The Best Postcrossing Tips for Beginners

(Updated & expanded guide)

If you’re new to Postcrossing, welcome to an exciting world of surprise postcards, global connections, and the joy of opening your mailbox to find something other than bills! Postcrossing looks simple at first: pick a postcard, write a message, send it.
But once you actually sit down to send your first cards, questions appear quickly. What theme should I choose? What do I write if the profile is empty? How much decorating is too much?

What is Postcrossing?

Postcrossing is a worldwide postcard exchange project that connects people across the globe. The idea is simple: you send a postcard to a randomly assigned participant, and in return, you receive one from another person somewhere in the world. The system ensures a constant flow of postcards, making each trip to your mailbox a little more exciting!

Having been part of this community for over ten years, I’ve sent and received thousands of postcards. Over time, I’ve picked up plenty of useful insights that can help you make the most of this hobby. Here are my top tips for beginners!

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1. Create an Interesting Profile

Your profile is the first impression other Postcrossers will have of you. Take a moment to write a little about yourself—your hobbies, favorite places, or any interests you’d love to see reflected in the postcards you receive.

💡 Pro Tip: Mention specific themes you enjoy, such as vintage travel posters, animals, or space exploration. While Postcrossing doesn’t require senders to follow requests, sharing your preferences makes it more likely that you’ll receive something you love.

E.g. book postcards are very popular on Postcrossing!

2. Embrace the Unexpected

Postcrossing is all about the element of surprise, so you won’t always receive a postcard that perfectly matches your taste. That’s part of the fun! Some Postcrossers enjoy trying to match preferences, while others send whatever they have on hand.

It’s important to keep an open mind and enjoy every postcard for what it is—a little piece of someone’s world. Over time, you’ll accumulate a variety of cards, and eventually, you’ll receive those that match your ultimate wishlist!

💡 Pro Tip: If you receive a postcard that doesn’t fit your collection, consider whether it could be part of a journaling project.

3. Write More Than Just “Happy Postcrossing”

A postcard isn’t just about the image—it’s also about the message! Make your card more meaningful by writing something interesting. Share a fun fact, a book recommendation, or a quirky tradition from your country.

💡 Pro Tip: If you don’t know what to write, try these prompts:

• What’s something unique about your city or culture?
• What’s your favorite childhood memory?
• What’s a word in your language that has a special meaning?
• “Greetings from [your city]! Today the weather is…”
• “One small thing I enjoy about where I live is…”
• “I’m sending you a postcard on a quiet afternoon.”
• “Coffee or tea – which one do you prefer?”
• “The last book I read was…”

4. Use Beautiful and Sturdy Postcards

Not all postcards are created equal! Thin, low-quality postcards can get damaged in transit. Whenever possible, use well-printed, sturdy postcards that will withstand long journeys.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid free ad cards unless the recipient explicitly says they like them.

You can find a huge selection of high-quality postcards in my store.

These themes work well for most profiles:

• Mail, letters, and Postcrossing-related designs
• Nature, flowers, plants, and animals
• Books, reading, cozy interiors
• Travel, cities, and places
• Calm everyday life illustrations

They’re easy to match with profiles and rarely feel risky, even when preferences are short or vague.

5. Don’t forget the Postcard ID

Every Postcrossing postcard needs a unique ID – and this is the detail beginners forget most often.

Always write the ID clearly and legibly. If the design is busy or space is limited, write it twice or use small Postcard ID stickers. Without a readable ID, the receiver can’t register your postcard, even if they love it.

This small step saves a lot of frustration later.

6. Decorate and Personalize

Adding small decorative elements can make your postcard stand out. Stickers, washi tape, colorful pens, or even tiny doodles can transform an ordinary card into something unique.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid using bulky decorations (like buttons or large embellishments) since they can get caught in postal machines.

🔗 Welcome to check washi tapes, stickers, or other themed stationery in my shop.

7. Choose the Right Postage and Check Postal Rules

One of the easiest mistakes to make is using the wrong postage or forgetting to check postal restrictions. Some countries have specific rules about what can be sent by mail, and postage rates can change over time.

💡 Pro Tip: Check your country’s postal service website for updated rates and any restrictions. If you’re sending postcards internationally, make sure to use “International Economy” or “Airmail” stamps where necessary.

🔗 You can find a useful wiki page on the Postcrossing forum with postage prices.

8. Register Postcards Promptly and Be Kind

When you receive a postcard, register it as soon as you can. This allows the sender to receive a new address and keeps the system flowing smoothly.

Also, kindness goes a long way. Even if the card isn’t exactly what you hoped for, a polite thank-you message can make the sender’s day.

💡 Pro Tip: If a postcard takes an unusually long time to arrive, don’t stress too much—mail works in mysterious ways! Some postcards arrive in a week, others in a few months, but they all eventually find their way.

9. Expect delays – and don’t panic

Some postcards arrive in days. Others take weeks or months.

This is normal. Postcrossing relies on international mail, and delays don’t mean something went wrong. Focus on sending thoughtfully, not on tracking every single card.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Journey!

Postcrossing isn’t just about collecting postcards—it’s about connecting with people, sharing a little piece of your world, and being part of a global network of mail lovers. Have fun, embrace the surprises, and keep your mailbox ready for happy mail!

If you’re looking for beautifully illustrated postcards, writing supplies, or fun stickers to make your Postcrossing experience even better, check out my postcard shop here. 💌

Extra quick tips

• Any hint in a profile helps – even “I like nature” is enough
• Mail and illustrated postcards work almost everywhere
• Loves reading? Choose a book theme
• Wants cute? Animals are always popular
• Decorating fan? Add one small detail, not five

Frequently asked questions

What is Postcrossing?
Postcrossing is a postcard exchange project where you send postcards to random people around the world and receive postcards from others in return.

Do I need special postcards?
No, but illustrated, clear designs are often easier to read and appreciate.

Is it okay to send postcards without envelopes?
Yes. Postcards are usually sent without envelopes unless the receiver asks otherwise.

What if I don’t know what the person likes?
Choose a universal theme and write a simple, friendly message.

Is decorating required?
Not at all. Many people prefer simple, undecorated cards.

📌 Do you have a favorite Postcrossing tip? Share it in the comments!