Traveling can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. From packing efficiently to navigating unfamiliar places, every traveler strives to make their journey as smooth as possible. One unconventional yet handy trick to consider is putting a crayon in your wallet. You might be wondering, why would anyone do that? Let’s explore the reasons behind this unusual travel hack.
1. Emergency Note Taking
When you’re traveling, unexpected situations can arise at any moment. It’s not uncommon to find yourself in need of a pen or paper to jot down important information. However, carrying these items can be impractical, especially when you’re trying to pack light. This is where a crayon comes in handy. With its waxy texture, a crayon can be used to write on various surfaces, such as receipts or even napkins. It ensures you’re always prepared for impromptu note-taking.
2. Marking Maps or Guidebooks
Exploring new destinations often involves using maps or guidebooks to navigate your way around. Instead of fumbling for a highlighter or pen to mark important spots, a crayon can serve the purpose just as well. Its vibrant color can easily catch your eye, making it an ideal tool for marking must-visit places or routes on your map.
3. Child-Friendly Entertainment
If you’re traveling with children, keeping them entertained during long journeys or waiting times can be a challenge. A crayon in your wallet can be a lifesaver in such situations. You can use it to draw simple pictures or play games like tic-tac-toe on any available surface. This not only keeps the little ones engaged but also provides an opportunity for fun family bonding.
4. Emergency Candle
While it’s always important to have a flashlight or candles during emergencies, carrying them in your wallet can be impractical. A crayon can act as a makeshift candle in case of power outages or when you need a small, temporary light source. Simply light the tip of the crayon, and it will burn slowly, providing a dim but useful glow.
5. Fixing Loose Buttons
We all know the frustration of losing a button while on the go. It can be particularly inconvenient if it’s a vital one, like the button on your trousers. With a crayon, you can create a temporary fix. By melting the wax and applying it carefully to the loose button, you can secure it in place until you have access to a sewing kit.
6. Waterproofing Matches
When you’re camping or exploring outdoor destinations, having waterproof matches is crucial. However, keeping them dry can be a challenge. By coating the match heads with melted crayon wax, you can create a waterproof barrier that ensures they ignite even in wet conditions. This simple trick can be a lifesaver during unexpected rain showers or water-related mishaps.
7. Emergency Thread and Needle
When you’re traveling, you never know when you might need to mend a tear or fix a loose hem. Carrying a needle and thread can take up precious space in your luggage. Instead, wrap a length of thread around a crayon and secure it with a knot. This way, you’ll have a compact emergency sewing kit ready whenever you need it.
8. Souvenir Rubbings
Many travelers enjoy collecting unique souvenirs from their journeys. One creative way to create memorable keepsakes is by making crayon rubbings. By placing a piece of paper over textured surfaces like ancient carvings, gravestones, or even interesting architectural features, and rubbing a crayon over it, you can capture the intricate details. These rubbings make for unique and artistic mementos.
9. Artistic Expression
Traveling often inspires creativity, and having a crayon in your wallet can help you unleash your artistic side. Whether you want to capture the breathtaking scenery or create quick sketches of interesting people you meet, a crayon allows you to express yourself spontaneously without the need for bulky art supplies.
10. Fun Icebreaker
When you’re in a new place, meeting new people can be both exciting and intimidating. Carrying a crayon in your wallet can serve as an icebreaker in such situations. You can use it to offer a child a spontaneous drawing or engage with locals by showing them simple artwork. This can lead to memorable interactions and help you forge connections with people from different cultures.
Conclusion
The benefits of putting a crayon in your wallet when traveling are numerous. From emergency note-taking and marking maps to providing entertainment for children and serving as a makeshift candle, the humble crayon proves to be a versatile and practical tool. Its compact size and array of uses make it a valuable addition to your travel essentials. So, the next time you embark on an adventure, don’t forget to slip a crayon into your wallet and unlock its potential!