When choosing an A5 journal, thickness is often overlooked — but it plays a major role in how practical the journal feels day to day.
Too thin, and you run out of space quickly. Too thick, and it becomes bulky and harder to use.
Finding the right balance comes down to how you actually plan to use it.
What You’re Really Choosing Between
Journal thickness isn’t just about page count — it’s about usability.
You’re balancing:
• Writing space
• Portability
• Ease of use
The ideal setup depends on how often you write and how you carry your journal.
Light Use: Keep It Slim
If you journal occasionally or prefer shorter entries, a thinner setup works better.
This typically means:
• One insert
• Lower page count
• Lightweight feel
This keeps your journal easy to carry and quick to use without added bulk.
Moderate Use: Balanced Setup
For most people, a balanced setup offers the best experience.
This usually includes:
• Two inserts
• Enough pages for regular use
• Manageable thickness
An A5 leather journal with this setup provides a strong balance between writing space and practicality.
Heavy Use: More Isn’t Always Better
It’s tempting to add more inserts for maximum space.
But thicker journals come with trade-offs:
• Harder to carry
• Bulkier in bags
• Less comfortable to write in
Beyond a certain point, added thickness reduces usability rather than improving it.
How Refillable Systems Change the Equation
Refillable leather journal covers are designed to solve the thickness problem.
Instead of carrying everything at once, you can:
• Use fewer inserts at a time
• Swap them out when full
• Keep the setup flexible
This allows you to maintain a practical thickness without sacrificing long-term use.
The Mistake Most People Make
Many people assume more pages equals a better journal.
In reality, too much bulk can make the journal less enjoyable to use.
The best setup is the one you’ll consistently carry and write in.
Final Thoughts
The ideal thickness for an A5 journal depends on how you use it — not how many pages it can hold.
Keeping your setup balanced ensures your journal stays practical and comfortable over time.
If you're exploring different setups, you can browse our selection of leather journal covers designed for flexible, everyday use.