Looking to get started with bullet journaling? Check out my list of my favourite top bullet journal starter kits for 2023.
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Using a bullet journal as part of your self-care routine is an awesome method of keeping your self organised and limiting extra stress and anxiety. It is also a wonderful tool for focusing on the positive aspects of your life. I want you to get going with your bullet journal as quickly as possible so I have put together a few suggestions of some kits to get you started.
But first, here is a check-list of things to look out for when choosing your new bullet journal starter kit.
How to Choose the Best Bullet Journal Starter Kit
1. Find the Right Notebook for You
One of the most important elements of bullet journaling is finding the right notebook that suits your personality. It has to be right otherwise you won’t enjoy using it.
There are so many options out there, so it’s really important that you do your research and find one that best suits your needs. Some key features you should keep an eye out for are an attractive cover, thick pages, perforations for easy tear-out pages, plenty of grid or dot grid options, as well as detachable pages if that’s something you need to pull out.
Think about how much space you need for writing and taking notes as well as the number of pages included in the notebook. Finally, make sure you check out user reviews to hear other people’s experiences with different notebooks before making your selection.
Later in this post you will see I have made a few suggestions of some very popular bullet journal kits. All you need to do is pick one!
2. Choose Quality Pens and Markers
Quality is key when it comes to your bullet journal pens and markers. Most kits don’t include pens but you might get lucky. If not then you may have to make a quick visit to the local stationary shop or take a look at some of these pens.
A nice gel pen will provide you with smooth flow and fade-proof ink, while felt tip pens are brilliant for making bolder lines and emphasizing different sections.
Make sure you choose pens that will last long enough to get the job done properly and not run out half-way through. Try trying different colour options as well; coloured inks can add way more personality to your pages and will also help you organize entries by categories.
3. Select a Dotted or Gridded Layout
Picking the right journal layout is a personal preference. Everyone likes something different. A dotted layout gives you more freedom to decide where you want to place your entries, while a gridded layout is more for someone who likes neat and orderly lines.
Remember there is no right or wrong way of doing this. Whichever one you choose, make sure your journal has enough pages to keep up with all the content you plan to write down. And don’t forget to include some blank pages at the back of your journal so you can use them for doodles or special occasions.
4. Get Creative with Stencils, Tapes and Washi Tape Supplies
Creating a bullet journal is more than just writing down your to-do lists and ideas. Many kits will include stencils and stickers so keep an eye out for these bonuses. Decorating your bullet journals with stencils, tapes and washi tape supplies can be a great way to express yourself and make it look more visually appealing.
Try using different colour stickers highlight any important notes or use plastic stencils to easily draw shapes like ovals, circles, lines & grids on your pages for a really unique look. Just experiment with materials that appeal to you and add life to your bullet journaling journey.
5. Master Key Symbols with a Key Chart and Cling Stamps Pack
Have fun using key symbols and shapes with a Key Chart and Cling Stamps Pack. Many bullet journal kits will come with these included.
These packs usually include the universal bullet journaling key symbols (e.g. “x” for tasks complete, “<” for events or appointments that have been moved, etc.), plus clever stencil templates shaped like arrows, boxes, circles and more so you can easily craft neatly-designed pages. These are great if you don’t have a steady hand like me.
Easily upgrade your layouts with static cling stamps to customize your notebook covers too.
So now you know what to look out for, here are some of my top suggestions for the best bullet journal starter kits 2023. Just click the title of the one you prefer and you’re on your way!
The Best Bullet Journal Starter Kits 2023
1. Feela A5 Dotted Bullet Grid Journal Set with a 224 Pages (Top Pick)
Includes:
- 1 Teal Bullet Dotted Journal Notebook
- 15 colours Fine-liner pens
- 5 Pieces of Reusable Stencils
- 6 Sticker Sheets
- 6 Washi Tape set
- 1 Black Gel Pen

2. Ottergami Bullet Dotted Journal A5. Deluxe Vegan Notebook
Includes:
- A5 notepad 21cm x 14.5cm. 192 pages of dot grid paper.
- 6 journal stencils
- 140 stickers for scrapbooking
- Elastic closure
- Pen holder
- Expandable back pocket
- Ribbon bookmark

3. Clever Fox Dotted Notebook
Includes:
- Lightweight, portable and compact notebook – 5″ x 8.25″
- No-bleed quality thick 120 gsm paper
- Special thread bound design
- A pen loop
- 3 ribbons
- Stickers sheet
- Elastic closure

If you don’t see what you are looking for then here are some more bullet journal sets that you might like.
Stickers and Stencils for Bullet Journaling
If you buy your bullet journal and want to add extra stickers and stencils here are some packs that you might like to try:
Colortouch Scrapbook Stickers, Cute Stickers Pack 1000 Pcs
CNYMANY 60 sheets (1800+) Stickers, 3D Puffy Stickers for Scrapbooking Bullet Journal
Bullet Journal Stencils Set 20 Pcs
For more resources and ideas on creating your new bullet journal head over to my complete beginners guide for bullet journaling where I talk about just that!
Don’t forget to share and like this post, follow me on your social media for more tips or just drop me a comment below. I love hearing how my readers are getting on with their self-care journeys.
Rachel Mills
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