If you’re looking for a journaling system that contains basically everything you need for on-the-go writing, the Galen Leather A5 Zip Folio is a superb option. I purchased mine for my birthday back in February through Goulet Pens. Galen Leather is based in Istanbul-Turkey. So I was a tad worried about shipping due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. However, I think when I decide to purchase my next item, I’ll probably order through Galen Leather directly. There are way more leather options and sizes on the Galen Leather website.
The great thing about a zipper closure is that it keeps everything very contained. Your pens and notebook are secure and won’t be damaged when you toss the folio into a bag. I honestly think it’s the perfect design for people that journal on the go or while traveling.
There are some cons with the zipper closure though. Firstly, with the zipper closure, there really is a maximum amount of stuff you can fit in the folio and still be able to zipper it closed. So if you’re someone that chunks up their notebooks a lot, I’d recommend only using thin inserts in here or limiting the number of pens you carry. Secondly, the zipper can get in the way when writing in your notebook. Whether or not this is an issue will be up to your own comfort level or whether you’re okay taking out the journal when you write. For me personally, I took out the journal when I was towards the end of it but that didn’t bother me much.
All in all, if you’re looking for an easy way to travel with your journal, I highly recommend checking out the Galen Leather A5 Zip Folio or their Zip Folios in the other sizes. It’s a popular choice in the journaling community for good reason. I honestly think you can’t go wrong.
Now that I have tried Galen Leather’s Zip Folio, I’m seriously eyeing their Tomoe River notebooks, zippered pen cases, and The Writing Box.
