Choosing the right supplies can make your bullet journaling experience so much better. But with thousands of options, where do you start? In this comprehensive guide, I'll share my tested recommendations for notebooks, pens, markers, and accessories at every budget level.
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What's In This Guide
- Best Notebooks – Premium, mid-range, and budget options
- Best Pens – Fineliners, gel pens, brush pens
- Best Highlighters & Markers
- Must-Have Accessories
- Budget Starter Kits – $15, $50, and $100 bundles
Best Bullet Journal Notebooks
Premium Pick: Leuchtturm1917
Leuchtturm1917 A5 Dotted
- 251 numbered pages
- 80gsm paper (minimal ghosting)
- Built-in index and 2 bookmarks
- Lay-flat binding
Best Value: Scribbles That Matter
Scribbles That Matter A5
- 160gsm thick paper (no ghosting!)
- 200 pages with numbered index
- Budget-friendly price
- Great for markers and brush pens
Best Pens for Bullet Journaling
Best Fineliner Set: Sakura Pigma Micron
Sakura Pigma Micron Set (6 sizes)
- 6 tip sizes for variety
- Archival-quality ink
- Waterproof and fade-resistant
$11.29
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Best Daily Writer: Pilot G2
Pilot G2 Gel Pens (4-Pack)
- Smooth gel ink flow
- Refillable (eco-friendly)
- Comfortable rubber grip
$5.88
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Best Highlighters & Markers
Best Pastel Highlighters: Zebra Mildliner
Zebra Mildliner Set (15 colors)
- Soft pastel colors that don't overwhelm
- Dual-tip design (fine + broad)
- No bleed-through on quality paper
$14.99
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Budget Starter Kits
$15 Budget Kit
Everything you need to start for under $20:
Total: ~$15
$50 Recommended Kit
A solid setup for comfortable journaling:
Total: ~$52
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 80gsm and 160gsm paper?
GSM means grams per square meter—higher numbers mean thicker paper. 80gsm works for most pens but may show ghosting with markers. 160gsm handles everything including brush pens and watercolors with zero bleed-through.
Do I need expensive supplies to bullet journal?
Absolutely not! You can start with any notebook and pen. Expensive supplies are nice-to-haves, not necessities. Start cheap, then upgrade the supplies that matter most to your style.
Related Resources
- Beginner's Guide – How to start your journal
- Spreads Gallery – Inspiration for every style
- Free Templates – Printable downloads
