Traveler's Notebook Card Size and LAMY pico. A combination arrived at by pursuing practicality.

It has been two weeks since the release of the Traveler's Notebook card size. Having gone through Golden Week, it had been sitting on hand without a chance to be used, but I am now preparing it for carry as I head into the work week starting after the weekend.

My biggest dilemma was which pen to use for taking notes. The OHTO pen I bought at the same time certainly fits perfectly, but it was simply too thin for regular use, requiring a compromise in writing comfort. On the other hand, a full-sized pen would negate the benefit of its portability.
I considered various candidates, but I finally found a pen that I am satisfied with, one that balances mobility and practicality.

The choice of LAMY pico

I chose the LAMY pico. The most distinctive feature of this pen is its telescopic mechanism. It is extremely compact at approximately 92mm when retracted, but with a single knock, it extends to approximately 123mm, ensuring a sufficient length as a writing instrument.

In this post, I will review the compatibility between this product and the card-sized Traveler's Notebook.

Size feel: How it fits inside the notebook

The length of approximately 92mm when retracted is a size that is completely hidden by the card-sized body (H110 x W75mm).

What is worth noting is how well it fits when retracted. The smooth cylindrical form, which lacks a clip, fits surprisingly neatly when tucked into the very center (the saddle-stitched part) of the refill.

As you can see from the photo taken from directly above, the pen is completely contained between the refill and the zipper case. Even looking from the outside, it does not look like a pen is tucked inside. I feel that this 'hidden' sensation is a way of carrying it that can only be realized because of the Traveler's Notebook structure, which lacks interfering objects like rings. For me, this is a very satisfying fit for carrying the card size as a minimal memo set.

Practicality: Self-weight and ink texture

Contrary to its compact appearance, it has a moderate weight of approximately 22g, including the refill. This weight contributes to a sense of stability when writing in a small notebook. In its extended state, the center of gravity is well-balanced, allowing for writing that utilizes the pen's own weight without needing to apply unnecessary force to the fingertips.

I have seen reviews online stating that 'the start of writing tends to skip,' but in my own experience using it, I have not felt such stress so far. The ink in the dedicated 'M22' refill has a 'smooth texture' if anything, and it provides a practical writing feel.

LAMY and Traveler's Notebook

Looking at my lineup again, all the Traveler's Notebooks I own have become a set with a LAMY pen.

Regular size
LAMY Safari x itoya Copper 01 (fountain pen)

Passport Size
LAMY 2000 Multipen

Card Size
LAMY pico

I didn't intend to stick to a specific brand from the beginning, but after choosing based on the 'ease of writing' and 'portability' I required for each size of notebook, it turned out that all of them were LAMY products. I thought I had chosen them logically, but in the end, I think I just love LAMY tools. Starting next week, I plan to carry this minimal setup and test its usability.

Thank you for reading until the end. I hope this article is even a little helpful for your 'writing time' or 'tool selection.' If you resonate with the content, please click 'Like' as it encourages my writing. May your daily life be more functional and comfortable.

These are the purchase links for the pens introduced.
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