece of advice is to JUST START .

To relate a wise Chinese Proverb , “The best time to plant a tree [or start a journal] was twenty years ago. The next best time is now.”  

In all of my efforts to journal life on my family blog for the past 20+ years, I have always kept notes as we traveled as a family.

These travel notes have become a superb reference for my website: simplyjolayne.com .

When I travel, I record details and destinations, mishaps and memories all along the way that I can then use to create travel posts with detailed supplemental information .

I always carry a travel journal with me.

How Can You Start Creating Your Own Travel Journal?

1. determine the medium: pen & paper or digital.

You have options here. If you choose to use pen and paper, find a notebook or travel journal . Some people just prefer the feel and creativity of pen and paper.

If you plan to keep a digital journal, find a note-taking app (ie., Evernote, OneNote, Noteshelf, Google Docs) that works best for you.

2. Make a Plan to Write the Same Time Everyday

You may find that if you don’t record the day-to-day happenings as you travel, you begin to mix up days and locations or forget insightful moments ( or maybe that is just me! )

So, whether you are exploring the dreamy villages outside of Florence , planning to paraglide from Mt. Pilatus in Switzerland , or snorkeling with black tip sharks in Tahiti , you won’t forget any amazing moments.

This is the easiest way to remember places you visit, people you meet, brilliant ideas, funny moments that happen along the way, mishaps, favorite destinations and day trips, and interesting tidbits of information.

Once you do begin to journal your travels, pulling the information together into a meaningful blog post, family letter, or digital travelogue once you return home is so much easier!

Make it a habit to write in your journal at the same time everyday.

3. Include the Day, Date and Location

Before I even leave on vacation, I start a page in my travel journal and number it with the number of days our family will be on vacation. I then add the day of the week, the date, and our location. For example:

• Day 1 Thursday, August 10 London
• Day 2 Friday, August 11 London
• Day 3 Saturday, August 12 Train to Paris
• Day 4 Sunday, August 13 Disneyland Paris
• Day 5 Monday, August 14 Normandy

You get the idea. It just makes a quick reference guide as I keep travel notes throughout our travels.

4. Develop Your Observational Skills

Learn to be observant and descriptive.

5. Send Yourself Quick Travel Notes or Messages

I often text myself quick travel notes as a reminder of funny things that happen during our travels, cool things we see, or places we visit. This just helps me to not forget something that I want to include in my travel journal.

6. Take Pictures as Reminders Too!

Snap a picture of a cafe where you have lunch (be sure to include the name of the restaurant in your photo), the spelling of the name of a town you visit, where you stay, a train you take, etc. so that you have it for your records.

I take these pictures to remember our stops throughout the day and then to make sure that I spell names correctly when I begin to journal. These pictures aren’t usually my best efforts, just a record.

Pictures also give you a day-to-day guide in chronological order of where you went and what you saw.

7.Keep Memorabilia

I often bring home pamphlets, tickets, maps, etc. to remind me of our adventures. My girls love to keep the tickets and other memorabilia for their shadow boxes.

What to Write in Your Travel Notes?

If you are at a loss for what to write and need travel journal ideas and prompts, these are some great points to get you started and maybe keep you motivated to continue writing.

Travel Journal Ideas: Planning Your Trip

• Packing list
• Travel bucket list
• Important things to remember
• Bookings for hotel, air travel, ground transportation
• Research on excursions, adventures and tours
• Foreign words and phrases to remember

Travel Journal Ideas: During Your Trip

• Actual costs
• Tickets, maps, brochures
• Quick sketches
• Daily itinerary of the places you visit, famous sites, food you eat, etc.

Travel Journal Ideas: After Your Trip

• Final budget
• Things you would do differently
• Ideas for your next trip
• Updates to your bucket list

Creative Travel Journal Ideas: How to Share and Display Your Travels

Discover reasons why you need to just start journaling as well as ideas on what to write in a travel journal.

Journaling is not only a great way to keep a record with corresponding and related photos, but it is also a fantastic medium to share your experiences and family pictures with grandparents, family members, and friends… many who may live far away.

I recognize that not everyone is a writer but I hope that you will be inspired to begin keeping your own personal travel record in a way that best reflects your talents and personality . 

So, how can YOU begin?

Start a Blog

If you dream of creating a website dedicated to travel (or parenting or recipes or whatever) these are the steps where you should begin:

• Step 1: The Best Way to Pick Your Niche and Choose a Domain
• Step 2: The Best Way to Choose a Hosting Plan and a Provider
• Step 3: The Best Way to Create Your Website

A blog is a fantastic medium for journaling travel (and life) experiences and beginning to share itineraries, tips, and practical advice with would-be travelers.

Others can learn from YOU as you share travel journal ideas.

If you only want to create a personal, diary-style blog to share with family and friends, you could do this at wordpress.com or blogger.com .

I started on Blogger for my personal blog and found it easy as a newbie to use and personalize.

Create Social Media Accounts to Share Your Travel Adventures, Tips, and Research

If you choose to create a website to journal your travels, be sure to claim your website name on social media accounts (even if you don’t know if you will use them yet).

• Instagram – Share your pictures with family and friends; begin to create a following to grow your brand. Learn some of the  Best Selfie Poses  for awesome shots.
• YouTube – Upload to your YouTube channel (set to private if you wish), and you have a virtual album of your trip you can watch on the big screen or send to Grandma.

Claim your name any social media account where you will also want to share about AND journal your travels.

Create a Travel # (Hashtag) to Document Your Travel

If you don’t plan to create a website and don’t really want to create a separate Instagram account where you can journal your travels, you can also create a #hashtag specific to your travel, ie., #simplyjolaynetravels

Use hashtags “#” on Instagram to make it easier for family, friends, followers, or potential customers to find your Instagram feed and “follow you”.

The hashtags on Instagram are usually a combination of words, numbers or emojis preceded by the # symbol (no spacing) to provide a category for content and make your photos easier to discover.

Do you ever wonder why people use so many hashtags on their posts (you can use up to 30 per post)? It is to try and get more people to see their posts. More people viewing your posts means more followers and hopefully more people visiting your website.

Collect Memorabilia or Souvenirs

Do you like to collect? For awhile, my girls were collecting sweatshirts when we traveled to foreign cities. They would say, “You can never have too many sweatshirts,” but hmmmm, I think you can.

How about stamps, Christmas ornaments , t-shirts, or postcards? Train stubs, airline tickets, museum entrance tickets, journal sketches, and coin rubbings all make a unique way to journal your travels throughout the world as well.

Create Scrapbooks

Are you an avid scrapbooker? I was always too busy blogging to add one more medium to my efforts to journal my travels with scrapbooks, but many of my friends love the scrapbooks they have created over the years.

You will want to collect and save memorabilia from your trip such as ticket stubs, vouchers, a napkin, postcards, and receipts. And the hardcopy scrapbooks will give you a great excuse to print your photos and then to look back through the pages.

Make a Photo Book

I love to create photo books online. I make one every year for my family as a reminder of all of the fun we had, to recap our momentous occasions, and to highlight the places we visited.

You could make books for each of your travel destinations as a way to journal your travels. If you have never made one, I think you would be surprised to find just how quick and easy they are to make.

75 Travel Journal Prompts

Need some ideas to help as you journal your travels or travel journal questions? Writer’s block is real.

You may just need to pick one of these ideas to get you started or keep the ideas at hand to help you recall events and moments from your day.

I even ask my family what their favorite moments are from the day. Your traveling companions can be great in helping you remember or in bouncing ideas off of them.

• What are your recommendations for your next trip?
• Why did you choose this particular destination?
• What are you looking forward to the most?
• What are your transportation and flight details?
• What are your accommodations with address and contact information?
• Did you plan tours (with contact information)?
• Are there food tours that you would like to try?
• What is your itinerary for this trip?
• How long will your flight be?
• Is there anything that worries you about this trip?
• Are there significant cultural customs to respect?
• Do you have any day trips planned ?
• Have you had any pre-trip setbacks?
• What are some of the basic words to know: thank you, please, hello, goodbye?
• What destinations are on your travel bucket list ?
• Do you have favorite childhood travel memories and places you want to visit?
• If money wasn’t an issue, where would you go?
• What advice and tips have you read about in your research?
• Did you create a playlist for this trip?
• Is this a relaxing trip or go go go with lots of sightseeing?

Be descriptive. While a picture often says a thousand words, adding your impressions of the sights, sounds, and smells offers an added dimension.

• What puts you out of your comfort zone while traveling?
• Describe the funniest travel moments you have had.
• What is the most beautiful beach you’ve ever been?
• What is your favorite European country to visit?
• Name the most picturesque city, town, or village that you have visited?
• Have you ever visited Christmas markets?
• Are there any places you just don’t want to visit?
• What are your favorite meals or treats to splurge on money-wise and calorie-wise?
• What are the best and worst accommodations you’ve stayed in while traveling?
• What was the weather like? Did it impact your day?
• What are the sights, sounds and smells that you will remember the most?
• Did you have gelato today?
• What was the first thing that caught your attention when you arrived at your destination?
• Describe where you are in right now using as many of your senses as you can.
• Sketch a famous landmark in your travel journal.

I recommend that you set aside some time at the end of the day to update your notes each day of your vacation. It makes it so much easier to journal your travels and remember what you did, where you went, and the funny or crazy things that happened.

Here are 20 questions to consider as you document your travels:

• What are your first impressions of your travel destination?
• Are you suffering from jet lag?
• What has surprised you so far?
• Did anything unfortunate, embarrassing, funny, or eventful happen today?
• What did you forget to pack?
• Do you like your accommodations?
• Did you get lost?
• What was your favorite meal today?
• How will you  prioritize your health  while you are traveling?
• What can you do for self-care while on the trip?
• Is there one thing that you never travel without ?
• What was the most amazing thing you did today?
• Did anything embarrassing happen today?
• What made you laugh today? Did anything make you cry?
• What is the biggest challenge about the city you are visiting?
• Did anything go wrong today? What happened?
• How is this place similar or different from home?
• Are there any current events that are impacting your trip?
• How are you feeling—relaxed, happy, tired and stressed?
• How many steps/miles did you walk today? 

As you arrive home and begin to journal your travels, what are some of your thoughts, ideas, and reflections about your trip?

• How did you hear about this destination?
• What advice would you share with others ?
• Is this a trip you would take again or was once enough?
• What would you do differently?
• What would you pack differently?
• What would you add to your packing list ?
• Did you have any travel mishaps?
• What were the humorous moments from your trip?
• How long did it take you to get over the jet lag?
• Did you buy any souvenirs?
• Are you excited by the pictures you took?
• Did you meet someone new?
• What would you recommend to others about this destination?
• Are you glad to be home? Are you ready to go again?
• What do you miss the most from home?
• Is there a tourist spot you wish you had visited?
• What is the best trip you have ever taken?
• Is there a local tradition that you would like to try once you get home?
• What are you favorite foods from this country?
• What did you love/not love about your accommodations?

Travel Journal Gear

As much as I love to travel I also LOVE to take pictures.

As a traveler AND a photographer, I can often be found with my  Canon 6d Mark II  around my neck and my iPhone in my hand as I hike, sightsee, and travel. I don’t want to miss a single picturesque moment!

Tip: Change the time stamp on your camera when you arrive at your destination so that it is the local time. Don’t forget to change it back when you return home.

I have been focusing a lot on how to journal your travels, but there are a myriad of ideas for creative ways to also journal your life:

• Keep a Gratitude Journal
• Record your Yearly Goals
• Create a Calendar of Your Family Photos
• Keep a Personal Journal in a Book
• Create an Instagram Account
• Print Your Photos and Hang Them in Your House
• Create an Online Private Journal
• Respond to Journal Prompts to Create a Personal History
• Use a Sketchbook
• Write Letters to Yourself, Your Children, Others
• Use a Daily Planner
• Create a Recipe Book of Your Family’s Favorite Recipes

It doesn’t have to be complicated to journal your way to a happier YOU !

• Make a Bullet Journal
• Record your Health Journey
• Design a Yearly Vision Board
• Create a Book or File of Your Favorite Quotes
• Write About Your Family Traditions
• Create a Book on the Advice You Would Give to Your Adult Children
• Write Down the Funny Things Your Children Say
• Make Note of the Books and Movies That You Love
• Create a Playlist of Songs
• Write a List of Fun Facts About You and Keep Adding to It
• Write Lists of Fun Facts About Your Family Members

Check out my Ultimate Travel Planner , Travel Journal , Gratitude Journal , and the Reflections Daily Journal . They are great for getting started.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a shadow box frame.

A shadow box frame is a display case (often hung on the wall) with an open space between the glass and photo. A shadow box adds a 3-dimensional frame that lets you showcase photos, mementos, keepsakes, and other cherished items from your travel adventures.

Can a travel journal be filled with pictures?

Definitely. Showcase your favorite photos and memories.

Why keep a journal (of any kind)?

I have kept a personal family journal since 1999. The blog , as we affectionately refer to it in our family, and the blog books which my husband has printed for me over the years, are a treasure. My youngest daughter, Kristen, pours over those books, often reading about the years before she joined our family. It is funny to us when she says, “Do you remember when…” and then references a time before she was even born. They are a treasure and are filled with memories and moments and mishaps.

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Final Thoughts on Travel Journal Ideas, Tips and 75 Brilliant Prompts

If these lists seem overwhelming, just pick one idea and start there. That’s what makes keeping a travel journal so ridiculously easy. Pick what works the best for you! The time you take to make a record of your travels or your life in a meaningful way will make an impact.

Just start. You’ll be glad you did.

You may also enjoy these articles…

• Coolest Gift Ideas for Travelers (That They Actually Want!)
• Inspiring Instagram Captions for Travel and Life
• 15+ FREE Gorgeous Photos: Wallpaper for Your iPhone to Inspire Travel
• Travel Photos: 12 Creative Ways to Actually Share and Display Them
• Tips to Take Better Travel Photos (and Look Good in Them Too!)

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I’m a Colorado-based travel blogger with a passion for exploring the world, enjoying family time, and taking fantastic photographs. I am also a book writing, creative thinking, detail loving, frequent flying, comfort loving mom of three girls and wife to an amazing guy.

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72 comments.

An oldschool handwrittem journal is useful for every aspect of life, it is just not for the lazy people. And I absolutely agree that there is such a thing as too many souvenirs. In my case it’s magnets, but you have only so much metal surface. 1 fridge.

For some, it is simply easier to have a journal to pick up and take with them.

Photography was always my “thing.” But sometimes being behind the camera can mean missing out in the moment. I think travel journaling might be the perfect substitution. It helps create memories while keeping you in the moment.

I know what you mean. I have to jump into some photos just to prove I was there.

Thanks for sharing this! Actually, I always capture every moment and place it in a journal. Hayyy, missing traveling ..

I loved reading about having a travel journal. As time goes on, it is so easy to forget the names of places you have been. I’m so glad I have kept travel journals from as far back as college. Almost 20 years – how could I remember everything! hehe

I love your recommendations and I love how you create a digital photo album every year of your family’s activities and travels. Great idea. I often forget how much I do and how many places I visit and exhibitions I see. It is only when I look back at ALL the photos that I am quickly reminded of how abundant my life is.

All such great ideas on ways to keep track of travel through journaling! I love having a blog as it is detailed in reminding me of my travels plus lots of photos to bring back those memories. I also enjoy creating photo books of trips!

Lots of fantastic ideas about journaling and remembering our travels! So many great prompts too! One of the most thoughtful gifts I have ever received was from my younger sister. As an adult, she copied her journal entries about me that she had written while we were growing up. It was pretty incredible all of the sweet things she shared. Journals are priceless and you have written a really useful article about them. Thanks!

What an amazing gift to receive. Not only was it thoughtful but it took her time to put it all together.

Great advice! My first big travelling experience our professor required us to journal our experience, and now I always try to make an effort to do it! They’re so nice to have in hindsight

Someday you will appreciate them even more.

I love journaling (old school writing pen to paper) so I never really made the connection that my blog and social media accounts are also forms of journaling. Love the journaling prompts…great resource!

The good news if you are a journaler is that you already have a lot of information for writing posts.

I LOVE my travel journal. It always helps me remember fun trips from eons ago.

Exactly. I transfer a lot to my personal blog and my girls love going back and reading about our adventures together.

So many good ideas for journaling! I don’t have a travel journal, but I think I will start one!

Check out my travel journal on Amazon!

I am definitely going to look into these travel journals. So often I just go off of memory, but I know it would be better if I would write down my adventures as they happen.

I would forget so much if I didn’t write it down.

The prompts are great!

Great ideas here! I used to write a bit in my journal while I was travelling, but I decided it was easier for me to write a blog. It’s fun to record your travels in words!

I keep notes as I travel and then on the long flight home, I start creating blog posts.

This is such a comprehensive list of journaling ideas. I always forget things when I’m travelling like where I ate a great meal or those little discoveries I made by accident. Thanks so much for sharing!

Those are the details I try to remember. Comes in handy for travel blogging.

What a great idea! Outside of blogging, I had not considered journaling, but it seems like a great time to start. Thanks for the inspiration 🙂

Well, blogging is pretty much journaling.

These are such good ideas! I used to work for a photo processing company so have tons of photobook of my trips. I use to have a small notebook with me during my travels whenever since I was gifted with a Polaroid, I started journaling.

Photos and journals are great for keeping the memories alive.

Thanks for the inspiration. I have been doing this without realising I was doing it! But your post will help me refine my journal.

Makes for a great reference when blogging too.

I do journaling about my regular life as well as my travels. The latter it´s more like a diary! But I love your prompts and will keep them in mind for my next journey!

Good ideas! Despite a digital lifestyle, I still keep a travel notebook for quick prompts.

Me too. I jot quick notes as I travel each day so that I when I return home I can create a post of my travels.

I would never remember all the amazing experiences from our travels if I didn’t take daily notes and pictures.

Definitely helps when creating travel posts.

These are such great ideas. Love the prompts you gave!

I love the idea of writing down what you’d recommend to others. It’s a good way to discover what the highlights of the trips were for you.

These are some great tips for travel journaling! I’ve tried keeping a journey during my travels but I always end up to busy to write things down. It is funny though because I’d never really considered my blog as my travel journal but I guess it is! Thanks for sharing these tips!

I am so bad at journaling, and I need to change that! I use to journal anytime we did a trip or had a baby. It’s so fun to look back through. I definitely need to get a journal and start again!

In addition to my blog I’ve just started keeping a physical travel journal with photos, notes and little tickets from my trips. It’s been so fun so far and such a great thing to look back on to remember my trips!

Great post, full of ideas for your journal. I was journalling without knowing. I have always kept photos and written about my trips.

I journaled for all of my early travel life. It was really the inspiration that made me start my travel blog. I must admit that I still have separate written journals for my experiences as a private pilot and also for our scuba diving. The one thing I miss with blogging is the deeply personal things that really don’t make it into the blog but did into my journals. Some great tips for things to think about writing. 

All great suggestions. I never considered creating a photo book (I’ve been old school using photo albums), but I’d be willing to try it.

They are so nice to have and fit compactly on a shelf too.

I have been keeping travel journals for the past 12 years. It is a great way to remember details. I also find it to be a great creative outlet. I love your list of prompts.

Thanks. And if you are a travel writer, it helps so much in writing for your blog.

This post was so helpful! I cannot count the times I was writing about something happened years before and not being able to remember the details! I will make sure to always take notes while traveling to have reference!

Yay for creating a journaling believer!

I definitely need to be better about taking notes while traveling. Its definitely hard to remember all the details without taking some notes.

I keep a small notebook with me but am not the best at writing in it on trips. I’m usually driving or too tired at the end of the day to write much! LOL Would love to be more organized though!

I keep a notebook too. I find that if I don’t take the time, I just forget all of the amazing little things from when I had thought to myself, “Oh, I need to remember that.”

I’m a huge proponent of journaling travels and just your life in general, but I hadn’t really considered all of the ways to document your experiences without using a journal itself like using Instagram! Thanks for sharing

One thing that my family and I do is grab a keychain of the state/country we visited. We have a nice little collection.

I love writing about our travels and my husband loves taking photos to capture the moments. Either way I agree its a great idea to document and keep these. Thanks for sharing!

Perfect combination. I do both, but with phone cameras, everyone in the family can get into the picture taking moments.

I love journaling my travel journeys, and then going back years later to read what I wrote and it brings back happy memories for me.

Journaling and pictures keeps the memories alive (and maybe more accurate in the retelling).

Love this! I love revisiting my travel experiences and keeping a journal is a great way to allow myself to do that! Thanks for the great tips!

Great read!

I am another old-fashioned traveler, and use a physical journal during my travels (and stationary life, too). I love photography but I find it “steals away” from my writing (journal, poetry, narratives) — and also, I prefer to travel unencumbered by things that are too expensive to have break or get stolen.

I’m sure your journals are a treasure.

Love this! I’ve been journaling since I was around 11-12 and started documenting my travels on my blog a few years back. It’s been fun looking back on those memories. :]

Not to mention my journals have been an invaluable resource in starting a travel blog.

Never thought of journalling my travels but that’s such a good idea. I often forget names of places I’ve visited when I return home, think I’ll do this on my next trip!

I love the idea of journaling about your travels. I had never thought of it, but I love the idea. Thanks for opening my eyes!

This is fantastic! One of the most comprehensive posts on Journaling I have read.

Great ideas to journal in so many different ways! Very creative!

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Traveling Party of Four

The ultimate list of thoughtful travel journal prompts from a to z.

• January 6, 2020
• Family Travel
• 54 Comments
• by Jenny Bhatia

Are you ready to rock your travel journal? I have over fifty travel journal prompts and ideas, literally from A to Z, plus eleven bonus tips on getting started. And a comprehensive list of thought-provoking questions to get the creative juices flowing.

📌 Pin It For Your Traveling Friends 📌.

Affiliate Disclosure: There are affiliate links throughout this post. This means if you click on a link and purchase a product through that link, then I will receive a small commission for the referral. And that is kinda cool.

Travel is picking up again, at last. What are your vacation plans? Start writing now.

Even a quick weekender is a good enough reason to document your thoughts and experiences in your travel journal.

If you need a little help with travel journal ideas, or maybe a buzzword for inspiration, I am here for you today with a FREE printable of over fifty travel journal prompts from the planning stage to post-vacation, and even from A to Z.

Sign up below and I will send it to you ASAP.

What is a travel journal?

A travel journal is a collection of your adventures, starting with the  planning stage  of your holiday. 

Travel journaling starts when you are deciding on where to go on your next vacation. If you know me at all, you are aware that I love the planning process of a vacation.

Researching different destinations, activities, food, figuring out how to get there, where to stay, how to get around. The anticipation of traveling the world is so exciting, and these days (2021) means even more.

The planning stage excites me almost as much as the travel experience itself.

So, where do you want to go? What do you want to do? Eat? Drink?

How do you plan on getting there and where do you wish to stay?

Go grab your journal and start writing.

We will travel the world someday, but for now, we can research and plan and dream.

Your travel journal is yours. There are no rules to follow; just write what you think. And if you are artsy in any way, sketch it out. Your experiences are unique to you, so your journal should follow.

AND you don’t have to hike Mount Everest, visit the Taj Majal, or bike down a volcano in Maui to justify creating a travel journal. Go on a local hike, a weekender out of town, kayaking in the springs, or visiting family.

It is your travel journal; you do you.

Reasons to Keep a Travel Journal.

• For journaling your experiences while they are fresh on your mind. You don’t want to miss important details.
• Document what you learn while in a new place.
• Reflect on your adventure daily.
• Keep track of what you want to do next, so you don’t miss anything.
• Create a “soft” Itinerary because, with family travel, itineraries are ever-changing.
• My favorite reason is so you can keep reading your travel journal for years to come and reminisce about the happiness and excitement you felt while traveling.

Tips to Rock Your Travel Journal.

1) Decide what type of journal you want to keep.

I am old school. I love to write by hand and have everything in front of me, so I use a journal I can write in, one that has a folder to keep things in, and has daily prompts for me to follow. It is not super elaborate, but it is beautiful. I will leave a link below with my favorite journals (I have tried a few).

2) Start during the travel planning stage.

Plan your flights, accommodations, car rental, scheduled tours, and dinner reservations. Also, write down all of the activities and sights that you don’t want to miss while traveling. Create your “soft” itinerary and keep it in your travel journal.

3) Journal every day.

Write in your journal every day to keep the momentum going. Don’t forget to date your entries. Lie down in bed after the family is settled in for the night and write what you did, what you saw, how it made you feel.

How did the bakery smell? How did the veggies and fresh fish at the market look? If you bought food from the market, how did you prepare it, and how did it taste? Was the view from the top of the mountain as fantastic as you dreamed? Was it worth the hour hike to that waterfall in the rainforest? Were the people kind to you?

Another tip to get that entry in every day is to bring your journal with you wherever you go. You never know when you will have some downtime to document your experience — waiting in line at the theatre, restaurant, attraction, or just some time to sit in a lounge chair facing the ocean and reflect.

4) Write down what you learned.

Make it a point to learn something new every day, and write it in your journal. What did you learn about the culture, the food, the geography, the people, the traffic? And what did you learn about yourself?

5) Illustrate.

If you are artistic, or even if you are not, use this opportunity to sketch your views, in addition to writing, OR in place of writing.

6) Stash your memorabilia.

Keep receipts, boarding passes, postcards, business cards, brochures, tickets stubs in the folder in the back of the journal. My journal has a pocket to stash all of these goodies safely.

7) Make it fun.

Your daily entry does not have to be a dissertation. It can be something quick, a sentence, a paragraph or two. Don’t make it a chore. Keep it light and fun.

8) Engage in all of your senses.

How did the local brew taste? How did the sun feel on your face? And the smell of the salty air. It’s not all about what you get to see while traveling, it’s how it made you feel. So don’t forget to document the feels.

9) Involve the kids.

Did they say or do anything funny? Ask them what their favorite activity of the day was and include their point of view in your journal. Or better yet, get them a journal and teach them how to use it.

10) Gratitude.

Always end the day with gratitude. You have had an adventure with people you love in a beautiful destination. Life is good. Write down what you are grateful for in that moment.

11) Continue to journal after the trip is over.

On the flight home, or when you get home, continue to write about your adventure. Look at your uploaded pictures, paste a hard copy into your journal. Remember when I said to write down the expectations of your journey? Now is the time to share in your travel diary if your expectations were met, how and why?

Include how you thought the food would be vs. how it actually was.

Document your favorite experience of the trip. And if you have one, your least favorite experience.

Use this time to put the finishing touches on your journal and make it look pretty, but only if you want to.

Travel Journal Ideas to Get You Started.

Pre-travel journal prompts..

• Where are you going and why?
• How are you getting there and where are you staying?
• Your inspiration in choosing this particular destination?
• What do you expect to find when you arrive?
• List your plans for activities?
• Your reading list? Playlist? Podcast list?
• Create a packing list for you and your family.
• Construct a “soft” daily itinerary.

Travel Journal Ideas During Vacation.

• What was your first impression?
• A favorite moment of the day.
• Write about the people, the markets, the drivers and the traffic.
• Favorite activity, food, and drink.
• Is there a food you tried for the first time? Did you love it or hate it?
• What is different about the culture?
• What is the view from your room?
• Write about how you dressed to stay comfortable while exploring.
• Did you go shopping? See the show? Go on a hike? Snorkel?
• Did you do anything outside of your comfort zone?

Writing Prompts for When you Return Home.

• Did your travels meet your expectations or not?
• Did you experience culture shock?
• What would you do differently?
• Would you go back?
• Create a “travel guide” full of practical travel tips for your friends.
• What did you learn? About your destination? About yourself?
• Gratitude. What were you grateful for most during your vacation?
• Where are you off to next?

Random, Yet Thoughtful Travel Journal Ideas.

Post-Pandemic Travel

• How did you feel while preparing for your first big trip post-pandemic?
• Did the experience of the pandemic change the way you planned your vacation?
• Once you set off on your trip, what were your thoughts and concerns?
• What would you do differently next time you travel?
• What advice would you give to someone who is anxious about post COVID travel?

Thought-Provoking Travel Journal Prompts and Ideas.

• Who is your favorite travel companion and why?
• If you could travel with anyone in the world, who would it be? Why? And where would you go?
• Where is your favorite place to travel? Now describe precisely how this place makes you feel.
• Interview one of your kiddos about their travel feels.
• What is the most embarrassing travel moment you have ever had?  
• Have you ever been in a scary situation and made your way out?
• If money and time were not an issue, what would be your next vacation destination? And why?
• I love this one. Don’t write, but draw .

Travel Journal Prompts from A to Z.

A ~ Anticipation — How excited are you for your upcoming adventure?

B ~ Best Experience — Journal about the BEST thing that happened to you on vacation.

C ~ Culture — What was cool about your cultural experience?

D ~ Destination — Why did you choose the destination?

E ~ Expectations — Did your experience meet your expectations? Or not?

F ~ Food — What was your favorite and least favorite foods you tried?

G ~ Gratitude — What are you grateful for? Practice gratitude daily.

H ~ History — What did you learn about the history of the destination?

I ~ Itinerary — What is on your itinerary? And why?

J ~ Journal Prompts — Add a unique journal prompt every day?

K ~ Kangaroos or Koalas — Talk about the animals you met while on the road?

L ~ Locals — Did you meet any locals? What are your thoughts?

M ~ Missed from Home — Is there anything you missed from home? Or something you did NOT miss from home?

N ~ News — Fascinating news events that occurred while you were traveling.

O ~ Oatmeal — What did you put in your oatmeal? OK…O was a tough one.

P ~ Packing List — Create a packing list. What do you have to bring? And what can you leave at home?

Q ~ Question — What is your biggest questions about your destination?

R ~ Reading List — Create a reading list for travel day.

S ~ Surprising — The most surprising finding of the local culture.

T ~ Tradition — Do they have a fun or interesting tradition?

U ~ Unique Words — What were the unique words or lingo you learned?

V ~ Vino — Did you taste the local and delicious wine?

X ~ Xenophile — Are you a xenophile?

Y ~ Young — Travel is not just for the young.

Z ~ Zone — Did you step out of your comfort zone? Or cross a time zone?

For Printable Travel Journal Prompts from A to Z, sign up here.

Do you have a travel journal?

What are some of the essential things that you document on your travels?

And where are you off to next?

54 Comments on The Ultimate List Of Thoughtful Travel Journal Prompts from A to Z

Love this idea and I agree I love planning the trip just as much as going on it. I also make a list of all the activities that I’m interested in and some that we can do on a rainy day. It doesn’t mean we need to see it all but I have a direction to start when we get there.

I love that idea. Jot down things to do if it’s raining, or if you have some extra time. This can be done during the planning stage.

I love this. This would be a great thing to do together as a family on trips to remember all the fun details. Thanks for the inspiration!

Yes, and get the kids started on journaling. I bought my kids a Barcelona travel journal for our Spring Break trip. They are teens, so I am not sure how that is going to go. I keep trying.

I never thought of starting my travel journal before my trip! What a great idea to remember the entire experience and improve on it the next time.

Yes, and the planning stage is almost as fun as the trip itself.

This is a really great idea! I’m terrible with all things journaling, but I am going to try this for our next family trip!

I don’t do well with other types of journaling, but not for lack of trying. But, I keep it going with travel journals.

I need to start keeping a travel journal when we go on vacation. I finally did a great job of organizing our pictures from our summer vacation and it makes such a difference. It’s great looking back knowing exactly where we were and what we were experiencing.

And to reminisce about your adventure. I love looking back at all of my travels, it keeps the memories alive.

Love this! I’ll have to start keeping a travel journal.

Yes, you should. All of the travel you do, even those quick weekenders. I love it, as you can see.

This is brilliant! I love to journal but I’ve been so busy traveling this past year that I have barely wrote in mine. I can’t believe I hadn’t thought of using a travel journal before!

Thanks for the great idea!

You are welcome. I love it. I keep trying to get my kids involved, but they are teens and so far not happening.

Great tips and read! Everything you mentioned here is spot on. I love the planning process and I agree with you in getting the kids involved even in the planning process.

Thanks for sharing.

Agree. They definitely like to have their input in our itinerary. I bought them both a Barcelona specific travel journal for our upcoming trip, we’ll see how it goes.

Perfectly timed post. I was given a beautiful journal that has a space for a photo a day which I thought was great for mt upcoming adventure.

Yes, that is perfect. I am so excited to hear all about your adventure and see pictures.

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I always love writing but never thought of maintaining travel journals. Thank you for writing about such a beautiful idea. All the best.

Same to you. I never did much either when I was younger. It has been evolving over the years. And I love it.

A Travel Journal….. this is a great idea!! It’s almost like a bucket list for traveling!! My husband and I travel all over in our RV and I will definitely start an “RV” Travel Journal!!! Thanks, Jenny for such a fun idea!! 😍

That is a great idea. Every day, write something down about your adventure.

This is such a great idea! It literally makes my heart happy. And the funny thing is…it never even occurred to me to journal my experiences. I am going to Orange Beach this summer and am going to do this.

Yes, I have a friend who has a home in Orange Beach. It looks like a blast. Send me some pictures, and you can start journaling now.

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I love this idea. I have a bucket list journal but haven’t even thought about doing a pre travel one! Awesome suggestions.

Yes, use it for travel planning, too. And everything is right there for you in one place.

I’ve never heard about a travel journal until this post and whoa, this sounds like such a great idea! Especially involving my son in the process, i already know the first on his list would be Disney 🤣

Of course, you know they have Disney travel planners on Amazon? Super cute. And it is fun to get them started on a journal when they are young. I wish I did.

This is such a fun post! I love journaling. I can’t wait to start my own travel journal in August when I go on vacation!

You can always start now:)

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I forget to write down my travel experiences when they’re fresh in my mind, I love this idea. I definitely need to get one for my kids too, thanks for the suggestion.

Yes, my kids aren’t the best these days, but I keep trying.

Insightful, thanks for the travel journal ideas. I was not sure how to make one or even how important it would turn out to be.

Yes, try it out. It’s fun.

I love journaling, especially when I’m traveling! It’s such a great way to remember all of the little things you would otherwise forget!

Exactly, and It’s kind of stress relief at the end of a day of exploring.

Love this idea! I have a bucket list journal and I journal while on trips but the prints are amazing.

I will definitely be using them on my next trip.

Thank you. I hope you love using them. I miss traveling so much, I have been journaling about planning a road trip. I hope it happens.

Such a great idea combining my two favourite things, writing and new stationary!

I agree. I love it.

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Superb, what a website it is! This web site gives valuable information to us, keep it up.

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Travel Journal Prompts: 120 Ideas to Help You Document Your Next Trip

By: Author Valerie Forgeard

Posted on Published: September 21, 2022  - Last updated: December 26, 2023

Categories Travel , Inspiration , Writing

It’s always a good idea to keep a travel journal. It’s a way to document your trip and ensure you don’t forget it later. But it’s also a good way to remember what you saw, who you met, and how you felt.

Take a travel journal with you when you travel, and use these travel journal prompts to guide your writing:

Travel Reflections and Experiences

Preparing for travel.

• How often do you go away?
• What do you want to accomplish while you’re away?
• When was the last time you took a trip, where did you go, and why did you choose that destination?
• Did it meet your expectations? If not, how could it have been better? If so, what made the trip an enjoyable travel experience for you?
• Did this trip help bring about other changes in your life (new job, new friends, etc.)? In what way?
• What would you like to do or see on your trip?
• How do you prepare for a trip?
• How do you prefer to spend your time on the plane or train?
• What’s your favorite way to pass the time on a bus or car ride?

During the Journey

• What’s the best thing about traveling?
• What’s the most exciting thing about traveling to another country?
• What do you like to do when you travel?
• What would make this trip perfect for you?
• Do you’ve any fears about going on this trip?
• How do you feel about taking risks when traveling?
• What are your expectations for the trip?
• What would be the worst thing that could happen to you on this trip?
• How long do you plan to stay in each place you visit?
• Are there any rules or guidelines to ensure your trip is safe and fun?
• What was the first word that came to your mind when you exited the plane?

Cultural Observations and Encounters

• What interesting facts did you find out about your destination?
• How are the people different from those in your home country?
• Describe a typical day of your life here.
• Describe the weather.
• Describe the first person you met on your trip.
• Describe the people in this country (or city) compared to your home country (or country). In what ways are they different/the same? Do they seem open or closed to foreign travelers?
• What do you think of the food culture here – are there dishes that are particularly interesting (or less so)? Or the other way around – do they all seem pretty much the same to you?
• What’s something you don’t understand about people from other cultures?
• Describe a place you’ve visited that wasn’t what you expected
• Describe something you saw in nature that made you stop and wonder
• Describe a place that makes your heart happy when you think of it
• Describe the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen in person (not online)
• Describe a time when you felt safe.
• Describe a time when you were scared on a trip.

Personal Feelings and Experiences

• Do you miss home at all? If so, how do you feel about home (and why)?
• What’s one place you’d recommend visiting?
• What did you learn from a stranger on your trip?
• Did anything go wrong on your trip? If so, how did it affect your travel experience, and how did you feel about it?
• What are your favorite travel destinations?
• Who travels with you? Is it a partner, family member, or friend?
• What do you discover about your travel companion(s) as you travel together?
• Do you prefer to travel alone or with friends/family? And why?
• Do you prefer public transportation or renting a car when traveling between cities? And why?
• What makes the place you traveled to similar or different from home?
• What’s the strangest thing that happened to you on your trip?
• How would you describe this place to a friend or family member?
• What songs did you hear along the way remind you of this trip?
• When did you step out of your comfort zone on a trip?
• What are the top three things that made this trip memorable for you?
• In what ways did this trip change your life?
• What was the biggest challenge during the trip, and how did you overcome it?
• What was the most surprising thing about the trip?
• What did you find out about yourself during the trip?
• What do you wish you’d done differently on this trip?
• What would it be and why if you could return to one specific trip moment?
• What was your favorite day on this trip, and why?
• Who or what inspired you the most on this trip? Why do they inspire you so much? (This could be a person or an object).
• What activities, sights, sounds, and smells do you experience when you travel?
• Do you feel relaxed, tense, or somewhere in between?
• What would the first chapter look like if you wrote a travel memoir?
• Describe a place you’ve visited that wasn’t what you expected.
• Describe something you saw in nature that made you stop and wonder.
• Describe a place that makes your heart happy when you think of it.
• Describe the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen in person (not online).

You can use any of the travel journal prompts for your travel journal. You can choose one journal prompt or more travel writing prompts for your travel journal. The best travel journal prompts are the ones you choose for yourself.

Why You Should Keep a Travel Journal

A travel journal is a great way to record what you saw and did, your experiences, and the people you met. It’s also an excellent way to remind yourself of the times in your life that are important to you.

Writing down events in your journal helps you remember them later. When you write something down, it solidifies in your travel memory so that later, when someone asks you about your road trip or you want to relive some of those memories, you’ve all those moments fresh in your mind. And if you write down how you felt during those experiences, you can better frame things for future trips!

Keeping a journal during your trip abroad can also be helpful when you need to explain things to friends or family back home. You may not always have time to write an email explaining what happened while they were away! But if they read your journal after returning from their travels, they can understand all the details immediately.

Creative Travel Journal Ideas

Your travel journal can be anything you want it to be.

One of the best things about a travel journal is that it can be as creative as you want. For example, if you’re going on a trip and want to add something special to your journal entry , you can get some bus tickets and receipts.

You can also include business cards from hotels or restaurants. Anything that helps it feel like a natural part of your trip is excellent!

That’s not all – you can also use postcards or other souvenirs to decorate your page. If you’re feeling particularly creative, you can also draw a picture of what you saw or scribble between the lines of your letters. Don’t overdo it, though – you don’t want anything to distract you from being able to read what you’ve written! If there’s one thing we’ve learned from our travels (and from observing the journals of others), it’s that when traveling, it’s best to keep things simple!

Kids Travel Journal

When you travel with your children, they’ll probably be grateful if you get them to keep their travel diary early on. Even if they can’t write yet, they can use some of the travel journal writing prompts above and draw creative travel journal ideas instead of writing.

This way, they can record their favorite trip memories, and you’ll be amazed at how many little details they can remember compared to adults. Children are very efficient at turning a simple prompt into an excellent journal idea.

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Travel Journal: 100+ Prompts, Ideas, and Tips

• March 30, 2023

Home » Day One Blog » Travel Journal: 100+ Prompts, Ideas, and Tips

Keeping a travel journal can be an incredibly rewarding and transformative experience, whether you’re an avid traveler or someone who’s embarking on a new adventure. From documenting unforgettable memories to fostering personal growth and reflection, a travel journal can be a window into the unique journeys you take in life.

In this guide, we’ve put together an extensive list of 100 travel journal prompts, tips, and ideas to help you create a travel journal that truly captures the essence of your adventures. Get ready to explore new cultures, savor the beauty of the world around you, and create a one-of-a-kind keepsake that will forever be a reminder of your incredible experiences.

What is a Travel Journal?

A travel journal is simply a personal record of your experiences, thoughts, and feelings during your travels. Travel journaling is a wonderful way to document and reflect on your travel experiences, capturing memories of the places you visit, the people you meet, and the adventures you have.

Travel journaling can take various forms, depending on your preferences and needs. You can choose to write in a traditional notebook or sketchbook, or create a digital journal or blog. Some people use their travel journals not only to record their experiences but also to plan their trip, track expenses, and organize important information such as flight details, reservations, and contact information for locals they meet along the way.

Keeping a travel journal can be a valuable tool for reflecting on your travels, preserving memories, and sharing your experiences with others.

10 Convincing Reasons to Keep a Travel Journal

Keeping a travel journal or travel diary offers several benefits, both during the trip and long after your travels have ended. Some of the key reasons to keep a travel journal include:

1. Preserve your memories.

A travel journal helps preserve memories of your experiences, sights, and encounters that might otherwise fade with time. You can look back and reminisce about your adventures, learning from and enjoying them all over again.

2. Be more present.

When you write about your travel experiences in real-time, you tend to be more focused on the present moment. This can help you to be more present and mindful during your travels, and can also improve your memory of the trip.

3. Sharpen your observational skills.

Journaling pushes you to pay closer attention to your surroundings, which can improve your observational and descriptive abilities. This heightened awareness can lead to a more enriching travel experience.

4. Organize your thoughts and experiences.

A travel journal serves as a central location to record important information, such as trip itineraries, contact details, and to-do lists. This can help you stay organized and focused during your travels.

5. Enhance your creativity.

Writing about your experiences encourages creativity and storytelling skills. You can experiment with different writing styles, descriptions, or even drawings to capture the essence of your trip. Since traveling has links to creativity , keeping a travel journal allows you to expand these benefits in both ways.

6. Encourage self-reflection.

Traveling can be a transformative experience, and a travel journal can serve as a tool for self-reflection . Writing about your experiences can help you process your emotions, thoughts, and feelings, and gain insights into yourself and your place in the world.

7. Boost your personal growth.

Recording your thoughts, feelings, and reactions to new experiences can provide insight into your own personal growth and development. You can track how your perspectives and attitudes have evolved over time and learn more about yourself.

8. Reduce stress.

Studies have shown that even short vacations can improve stress levels , and writing in a travel journal can be therapeutic, allowing you to process your emotions and experiences in a healthy way. Travel journaling can also help you work through challenges and setbacks that may arise during your trip.

9. Create a unique keepsake.

A travel journal is a personalized souvenir that tells the story of your adventures. What you write can become a special item to share with friends and family or pass down to future generations.

10. Encourage deeper gratitude and appreciation.

Writing about your experiences while traveling can foster a deeper sense of gratitude for the opportunities and experiences you’ve had, helping you appreciate the journey and the people you’ve met along the way.

What to Write About In A Travel Journal

There are many things you can write about in a travel journal. A travel journal usually involves writing a personal record of your thoughts, feelings, and observations throughout your journey. You can also include details about the food you try, the sights you see, the cultures you encounter, and the emotions you experience.

Here are a few things to write about in a travel journal:

• Daily activities: Write about what you did each day, including any sights you saw, people you met, and activities you participated in.
• Observations: Record your observations of the places you visit, including the landscapes, architecture, and culture.
• Food and drink: Describe the local cuisine and drinks you try, and note any favorites or new discoveries.
• Thoughts and feelings: Reflect on your thoughts and feelings about your experiences, including any challenges, surprises, or moments of joy.
• Cultural insights: Document your learnings about the local culture, customs, and traditions.
• Travel tips: Share any travel tips or advice that may be useful for others planning to visit the same places.
• Accommodations: Write about your accommodations, including any interesting details or experiences you had there.
• Write about the people you meet: Describe the locals, fellow travelers, and any interesting characters you come across. Note any conversations or interactions you have with them.
• Reflect on your growth: Traveling can be a transformative experience, and writing about the ways in which you’ve grown and changed can be a powerful exercise in self-reflection.
• Budget and expenses: Keep track of your expenses and budget, including any unexpected costs or money-saving tips.
• Memorable moments: Jot down any particularly memorable moments from your trip, including those that took you by surprise or left a lasting impression on you.
• Challenges and triumphs: Write about any challenges you faced during your trip, and how you overcame them. Celebrate your triumphs, big and small, and the sense of accomplishment they brought.
• Sights, sounds, and smells: Use all your senses to describe the places you visit. Write about the sights, sounds, smells, and textures that make each destination unique
• Overall impressions: Sum up your overall impressions of each place you visit, including what you liked, what you didn’t like, and what surprised you the most.

13 Tips for Keeping a Travel Journal

Keeping a travel journal can be a great way to document your experiences and memories from your travels. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Find a travel journal that suits your needs.

When choosing a travel journal, consider not only the size and weight but also the durability of the journal. If you plan to carry it with you all the time, it’s best to choose one that can withstand wear and tear. Additionally, think about whether you want a plain notebook or one with prompts and questions to guide your writing. Some journals may have pre-designed sections for you to fill in with information about the places you visit, what you did there, and what you learned.

2. Consider a journal app with travel journal features.

Using a travel journal app like Day One is an excellent way to capture your travel experiences conveniently. You can quickly jot down notes, take pictures, and record your thoughts and feelings, even if you don’t have your physical journal with you. The app’s Map View is especially useful, as it allows you to see where you’ve been and what you’ve done in each location. Plus, if you’re traveling internationally and plan to limit your data usage, Day One will store your entries and uploads locally on your device until you connect to WiFi.

3. Decide on your travel journaling style.

When deciding on your travel journaling style, consider what you want to focus on. Do you want to describe the places you visit in detail, or do you want to focus more on your thoughts and emotions during your travels? Writing daily entries can be a great way to capture everything that happens, but if you prefer to write less frequently, consider making notes of significant events or experiences.

4. Set a journaling goal.

Setting a goal for your travel journal can give you a sense of direction and purpose while writing. Your goal could be as simple as writing in your journal every day during your trip, or more specific, such as recording a unique experience or learning something new about the culture of the places you visit. Create a list of goals before you begin your travels so you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with your journal.

5. Slow down.

When traveling, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of new sights and experiences. However, taking the time to slow down and observe your surroundings can help you appreciate the small things that you might otherwise miss. Take a moment to sit down and watch the world go by, or go for a leisurely stroll to take in your surroundings.

6. Include as many details as possible.

Include details such as the names of the places you visit, the foods you eat, and the people you meet. The more specific and detailed your writing is, the more vividly you’ll be able to recall your experiences later.

7. Use your senses.

Using your senses is a powerful way to immerse yourself in your surroundings. Try to pay attention to the smells, sounds, textures, and tastes of the places you visit. Describe the scent of a local market, the sound of a street musician, or the texture of a historic building’s walls. Using your senses to describe your experiences can help bring your travel journal to life.

8. Ask questions.

Asking questions can be an excellent way to learn more about the places you visit. Locals and tour guides can provide valuable insights into the history, culture, and traditions of the places you’re exploring. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations on things to see and do, or for tips on where to find the best local cuisine.

9. Stay in the present moment.

When you travel, it’s easy to get caught up in planning, taking photos, and checking items off your bucket list. However, it’s important to take the time to slow down and appreciate the present moment. Take a few deep breaths and focus on your senses, noticing the sights, smells, sounds, textures, and tastes around you. Take time to observe the people you meet and the interactions you have with them. Engage with the local culture and try to understand their way of life.

10. Take photos and videos.

Taking photos and videos can be a great way to capture details that you may not be able to describe in words. Use your camera or phone to snap pictures of interesting sights, people, and places. These photos and videos can provide valuable inspiration when you’re writing in your travel journal later.

11. Stay curious.

Staying curious while traveling means keeping an open mind and embracing the unknown. Try new things, explore new places, and take risks. Step outside your comfort zone and embrace the unfamiliar, whether that’s trying new foods or engaging in new activities. Keeping a sense of curiosity can inspire your writing and help you capture unique experiences that you may have otherwise missed.

12. Keep your journal safe.

Your travel journal is a precious record of your travels and experiences, whether it’s in a physical or digital format. Consider investing in a sturdy, waterproof journal or storing your journal in a plastic bag or waterproof cover to protect it from moisture. It’s also a good idea to keep your journal in a safe place when you’re not using it, such as a backpack or hotel safe. Consider making a backup copy of your digital travel journal, whether it’s on your phone, tablet, or laptop. For example, the Day One app offers secure cloud-based backups and file exports. Additionally, you can encrypt your digital journal to protect it from unauthorized access. This way, you can ensure that your journal is safe and secure, and you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your memories are protected.

13. Make it fun.

Remember that travel journaling should be an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. Use your journal as a creative outlet to express yourself and capture your unique perspective on the world. Experiment with different writing styles and formats, such as poetry, short stories, or essays. You could also include sketches, paintings, or other visual art to enhance your journal entries. And most importantly, don’t worry too much about making your writing perfect or adhering to a strict structure. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process of documenting your travels in a way that is meaningful and fulfilling to you.

20+ Travel Journaling Ideas

A travel journal is a fantastic way to capture memories, thoughts, and experiences from your trips. To get started, here are some creative travel journal ideas to help you get started with travel journaling:

1. Record your itinerary and travel plan.

Record your trip itinerary, including transportation details, accommodations, and planned activities.

2. Organize your packing list.

Create a packing list for your trip and reflect on what items were useful and which ones you could have left behind.

3. Create a bucket list.

Create a bucket list of activities or experiences you want to have during your trip, and check them off as you complete them.

4. Recap each day.

Write about your daily experiences, such as the places you visit, the people you meet, and the local cuisine you try.

5. Use journal prompts.

Using journal prompts can be a helpful way to spark creativity and reflection in your travel journal. Choose a travel journal prompt below that resonates with you and write freely without worrying too much about structure or perfection.

6. Sketch and doodle.

Illustrate your memories with drawings of the landscapes, architecture, and other interesting sights.

7. Capture quotes and phrases.

Jot down memorable quotes from locals or interesting phrases you learn in the local language.

8. Include your favorite travel photos.

Include photographs of your favorite moments, places, and experiences from your trip.

9. Collect ticket stubs and mementos.

Attach ticket stubs, maps, postcards, brochures, or other small mementos to help you remember your trip. If you prefer to go the digital route, scan items or take a photo of these items.

10. Write about your feelings.

Traveling can be an emotional experience, and writing about your feelings can be a cathartic and introspective exercise. Reflect on how the trip is making you feel and what emotions are arising.

12. Go deeper by reflecting.

Write about your personal growth and what you’ve learned during your travels. Reflect on how your travels have impacted you, whether it’s a new perspective on a cultural issue, a realization about yourself, or an enhanced sense of empathy and understanding. Think about the ways in which your travels have shaped your worldview and how you can apply these lessons to your life back home.

13. Express your gratitude.

Express gratitude for the experiences you’ve had and the people you’ve met along the way.

14. Keep a food diary.

Record the local dishes you’ve tried, including their names, ingredients, and your thoughts about them during your trip.

15. Add notes on culture and customs.

Describe the local culture, traditions, and customs that you encountered and found fascinating.

16. Write about your travel challenges.

Write about any challenges you faced during your trip and how you overcame them.

17. Include maps and routes.

Trace your travel route on a map, or draw your own maps to remember the places you’ve visited.

18. Write about the people you meet.

Traveling provides opportunities to meet new people and learn about their lives. Use your journal to document these interactions and what you’ve learned from them.

19. Use poetry and creative writing.

Use your travel experiences as inspiration for poems, short stories, or other creative writing exercises.

20. Keep track of your budget and expenses.

Document your travel expenses to help you plan better for future trips, or to help stay on track with your budget.

20. Include ratings and reviews.

Rate and review accommodations, restaurants, attractions, and other experiences to help you remember the highlights of your trip.

21. Make a travel wishlist.

Write a list of destinations you’d like to visit and why they appeal to you.

22. Plan for a post-trip recap.

After returning home, reflect on your trip as a whole, including your favorite moments, any personal growth, and what you’ll take away from your journey.

23. Print your digital travel journal.

Having a physical copy of your travel journal can provide a tangible reminder of your travels and serve as a cherished keepsake for years to come. By printing your travel journal, you can create a physical record of your adventures that you can hold in your hands and share with others. It can be a meaningful way to preserve your memories and reflect on your journey, long after your travels have ended.

50 Travel Journal Prompts to Try

Still not sure what to write about in your travel journal? Journal prompts are a great way to spark your creativity and dive deeper into your travel experiences.

These travel journal prompts are designed help you capture the essence of your trip, and encourage introspection before, during, and after your adventure. So, whether you’re exploring new cultures, savoring local cuisine, or simply taking in breathtaking landscapes, let journal prompts guide your writing, enrich your narrative, and ultimately, help you create a captivating and memorable travel journal.

Journal Prompts For Before You Leave

Preparing for a trip can be just as exciting as the trip itself. Before you head out, consider using journal prompts to help you focus your thoughts and prepare for the adventures ahead. The following travel journal prompts can help you dig deeper into your travel expectations, identify potential challenges, and set meaningful goals for your journey. By reflecting on these prompts, you can better prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for the exciting journey that lies ahead.

• What are my expectations for this trip? What do I hope to gain from it?
• What are the places I want to visit and why are they important to me?
• What am I most looking forward to experiencing on this trip?
• How do I think this trip will change me?
• What are my travel goals, both short-term and long-term?
• Can I describe my travel companions (if any) and why I chose to travel with them?
• How am I preparing for my trip (mentally, physically, logistically)?
• What are my top three fears or concerns about the trip?
• How will I react if the trip takes an unexpected turn?
• What am I most looking forward to about this trip?
• How do I plan to challenge myself during this trip?
• What role do I hope this trip will play in my personal growth and development?
• What specific moments or experiences do I hope to capture in my travel journal or through photography?
• How do I plan to stay open-minded and present during my trip? What steps can I take to cultivate this mindset?

Journal Prompts For While You’re Traveling

While traveling, it can be easy to get caught up in the excitement of the moment and forget to take time to reflect on your experiences. By using travel journal prompts to capture your thoughts and observations during your trip, you can deepen your connection to the places you visit and the people you meet. The following prompts are designed to help you stay present and engaged during your travels, and to encourage you to take a closer look at the world around you. Reflect on these travel journal prompts to create a meaningful record of your journey.

• How did I feel when I arrived at my destination? What were my first impressions?
• What was the most memorable moment of my day?
• What beautiful or interesting sight did I encounter today?
• What new foods did I try and how did they taste?
• How would I describe the atmosphere of a specific location I visited today (e.g. café, beach, market)?
• How have the locals treated me and what are my experiences interacting with them?
• What was a conversation I had with a local or fellow traveler?
• What cultural differences or similarities have I noticed during my trip?
• Can I describe a piece of art, architecture, or natural wonder that left an impression on me?
• What local tradition, festival, or event have I witnessed or participated in?
• How is my trip living up to my expectations so far?
• What were some unexpected challenges I have faced during my trip so far?
• Can I share an act of kindness I’ve experienced or observed during my trip?
• What was a moment when I felt outside my comfort zone and what did I learn from it?
• What’s a funny or embarrassing moment that has happened during my trip?
• What has been my favorite and least favorite aspects of the destination(s) so far?
• How has my perception of the world changed during my trip?
• Who is an inspiring person I’ve met on this trip and what is their story?
• What new skills or knowledge have I gained on this trip?
• If I could give advice to someone visiting the same destination(s), what would it be?

Journal Prompts For After You Arrive Home

Returning home after a journey can be bittersweet. While you may be happy to be back in familiar surroundings, it’s also common to experience a sense of loss or nostalgia for the experiences you had while traveling. These travel journal prompts can help you reflect on your journey after you’re home, so you can continue to process your experiences and keep the memories alive. The following prompts are designed to help you unpack your thoughts and feelings about your trip, to identify the ways in which it has changed you, and to set goals for future travel. By reflecting on these prompts, you can continue to grow and learn from your travel experiences long after the journey has ended.

• What will I remember most about my trip experience?
• What was the biggest highlight of the trip?
• What is a food or drink that I tried during my trip that I still think about?
• What moment from my trip challenged me in a significant way?
• What did I learn about myself during this trip?
• How has my trip influenced my perspective on life and my priorities?
• What souvenirs or momentos did I collect on this trip? What were their significance?
• What was my favorite photo of the trip? What is the story behind it?
• What was my favorite destination on my trip? Why?
• What was the most valuable lesson I learned from this trip?
• How have my travel goals changed after this trip?
• What aspects of the local culture would I like to incorporate into my daily life?
• What places would I I want to visit in the future?
• What was a place or experience that I wish I had more time to explore?
• How has my trip influenced my outlook on the world and my place in it?
• How did my trip impact my sense of identity? Did I discover anything new about myself?

Wrapping Up: Your Travel Journal Awaits Your Next Adventure

Travel journaling is a fun way to preserve your memories, foster personal growth, and enhance your travel experiences. With the travel journal tips, prompts, and ideas we’ve shared in this post, we hope you now feel well-equipped to embark on your own travel journaling journey. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to capture your adventures—the most important aspect is to embrace the process, stay curious, and allow your unique voice to shine through. So, grab your journal, explore the world, and let your creative spirit soar as you document the unforgettable moments, the hidden gems, and the personal discoveries that make each journey truly yours. Happy travels and happy journaling!

About the Author

Kristen Webb Wright is the author of three books on journaling. With a passion for writing and self-reflection, Kristen uses her experience with journaling to help others discover the benefits of documenting their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In her role at Day One, she helps to promote the power of journaling so people from all walks of life can experience the transformative power of journaling.

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138 Marvelous Travel Journal Prompts To Beautifully Record Your Adventures

Last Updated on November 29, 2023

Are you a traveler? Do you love the excitement of visiting a new place and experiencing a different culture?

If you do, then you can count yourself among the millions of others around the world who travel.

Travel within your own country or internationally opens your eyes to the beauty of other parts of our world.

It also increases our understanding of other people’s ways of life. This experience can develop greater sensitivity to others and an appreciation of the differences that make people unique.

Traveling can be a feast for the eyes. Everywhere on this earth, there are amazing vistas, incredible architecture, and stunning examples of fine art.

One of the greatest joys of traveling is sampling different foods! Every culture has special culinary dishes to delight your taste buds!

For adventure seekers and those who love to be in nature, choices abound. Grab your tent and your sleeping bag and head to any number of gorgeous parks and campgrounds.

Wherever you go, you will want to record your experiences . Journaling is the perfect way to do that!

Come with me as I explore travel journal prompts and get started on planning your next trip!

Adventurous Travel Journal Prompts

I am fortunate to live in a country where natural beauty abounds. A recent trip to the west coast revealed truly majestic and awe-inspiring beauty.

My daughter, whom I was visiting, took me on a hike through a park full of massive pines and spruce trees.

She led me down the side of a cliff, which was a bit tricky for me (I’m not as young as I used to be), but when we arrived at the base of the cliff, there was the most gorgeous reward for the hard work.

Beautiful, clear water fell over rocks, and we were surrounded by the rugged beauty of the cliffs, with trees providing their majestic beauty .

I could go on at length about the other incredible scenery we saw as we drove across the country, but suffice it to say it was mind-blowing and certainly something I’ll never forget.

I treasure my travel journal from that trip. It contains all of the marvelous scenery and special moments I shared with my daughter.

Check out the list of travel journal prompts below to help you record your adventures!

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21 Adventurous Travel Journal Prompts

1. “Exploring ________ revealed wonders all around us.”

2. “Standing beneath that massive, powerful waterfall was thrilling.”

3. “Spending time out on the water was a highlight of the journey.”

4. “If I could go back to only one destination, I think it would be ________.”

5. “The panorama had a mystical quality.”

6. “Suddenly, for the first time, I beheld a ________ in the wild.”

7. “The people of ________ were so welcoming and charming. “

8. “For unforgettable music, food, and atmosphere, ________ is the perfect spot.”

9. “The pictures of it can’t portray the immensity of ________.”

10. “Being in ________ was very different than I expected. “

11. “the desert stretched as far as the eye could see.”

12. “There’s nothing really quite like gazing out over the ocean.”

13. “The wildest public party scene I’ve ever seen was definitely in ________ (city).”

14. “Seeing such deep poverty juxtaposed to such conspicuous wealth shocked the senses.”

15. “________ is one of those areas where finding edible food becomes a major focus.”

16. “Crossing the border at ________ is its own adventure.”

17. “The whole area of ________ (region) was teeming with wildlife.”

18. “The customs of social interaction in ________ (city) required me to ________.”

19. “Hiking in the ________ mountains was an especially satisfying challenge.”

20. “There was so much to see, it was hard to decide where to start.”

21. “It was surreal staring into the gaping mouth of the cave.”

Dream Vacation Journal Prompts

A dream vacation can look different for different people.

For some, their dream vacation might be to relax and unwind at a gorgeous spa. For others, it may be mountain climbing or skydiving.

For yet others, a dream vacation might be exploring ancient ruins and visiting art galleries.

And the dream vacation of some may be all about the food!

Your idea of a dream vacation could very well look different at different stages of your life.

When we’re younger, we often want more adventure or places with exciting nightlife. As we age, we might be more interested in food or architecture.

Whatever your dream vacation is, you will want to record it. Journaling about a fabulous vacation you went on will keep those memories alive forever.

Journaling can also be helpful in planning your next trip. 

Get inspired with the dream vacation journal prompts in this list. Then make your dream a reality!

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18 Dream Vacation Journal Prompts

22. “After being away and coming home again what 5 things are you grateful for?”

23. “Have you started to think about your next trip? Where are you going and who with?”

24. “What souvenirs did you bring back? Why did you choose those particular ones?”

25. “Write about the people you met on your trip. Describe them in detail. What did they look like? How did they sound? Did you get on well with them? What did you talk about?”

26. “How did you feel when you got back home? Were you sad to leave your vacation spot? What was the best thing about being back home?”

27. “Would you recommend the trip to anyone else who was interested in going? Would you give them any advice? What would you tell them?”

28. “Who did you travel with? Describe them. Why did you decide to go travelling with them? Did they enjoy the same things as you? Did you get on well or were there any problems?”

29. “How did you feel waking up in unfamiliar surroundings? Did you feel comfortable there? Did you get homesick while you were away? What is the one thing you missed the most? Was the vacation too long, short, or just the right length?”

30. “What stories do you have from your travels? Did something funny happen? Did anything go wrong? Write them all in your journal.”

31. “Did your travelling companion keep their own travel journal? Ask them for their views? How did they feel during the trip? What were the high and low points for them?”

32. “What did you learn on your travels? Write about the places and activities you found the most interesting.”

33. “What places did you visit? Write a list and describe each one. Which one was your favourite. Include any photographs or sketches you have.”

34. “Did the trip live up to your expectations? Was there anything better than you expected it to be? Is there anything you wouldn’t do if you had the time over?”

35. “Write down all of your favourites from the trip. Favourite day, night, activity, place, music, and food.”

36. “Did you do everything that you wanted to do? If you had been given the chance to stay an extra week what would you have said? What would you have done with the extra time?”

37. “Was your destination expensive? Did you spend too much? Did you stick to a budget? If so, was it easy to stick to?”

38. “Did everything go according to plan? Did it give you the confidence to plan more trips? Did anything go wrong? How did you fix it?”

39. “How did you benefit from your time away? Do you think the trip has changed you in anyway?”

Descriptive Travel Journal Prompts For The Whole Journey

When we travel, we have the desire to record it all, every wonderful moment, but often, we are too tired to put pen to paper or get our fingers on a keypad.

The descriptive travel journal prompts in this list will help motivate you. Simply choose a prompt that speaks to you, and you’ll get the kick-start you need to get writing.

When I travel, I keep these prompts close by. I find them really helpful when I have a few minutes here and there to jot down what I’ve been doing and my reactions.

Make it part of your journey!

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44 Descriptive Travel Journal Prompts For The Whole Journey

40. “How has travel changed your life?”

41. “What is one event around the world you would love to attend? Why?”

42. “If you were a tourist in your own city for a day, what would you do?”

43. “If you could go on a trip with anyone, dead or alive, who would you go with and where?”

44. “Share a time when you got lost while traveling.”

45. “What fear have you overcome while traveling?”

46. “Write a review of the best hotel, hostel, or Airbnb you’ve ever stayed in.”

47. “Write about a hike or outdoor experience you enjoyed – using all five senses.”

48. “Remember a time when you met people while traveling that felt like family. “

49. “Have you gotten out of any sticky situations on the road? Tell us! “

50. “If you could change anything about any of your trips, what would it be and why? “

51. “What languages do you speak?”

52. “What countries and places around the world fascinate you?”

53. “What is your next adventure? “

54. “Have you fallen in love while traveling? Talk about how you met and how your love progressed. “

55. “What is something new you want to try at this destination?”

56. “What souvenir do you want to bring home? And for whom?”

57. “What do you want to learn on this adventure?”

58. “What have you researched about this destination already?”

59. “Is this a solo trip or are you traveling with friends or family?”

60. “Are you hoping to relax or go on adventures on this trip?”

61. “What do you know about this destination?”

62. “Give yourself a piece of advice before you leave on the trip.”

63. “What did you experience today that you enjoyed? Even the small things?”

64. “What was the worst thing that happened today?”

65. “Did anything make you smile, laugh, or cry?”

66. “Did you try something new?”

67. “What has been a total surprise about this destination?”

68. “What are the cultural differences between your culture and theirs?”

69. “Which traditions would you like to adopt?”

70. “Describe how people dress for work and play.”

71. “What meal can you eat again and again?”

72. “How do the people here spend their time on the weekends?”

73. “What emotions have you felt during this trip?”

74. “Are there any current events at your destination that are affecting you?”

75. “How did an experience, person or place make you feel today?”

76. “Have you met any locals? Describe them.”

77. “Did you learn any new words or phrases today? How did you learn them?”

78. “What is one thing you wish you would’ve done?”

79. “Recall something funny that happened on this trip.”

80. “Were there any trip disasters?”

81. “What’s one piece of advice you would give someone else going on this trip? “

82. “How did you feel when you arrived home?”

83. “Describe your favorite day or evening on this trip.”

Inspiring Journal Prompts

Are you wanting to journal about your travel experiences but have no idea where to start? Get inspired with this list of prompts.

These are great prompts for reflecting on your trip and can be used for planning your next trip as well.

For example, taking the time to think about the impact your trip has had on you can be impactful in itself, but you can also use those reflections to think about where you want to go next.

How has your trip changed or shaped you?

Traveling teaches us about other cultures, but it also teaches us a lot about ourselves. Things don’t always go smoothly, and we can learn about our strengths through these situations.

This prompt encourages us to think about that:

What is your greatest travel mishap or travel disaster story, and how did it end up okay in the long run?

Check out the rest of the prompts in this list and get inspired!

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18 Inspiring Journal Prompts

84. “How has your trip changed or shaped you?”

85. “How did you feel when you arrived at your destination?”

86. “Who do you think about the most while traveling and why?”

87. “What is one thing that surprised you during your trip?”

88. “If budget wasn’t an issue, where would you travel to next and why?”

89. “How did your travel make a positive impact on the world around you?”

90. “Describe one of your most memorable travel experiences using five senses.”

91. “Remember a trip when you really bonded with someone you met while traveling. Describe your shared experiences.”

92. “Share your favorite meal while traveling. Where was it? Who were you with?”

93. “What is your travel dream destination and why?”

94. “Share a travel photo that best describes the experience of traveling abroad for you.”

95. “What is a fear or travel phobia you have?”

96. “What is your greatest travel mishap or travel disaster story, and how did it end up okay in the long run?”

97. “Share a travel quote that inspires you to travel more, even after a bad experience abroad.”

98. “What was your worst accommodation and why?”

99. “When did travel become something that mattered deeply to you, and how has it impacted your life since then?”

100. “Travel makes me feel _____________.”

101. “What cultural experience did you have today?”

Journal Prompts For Creativity

Traveling to new places and experiencing a new culture can provide incredible material for creativity.

Traveling is a feast for the senses. We see, touch, hear, smell, and taste things that are new to us. We feel so alive!

Expressing our sensory response to a new experience in a creative manner is natural and can be very fulfilling and gratifying.

Read through the following list of journal prompts for creativity, and engage in writing, drawing, or other ways of creating as a means of capturing your travel experiences!

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19 Journal Prompts For Creativity

102. “Why are you traveling? What are your expectations?”

103. “Describe the scene around you right now through senses, smell, sight, touch, taste, and sound.”

104. “Sketch a local landmark or scene.”

105. “How did you feel waking up in a new place?”

106. “Write about three unique observations you noticed today?”

107. “What made you choose this destination?”

108. “What’s something new you learned today?”

109. “What are you missing about home?”

110. “What will you miss when you return home?”

111. “Reflection throughout the experience can help you grow and find insights. Try these travel journal prompts and look back on your past entries to see what conclusions you can draw and how you can use those experiences for the future.”

112. “How did you feel coming home?”

113. “What’s a problem that happened during your trip? Brainstorm solutions for your next trip or how you can help others overcome them.”

114. “What is the biggest lesson that travel has taught you?”

115. “What is something you regret not doing or trying?”

116. “What are you most grateful for about this trip?”

117. “What is your favorite memory of the entire trip?”

118. “What new experiences made you feel most outside of your comfort zone ?”

119. “What were some low points of your trip and what did you learn from them?”

120. “Where do you want to go next? Why?”

Journal Prompts To Preserve Your Travel Memories

These journal prompts are little gems that will help you keep your memories of that amazing trip to return to again and again and to share with others if you wish.

What impressed you most about your trip? Did you love the food? Was there a work of art or a building that really moved you?

Did you meet people who will have a lasting impact on your life?

The moments, the people, the food, and all the other aspects of your trip that made it so amazing should be preserved.

Look through these prompts, and you are sure to find what you need to keep the memories alive forever.

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18 Preserve Memories With Travel Journal Prompts

121. “What has been a total surprise?”

122. “Have any of your perceptions or opinions changed?”

123. “What one amazing thing did you learn today?”

124. “Where do people go in the evening?”

125. “Sketch a moment you want to remember.”

126. “Have you tried the local brew or wine or cocktail?”

127. “What are the teenagers like?”

128. “Tell what children do, with and without their parents.”

129. “Describe an everyday activity you observed: Kids going to school, traffic, etc.”

130. “Food: What was good, what was not, what will you make at home?”

131. “Draw a local landmark or scene.”

132. “Close your eyes and describe the smells and sounds.”

133. “Did anything make you smile or laugh today?”

134. “How do couples–courting or married–act?”

135. “What do the men do during the day?”

136. “Describe the scene around you right now.”

137. “What emotions have you felt during this trip?”

138. “How are the vendors at the market?”

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need to be an experienced writer to use travel journal prompts.

No, you don’t need to be an experienced writer to use travel journal prompts. These prompts are designed for travelers of all writing levels, from beginners to seasoned writers. They are meant to enhance your personal travel journaling experience.

How Often Should I Use Travel Journal Prompts During My Travels?

The frequency of using travel journal prompts is entirely up to you. You can use them daily, periodically, or whenever you feel inspired to document your experiences. There are no strict rules; it’s about what works best for you.

Can I Use Travel Journal Prompts In A Digital Format, Or Are They Meant For Physical Journals?

Travel journal prompts can be used in both physical and digital formats. You can write them in a physical journal, a note-taking app, a blog, or any other medium that suits your preferences and travel style.

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55 Travel Journal Prompts

55 travel journal prompts.

Lately, I’ve been getting back into travel journaling. I used to love to journal when I was younger, but at some point, Passport To Eden became my online travel journal and I scrapped traditional journaling.

There is nothing I love more than seeing words on a page. So for the past week, I’ve challenged myself to free write for thirty minutes each day ( first thing in the morning ) based on a series of travel journal prompts I created. And the process has been cathartic.

You don’t have to try all 55 of these travel journal prompts ( or any for that matter ). I created this list of prompts for rainy days when you feel stuck and aren’t sure what to write about.

I’ll also quickly list my journal supplies below.

P.S. You don’t need any supplies apart from a writing tool and a notebook but I’m a stationery nut so here we go .

Disclosure:   Heads up, this post contains affiliate links, which means Passport To Eden may get a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make an online purchase. Don’t feel pressured to buy anything. We still love that you’re here, reading our content (side note: we suggest getting a coffee or tea first because our blog posts tend to be long). You can read our full affiliate disclosure here to find out more.

Best Travel Journal Supplies

En-Route Travel Journal

I’m obsessed with this travel journal! I picked up a copy from Gift Horse, a small boutique in Nashville , and love it (the journal’s interior has a mix of blank pages, dotted pages, grid pages, and lined pages). There are also cute travel illustrations (some full-page) throughout, which is a cute little touch. Unfortunately, the journal isn’t available on Gift Horse’s online store but you can find it here .

Travel Stickers

All hell went loose when I discovered Etsy ( stationery addicts, beware. This website is trouble ). I have lots of cute stickers from them ( like this orange-and-blue pastel travel sticker set by Audrey Okeya ). I also have a set of printable stickers ( cute graphics that I cut out for scrapbooking ), namely everything from Eva’s store, Tralala Stickers.

I use very minimal Washi Tape in my travel journal, but there is one roll I can’t get enough of – the Wayfarer Washi Tape by Nicole from PaperGamesCo . It’s absolutely stunning and brilliantly detailed . The design is adventure-focused and it goes perfectly with any travel notebook.

Table of Contents

Reflective Travel Journal Prompts

• Why do you travel? What motivates you to travel? ( Example )
• What is the biggest lesson travel has taught you?
• What is the biggest fear travel has helped you overcome? Do you still have fears that you wish you could overcome when traveling?
• How did your worst travel experience shape you? How did your best travel experience shape you?
• What is your mindset about travel expectations? Where do your destination expectations/perceptions stem from?
• What is your biggest regret when it comes to travel?
• What is your favorite childhood travel memory? ( Example )
• Do you have a “type” when it comes to traveling? Is there a certain style of travel that you regard as your comfort zone?
• If you had unlimited travel days, how often would you travel?
• Has travel changed your values?
• What are some travel experiences you’re grateful for?

Trip Planning Travel Journal Prompts

• How do you choose your next destination? Do you pick a place that’s always been on your bucket list? Do you pick a place you feel a personal connection to?
• To what extent does social media influence your itinerary?
• Make a packing list. Cross off anything you feel isn’t essential. ( Example )
• Packing introspection exercise: sketch out your thoughts on the 10×10 capsule wardrobe challenge .
• What are your favorite resources for trip planning?
• Your luggage got lost. You’re given $300 to buy the essentials. What do you buy?
• You’re challenged to spend one month in a cold-weather country with carry-on only. What do you bring?
• Plan a staycation.

Creative Travel Journal Prompts

• It’s open mic night at a local comedy club. You’re asked to share your funniest travel experience. What do you say?
• Write a song you’d love to hear on the radio during a road trip.
• What are the most beautiful words you learned while traveling?

Travel Journal Field Notes

• What was the weather like today? Did it affect your travel plans? ( Example )
• What foods did you eat? Did you try any local cuisine? What was your first reaction to the food? ( Example )
• Describe your accommodations for the night. Where are you staying? What does your room look like? ( Example )
• Did you buy any souvenirs? What inspired your purchases?
• What transportation did you use? How did you get from one area to another?
• Rate any attractions you visited. ( Example )
• What are some facts you learned? Did they change your perception of the destination? ( Example )

Travel Journal Prompts: Character Sketches

• Describe your travel partner.
• Describe the crowd at a local cafe. How are they dressed? How are they behaving? ( Example )
• Record a conversation. ( Example )
• Did you meet anyone while traveling? Sketch them.
• Is there anyone you met who stood out to you? Why? ( Example )
• People watch in a local spot. Write down what people are doing. ( I feel like character sketching occasionally borders on creepy but I promise it’s a great writing exercise ).

Travel Journal Prompts: Landscape Sketches

• What is the most beautiful place you’ve been to? What made it beautiful?
• Pick a place. What are the sounds you hear when you recall the location?
• Describe a dish from a restaurant you’ve visited. What did it smell like? What did it taste like?
• Describe your travel experience from the perspective of an inanimate object in the area ( like a Parisian coffee cup or even the Mona Lisa ).
• Imagine you stepped back in time and took a trip with a historical figure. What did the place look like then versus now? ( Example )

Travel Journal Prompts For Inspiration

• What books inspire you to travel? ( Example )
• What movies inspire you to travel?
• What are your favorite travel quotes? ( Example )
• What are your favorite travel podcasts?
• Who are your favorite fictional travelers?

Travel Journal Prompts For Dreamers

• Money is not an object. Where would you go right now?
• Make a bucket list. ( Example )
• What fictional world would you like to step into?
• What is your dream travel job?
• If you could wake up to any view right now, what would the scene outside look like?

Save Money For Travel Prompts

• What is the most amount of money you’ve spent on a trip? Is there any way you could have saved money without sacrificing trip quality?
• Plan a budget trip.
• What are some free attractions you’ve visited in the past that you’ve absolutely loved? ( Example )
• Come up with a list of ten ways to save money for travel. ( Example )
• What are your limiting beliefs on travel and money? Cross them off and flip the way they are worded. Words have power. ( Instead of I can’t afford to travel, think I CAN save money to travel ).

Editor-In-Chief

Anshula grew up with a love of stories and places. Thirty-five states and 100 bookstores later, she's made her hobbit home in Middle Tennessee. Her Tookish side still takes over and leaves her chasing window seats, literary destinations, adventure books, sunrise coffee, and indie bookshops. She's appeared as a travel source on HuffPost, Reader's Digest, and MSN.

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Very inspiring! I really had some struggles finding good content for my next post on my traveling blog. I mean, how should you tell your readers about your travel experiences if you don’t travel recently? Now, after reading your post I’ll definitely be able to surprise my readers with some very new and creative content. Thank you so much!

Thank you Sofie! I’m glad you found it useful! I never thought of the post as a blog post ideas list. What a creative way to use the prompts! xx – Anshula

I love this and is very inspiring to get back into journaling! I’m definitely pinning this as a reminder 🙂

Thank you Cathers! I’m glad you enjoyed the post. xx – Anshula

Thank you so much! xx – Anshula

You have some very interesting prompts here. I have a 5 year journal where I write a couple of sentences, thoughts or ideas, each day of the year, repeated for 5 years. It’s a really interesting way to journal as each day you see what you were doing at the same time over previous years. It’s great looking back on the different places I was visiting and how I was feeling about things. I have gotten a bit out of the habit since Covid but your post has inspired me to get back into it. Thanks!

Hi Andrea. Sorry for the late response. Thank you so much for your comment! I think it’s amazing that you have a five-year journal (I don’t think I could ever achieve that consistency with journaling so props to you for that). I’m so glad you found you a bit of inspiration from this post. xx – Anshula

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65+ Travel Journal Prompts to Inspire Your Wanderlust

Posted on Last updated: January 22, 2024

When writing a travel story, following some travel journal prompts can be helpful to get the creative juices flowing. Here is a list with journal prompt ideas I compiled to get you started.

There are also quite a few journals you can buy that already have travel writing prompts in them. You can see all journals with prompts further down in this article.

Bucket List Journal Prompts

Travel experience writing prompts, inspirational journal prompts, holiday journal prompts, hiking journal prompts, travel journal prompts for kids, top travel journals for kids, the adventure book travel journal, clever fox travel journals, oakdene personalised travel journals, moleskine travel journal, duncan & stone travel journal, everywhere you go travel journal, promptly travel journal, axel & ash travel journals, onelinevoyage travel journal, luckies travel journal, travel without leaving home, which book to read, our favourite travel journals, our favourite travel notebook covers, travel journals for kids, discover unique travel gear & gifts.

LIST OF TRAVEL JOURNAL WRITING PROMPTS

OUR FAVOURITE TRAVEL JOURNALS WITH PROMPTS Full list at the bottom of this post! The Adventure Book ( Original , Ultimate and Europe Edition) Moleskine National Geographic Traveller’s Journal Duncan & Stone Travel Journal Compendium Everywhere You Go: Guided Travel Journal Promptly Journals X Kelli Murray Clever Fox Travel Journal Axel & Ash Life’s a Road Trip Journal Luckies Scratch Off Travelogue

• What are the Top 100 destinations you would like to visit?
• What are the destinations you would like to visit in your own country?
• What are the destinations you would like to visit in your own town/city?
• What is your ultimate travel dream?
• What are some destinations you would once like to return to?

You don’t always need to be physically on the road to enjoy the beauty of destinations from all around the world!

From vintage travel posters to beautifully displayed souvenirs and home decor items inspired by your favourite places and from travel journals and crafts to exploring world recipes, music and dance.

With our creative articles you’ll get some fresh ideas on how to bring the world closer to the comforts of your own home.

• Which amazing world dishes did you try across the globe?
• Create a “6-word story”: write down a single travel experience in just 6 words
• (When visiting a country) What is similar and what is different to home?
• What is a memorable conversation you had with a local?
• What is a memorable conversation you had with another traveller?
• Did anything go wrong on your trip? What did you learn from that?
• What were things you were grateful for on your trip?
• What is a phrase you learned in a foreign language?
• What were local people wearing in the place you visited? Draw it!
• What was the strangest transportation device on your trip?
• What was unique about the accommodation you stayed at?

• What calls you to adventure?
• What memorable insights did you have on your trip?
• What are your favourite travel quotes?
• What makes you happy on the road?
• What did you most miss from home?
• If your trip would be turned into a book or movie, what would the title be?

• What is your favourite travel playlist / song?
• What was the most useful item you’ve packed? why?
• What was the most useless item you’ve packed? why?
• Which books did you read on your holiday?
• What souvenir(s) did you bring home from the trip?
• What is a dish from your trip that you will try to recreate at home?

• Which colours stood out to you during your hike?
• What elements of landscape did you encounter (hill, rocks, waterfall, etc.)
• (if you stayed overnight) Which constellations did you spot? Can you draw them?
• Which flowers did you see? Can you draw them or can you add a pressed flower? (of course only if it’s allowed to pick flowers in the area you hiked, and there were plenty of them)
• What smells did you come across on your hike?
• Did you recognize any trees, plants or wild herbs on your hike?
• What noises did you hear on your hike?
• What did the clouds look like on your hike? Can you draw it?
• Could you recognize any bird sounds on your hike?
• Did you find any animal tracks on your hike?
• What did walking in silence do to you?
• Did you come up with any interesting thoughts or ideas during your hike?
• What were you most grateful for on your hike?
• Did you have any mental or physical challenges on your hike?
• If you had to describe your hike to someone who’s never been out in nature, what would you write?
• How did being outdoors make you feel?

• Where have you been?
• Who did you travel with?
• What were your top 3 activities? Why?
• What was your least favourite activity? Why?
• What is one weird thing you ate?
• What is one weird thing you smelled?
• What is one weird thing you saw?
• What is one weird thing you touched?
• What is one weird thing you heard?
• What kind of transportation did you ride?
• Did you make any friends? Who?
• Which stuffed animal did you bring?
• Which books did you read?
• Did you bring a souvenir home? What is it?
• Which animals did you see?
• Did you try any new food? What was it and did you like it?
• What was the funniest thing that happened on the trip?
• What is one thing you learned on your trip?
• Can you name 3 facts of the place you visited?
• Design a sticker/postcard/t-shirt of the place you visited
• Did you see any art on your trip? Can you describe/draw it?
• Would you like to visit this place again or not? Why?
• Where would you like to travel next?

Full list at the bottom of this post!

• Go!: A Kids’ Interactive Travel Diary and Journal ( RED / BLUE / YELLOW )
• Lonely Planet Kids My Travel Journal
• The Ultimate Travel Journal For Kids
• Road Trip Activities and Travel Journal for Kids
• Here I Go!: A Kid’s Travel Journal

The Travel Tester loves to review books that teach you something about yourself or the world around us.

From travel guides and stories to books about business and self-development and from cultural stories to cook books from kitchens around the world… if it looks interesting to us, we’ll test it!

No matter where you’re going, with our reviews you’ll know exactly what to read next!

TRAVEL JOURNAL WITH PROMPTS

I believe that the best travel journal with prompts is The Adventure Book by fellow Dutchie Nicole Nagelgast. These stunning and high-quality journals have a spot for every independent country in the world for you to fill, plus a bunch of cool prompts for you to do, collect, or experience while traveling.

You can get the Adventure Book in the 288-page, 8×9.5″ (20.5×24,5cm) Ultimate Traveler’s Edition , the 220-page, 4.9×7.8″ (19.7×12.5cm) Original Edition and the 200-page, 4.9×7.8″ (19.7×12.5cm) Europe Edition .

I’m also a big fan of the journals from Clever Fox. They come with prompts, stickers, checklists, a pocket, pen loop, ribbon bookmarks and elastic closure. You can choose between a 100+ page Travel Journal , Bucket List Journal and Camping Journal . They measure 5.8×8.3″ (14.7x21cm).

Oakdene Designs has a whole bunch of travel journals with prompts that you can also personalize. Check out their 80-page (40 double-sided printed) Travel Journal , Motorhome Journal , Caravan Journal , Hiking Journal , Road Bike Journal , Camping Journal and this special Wooden Adventure Journal . They measure 5.9×8.3″ (15x21cm)

Beside the general travel journal by Moleskine, they also have a 400-page traveller’s journal in collaboration with National Geographic ! This hardcover, high-quality travel diary comes in a decorative box and includes a 12 month subscription to National Geographic, 2 ribbon bookmarks, themed stickers and tabbed sections to guide your note taking. There is space for travel planning and inspiration plus pages that can be transformed into a scrapbook of your trips. It measures 5×8.25″ (12.7x21cm).

I love the aesthetic of the 100-page Duncan & Stone Travel Journal ! You can personalize this travel organizer by writing down your bucket list & special memories from 15 trips. Fill out basic details, favorite memories, & photos from each trip to remember the specifics that made the trip unforgettable. The journal is linen-bound hardcover with an embossed title. It measures 7.75×9.25″ (19.7×23.5cm).

Compendium has the 112-page Everywhere You Go: Guided Travel Journal . This guided journal holds unexpected prompts to help inspire thoughtful reflections from any travel adventure. It includes breakout spreads with uplifting quotes to help frame your thoughts and experiences, along with space for packing lists, notes, addresses, and things you want to remember. Features foil stamping on a soft cover and a ribbon marker. Printed with soy and metallic inks. It measures 5.75×8.5″ (14.6×21.6cm).

The 88-page Promptly journal is filled with custom prompts and also has plenty of space for your own additions. This minimalist notebook comes has a linen hardcover with gold embossing and comes in deep blue, powdered blue and solid grey. Some of the sections included in the journal are: a brief itinerary, memorable moments, highlights, transportation, accommodations, food, mishaps, travel companions, and a place to paste in mementoes & photos. It measures 5.5×8.25″ (14x21cm).

The beautifully designed “ Life’s a Road Trip ” and “ Swept Away by Wanderlust ” journals by Axel & Ash both feature quirky questions, fun writing prompts, ‘to-do’ notes, list pages to remember the favourites and a bucket list to fill out along the way. They measure 7.1×8.1″ (18×20.5cm).

The 72-page faux leather travel journal from OneLineVoyage on Etsy features customizable content on recycled paper, document storing space and an elastic diary band strap. This diary has pre-printed prompts that make it extra fun to fill out. It measures 6.5×8.6″ inches) (17x22cm)

The 64-page Travelogue by Luckies of London is a travel journal with notepad pages, as well as 8 miniature scratch maps, each representing different regions of the world. Simply scratch off where you’ve been! This journal also includes a checklist and travel tips. It measures 6.7×8.8″ (17×22.4cm)

Letterfolk Travel Journal

In the 48-page Trip Passport by Letterfolk, you can easily collect your travel experiences. This small, pocket-sized journal includes 20 entry pages to record details from each trip taken, as well as 8 bonus pages that include checklists, bucket lists, and other fun activities and information. Each entry page is accompanied by a blank page for notes, memories, or affixing mementos like photos or receipts and there is space to record the date, location, who you went with, first impressions, sights, wildlife and more! It measures 3.5×5.5″ (8.9x14cm) – roughly the size of a travel passport.

• The Adventure Book – Original Edition (prompts + scrapbook per country)
• The Adventure Book – Europe Edition (prompts + scrapbook per country)
• The Adventure Book – Ultimate Traveler’s Edition (prompts + scrapbook per country)
• Moleskine Passion Journal Travel (blank paper)
• Moleskine National Geographic Traveller’s Journal (tabbed sections + prompts)
• Moleskine Journey City Notebook – London (pocket)
• Moleskine Journey City Notebook – Paris (pocket)
• Moleskine Journey City Notebook – New York (pocket)
• Moleskine Journey City Notebook – Hong Kong (pocket)
• Duncan & Stone Travel Journal (prompts + scrapbook)
• Everywhere You Go: Guided Travel Journal (prompts)
• Promptly Journals X Kelli Murray (prompts + scrapbook)
• Robrasim Refillable Leather Travelers Notebook (mixed papers + pockets)
• Clever Fox Bucket List Journal (prompts + stickers)
• Clever Fox Camping Journal (prompts + stickers)
• Clever Fox Travel Journal (prompts + stickers)
• Axel & Ash Life’s a Road Trip Journal (prompts)
• Axel & Ash Swept Away by Wanderlust (prompts)
• Field Notes: National Parks Series (pocket, graph paper)
• Bookishly Travel Journals (blank pages)
• Wayfaren Travel Journal (lined paper)
• Oakdene Designs Personalised Motorhome Travel Journal (prompts + scrapbook)
• Oakdene Designs Personalised Travel Journal (prompts + scrapbook)
• Oakdene Designs Personalised Caravan Travel Journal (prompts + scrapbook)
• Oakdene Designs Personalised Wooden Journal (lined pages)
• Oakdene Designs Personalised Hiking Journal (prompts + scrapbook)
• Oakdene Designs Personalised Road Bike Journal (prompts)
• Oakdene Designs Personalised Wooden Adventure Journal (prompts + scrapbook)
• Oakdene Designs Personalised Camping Journal (prompts + scrapbook)
• CamperVanStore Bamboo Travel Journal (lined paper + pen)
• Personalized Monogrammed Leather Travel Journal (blank pages)
• OneLineVoyage Faux Leather Travel Journal (prompts)
• Luckies Scratch Off Travelogue (prompts + scratch maps)
• Letterfolk Trip Passport (pocket + prompts)
• Galen Leather – Leuchtturm1917 Notebook Covers
• Galen Leather – Moleskine Covers
• Galen Leather – Field Notes Covers
• Galen Leather – Traveler’s Notebook Covers
• I Was Here: A Travel Journal for the Curious Minded
• Go!: A Kids’ Interactive Travel Diary and Journal – RED
• Go!: A Kids’ Interactive Travel Diary and Journal – BLUE
• Go!: A Kids’ Interactive Travel Diary and Journal – YELLOW
• Kids’ Travel Specialty Journal
• Lonely Planet Kids The Travel Activity Book
• Travel Journal for Kids

GET YOUR JOURNALING SUPPLIES

Compile your own travel journal kit with these items:

• colouring pencils
• felt tip pens (love these from Stabilo and Paper Mate )
• pens (love this Fisher space pen , the PILOT Rolling Ball Gel Pens and the Stabilo sensor pens )
• highlighters
• sharpie markers and pens
• hole puncher
• cutting mat
• glue stick / glue roller
• stamps ( wooden travel stamps or silicone travel stamps )
• stickers (for example: travel sticker set , planner stickers , world landmark stickers , passport stamp stickers , US state stickers , travel around the world stickers , US national park stickers , outdoor stickers )
• magnetic page markers
• origami paper
• scrapbook paper
• pressed flowers
• pressed leaves
• scrapbook feathers
• polaroids ( fujifilm instax mini camera, film and printer here )
• digital printables ( travel stationary and country flags )
• project life album
• project life pocket pages ( type 1 / type 2 )
• project life lined cards
• more project life items

In The Travel Tester shop, you will find our favourite travel products and original gift ideas.

Whether you’re looking for the best travel gear, gadgets, electronics, packing solutions, clothing, shoes, travel books, health- or beauty products… we’ve made a personal selection for you!

We’ve also included our favourite tech items used to create this blog, as well as material that can help you in your self-development, such as interesting books and courses.

75 Travel Journal Prompts To Inspire Your Next Adventure

• April 16, 2023

Travel journaling is a great way to document your adventures and preserve your memories. However, it can be challenging to come up with new and creative ideas for journal entries. That’s where travel journal prompts come in.  In this blog post, I will share with you 75 travel journal prompts to help you get started on your travel journal. These prompts provide inspiration and guidance for what to write about in your travel journal .

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a novice, travel journal prompts can help you capture your experiences in a meaningful way. They can help you reflect on your trip, record your thoughts and feelings, and document the sights, sounds, and smells of your destination. From simple prompts like “what did you eat today?” to more thought-provoking questions like “what did you learn about yourself on this trip?”, there are endless possibilities for travel journal prompts.

By using travel journal prompts, you can create a unique and personalized travel journal that captures the essence of your trip. Whether you’re looking to document your travels for yourself or share them with others, travel journal prompts can help you create a meaningful and lasting record of your adventures. So the next time you’re on the road, consider using travel journal prompts to help you document your journey.

What is a Travel Journal?

A travel journal is a personal record that captures the experiences, thoughts, and feelings of a traveler during their trip. It is a place where one can document their journey, including the places they visited, the people they met, the food they ate, and the adventures they had.

How to Write a Travel Journal

There are various ways to write a travel journal , depending on one’s preference and style. Some travelers prefer to write their journals in a traditional notebook or diary, while others use digital tools such as blogs or apps. Regardless of the medium, a travel journal should capture the essence of the trip and provide a record of the traveler’s experiences.

When writing a travel journal , it is essential to be descriptive and detailed. One should describe the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the places they visit, as well as their emotions and thoughts. It is also helpful to include practical information such as the dates of the trip, the names of the places visited, and the people met.

How to Use Travel Journal Prompts

Travel journal prompts are questions or prompts that help travelers to write about their experiences. They can be used to spark creativity, overcome writer’s block, or provide structure to the journal.

When using travel journal prompts, it is essential to choose prompts that are relevant to the trip and personal interests . For example, if the trip involves visiting historical sites, a prompt could be to write about the most interesting historical fact learned during the trip.

It is also helpful to use a mix of prompts, including those that are specific to the trip and those that are more general. This helps to provide a well-rounded journal that captures the essence of the trip.

75 Travel journal prompts

Here are 75 travel journal prompts to help you get started on your travel journal:

• Reflect on your reasons for choosing your current destination.
• Describe your first impressions upon arriving.
• What expectations do you have for this trip?
• List the smells, sounds, and sights you’re experiencing.
• Write about the most interesting person you’ve met so far.
• What has surprised you about this location?
• Document the local cuisine: what have you tried, and what did you think?
• How does the weather affect your mood and activities?
• Describe the best conversation you’ve had on your trip.
• Write a letter to yourself about what you hope to gain from this journey.
• Compare and contrast this place with your hometown.
• What are the local customs or traditions you’ve observed?
• How do you feel when you try to communicate in a different language?
• Describe a moment when you felt out of your comfort zone.
• What is the most beautiful thing you’ve seen today?
• Write about a moment of kindness you experienced or witnessed.
• How has your perspective changed since beginning your travels?
• What are the challenges you’ve faced so far?
• Draw or describe a street scene that captured your attention.
• Write about a historical site you visited and how it made you feel.
• How do you manage homesickness while traveling?
• What have you learned about yourself through your travels?
• Describe the most challenging hike or physical activity you’ve done.
• What local art or music have you discovered?
• Document a day in the life of your travels from morning to night.
• What are the most important items in your backpack, and why?
• Write about a cultural event or festival you attended.
• How do you stay present while traveling?
• What is the funniest or most embarrassing thing that’s happened to you?
• How do you balance tourism with authentic travel experiences?
• Write about a time when things didn’t go as planned and what you learned.
• Describe the wildlife you’ve seen on your trip.
• What myths or stereotypes have been debunked on this trip?
• What are the best tips you’ve received from other travelers?
• How do you stay safe and navigate risks while traveling?
• Describe a perfect moment or day on your trip.
• What local customs or etiquette have you adopted?
• Write about the most impactful conversation you’ve had with a local.
• How do you deal with culture shock?
• What are the economic contrasts you’ve noticed in this area?
• Write about a local market or shopping experience.
• What has been your favorite meal, and can you make it at home?
• How do you keep your travel memories alive after returning home?
• Describe a local form of transportation you’ve used.
• How do you maintain relationships while on the road?
• Write about the kindness of strangers you’ve encountered.
• What souvenirs have you collected, and what do they mean to you?
• How do you navigate language barriers?
• What have you learned about local politics or social issues?
• Describe an unexpected detour or change in plans.
• Write about a moment when you felt completely at peace.
• What are the similarities you’ve found between your culture and the one you’re visiting?
• How has your travel destination lived up to or differed from its stereotypes?
• Describe the architecture you’ve seen and its cultural significance.
• What have you learned about local religions or spiritual practices?
• Write about a local tradition or celebration you took part in.
• How do you practice self-care while traveling?
• What are the environmental issues you’ve noticed while traveling?
• Describe a local family or community you’ve interacted with.
• What are your favorite ways to relax in a new place?
• How do you document your travels (photos, videos, sketches)?
• Write about a time you felt lost, either physically or emotionally.
• What are the most useful phrases you’ve learned in the local language?
• How do you stay healthy and fit while traveling?
• Write about the most peaceful place you’ve found on your travels.
• Describe a piece of art or music that moved you.
• What have you learned about the local education or healthcare systems?
• How do you contribute positively to the places you visit?
• Describe the nightlife or entertainment in the place you’re visiting.
• Write about a local non-profit or community project you’ve learned about.
• How do you navigate being a responsible and respectful tourist?
• What are the conservation efforts you’ve seen in action during your travels?
• Describe a local legend, story, or folklore you’ve heard.
• How do you plan your travel itinerary, and how often does it change?
• Write about the most inspiring landscape or natural wonder you’ve seen.

Setting the Scene

Travel journaling is a great way to document your experiences and preserve memories from your trips. Before embarking on a journey, it is important to set the scene by choosing your destination and making necessary pre-trip preparations.

Choosing Your Destination

The first step in setting the scene for your travel journal is to choose your destination. Consider your interests and preferences, as well as factors such as time of year, budget, and accessibility. Research your destination and create an itinerary to help guide your travels.

Pre-Trip Preparations

Once you have chosen your destination and itinerary, it is time to make necessary pre-trip preparations. This may include obtaining necessary travel documents, such as passports and visas, booking accommodations and transportation, and creating a packing list. It is also important to prepare for potential pre-trip disasters, such as flight cancellations or lost luggage.

To make the most of your travel journal, consider bringing along a small notebook or journal to record your thoughts and experiences . Consider incorporating prompts and exercises into your journal , such as drawing or sketching your surroundings, reflecting on your daily experiences, or creating a list of things you are grateful for.

Journaling Your Journey

Keeping a travel journal is a great way to capture memories and document experiences from your trip. It allows you to reflect on your adventure and keep a record of your senses, people you meet, and highlights and disasters you encounter. Here are some tips on how to journal your journey effectively.

Capturing First Impressions

First impressions are important, and it’s essential to capture them in your travel journal . When you arrive at your destination, take a moment to jot down your initial thoughts and feelings. What are your senses telling you? What do you see, hear, smell, and feel? This information will help you recall your first moments in a new place.

Documenting Experiences and Encounters

As you travel, you will encounter new experiences and people. It’s essential to document these in your travel journal. Write about the people you meet, the places you visit, and the things you do. Describe your experiences in detail. What did you see, hear, and feel? What were your thoughts and emotions? This information will help you relive your travel experience.

Reflecting on Highlights and Challenges

Traveling is an adventure, and it’s essential to reflect on your highlights and challenges. Write about your favorite moments, the things you learned, and the challenges you faced. Reflect on how you overcame these challenges and what you learned from them. This information will help you grow and learn from your travel experience.

In conclusion, keeping a travel journal is an excellent way to document your journey and relive your travel experience. By capturing your senses, people you meet, and highlights and disasters you encounter, you can create a lasting memory of your adventure.

Creative Elements of Travel Journaling

Travel journaling is a creative and unique way to document your travel experiences. Incorporating art and creativity is a great way to make your travel journal more personal and visually appealing. There are many creative travel journal ideas that you can use to enhance your journal.

Incorporating Art and Creativity

One of the best ways to incorporate creativity into your travel journal is by using art supplies such as markers, paints, stickers, washi tape, and travel-themed accents. You can use these supplies to add color, texture, and personality to your journal pages. You can even use souvenirs from your travels such as postcards, tickets, and maps to make your journal more unique.

Another creative way to make your travel journal more visually appealing is by adding sketches or drawings. You don’t have to be an artist to add drawings to your journal . Simple sketches of the places you visited or the food you ate can add a personal touch to your journal .

Using Prompts to Enhance Storytelling

Using prompts is a great way to enhance storytelling in your travel journal. Prompts can help you remember important details about your trip and can inspire you to write more descriptive and engaging entries. There are many creative travel journal prompts that you can use to enhance your storytelling.

For example, you can use prompts to describe the sights, sounds, and smells of the places you visited. You can also use prompts to reflect on your experiences and how they made you feel. By using prompts, you can create a more detailed and engaging travel journal that will help you remember your trip for years to come.

Bringing It All Together

Travel journaling is a great way to document memories, reflect on personal growth, and share travel stories with others. In this section, we’ll explore how to bring all the elements of travel journaling together to create a meaningful and comprehensive record of your travels.

Reflecting on Personal Growth

One of the most significant benefits of travel journaling is the opportunity to reflect on personal growth . By documenting your experiences and emotions, you can track your progress and identify areas where you’ve grown. This reflection can be a powerful tool for self-improvement and personal development.

To reflect on personal growth in your travel journal , consider adding a section on lessons learned or personal insights. You can also use prompts like “What did I learn from this experience?” or “How did this experience change me?” to encourage reflection.

Sharing Your Travel Stories

Another benefit of travel journaling is the ability to share your travel stories with others. Whether you’re creating a travel memoir, a travel blog, or sharing your experiences on social media or via email, your travel journal can serve as a valuable source of content.

To share your travel stories effectively, consider using your journal entries as a starting point. You can expand on your experiences, add more detail, and use your journal as a source of inspiration for your writing. You can also use your journal to create lists of must-see attractions, favorite restaurants, or travel tips to share with others.

By bringing together the elements of personal reflection and storytelling, you can create a travel journal that is both meaningful and engaging. Whether you’re documenting your travels for yourself or for others, a travel journal is a valuable tool for capturing memories and sharing experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you write a travel journal.

Writing a travel journal is a personal and unique experience. There is no right or wrong way to write one. However, it is important to take note of your experiences, thoughts, and feelings during your travels. Some tips to help you write a travel journal include writing regularly, using descriptive language, and including sensory details.

What should be the first page in a travel journal?

The first page of a travel journal should include basic information such as the date, location, and purpose of the trip. It should also include a brief introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the journal . Some people like to include a map or a photo on the first page to give a visual representation of their travels.

How do I choose a travel journal?

When choosing a travel journal, consider the size, durability, and style. A journal that is small enough to carry with you but large enough to write in comfortably is ideal. Durability is also important, as you want a journal that can withstand the wear and tear of travel . Finally, choose a style that reflects your personality and inspires you to write.

What does a travel journal look like?

A travel journal can take many forms, from a traditional notebook to a digital journal. The most important thing is that it is a place for you to record your experiences, thoughts, and feelings during your travels. Some people like to include photos, ticket stubs, and other mementos in their journals to help bring their experiences to life .

What are some engaging prompts to start a travel journal entry?

Some engaging prompts to start a travel journal entry include describing your surroundings, reflecting on your emotions, and writing about your interactions with locals. You can also write about your favorite foods , sights, and sounds from your travels.

How can adults enrich their travel journaling experience with thought-provoking prompts?

Adults can enrich their travel journaling experience by using thought-provoking prompts that encourage self-reflection and introspection. Some examples include writing about personal growth, cultural differences, and unexpected challenges.

What creative ideas can elevate the content of a travel journal?

Creative ideas that can elevate the content of a travel journal include incorporating sketches, drawings, and collages. You can also experiment with different writing styles, such as poetry or short stories, to add variety to your journal.

For beginners, what are the foundational travel journal prompts to consider?

For beginners, foundational travel journal prompts to consider include describing your surroundings, writing about your interactions with locals, and reflecting on your emotions. These prompts can help you get started with journaling and develop a writing style that works for you.

How can students incorporate travel experiences into their journal writing effectively?

Students can incorporate travel experiences into their journal writing effectively by using descriptive language and sensory details. They can also write about their personal growth and cultural differences. Encouraging students to reflect on their experiences and emotions can help them develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

What are the key elements to include when documenting a solo travel adventure in a journal?

When documenting a solo travel adventure in a journal , key elements to include are the date, location, and purpose of the trip. It is also important to write about your experiences, thoughts, and feelings during your travels. Including details about your interactions with locals and any unexpected challenges you faced can help bring your experiences to life.

I'm Ben, a data engineer who adores journaling. My passion for recording life experiences inspired me to develop Otto's Journal, an online diary app. Join me as I blend data and storytelling in the ever-changing tech world, making journaling more accessible and exciting.

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Last Updated: January 23, 2024

22 Travel Journal Prompts to Spark Inspiration & Start Writing

Trying to keep a travel journal, but unsure how to start and/or what to write about? These travel journal prompts should provide some inspiration. Enjoy!

Danny Newman

I hope these travel journal prompts help you get those journal entries started!

I’ve been on the road for 14 months now.

That’s a pretty long time! And, recently, I’ve been getting worried…

Worried that, one day in the future, I’ll look back on this incredible period of my life and it’ll all be a blur.

I mean, days pass crazily fast, and my memory is shockingly bad. I’m scared I’ll remember barely any of what I’m doing in the years to come…

It’s the small things I’m most concerned about forgetting.

You know, the little details that make the experience so special:

The feelings, thoughts, chance encounters, random conversations, unexpected moments of beauty…

It’s those sorts of things I love most about travelling. But they get so easily lost to time- locked in a part of my memory I have no access to.

So, I’ve been thinking about starting a travel journal to help jog my memory.

Having failed to find the motivation to commit to the task so far, though, I decided to put together some travel journal prompts to get me started!

Want a record of your travels, but need some initial ideas on what to write about?

Keep reading for a list of travel prompts that I hope will come in handy (for both of us!).

22 Travel Prompts to Spark Journal Writing Inspiration

1. the day started with/by….

Write about how the day began.

What time did you wake up? How did you sleep? What was the first thing you did?

2. Today I went/did…

Next, detail the key points from the day.

Go through what your day looked like from start to finish- in as little or as much detail as you fancy. This can get a little time-consuming and prosaic at times, so you could even bullet point this part.

It’s important to do, though. This is the stuff you’ll want to remember in future!

3. My highlights of the day included…

Out of everything you did, what were your favourite bits?

Aim for 5 or so highlights. Even if the day was an unprecedented failure, you could still try to find the silver linings!

4. The worst part of the day was when…

I don’t like the idea of travel journals being sugar-coated.

I want to look back on my time and get an accurate idea of what happened- the good, bad and ugly.

Talk about the parts of the day you found difficult, or didn’t like, or that went wrong. Often, it’s these situations that help you grow; remembering them will be fun in future.

5. As I sit here, I can see/hear/smell…

Don’t just look to the past in your entries.

Focus on what’s going on as you write as well. What sights and scenes are unfolding before you? Describe the people, the places, the sensations in detail.

You’ll read them in years to come and be transported right back to the moment.

Think about the people you met during the day! Talk about them in your journal to remember them in the future.

6. I met someone called…

Talk about the people you met during the day.

What were their names? Where did they come from? Where did you meet? What did you do? What are they like? Talk about them (and then add them on Facebook so you can stay in touch!).

7. I spoke with/to…

Did you call home? Speak to family? Chat with people in the hostel?

What did you talk about, and for how long? Was the conversation easy and free-flowing, or stunted and strange?

Write about the conversations you had today.

8. I think I’m missing…

What are some of the things you’re missing about home?

Have you longed for anything in particular today? Creature comforts? Certain foods? A hug from your mum? Write it all down.

9. Today I’ve been feeling…

I’ve kept travel journals in the past.

And I almost always find it more interesting to read about how I was feeling than what I was doing.

Both are important, of course. But the point of the journal is that I want to look back and remember my days! A big part of that is the emotional side of things.

Make sure you give it a mention too.

10. I ended up buying…

Did you purchase anything cool today?

Imagine reading this journal in future next to the mantelpiece full of your travel souvenirs.

It’s always cool to read an entry where you describe seeing and purchasing one of those things! You have a very real and tactile reminder of the events you’re reading about.

What was on your mind today? Use it as a travel writing prompt!

11. My mind was taken up with/by…

You’ve covered what you’ve been doing and how you’ve been feeling.

The next logical step is to write about the things you’ve been thinking about!

What’s been on your mind? Were you thinking about home, friends and family? What caused these things to enter your head?

12. Today I struggled with/to…

What did you find difficult about the day?

What tested and pushed you out of your comfort zone?

13. I discovered that…

Write about the things you’ve learned.

This is always awesome to read about in future. You begin to understand what made you who you are; you see the parts of your travels that bettered you as a person.

14. The weather was…

A little prosaic, again, but there’s no harm talking about the weather.

Trust me, I’m English. It’s classic small talk content. If you’re really stuck for something to day, give the weather a mention.

15. The scenery was…

Descriptions of the scenery and your environment might be more interesting to look back upon in future.

What things did you see today? Where were you? What were you surrounded by? What colors were present? How about the terrain?

All those things will help you fix the day in memory.

Write about the scenery around you throughout the day! Describing it in your travel journal will help you recall it (even if you’ve got a million photos…)

16. The locals were…

Write about the locals!

Sure, the fellow travellers you meet along the way are great.

But you’re far less likely to add the locals on social media to help you remember them.

…Which is why it’s good to write about them in your journal.

Make a note of their names when you met them, what they looked like, how they made you feel, what you did together, and what you talked about.

17. My first impression of the place was…

I like this one.

It’s another good writing tool to help you step back into the moment when you eventually come to read the entry again.

What did you think of the places you went to today? How did they make you feel? Would you recommend them?

18. My instant reaction to ‘X’ was…

Here’s a similar idea.

However, rather than talking about the first impression of a place, you could talk about your first reaction to anything that happened throughout the day.

What came to mind when you did this, saw that, and met them? You get the idea.

19. I ate and drank…

I guess this one comes under the things you did throughout the day.

However, I think it deserves a special note in your journal (not always, perhaps, but definitely sometimes). I mean, the new foods and drinks you consume while travelling are a massive part of the experience.

What dishes did you try? Again, what were your first impressions? What did you like? What did you hate? What was the weirdest thing you ate?

20. I’m/I’ve been worried about…

What worries, concerns and anxieties have you had today?

Write them out in full.

Aside from being able to look back and realise the neuroses that plagued you on the road, the act of getting them down onto paper might ease the emotional strain as well.

Heads up, you might also like this post about the travelling blues !

Have you been worried about anything today? Get it down in writing!

21. If I had to sum the day up in one word, it would be…

This one speaks for itself, really.

But I guess it’s a good way to get the rest of the entry flowing better.

Start with your word for the day and then explain why that’s what came to mind.

22. Tomorrow I plan to…

You could finish the entry by talking about your plans for tomorrow…if you have any!

Enjoy These Travel Journal Prompts

Keeping a travel journal is a great way to preserve the previous memories you form on the road.

But the actual process of writing in it every day isn’t easy. For one thing, it’s a serious commitment. For another, it’s tough to know what to write about.

Hopefully, these travel journal prompts will help you and me both to sit down and get started!

Got thoughts or reflections on this blog post? I’d love to hear them. Drop me a comment below and I’ll be sure to respond.

And please subscribe to the blog too! Use the forms in the sidebar or down below to receive my newsletter. You’ll be first to hear about my travel and life updates and articles 🙂

Travel Deeper: 15 Thought-Provoking Travel Journal Prompts

Note: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive a commission at no additional cost to you. More details are  here .

I kept a journal pretty religiously when I was in high school and college. (Chalk it up to all that teen angst I needed to process.) Unfortunately in my adult life, the consistency of my journaling habit has dropped off.

And while I hope to redevelop that daily muscle in my life, there is one time when I’m pretty good about it: travel.

I saw the incredible benefits that travel journaling brings while I was studying abroad in 2004—I wouldn’t have survived that semester without the ability to process all that I was experiencing emotionally, culturally, and spiritually. (And that time I thought I lost my study abroad journal in my 20s? I was crushed . Having my travel journal to look back on is the most profound keepsake I have of that semester.)

A really beneficial travel journal goes beyond noting what you did each day, though. It challenges you to dig deep, to process through your experiences, and reflect on your reactions to them .

Even if you’re not traveling cross-culturally and it’s just a fun vacation with friends, there’s opportunity for self-reflection when you’re out of your normal environment and spending all your time with new daily companions. It’s a chance to consider how you respond to challenging moments, or to spend time sitting still and thinking about what you want your daily life to look like back home.

Whether you’re looking for study abroad journal prompts for students or some simple journaling ideas for your next vacation, I’ve compiled this short list of travel journal writing prompts for self-reflection to get you thinking more deeply about various aspects of travel and yourself.

I don’t think you need a lot—in fact, you might choose just one (see the second list) and use it daily. I’ve included 15 so that you have enough to choose from without it being overwhelming. Print it out, take a screen shot on your phone, or better yet, physically write the list in the back of your journal so you always have them available (sans technology).

These trip reflection questions will hopefully prompt you to write through the challenging and frustrating moments that travel sometimes brings, as well as dig deeper to reflect on the joyful and life-changing moments.

Self-Reflection Journal Prompts

• What are my initial feelings about being here: curiosity, frustration, joy, awe, sadness?
• What smell(s) have stuck out to me?
• What was a challenging experience I had? Why did I respond the way I did? What did I learn about my personality, values, or home culture through this?
• What has sparked my curiosity? What has fascinated me here?
• Describe a memorable interaction or conversation I’ve had with someone who lives here. (What were they like? What did I learn about this place or culture? Why did the interaction stand out to me? What do I want to remember about them?)
• What sound(s) have stuck out to me?
• What is something that has surprised me about this place/culture?
• What is different about me while on this trip (positive or negative—am I more adaptable, irritable, spontaneous, disorganized, peaceful)? Why do I think that is?
• What were my expectations about this place? How is the trip comparing with my expectations?
• One quality I really appreciate about someone I’m traveling with is….
• What will I be glad to leave behind from this trip?
• Is there anything I want to do more or less of when I get home?

Recommended Reading: How to Deal with Frustrating Travel Experiences

Daily Travel Journal Prompt

• What’s my Kodak Moment from today—that experience, image, or feeling I don’t want to forget?
• If I had to describe today in one word, what would it be? Why?
• If I had to tell a 5-minute story about one thing that happened today, what would it be about? (Credit for this idea goes to storyteller Matthew Dicks. I highly recommend his TEDx Talk on this topic—check it out below.)

Travel Photographer | FAA Certified Drone Pilot

Naomi is the coffee-loving, crazy-about-Latin-America writer and photographer behind everything here. She's guided by curiosity and a belief that every place has a story to tell–whether it’s through the intricate details of nature, history that has shaped a culture, or the people who call a place home. Learn More

Plan, Ready, Go

20 Travel Journal Prompts for Documenting Your Adventures

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting, the desire to hold onto all those awesome memories will be strong. Travel journaling is a great way to preserve your trip memories, but what if you’re staring at a blank page, unsure where to start? These travel journal prompts will help you write down your travel memories and discover more about the places you see.

Prompts for your trip journal

If you’re staring at the blank pages of your journal and don’t know how to start, these travel journal prompts will guide your writing. 

List of travel journal prompts

What did you love about your trip?

What would you do differently?

Why did you choose your destination(s)?

Would you return to this destination? Why or why not?

What special challenges did you face at your destination?

How did you overcome the challenges?

What was your favorite memory from your trip?

What was the best thing that you ate?

What was the worst thing that you ate?

What new friends did you make on this trip?

What was the weather like at your destination?

Did you pack well for your trip and the weather?

Did your trip live up to your expectations?

Did you face any major disappointments on your trip?

What was your top highlight from this trip?

Did you miss anything on your trip that you regret?

How did you feel when you left your destination?

How did you feel when you returned home from your trip?

What cultural lessons did you learn on this trip?

Where are you planning to go next?

Get a printable PDF of these trip journal prompts

Want a printable version of the above list of 20 prompts? You can get it as a part of the Perfect Trip Travel Journal. More than just a trip journal, the Perfect Trip printable travel journal comes with these 20 prompts plus four pages of travel bucket list trackers and eight different journal layouts you can choose from to make your travel journal exactly what you would like it to be.

The US letter size is perfect for hole-punching and adding to your trip-planning binder.

Buy the Perfect Trip Printable Travel Journal here.

How to use your trip journal prompts

To get the best from trip journal prompts, pick one that feels right to you at that time. Use this prompt as a starting point to pour your thoughts onto the page. Don’t worry about grammar or style; you can’t “do it wrong.” The goal is to capture the essence of your travel experience.

It’s a great idea to keep your journal and a pen or pencil handy while you travel so you can jot down thoughts as they come to you. The evening, once you’re back in your hotel for the night is a great time to reflect on your day of travel.

Remember, your travel journal is a personal space for your reflections, memories, and even sketches. Prompts are meant to guide you without restricting your creativity.

Final thoughts on using prompts for your travel journal

By reflecting on your travels with intention, you can not only preserve your memories but also develop a deeper understanding of the places you visit and your reactions to them. Whether you’re a veteran journal keeper or a beginner, these prompts can add layers of insight to your travels and your life.

So the next time you travel, consider taking some time to pause, reflect, and let these prompts guide you through uncovering your true thoughts about your adventures. You’ll be glad you did this later.

More articles to help your trip planning

• The easy guide to planning a trip in just five steps (for beginners)
• How to create the perfect travel bucket list
• The art of choosing your next travel destination
• Deciding where to stay on your next trip
• Complete guide to creating the perfect travel itinerary
• Creating a trip budget that works for you

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Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

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