2026 is here- is your planning game on par?

There is power in the pen. I have an iPad, but I always return to a paper planner because it has been proven that there is a sense of accomplishment in physically crossing something off a list. A great plan begins with great tools. Here are my favorite planning tools for 2026:

Best Budget-Friendly Planner: Bloom Daily Planner, Hardcover 2026

I absolutely love any planner which has monthly and weekly options. Bloom also provides a strong, hardcover for their planners which has held up well and does not get ruined when tossed in a large tote or handbag. They also provide inspirational quotes and sayings throughout.

Best Higher-End Planner for Busy People: Erin Condren Hourly Planner, Daily Duo

Oh, Erin Condren planners! I have to give this company credit for stealing me away from the Happy Planners. This planner provides an hourly layout which has really allowed me to pace my busy day. It has sections for hourly appointments, daily to-do lists, weekly overview, monthly goals, and a scratch pad area for daily notes. It is definitely worth the money if you're a planner and going to use it as a daily tool!

Best Planner for Big-Picture Planning and Home Tasks: Erin Condren Monthly Planner

It's definitely another Erin Condren planner for the list, and the perfect planner if you are a big-picture planner. This one is cost effective and also perfect for home planning and getting busy homes on track. It offers a large monthly layout, dashboard for monthly goals and several pages for notes to allow you to budget in the planner and track to-do's. I use this one for all those home maintenance tasks that I need to do throughout the year.

No matter which planner you choose, make sure you make it a part of your daily routine. We will explore tips and tricks for effective planning throughout the year.