(and why they work year after year)
Choosing a postcard for Postcrossing often has very little to do with how beautiful the card is. Most of the time, the real question is much simpler: will this card actually work for this person?
After years of packing orders, reading profiles, and sending postcards myself, I’ve noticed clear patterns. Some postcard themes almost always feel safe, appreciated, and easy to write. Others look nice, but that’s all.
This post is not a list of trends. It’s a practical guide to postcard themes that consistently work well for Postcrossing profiles, regardless of country, season, or experience level.
1. Books and Reading
Book-themed postcards are one of the safest choices in Postcrossing.
Even when a profile doesn’t explicitly mention books, reading is widely relatable. Libraries, bookshelves, cozy reading scenes, or simple literary illustrations feel calm and personal without being intrusive.
Why this theme works:
- it feels thoughtful without being too specific;
- it gives you something easy to comment on;
- it fits many moods and ages.
I often choose book postcards when a profile is short, neutral, or doesn’t give many hints. They rarely disappoint.
If you’re looking for book-themed postcards that work well for Postcrossing, I keep them collected here.
2. Mail, Letters, and Postcards
Postcrossers love postcards. That sounds obvious, but it matters.
Mail-themed postcards acknowledge the reason you’re connected in the first place. Postboxes, stamps, envelopes, handwritten notes – these designs feel self-aware in the best way.
Why this theme works:
- it reflects the shared hobby;
- it feels intentional rather than random;
- it works especially well for active Postcrossers.
When I don’t know what to send, a mail-themed postcard almost always feels right.
3. Animals (Especially Cats and Dogs)
Animals are universal, but cats and dogs deserve special mention.
Profiles often list pets, favorite animals, or simply mention liking cute illustrations. Even without that, animal postcards tend to feel friendly and safe.
Why this theme works:
- emotional connection without personal assumptions;
- easy to write about;
- widely appreciated across cultures.
I avoid rare or exotic animals unless the profile asks for them. Cats and dogs, on the other hand, almost always land well.
4. Everyday Life and Small Moments
Not everyone wants landmarks or big statements. Many Postcrossers enjoy postcards that show ordinary life: a quiet desk, a cup of coffee, a planner, a street corner, a slow morning.
These cards work because they feel human.
Why this theme works:
- relatable across countries;
- not tied to seasons or holidays;
- easy to connect with emotionally.
When someone writes that they enjoy “simple things” or “daily life,” this is my go-to theme.
5. Travel Without Pressure
Travel postcards don’t have to scream “tourist.”
Illustrated travel themes, maps, symbols, or abstract landmarks often work better than literal photos. They leave room for imagination and don’t force you to describe a place you’ve never been to.
Why this theme works:
- sense of movement and curiosity;
- neutral but interesting;
- fits many profiles.
I use travel-themed postcards when a profile mentions countries, cultures, or curiosity about the world in general.
6. Florals and Nature (Used Carefully)
Flowers and nature can work beautifully, but context matters.
Soft botanical illustrations, plants, or calm landscapes are usually safer than very specific flower symbolism or dramatic nature scenes.
Why this theme works:
- visually calming;
- rarely offensive;
- easy to pair with a gentle message.
I choose these postcards when a profile mentions nature, calm aesthetics, or when I want something neutral but warm.
Themes That Often Cause Hesitation
This doesn’t mean these themes are bad. They just require clearer signals from the profile.
- very specific holidays;
- political or religious imagery;
- dark humor or sarcasm;
- niche fandoms.
If a profile doesn’t ask for them, I usually avoid these themes.
A Simple Rule I Follow
When in doubt, I ask myself one question:
Can I write a few natural sentences about this postcard without forcing it?
If the answer is yes, the theme usually works.
Postcrossing isn’t about impressing. It’s about connection. The best postcard themes are the ones that make that connection easier, not louder.
Final Thought
The most successful Postcrossing postcards are rarely the most complicated ones. They’re the ones that feel easy to send, easy to receive, and easy to understand.
If you build your postcard selection around these themes, you’ll spend less time overthinking and more time enjoying the process, which is exactly why most of us started Postcrossing in the first place.
FAQ: Best postcard themes for Postcrossing
What is the safest postcard theme for Postcrossing?
Book-related and mail-themed postcards are usually the safest choice. They feel personal without being intrusive and work well even when profiles are short or very general.
Are animal postcards good for Postcrossing?
Yes, especially cats and dogs. They create an emotional connection and are widely appreciated across cultures. They work best when the illustration is friendly and not overly specific.
What postcard themes should I avoid for Postcrossing?
Very specific holidays, political or religious imagery, dark humor, nudes, or niche fandoms can cause hesitation unless the profile clearly asks for them.
Do travel postcards always work for Postcrossing?
Travel postcards work best when they are illustrated or symbolic rather than literal tourist photos. They leave room for imagination and are easier to write about. Also, there is a really big group of people who love only traditional tourist postcards. Read profiles carefully.
How do I choose a postcard if the profile gives no hints?
When a profile is very short, everyday life themes, books, mail, or calm illustrations are usually a safe and thoughtful choice.
Why do some postcards feel easier to send than others?
Because the theme gives you something natural to write about. If a postcard helps you start the message without forcing it, it’s usually a good choice.
