Tis’ the season for going all the places and seeing all the things. Does this little organizational beauty excite anyone else like it does me? I, for one, make lists upon lists of everything trip-related. I can feel some eye rolls and stress-sighs coming from those who may not appreciate this personality type, however, trust me: no one ever in the history of vacationing by my side has said, “Gosh, I wish she hadn’t made so many lists and packed everything we needed.”

So just imagine my delight when I came across this travel journal by Poketo. Just big enough without being cumbersome or too tiny, this seventy-two page bound book holds the secret to a trip full of fun and relaxation where you did not forget to pack your bathing suit, the phone charger, the Tylenol, and heaven forbid, your travel documents. Not only does this little notebook provide packing list pages with boxes for checking things off, but also a shopping list because we all know we’ll have to replenish the sunscreen ahead of time, and maybe even refresh the wardrobe with a new jumpsuit and sandals, or more importantly, make sure all the kids’ bike helmets still fit this year. The shopping list is also great for recording the supplies that will need to be picked up upon arrival—groceries for the beach rental, kayaks, etc.  

Which brings me to my most favorite part of this super duper little notebook: the Highlights section. Now, in my mind, these pages are for remembering all the interesting and fun things you found when searching for this trip in the first place. Restaurants and bars that look cool along with any recommendations from your fabulous foodie sources, activities and events that are specific to that area, special not-to-miss things, places of cultural or geographical interest, and local boutiques where you’ll probably find your most favorite item for the year to come.

Now, before anyone gets stressed (dear husband) I will say that I don’t actually use the itinerary section of this book, because I’m not that crazy. However, that little tool could be helpful for some super busy vacationers, or even those who need to remember tight travel schedules. My intensity usually falls within the preparation part of the trip because it honestly helps me to have a more relaxed and enjoyable time. So thank you, Poketo, for this darling travel journal that ticks all my organizational boxes.