You might think that crayons are just for kids, but did you know that carrying a crayon in your wallet can actually be a smart move, especially when traveling? This simple life hack offers a range of surprising benefits that can make your journeys more enjoyable and less stressful. From keeping little ones occupied to serving as a reliable writing tool, a crayon in your wallet can be a real game-changer. So, let’s explore the top reasons why you should consider adding this colorful and versatile item to your wallet today!
1. Helps Protect Your Cards and Wallet Contents
A surprising benefit of carrying a crayon in your wallet is that it can help protect your cards and other wallet contents from damage. When you sit down with your wallet in your back pocket, the pressure can cause your credit cards, ID, or other important cards to bend or even snap. However, by keeping a crayon in your wallet, you can provide a solid and straight object that helps distribute the pressure more evenly.
The crayon acts as a buffer, absorbing some of the pressure and preventing your cards from becoming misshapen or damaged. This simple trick can help extend the life of your cards and save you the hassle of having to replace them prematurely.
In addition to protecting your cards, a crayon can also help keep your wallet organized. By placing the crayon in the center of your wallet, you can create a divide between your cards and cash, making it easier to find what you need quickly. This can be especially helpful when you’re in a rush or trying to navigate a crowded store or airport.
To maximize the protective benefits of a crayon in your wallet, consider using a flat, sturdy crayon that’s about the same size as your cards. A classic Crayola crayon works well for this purpose, as it’s the perfect size and shape to fit comfortably in most wallets. You can even choose a color that matches your wallet or personal style, making this practical life hack a fun and colorful addition to your everyday carry.
2. Serves as a Reliable Writing Tool
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you needed to write something down but didn’t have a pen or pencil on hand? This is where having a crayon in your wallet can come in handy. Unlike pens, which can run out of ink, or pencils, which can break or need sharpening, crayons are always ready to write.
Crayons are particularly useful when traveling by plane, as the changes in air pressure can cause pens to leak or burst. With a crayon, you won’t have to worry about any unexpected messes or ruined clothing. Plus, crayons can write on various surfaces, such as paper, cardboard, or even wood, making them a versatile tool for any situation.
Whether you need to jot down an important phone number, make a quick sketch, or leave a note for someone, a crayon can get the job done. They’re also great for filling out forms, like customs declarations or luggage tags, as they provide a clear and smudge-proof writing option.
In addition to being a reliable writing tool, crayons can also be used for more creative purposes, such as drawing or coloring. So, if you find yourself with some downtime during your travels, you can use your trusty crayon to create a colorful masterpiece or pass the time with a relaxing coloring session.
3. Keeps Kids Entertained on Long Trips
Traveling with children can be challenging, especially when it comes to keeping them occupied during long flights, car rides, or train journeys. However, having a crayon in your wallet can provide a simple and effective solution. Kids love to draw and color, and a crayon can be used on various surfaces, such as paper, napkins, or even the back of a seat tray.
Crayons are small, lightweight, and easy to pack, making them the perfect travel companion for families with young children. They can be used to create imaginative drawings, play games like tic-tac-toe, or even teach basic writing skills. Plus, crayons are much less messy than markers or paints, so you won’t have to worry about any unfortunate spills or stains during your trip.
Investing in a pack of travel-friendly crayons, like these Crayola Mini Twistables, can make your life even easier. These compact crayons are designed to be portable and mess-free, with a twist-up design that eliminates the need for sharpening. They come in a variety of vibrant colors and can easily fit into your wallet or pocket, ensuring that you always have a fun and creative activity on hand for your little ones.
So, the next time you’re planning a family vacation or a long trip with kids, don’t forget to slip a crayon or two into your wallet. It might just be the secret weapon you need to keep your children happy, engaged, and entertained throughout your journey.
4. Can Be Used to Leave “Trace Marks” in Emergencies
While no one likes to think about worst-case scenarios, being prepared for emergencies is always a good idea. In the event that you find yourself in a dangerous or life-threatening situation, having a crayon in your wallet could potentially help you leave a trail for rescuers to follow.
By using the crayon to draw arrows, symbols, or other markings on walls, trees, or the ground, you can create a visual path that indicates your direction of travel or location. This can be especially useful if you become lost or disoriented in an unfamiliar area, such as a hiking trail or a foreign city.
Of course, it’s important to remember that leaving trace marks should only be done as a last resort and in genuine emergency situations. It’s always best to stay calm, use common sense, and seek help through more conventional means, such as calling emergency services or contacting local authorities, when possible.
That being said, having a crayon in your wallet can provide an extra layer of reassurance and preparedness, knowing that you have a tool that could potentially aid in your rescue should the need arise. Just be sure to choose a brightly colored crayon that will stand out against various backgrounds, making your trace marks easier to spot.
5. Encourages Creativity and Mindfulness
In addition to its practical uses, carrying a crayon in your wallet can also serve as a reminder to embrace your creativity and practice mindfulness. In today’s fast-paced, digital world, it’s easy to get caught up in the constant stream of information and distractions, leaving little room for self-expression and relaxation.
Having a crayon on hand can encourage you to take a break from your screens and engage in a simple, analog activity that allows you to unwind and express yourself. Whether you use it to doodle in a notebook, create a colorful border around a postcard, or sketch a quick portrait of your travel companion, a crayon can help you tap into your artistic side and find a sense of calm amidst the chaos of travel.
Moreover, the act of coloring or drawing can be a meditative and mindful practice that helps you stay present and focused on the moment. By concentrating on the simple task of putting crayon to paper, you can quiet your mind, reduce stress, and cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and introspection.
So, the next time you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or creatively blocked during your travels, remember that you have a powerful tool right in your wallet. Take out your crayon, find a quiet spot, and allow yourself to get lost in the simple, satisfying act of creating something beautiful, one colorful stroke at a time.
