Joybuy Insights

Undated planner: how to choose a practical, durable option for everyday use

An undated planner can be started whenever you like, with no wasted pages during quieter periods. It’s just as suitable for students and working professionals as it is for people managing one-off projects or those who enjoy journalling. The key is to choose a well-designed option, with a layout that suits your needs, pleasant paper and genuinely useful accessories.

Before you place your order, there are three common pitfalls you can easily avoid.

Common pitfalls to avoid before buying

  • Confusing the number of pages with organisational potential: a thick notebook doesn’t guarantee monthly views, a weekly planner or dedicated space for notes. Check the inside layout first.
  • Judging the planner by its cover alone: an elegant cover can scratch easily, be difficult to close or offer too little protection for the pages.
  • Overlooking the paper and accessories: if the paper is too thin, ink may show through on the reverse. Without a bookmark, pen loop or elastic closure, everyday use can quickly become less comfortable.

A hard cover will generally protect your planner better in a bag, while a soft cover is easier to carry around. The right choice depends on how you’ll actually use it, not on a one-size-fits-all marketing promise.

Technical features to check

1. Size: A5 for planning, A6 for taking with you

An undated A5 planner, measuring around 14.8 × 21 cm, gives you enough room to write down appointments, tasks and goals. It fits easily on a desk, in a work bag or in a school bag.

At around 10.5 × 14.8 cm, A6 is much more compact. An A6 notebook can go with you on public transport, to meetings or on trips. It’s also a good choice for a personal journal or travel journal when portability is your top priority.

2. The inside layout

A good weekly organiser should let you plan on several levels:

  • an introductory or personalisation page;
  • monthly views to keep track of upcoming deadlines at a glance;
  • weekly double-page spreads to organise tasks and appointments;
  • a notes section for ideas, lists or tracking your goals.

Described as an 18-month planner, an undated option can offer plenty of flexibility. You can start it partway through the year and work at your own pace, without leaving unused weeks behind.

3. Paper, binding and practical details

Paper weight alone doesn’t tell you how well the paper will work with every type of pen. However, 100 g/m² offset paper generally feels thicker and is less likely to show ink through than 70 g/m² paper. It’s still worth testing it with your usual pen, especially if you use felt-tip pens or liquid ink.

Remember to check:

  • how sturdy the cover is;
  • whether it has an elastic closure;
  • how many bookmarks it includes;
  • whether it has a pen loop;
  • whether it opens completely flat;
  • whether it has an inner pocket.

Check any certifications and environmental claims directly on the product listing. A PU cover, for example, shouldn’t be described as genuine leather.

Our picks for different needs

Recommended for : Budget-conscious beginners
Jubiluu A5 Undated Hardcover 18-Month Blush Pink

Jubiluu A5 Undated Hardcover 18-Month – Blush Pink

Why it suits this profile : its A5 size and undated monthly and weekly pages make it easy to get started at your own pace, whether you’re planning for study, work or everyday life.

How this product avoids the pitfall

It’s about more than a pretty cover: the layout includes monthly and weekly views, as well as a notes section.

Main benefit and key features

Hard cover, 224 pages, 100 g/m² lined offset paper, elastic closure and bookmark.

Recommended for : Fans of premium stationery
MOLESKINE 12-Month Weekly Planner XL Hardcover

MOLESKINE 12-Month Weekly Planner XL Hardcover

Why it suits this profile : it combines a clear weekly layout with practical details for the office, commuting and travel.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details cover how it lies flat, the elastic closure, the inner pocket and the notes section, rather than relying on brand recognition alone.

Main benefit and key features

Hard cover, 70 g/m² acid-free ivory paper, bookmark, expandable pocket and pages for travel and goal-setting.

Recommended for : Specific needs and frequent use
Jubiluu A6 Premium PU Hardcover Pocket Notebook Soft Lavender

Jubiluu A6 Premium PU Hardcover Pocket Notebook – Soft Lavender

Why it suits this profile : its compact size is ideal for travellers, creative types and anyone who wants to jot down an idea or keep a personal journal.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its dimensions are clearly listed and it comes with built-in accessories, so it’s more than just a compact notebook without practical features.

Main benefit and key features

A6 size, 160 pages, 100 g/m² lined offset paper, pen loop, elastic closure and bookmark.

Recommended for : Travel and creative journalling
MUDSWEET Pack of 75 France Travel Stickers

MUDSWEET Pack of 75 France Travel Stickers

Why it suits this profile : these stickers let you personalise a travel journal, planner or memory album with illustrations inspired by French cities and landmarks.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description specifies the number of stickers, their approximate dimensions and what they can be used on, rather than simply promising a vague assortment.

Main benefit and key features

75 different designs, three graphic styles and PVC vinyl stickers described as water-resistant.

Looking for more options ?

We’ve brought together a comprehensive, regularly updated selection of products that meet these high standards and European safety requirements.

Frequently asked questions about undated planners

How long can an undated planner last ?

It depends on how often you use it, the quality of the binding and how you store it. An 18-month planner can last a long time if you fill in its pages regularly. However, keep it away from damp, excessive heat and anything that could put too much pressure on the cover.

Which size should you choose: A5 or A6 ?

Choose A5 for detailed planning and A6 for taking notes wherever you are. A5 works well on a desk, particularly as a weekly organiser. A6 is more practical as a lined notebook, travel journal or personal diary.

Can you use an undated planner as a notebook ?

Yes, especially if it has dedicated space for notes. You can use the monthly views to track your goals and the weekly pages for lists, ideas or memories. Just check that it has lines, look at the paper weight and make sure it has the accessories to suit the way you write.