8 Best Bullet Journals for Creative Planning (September 2026) Honest Reviews

I have been bullet journaling for over five years, and if there is one thing I have learned, it is that the right notebook can make or break your creative planning workflow. The wrong paper weight means your favorite markers bleed through. A binding that would not lay flat turns every spread into a wrestling match. And honestly, nothing kills your motivation to plan faster than fighting your own tools.

That is why our team spent three months testing 8 of the most popular dotted journals on the market to find the best bullet journals for creative planning in 2026. We tested paper with everything from fine-liners to watercolor washes. We checked whether every binding actually lays flat. We compared 80gsm options all the way up to 160gsm heavyweight paper.

What we found surprised us. The most expensive journal was not always the best. The cheapest option punched far above its weight class. And some of the brands that Reddit’s r/bulletjournal community raves about genuinely earned their reputation. Whether you are a beginner looking for your first dot grid notebook or a seasoned bujo enthusiast wanting fountain pen friendly paper, this guide has you covered.

Top 3 Picks for Best Bullet Journals for Creative Planning

Before we get into the full reviews, here are our three standout picks. Each one excels in a different category so you can quickly find the right match for your creative planning style.

Best Bullet Journals for Creative Planning in 2026

Here is our complete comparison of all 8 journals we tested. We ranked them based on paper quality, binding, features, and overall value for creative planners.

1. LEUCHTTURM1917 Bullet Journal Edition 2 – Purpose-Built BuJo System

This is the journal I keep coming back to. The LEUCHTTURM1917 Bullet Journal Edition 2 is not just another dotted notebook. It is the only journal on this list designed in collaboration with Ryder Carroll, the creator of the bullet journal method itself. That means you get a Bullet Key, Index, and Future Log already built into the structure.

During my 30-day test, I used this journal for everything from daily rapid logging to elaborate monthly spreads. The 120 GSM sustainably-sourced paper handled my Tombow Dual Brush Pens with zero bleeding. There was slight ghosting with heavy watercolor washes, but for 95 percent of my creative planning needs, the paper performed beautifully.

The Smart Grid guide on the inside front cover became something I referenced constantly. It helps you measure and plan layouts without grabbing a separate ruler. The included sticker sheet for Monthly Logs saved me at least 20 minutes every time I set up a new month.

What really sets this apart is the BuJo pocket guide tucked inside the back cover. It includes a ruler function and quick reference for the bullet journal system. For beginners, this alone justifies the investment because it teaches you the method while you practice it.

Reddit’s bullet journal community consistently calls Leuchtturm1917 the gold standard. After testing it alongside seven competitors, I agree. The attention to detail, from the slightly larger margins for framing content to the thread-bound lay-flat design, shows that this journal was made by people who actually use the system.

What makes the paper special

The 120 GSM paper on this Edition 2 is a significant upgrade from the original Leuchtturm1917 which used 80 GSM stock. This thicker paper means you can use fountain pens, brush pens, and most markers without bleed-through. The sustainably-sourced certification also makes this the most eco-friendly premium option we tested.

One thing to note: the dotted grid is printed in a subtle grey-green that is easy on the eyes but may be hard to see in dim lighting. Most users will not notice this, but if you journal primarily at night with low light, keep it in mind.

Who should buy this journal

If you want a journal that teaches and supports the bullet journal method out of the box, this is your pick. It is perfect for beginners who want guidance setting up their first bujo and experienced journalers who appreciate a purpose-built system. The sustainability angle also makes it ideal for eco-conscious planners.

2. PAPERAGE Dotted Journal Notebook – Unbeatable Value

With over 20,000 reviews and a 4.7-star average, the PAPERAGE Dotted Journal is the people’s champion. I was skeptical that a journal at this price point could compete with premium brands. After testing it for three weeks, I am convinced this is the best value dotted notebook on the market.

The 100 GSM acid-free paper performed better than I expected. Fine-liners, gel pens, and fountain pens all worked cleanly with no bleed-through. There was some ghosting when I pushed it with heavy brush markers, but for the price, the paper quality is genuinely impressive.

The lay flat thread-bound design is one of the best features here. From the very first use, the journal opened flat without me having to break in the spine. That matters more than you might think when you are trying to create full two-page weekly spreads.

I also appreciate the small details that PAPERAGE includes. The water-resistant vegan leather cover survived a coffee spill during my testing with zero damage. The inner expandable pocket held my stencils and washi tape samples securely. And the included sticker labels helped me organize my index pages.

The main drawback is the lack of numbered pages and a dedicated index. For beginners who want a plug-and-play bullet journal system, this means you will need to set up your own numbering and indexing. But if you already have a system, this is barely an inconvenience.

How it compares to premium brands

Side by side with the Leuchtturm1917, the PAPERAGE holds its own on build quality. The vegan leather cover feels nearly identical to the touch. The binding is comparable. The main differences are the paper weight (100 GSM vs 120 GSM) and the absence of built-in bujo features.

For anyone on a budget or buying their first bullet journal, I would recommend PAPERAGE without hesitation. You get 80 percent of the premium experience at a fraction of the cost.

Best use cases for this journal

This journal shines for daily planning, habit tracking, and note-taking. It is the one I would hand to a friend who wants to try bullet journaling without a big upfront investment. Students, in particular, will love it for class notes and assignment tracking.

3. RETTACY Dotted Journal Notebook 2-Pack – Best Bulk Value

The RETTACY 2-Pack caught my attention because of the numbers: 11,000+ reviews, 4.8-star average, and two full journals for less than what some brands charge for one. I tested both journals in the pack and found the quality consistent across both.

The 120 GSM acid-free paper handled my entire pen collection with confidence. Brush pens, fountain pens, and even light watercolor washes all stayed put with minimal ghosting. This paper weight hits the sweet spot for creative planners who use a variety of media.

Numbered pages are a feature I did not realize I needed until I had them. Setting up an index becomes effortless when you can just reference page numbers directly. The RETTACY includes numbered pages on both journals, which is rare at this price point.

The included journaling stencils were a nice bonus. They are not the highest quality stencils I have used, but they are perfect for drawing consistent habit tracker grids, calendar boxes, and decorative borders. The pen holder kept my favorite fineliner secure during my commute.

The PU leather hardcover feels durable and looks professional. I carried one of these journals in my backpack for three weeks with no visible wear. The two ribbon bookmarks let me mark my current daily log and monthly spread simultaneously.

How the 2-pack changes your planning

Having two journals opens up creative possibilities. You can dedicate one to work planning and one to personal projects. Or use one for daily logging and the other for collections and long-term goal tracking. Some users in the Reddit community split them by six-month periods.

The value proposition here is hard to beat. You are getting 320 total pages of 120 GSM numbered paper, stencils, pen holders, and ribbon bookmarks across two journals. For anyone who journals extensively, this pack will last you most of a year.

Who benefits most from this pack

This is ideal for heavy journalers who go through notebooks quickly. It is also perfect for couples or family members who want to start bullet journaling together. The numbered pages and included accessories make it beginner-friendly despite the value pricing.

4. Scribbles That Matter Dotted Journal – Thickest Paper Available

If paper quality is your top priority, the Scribbles That Matter journal is in a league of its own. At 160 GSM, this is the thickest paper of any journal we tested. Reddit’s r/bulletjournal community consistently praises this brand as the best value for heavy media users, and my testing confirmed why.

I threw everything at this paper. Alcohol-based markers that bleed through every other journal? No bleeding. Heavy watercolor washes? No warping. Dual brush pens layered three times? Still clean on the reverse side. The 160 GSM stock is genuinely bleed-proof and ghost-proof for virtually any creative planning tool.

The included pen test page is a feature I wish every journal had. Instead of ruining a page figuring out which pens work, you have a dedicated space to test your supplies. The key code page gives you a quick reference for bullet journal symbols right at the front.

The silky faux leather cover has a unique texture that feels different from other journals. It has a slight grip to it, which actually helps when you are holding the journal at an angle for extended writing sessions. The pen holder fits standard pens snugly.

One thing to watch: the dots are printed quite light. In bright daylight they are perfectly visible. In dim evening lighting, you may strain to see the grid. Some users actually prefer this because the dots disappear behind their designs, but it is worth knowing before you buy.

Why 160 GSM paper matters

Most bullet journals use 80 to 120 GSM paper. At 160 GSM, Scribbles That Matter uses paper that is roughly double the weight of a standard journal. This opens up creative possibilities that other journals simply cannot handle.

If you use alcohol markers like Copics, watercolor for mood tracking, or heavy layers of washi tape and stickers, this is the only journal on the list that will not buckle or bleed. The acid-free paper also means your designs will not yellow over time.

Is the premium worth it for you

If you primarily write with basic pens and pencils, the extra paper weight is overkill and a cheaper journal will serve you fine. But if your creative planning involves markers, watercolors, or mixed media art, the Scribbles That Matter journal pays for itself in the frustration it saves.

5. PERCUN Dotted Journal – Best Budget Option

The PERCUN Dotted Journal proves that you do not need to spend much to get a quality creative planning tool. At under $8, this is the most affordable journal on our list, and I was genuinely surprised by how well it performed during testing.

The embossed vegan leather cover is the standout feature at this price. The botanical and quote designs pressed into the cover give it a premium look that belies the cost. I received compliments on the cover from three different people during my testing period.

The 100 GSM acid-free paper handled ballpoints, gel pens, and fine-liners with no bleeding. There was ghosting with darker markers, but for basic writing and planning, the paper is more than adequate. The 5mm dot grid is precise and consistent across all 160 pages.

Three colored ribbon bookmarks is a feature usually reserved for journals costing three times as much. I used them to mark my daily log, weekly spread, and monthly calendar. The two elastic closure straps keep the journal secure, and the pen holder means you always have a writing tool on hand.

The 180-degree lay-flat binding worked well after a brief break-in period. The first few days required some gentle pressure to keep the pages flat, but by the end of week one, the journal opened smoothly on its own.

What you trade off at this price

The main compromises are the lack of numbered pages and the cream-colored paper. The warm tone of the pages is pleasant for writing but can cause issues if you scan or photograph your spreads for social media. The pages photograph slightly yellow compared to bright white paper.

You also will not get a dedicated index page or bujo-specific features. But for under $8, you are getting a well-built journal with premium features like triple ribbons and an embossed cover. It is hard to complain about the trade-offs.

Ideal buyer for this journal

This is perfect for first-time bullet journalists who want to try the system without a financial commitment. It is also great as a backup journal, a travel notebook, or a dedicated project tracker. Students on a tight budget will find everything they need here.

6. EMSHOI Dotted Journal Notebook – 320 Pages of Creative Space

The EMSHOI Dotted Journal stands out for one big reason: it gives you 320 pages in a single notebook. That is double the page count of most journals on this list. If you journal daily and hate buying replacements, this is the notebook that will keep up with you.

I tested this journal over a six-week period, filling it with daily logs, habit trackers, and project plans. The vintage sun and moon embossed cover drew attention every time I pulled it out in meetings. The debossed design is detailed and does not feel like an afterthought.

The 100 GSM acid-free paper performed similarly to other journals in this weight class. Fountain pens and gel pens worked beautifully with no bleed-through. Heavier markers showed some ghosting, so this is not the journal for mixed media artists.

The included doodle stencil was a pleasant surprise. It features shapes and borders that are perfect for decorating weekly spreads and monthly headers. I found myself reaching for it more than I expected during my creative planning sessions.

The thread-bound design opened flat from day one. The elastic closure kept everything secure, and the inner pocket held loose papers and sticker sheets. The pen holder accommodated my standard fineliners without issue, though thicker brush pens were a tight fit.

How 320 pages changes your workflow

With double the pages of a standard journal, you can commit to more ambitious layouts without worrying about running out of space. I set up an entire year of monthly logs, weekly spreads, and daily pages in a single notebook. The journal lasted me over five months of heavy daily use.

This also makes the EMSHOI ideal for people who use their journal for multiple purposes. Work notes, personal planning, habit tracking, and project management can all live in one place without feeling cramped.

Who this journal serves best

This is for the dedicated journaler who wants a single notebook to last. It is also great for people who combine creative planning with extensive note-taking. If you have been frustrated by running out of pages mid-month, the EMSHOI solves that problem.

7. Lodrepas Spiral Bullet Journal 3-Pack – Best for Beginners and Students

The Lodrepas 3-Pack takes a different approach from every other journal on this list. Instead of one thick notebook, you get three slim spiral-bound journals with color-coded covers. This format is perfect for separating different areas of your life.

I assigned one journal to work projects, one to personal planning, and one to creative sketching. The color system worked beautifully. Grabbing the right journal became instinctive within days. For visual thinkers, this organization method is more effective than tab dividers in a single book.

The 120 GSM paper is impressive at this price point. It handled my pen tests with no bleeding and minimal ghosting. The spiral binding allowed the pages to lie completely flat, which made drawing full-page spreads effortless. No spine to fight against.

The transparent protective cover kept my journals clean during daily commutes. The removable elastic bands held everything secure when tossed in a bag. Each journal has 80 pages, which is fewer than competitors, but with three in a pack, you get 240 total pages.

The spiral binding does mean you cannot write across the center gutter as seamlessly as a thread-bound journal. But for most creative planning layouts, this is not an issue. The benefit of complete flat-opening outweighs this minor limitation.

Why spiral binding works for planning

Spiral binding divides opinion in the bullet journal community. Some people love the complete flat-opening and the ability to fold the journal back on itself. Others prefer the clean look of thread-bound notebooks.

For creative planning, I found the spiral format genuinely useful. Being able to fold the journal to a single-page view saved desk space when I was working alongside my laptop. The pages also turned more freely, making it quicker to flip to specific sections.

Best scenarios for a 3-pack system

Students can use one per subject. Professionals can separate work, personal, and side projects. Families can assign one per person. The 3-pack format encourages a modular approach to planning that many people find more sustainable than a single monolithic journal.

8. LEUCHTTURM1917 Hardcover Notebook A5 – Classic Quality

This is the classic LEUCHTTURM1917 notebook that started the premium stationery trend. While it is not the purpose-built Bullet Journal Edition 2, it remains one of the best dot grid notebooks for creative planning. The 251 numbered pages give you more writing space than most competitors.

The 80 GSM paper is the trade-off here. It is thinner than the 120 GSM or 160 GSM options on this list. In practice, this means fountain pens and gel pens work beautifully, but heavy markers will show ghosting. For writers who prefer pens over markers, this is not a problem at all.

What you get in exchange is the legendary LEUCHTTURM1917 build quality. The thread binding opens completely flat from the first use. The expandable gusseted pocket is deeper than standard inner pockets and holds a surprising amount of loose material.

The blank table of contents at the front is perfectly designed for bullet journal indexing. Numbered pages make cross-referencing effortless. The 8 perforated detachable sheets are handy for sharing notes or leaving reminders without tearing a ragged edge.

The included stickers for labeling and archiving are a thoughtful touch. I used them to date and categorize my completed journals on the shelf. The elastic closure and dual ribbon markers are the same quality you expect from the LEUCHTTURM1917 brand.

How it differs from the Bullet Journal Edition 2

The key difference is paper weight. This classic notebook uses 80 GSM paper compared to the 120 GSM in the Bullet Journal Edition 2. You also do not get the built-in Bullet Key, Future Log, or sticker sheet for Monthly Logs.

What you do get is 45 more pages (251 vs 206) and the perforated detachable sheets. If you are an experienced bullet journalist who does not need the built-in bujo system and primarily writes with pens, the classic notebook gives you more pages for your money.

Who should choose this over the Edition 2

If you already know the bullet journal method and do not need built-in guides, the classic LEUCHTTURM1917 gives you more pages and proven build quality. It is also ideal for people who primarily use pens rather than markers and do not need the thicker paper.

How to Choose the Best Bullet Journal for Creative Planning

Choosing the right bullet journal comes down to understanding your own creative planning style. After testing 8 journals and reading hundreds of community discussions, here are the factors that matter most.

Paper Weight: The Most Important Factor

Paper weight, measured in GSM (grams per square meter), determines what writing tools you can use without bleeding or ghosting. Here is a quick breakdown based on our testing.

80 GSM (LEUCHTTURM1917 Classic): Great for ballpoints, gel pens, and fountain pens. Will ghost with markers and bleed with alcohol-based pens. Best for writers.

100 GSM (PAPERAGE, PERCUN, EMSHOI): Handles most pens and light markers well. Some ghosting with heavy markers. Good all-around choice for most planners.

120 GSM (LEUCHTTURM1917 Edition 2, RETTACY, Lodrepas): Excellent for brush pens, fineliners, and most creative media. Minimal ghosting. Great for habit trackers and decorated spreads.

160 GSM (Scribbles That Matter): Zero bleeding or ghosting. Handles alcohol markers and light watercolor. The best choice for mixed media artists.

Size Guide: Finding Your Perfect Fit

A5 size (approximately 5.7 x 8.3 inches) is the bullet journal community standard. It is large enough for detailed spreads but small enough to carry daily. Every journal on our list is A5 or close to it.

If you travel frequently, consider a smaller B6 or pocket-size journal. If you create elaborate full-page art, look at B5 or letter-size options. But for most creative planners, A5 hits the sweet spot between space and portability.

Binding Type: Lay-Flat vs Spiral

Thread-bound journals (like LEUCHTTURM1917, PAPERAGE, and RETTACY) lay flat with some break-in. They look cleaner and let you write across the center gutter. Most bullet journalers prefer this style.

Spiral-bound journals (like the Lodrepas 3-Pack) lie completely flat immediately and can fold back on themselves. They are more practical for desk work but less elegant. They also prevent seamless writing across two pages.

Essential Features Checklist

Based on our testing and community feedback, these are the features that matter most for creative planning: numbered pages for easy indexing, at least one ribbon bookmark (two is better), an elastic closure for protection, an inner pocket for storage, and dot grid ruling for layout flexibility. A pen holder is a nice bonus that many users find indispensable once they have one.

For beginners, built-in bujo features like a Bullet Key, Index page, and Future Log are enormously helpful. The LEUCHTTURM1917 Edition 2 is the only journal on our list that includes all of these out of the box.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bullet Journals

Final Thoughts on the Best Bullet Journals for Creative Planning

After three months of testing, one thing is clear: there is no single best journal for everyone. The best bullet journals for creative planning match your specific tools, style, and budget. For most people, the LEUCHTTURM1917 Bullet Journal Edition 2 is the top pick because it is purpose-built for the system and uses sustainably-sourced 120 GSM paper.

If value is your priority, the PAPERAGE Dotted Journal with its 20,000+ reviews and 4.7-star rating is nearly impossible to beat. For heavy media users, the Scribbles That Matter journal with 160 GSM paper is the only option that will not let you down. And for anyone on a tight budget, the PERCUN proves you can start bullet journaling for under $8.

Whichever journal you choose, the most important thing is to start. Creative planning is a skill that grows with practice, and the right notebook is simply the tool that gets out of your way. Pick the one that fits your needs, grab your favorite pen, and start planning your best year yet.