August 3, 2018
Summer holiday season is upon us! Maybe you’ve already started to pack your suitcase, excitedly ticking off each travel essential on your checklist – but have you made space in there for a travel journal and pen?
“To lose a passport was the least of one’s worries. To lose a notebook was a catastrophe” – Bruce Chatwin
It might not be at the top of your list, but writing in your notebook whilst away on your travels will have positive benefits:
1) It calms and focuses the mind
And that’s kind of the reason we go on holiday, isn’t it? Handwriting can be a soothing activity – perfect for long summer days where your energy is reserved only for the lifting and setting back down of a cocktail glass. It also keeps you focused and can help untangle your overworked brain, leaving you refreshed and ready to return to work after your break – and glad you brought your travel journal on holiday with you!
2) It’s easy to do – anywhere!
A notebook and pen is lighter and more portable than a laptop and you don’t have to worry about finding a power source when your battery gets scarily low. All you have to do is flip open the cover of your travel journal (like the travel writer’s classic Moleskine notebook) and start scribbling with your pen of choice. Sling them both in your beach bag and while away the hours sitting under the sun by the lapping waves, just you and your notebook. Or if your an activity holiday kind of person, pack it in your rucksack and head for the peak of the highest mountain for some quiet contemplation.
3) Improve memory with a travel journal
Studies say that we remember more when we perform the physical act of handwriting, meaning that holiday events and thoughts will be reinforced if committed to paper, keeping them in mind for longer. Try using a travel journal this holiday to make a permanent record of those happy memories and great ideas.
4) It boosts creativity
You can doodle, highlight, underline and furiously cross-out to your heart’s content in a travel journal. Scientific studies have shown that doing so frees up memory, increases attention span and keeps the brain active by getting neurons to fire more. So a holiday away from day-to-day life, with a clear mind, might be the perfect time to come up with fresh ideas or finally solve that big problem you’ve been struggling with!
5) It helps you get things done
A holiday needs organising; even if you’re just scheduling a lazy day by the pool in amongst the sight-seeing and activities! Whether you’re using a ready-made diary layout or the humble – yet effective – to-do list in a plain notebook, writing future actions down declutters your mind and helps you achieve your goals, making sure you get the most out of your time away.
“I never travel without my diary.
One should always have something sensational to read in the train” – Oscar Wilde
And don’t forget that if you do pack a travel journal, a branded one is best. The wonderful thing about a notebook with your logo on, is that by accompanying you on your travels, it will acts as a brand advocate even whilst you are off duty on holiday. Remember, marketing opportunities are everywhere – you never know who might be on the sun lounger next to yours and see your journal!
Get in touch now and speak to a friendly member of our team to discuss your notebook ideas.
