Question: I've ordered a [Pathfinder Beginner Box](http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/products/beginnerbox). It contains a "Flip-mat" battlemat, which can supposedly work with markers. But what kind of marker should I use? Are they included in the box? If not, should I use a regular pencil or a special marker? Is it expensive?

Please be as precise as possible, I don't want to ruin it because I'll share it with my group.

Answer: 
If it is the style of battle map found [here](http://paizo.com/products/btpy8oto?GameMastery-FlipMat-Basic) then the markers I see used most often(and with best results), are wet erase style. However the website does list as any marker being usable.

Looking at the beginner box page, it seems like it uses the above battle map, but since I don't actually own it, I can't say 100%
Paizo claims even permanent markers (Sharpie) will come off if you draw over it with a dry-erase marker first.

<http://paizo.com/threads/rzs2hgqy?FlipMat-Issues>

I don't think I'd try permanent marker, but wet-erase and dry-erase are both proven options (according to Paizo reviews/threads).

Dry-erase can stain proper dry-erase boards when left long enough, and I've seen them leave permanent lines on laminated calendars when left for a month. The Flip-Mats are laminated paper, so wet-erase seems your best bet if you're concerned with permanent marks and you may not clean the mat right away.