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How To Create A Junk Journal While Traveling

The article titled "How To Create A Junk Journal While Traveling" by Kaitlyn McInnis, published on Forbes on June 25, 2025, provides a comprehensive guide on how to create a junk journal while on the move. The junk journal is described as a creative and personal scrapbook that captures the essence of one's travels through a collection of mementos, writings, and other memorabilia. The article delves into the materials needed, the process of creating the journal, and tips for maintaining it during travel.

Materials Needed

The first section of the article outlines the essential materials required to start a junk journal. McInnis emphasizes the importance of keeping the materials lightweight and portable, given the context of travel. The list includes:

Notebook or Sketchbook: A sturdy yet lightweight notebook serves as the base of the junk journal. McInnis suggests opting for a spiral-bound or hardcover notebook that can withstand the rigors of travel.

Pens and Markers: A variety of pens and markers are recommended for writing and drawing. The author advises carrying a small set of colorful pens and fine-tip markers to add vibrancy to the journal.

Adhesives: To attach various items to the journal, McInnis recommends carrying a small glue stick or double-sided tape. These adhesives are compact and easy to use on the go.

Scissors: A small pair of scissors is essential for cutting out mementos and trimming paper. The author suggests a foldable or travel-sized pair to save space.

Decorative Items: These can include stickers, washi tape, and small decorative papers. McInnis advises selecting items that are lightweight and can be easily stored in a travel journal kit.

Mementos: The heart of the junk journal, mementos can include tickets, maps, brochures, and other small items collected during travel. The author encourages travelers to be selective and choose items that hold personal significance.

Creating the Junk Journal

The next section of the article provides a step-by-step guide on how to create the junk journal. McInnis breaks down the process into manageable tasks that can be completed during travel.

Setting Up the Journal: The first step is to prepare the notebook for use. McInnis suggests creating a title page and perhaps a table of contents to organize the journal. She also recommends adding a few blank pages at the beginning for future notes or reflections.

Collecting Mementos: As travelers move from one place to another, they should be on the lookout for items that can be added to the journal. McInnis advises keeping a small bag or pouch to store these items until they can be attached to the journal.

Attaching Mementos: Once a suitable memento is found, it should be attached to a page in the journal. The author suggests using the adhesives mentioned earlier and arranging the items in a way that tells a story or captures a moment.

Writing and Drawing: In addition to mementos, McInnis encourages travelers to write and draw in their journals. This can include daily reflections, sketches of places visited, or even doodles. The author emphasizes the importance of personal expression and creativity in the junk journal.

Decorating the Pages: To add more personality to the journal, McInnis suggests using the decorative items mentioned earlier. Stickers, washi tape, and decorative papers can be used to enhance the visual appeal of the pages.

Tips for Maintaining the Junk Journal During Travel

The final section of the article offers practical tips for maintaining the junk journal while on the move. McInnis acknowledges that travel can be hectic, and it's important to have strategies in place to keep the journal organized and up-to-date.

Set Aside Time: The author recommends setting aside a few minutes each day to work on the journal. This could be during downtime at the hotel, on a train, or even while waiting at an airport. McInnis emphasizes that consistency is key to keeping the journal current.

Stay Organized: To prevent the journal from becoming cluttered, McInnis suggests organizing the pages by date or location. She also advises using tabs or bookmarks to quickly find specific entries.

Protect the Journal: Given the potential for damage during travel, the author recommends using a protective cover or sleeve for the journal. This can help shield it from spills, dirt, and other hazards.

Be Flexible: McInnis acknowledges that travel plans can change, and it's important to be flexible with the journal. If a day is particularly busy, she suggests jotting down quick notes and adding more details later.

Share the Experience: The author encourages travelers to share their junk journal with others. This can be done by showing it to fellow travelers, posting pictures on social media, or even starting a blog to document the journey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kaitlyn McInnis's article provides a thorough and engaging guide on how to create a junk journal while traveling. The article covers the necessary materials, the step-by-step process of creating the journal, and practical tips for maintaining it on the go. McInnis's emphasis on personal expression and creativity makes the junk journal a unique and meaningful way to capture the essence of one's travels. Whether a seasoned traveler or a novice, readers can benefit from the detailed instructions and insights provided in the article, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to document their adventures in a creative and personal way.

Read the Full Forbes Article at:
[ https://www.forbes.com/sites/kaitlynmcinnis/2025/06/25/how-to-create-a-junk-journal-while-traveling/ ]