Are you a traveler at heart? Then the combination of tattoos and travel might be the perfect match for you. Whether you want to get a tattoo during a special trip, are looking for a design that symbolizes your travel experience, or simply want to know how to best care for your tattoos on the go – in this article, you will find all the information you need about tattoo travel.
Why do travelers choose tattoo designs?
Travel and tattoos often go hand in hand. Many travelers choose to capture their adventures in a permanent tattoo. A tattoo can be a beautiful reminder of a special trip, mark a milestone, or express your traveler spirit. Popular reasons to choose a travel tattoo are:
- A reminder of a life-changing trip or backpacking adventure
- Capturing important places or coordinates on your skin
- A symbol of your love for travel and new adventures
- A connection to the culture of a country you have visited
Still unsure if a certain travel design really suits you? With a temporary tattoo, you can first try how it looks before making a permanent choice. This way, you can experiment worry-free with different designs and placements.
Popular tattoo travel designs for travelers
There are countless tattoo designs that perfectly match a life of wanderlust. Here are the most popular choices among travel lovers:
World maps and compasses
A classic choice for travelers: a world map or compass symbolizes your desire for adventure and exploration. Some people have specific countries or continents colored in that they have visited, while others choose a stylized world map with a vintage look.
Coordinates and place names
Geographical coordinates of a special place are extremely popular. This can be the place where you were born, where you met your loved one, or a city that stole your heart during your travels. It is subtle, personal, and meaningful.
Airplanes, mountains, and oceans
Symbols that express freedom and adventure are always popular. Think of stylized airplanes, mountain silhouettes, waves, or anchors. These designs are often minimalist and timeless.
Cultural symbols
Did you feel a deep connection with a certain culture during your trip? Then you might consider getting a cultural symbol, such as Maori patterns, Japanese characters, or mandalas. Just make sure to do this respectfully and learn about the meaning.
Want to first experience how such a travel design looks on your skin? In our temporary tattoo collection you’ll find various travel-inspired designs to try out. Perfect to test before going to a tattoo artist.
Getting a tattoo during your trip: smart idea or not?
Many travelers consider getting a tattoo during their trip as a souvenir. This can be a great experience, but there are some important points to keep in mind:
Advantages
- A unique souvenir of your trip
- Often lower prices in countries outside Western Europe
- The chance to work with a local tattoo artist
- An authentic experience in a different culture
Points of attention
- Hygiene and safety vary greatly by country and studio
- Communication can be difficult due to language barriers
- Aftercare can be complicated while continuing to travel
- Not all countries have the same quality standards
If you decide to get a tattoo while traveling, thoroughly research which studios are reliable, check if they use sterile materials, and make sure you have enough time for the initial healing before continuing your journey.
Tattoo care while traveling
Do you already have a tattoo and are you going on a trip soon? Or are you considering getting one just before you leave? Then proper care is essential, especially in warm climates or on beach holidays.
Tips for tattoo care on the go
- Avoid direct sunlight on fresh tattoos and always use sunscreen (SPF 50+) on healed tattoos
- Do not swim in the sea, pool, or other public waters during the healing period (2-4 weeks)
- Keep your tattoo clean and dry, which can be challenging in humid climates
- Bring enough care products with you, as these are not available everywhere
- Wear airy, clean clothing over a fresh tattoo
Want to experiment with tattoos on vacation without worrying about aftercare? A stick-on tattoo is the perfect solution. You can enjoy your trip stress-free and still experience how a certain design suits you.
The best body locations for travel tattoos
The spot where you get your travel tattoo depends on the size and style of the design, but also on your personal preference. Popular spots are:
- Forearm: perfect for compasses, coordinates, or small world maps
- Ankle or foot: ideal for subtle symbols like airplanes or mountains
- Back or shoulder blade: suitable for larger designs like extensive world maps
- Upper arm: versatile spot for both small and medium travel designs
- Ribs: for a more hidden, personal tattoo
Unsure about which spot suits you best? Try it first with a fake tattoo from tatt4aweek.nl. This way, you can test for a few weeks whether the placement really suits you and if you're still happy with your choice.
Test your travel tattoo first with a temporary version
A tattoo is permanent, and especially when it comes to a design that represents your travel experience, you want to be sure you make the right choice. Maybe you're torn between coordinates or a compass, or you're not yet sure of the perfect spot on your body.
With our waterproof, dermatologically tested temporary tattoos, you can experience how your tattoo looks and feels for up to 2 weeks. This way, you can try out different designs and placements without permanent consequences. Our stick-on tattoos are made from natural ingredients, safe for every skin type, and easy to apply.
Whether you're looking for a subtle travel symbol or a striking travel design, you'll surely find something that suits you in our collection. Tattoo without regrets – that's our core message.
Ready to discover your travel tattoo?
Whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or just starting to travel, a travel tattoo can be a beautiful way to honor your adventures. And before you take that permanent step, you can first experiment worry-free with our temporary tattoos.
Check out our full collection today and find the perfect travel design that reflects your traveler spirit. Test, experiment, and make the right choice – with no regrets!