These cartographic products present a map of the United States overlaid with a scratchable material. Individuals can remove this coating from areas they have visited, revealing a colored or otherwise distinct layer underneath, effectively creating a personalized visual record of their travels across the nation. For instance, after a trip to California, the user would scratch off the corresponding area on the map.
Such maps serve as both decorative items and interactive travel logs. They offer a tangible way to document personal journeys and provide a visually appealing reminder of past experiences. Historically, the concept draws upon novelty maps and travel journals, evolving into a more engaging and visually dynamic form of record-keeping, capitalizing on the inherent satisfaction of physically marking progress or achievement.