Traveling is one of the great joys in life. The time we spend on vacation is precious, so naturally, we want to remember it forever. A travel journal is the perfect way to preserve these priceless memories.
What do you think of when you hear the term travel journal? Do you picture a book with blank pages or lined ones? Do you think a trip diary is about writing essays or sketching scenery?
If you like to write or draw, then these are great ways to capture a record of your trip. If you aren’t fond of these activities, have you ever thought about applying scrapbooking techniques to your travel journal?
Scrapbooking has never been more popular. If you aren’t up-to-date on scrapbooking, you might want to check it out. There is so much more available now than when most of us were kids.
Are you wondering how you are going to do this project while you are traveling? If you think I am going to suggest you pack scrapbook supplies in your suitcase, don’t worry. You can do this if you want, but I am going to suggest easy ways to organize your memories so you get the feel of a scrapbook without much effort.
Start with a good quality travel journal. Buy the best you can afford. Remember, you are creating a legacy. Long after the trip is over and the memory of it has faded, your scrapbook journal will unlock the sights, sounds, smells, and feelings of your adventures.
Before buying a trip journal, be sure the paper is good quality. Touch it, if possible. Does it invite you to create? If you buy a journal from an Internet-based vendor, look for terms such as “art-quality” or “quality-finish” paper. This is very important. If the quality of the paper isn’t mentioned, then perhaps this wasn’t important to the manufacturer.
An ideal journal has both blank and lined pages. The blank pages are just the thing to stick your mementos. Lined pages are great for adding descriptions or other words. Of course, you are free to use your pages whatever way you want. Let inspiration take over and HAVE FUN!
Another feature well-suited for the ultimate travel journal and scrapbook on the go, are pocket pages. Gather all your souvenirs in one place, and later your memories will be at the tip of your fingertips.
What are examples of items which make good scrapbook memory-keepers? You probably have your own ideas, but here are some to stir your imagination:
• Maps – Wallpaper the page with them, cut them into various shapes or label your page with names from the map.
• Postage stamps – This is like adding fine art to your journal.
• Paper currency – Not sure what to do with that beautifully designed but largely worthless small bill? Scrapbook it onto the page.
• Ticket stubs – Some ticket stubs are elegantly designed and will enhance your travel journal.
• Postcards – These make wonderful photos and provide instant gratification. Postcards can be placed in your journal immediately without having to wait for your photos to be printed.
Of course, there is no limit as to what you can use to create your scrapbook journal. Brochures, menus, cocktail napkins, etc. will make the memories pop off the page.
If you want more ideas about scrapbooking, the Internet is a good place to look. Most craft stores carry scrapbook supplies. Some communities have stores dedicated solely to scrapbooking. There are also scrapbook classes offered at stores, community colleges and high school adult ed programs.
If this is your first scrapbook project, you might want to keep it simple.
The goal is to create a keepsake that will enable you to recollect your trip. Jot down a few words as you travel, add your mementos, and before you know it… you will have a scrapbook that will ALWAYS take you down memory lane.
While traveling, bring along your drinks. Most train stations have stores and kiosks. It’s hard to be thirsty on board and praying for that guy selling the snacks to show up!