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24 Stunning Symbols of Travel Tattoos and What They Mean

Dani Rhys

Table of Contents

1. world map , 2. globe , 3. hot air balloons , 4. coordinates , 5. airplanes , 6. paper airplane , 7. boats , 8. oceans and waves , 9. footprints and boot prints  , 10. cars and motorbikes , 11. compass , 12. pine trees , 13. palm trees , 14. mountains , 15. wildlife , 16. skylines , 17. landmarks , 18. camping gear , 19. quotes , 20. luggage and visa stamps , 21. letters or characters from different languages , 22. signposts , 23. stamps , wrapping up.

For most of us, the traveler’s life is always a dream and a fantasy. So even if we can’t live freely without a care in the world, we can still capture the essence of wanderlust by watching camping/traveling videos on YouTube or cherishing our own memories. 

Another method where we can keep the spirit of our past memories alive and still remain hopeful for the future is through tattoos. If you’re up for it, getting inked is always a great idea to mark your journey and remind yourself to keep working on your travel goals.  

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Let’s take a look at 24 stunning tattoo ideas to symbolize travel and wanderlust. 

world map tattoo

The World Map is one of the most common tattoos many travelers sport on their bodies. Traditionally, a World Map symbolizes the ultimate goal of the traveler: The freedom to go anywhere around the world. 

It can also signify the end of one’s journey, branding a traveler as one who’s visited many countries and has had their fill.  

A detailed black and gray World Map tattoo, — or a simple outline of any map you want, whether that’s your favorite island or home country — can signify your wanderlust and yearning to explore.  

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If the flat canvas of a World Map isn’t to your liking, a Globe tattoo can also fit the bill. Just like a World Map, the Globe can symbolize the entirety of your journey or your desire to keep traveling the world .  

For extra emphasis, you can add an airplane, boat, or paper plane circling the Globe or make it look like a palm is holding it (implying that you’ve got the entire world in the palm of your hand). 

hot air balloons tattoo

Standing in for freedom and the slow and deliberate journey of traveling around the world (ideally in 80 days), Hot Air Balloons are always synonymous with the archetype of the world traveler. 

In that same regard, Hot Air Balloons represent freedom and lightheartedness: they highlight your emotions where you are free from rules and responsibilities: a state where you actually begin to live in the present and cherish your journey.  

There are also dozens of variations to portray the carefree and joyous nature of hot air balloons. These variations strip the basket entirely and represent a globe or a pack of balloons hoisting luggage or a human. 

coordinates tattoo

If you want to be discreet and mysterious while keeping a personal reminder of the best places you’ve visited, Latitude and longitude coordinates make for awesome travel tattoos.  

Coordinate tattoos can have a more personal meaning and represent more than just a beautiful location.

You can pick whatever font you want or even pair it up with a personal quote, date, or an image of the scenery or event you associate it with. 

airplane tattoo

As a stand-in for the most common mode of transportation, Airplanes are extensively used by many travelers to embody the idea of travel and wanderlust.  

Although Airplanes may not represent freedom or respite from the humdrum of everyday life, as a vehicle of navigation, they represent the ability to traverse the world. 

There are tons of options for Airplane tattoos. You can get a simple outline or minimalist design or add a globe and dotted trail with a heart shape.  

If you’re looking for a little extra variety, you can also get a tattoo of an airplane seat with your favorite landscapes of landmarks off in the distance. 

paper airplane tattoo

Paper Airplanes take a more playful and lighthearted approach to airplanes and can be a great substitute if you feel the former is too complicated. Much like the hot air balloon, the Paper Airplane is free to roam the Earth and embodies the free spirit of the traveler.  

Besides that, a Paper Airplane also signifies randomness and living in the moment. No matter how much you try to direct it, the Paper Airplane seldom travels the intended path.

Instead, it chooses to explore, frequently stumbling across locations and people others rarely get to experience.  

boat tattoo

With meanings similar to airplanes (and traversing the world), Boat tattoos can also represent your wanderlust, especially if you’re a sailor or casually into “Yachting.” 

Boats are synonymous with navigation, exploration, the oceans, and freedom.

As such, it represents the free spirit of the traveler and your potential as an “Ocean Citizen,” open to exploring the seven seas and the lands that exist around it.  

ocean waves tattoo

An ocean represents many things; few among these are tranquility, mystery, life, and unlimited potential: essential characteristics of a curious tourist. As such, the Oceans and the Waves can stand in for your desire to travel and explore.   

Just like the endless sea, the tattoo options available to represent the oceans are limitless. You can go for a minimalist wave, seashell, or a detailed scenery of a sunset with boats in the distance.  

footprints boot prints tattoo

Standing in for exploration and expedition, tattoos of Footprints or Boot prints can often leave a cheerful reminder that you’re not afraid to create new paths or retread old paths to revisit your favorite locations.  

Although primarily used to denote the birth and growth of a child, simple footprints with no inscriptions can represent the desire to travel, hike and leave a mark on this Earth.

Boot prints are directly synonymous with outdoor living and signify the never-ending wanderlust of the hiker, camper, and wilderness adventurer. 

car tattoo

Apart from airplanes and boats, land vehicles such as cars, camper vans, off-road vehicles, and motorbikes can also represent the opportunity to travel.  

In most cases, these tattoos represent freedom in the context of camping, hiking, and outdoor living.  

So, if you’re exploring the highways in a car, traveling from beach to beach in a camper van, or climbing mountains with an off-road SUV, a tattoo to remind yourself of your land vehicle will always be a great choice.  

compass tattoo

One of the most common subjects in tattoos, the Compass stands for direction, navigation, purpose, and exploration.

It’s the fundamental symbol for travel and represents the explorer’s ability to collect their bearings and resume their journey, whether an actual road trip, hike or spiritual enlightenment.  

There are tons of variants for Compasses, with the majority being highly realistic, or alongside a world map, globe, landscape, or other elements.  

Newbies might find them cliche, but with universally-acknowledged symbolism, the Compass has always remained a timeless staple of the tattoo community. 

pine trees tattoo

Another heavily used subject in tattoos, the Pine Tree represents virtue and immortality in the spiritual sense, while on tattoos, it represents freedom, travel, and the great wilderness.

Hikers are particularly fond of pine trees or evergreens, which represent the forest in all its glory.  

A stunning landscape of a forest laden with Pine Trees or intricate artwork depicting elk, wolves, mountains, lakes, and the sun will always make for great tattoos.

That said, a minimalist Pine Tree tattoo to symbolize your travel experiences and wanderlust will also suffice. 

palm trees tattoo

Considered the de facto symbol representing vacation, freedom, tranquility, and the carefree travel lifestyle, Palm Trees make for great tattoos.

You can’t deny that whenever you imagine Palm Trees, it reminds you of the joyous times you vacationed on a beach or, at the least, saw others having the time of their lives.  

Throughout pop culture and media, we’re made to symbolize palm trees with feelings of wanderlust, abundance, and good times so getting a tattoo of them will surely help you and others get a sense of its serene nature. 

mountains tattoo

It’s no surprise that mountains symbolize nature, freedom, and adventure . Apart from the conventional symbolisms of eternity and stillness, the mountains and the surrounding landscape often stand as potent reminders to get out there and explore.  

A tattoo of the mountains can be a potent reminder and inspiration: encouraging you to climb those hills, trek through footpaths, camp outdoors, and witness the beautiful scenery through your own eyes. 

wildlife bear tattoo

Elk, Wolves , and Bears , these woodland creatures are most often associated with camping and hiking.

As a result, tattoos incorporating these animals and scenes in nature can often represent travel, wanderlust, and the beauty of the natural world.  

Besides that, you can also use tattoos of exotic animals to remind yourself of your favorite country or mark your previous travels.  

skyline tattoo

For tattoos of Skylines, there are only two options: minimalistic or fully photorealistic, and no in-between.

Whatever the case, these tattoos are great options to commemorate your trip to a famous city or country or even mark the end of your travel journey.  

landmarks tattoo

One of the best ways to commemorate your trip to a famous city or country is to get a tattoo of their most-recognizable landmarks.

These include skyscrapers, bridges, statues, and ancient or natural locations.

You can collect these tattoos with each trip and use them to signify each milestone during your travel journey. 

camping gear tattoo

Utilizing camping gear (such as Hiking boots, bonfires, backpacks, and tents) for the main subject of a tattoo can help symbolize travel, freedom, and the wilderness.

Often adorned with coordinates, quotes, compasses, or natural landscapes, these tattoos can stand as an eternal reminder: letting you cherish those brief moments when you explored freely to your heart’s content.   

travel quotes tattoo

Most tattoos will look great and add context whenever coupled with a fitting quote.

That said, Quotes on their own also make for great travel tattoos, inspiring yourself and others to live life on their own terms and work towards your goal of travelling the world.  

travel luggage tattoo

Almost always representing the need to travel, Luggage, particularly travel suitcases, make for tattoos that can signify your wanderlust.

These types of tattoos are depicted as suitcases filled with memorabilia from around the world or with various stickers and stamps.  

chinese characters tattoo

Another fitting alternative to commemorate your journey across the world (and prove it to others) is to get tatted with characters, words, or quotes from the local language.

These types of tattoos are great on their own or with other elements but regardless, there’s no denying that various letters from around the world definitely add some variety and an artistic appeal. 

signposts tattoo

Like compasses, signposts help us gather our bearings and find where we want to go. Ever since medieval times, signposts were used to guide travellers.

As such, their representations in tattoos can help symbolize your journeys and stand as a beacon of inspiration, reminding you never to give up on your dreams or your destination. 

travel stamps tattoo

Even if they aren’t the most aesthetically pleasing, tattoos of stickers or Visa stamps can make for great reminders. In most cases, tourists prefer to get tattooed with a replica of their Visa stamp (expiry date included).

Others might prefer a more tame approach with the names of the countries they’ve visited or the passport covers of different countries.

Whatever the case, these will always have a personal meaning to the wearer and inspire others to travel more. 

As we’ve seen through this list, there’s a good number of elements that you can incorporate for your next travel-inspired tattoo.  

Like most tourists, you can opt for an airplane or compass tattoo (coupled with a quote) for a more obvious interpretation or be more personal and mysterious, with coordinates and letters from other languages.  

Whatever the case, you’ll have more design choices and a better understanding if you go through this list and understand the different symbols associated with travel and wanderlust.  

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Dani Rhys

Dani Rhys has worked as a writer and editor for over 15 years. She holds a Masters degree in Linguistics and Education, and has also studied Political Science, Ancient History and Literature. She has a wide range of interests ranging from ancient cultures and mythology to Harry Potter and gardening. She works as the chief editor of Symbol Sage but also takes the time to write on topics that interest her.

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Top 10 travel tattoos explained: The symbols & what it represents

Top 10 travel tattoos explained: The symbols & what it represents

Traveling means something different to everyone. So do travel tattoos. But what exactly do some of the travel tattoos mean? Keep reading to find out the meanings and symbols of the top travel tattoos for your inspiration!

travel tattoo meaning

Traveling is not a hobby but a lifestyle. Did you ever come back from a long trip feeling completely different? A brand new version of yourself! Maybe a  long backpack adventure  to Europe boosts your confidence. Or a hike in the mountains helped you realize how insignificant your problems were. 

Traveling has the power to change us for the better. That's why so many of us want to commemorate these memories with the right tattoo. Travel tattoos are so varied that choosing the right one can be overwhelming. That's why we made a list of our favorite travel tattoos ideas to inspire you! 

Top 10 unique travel tattoo ideas explained.

1. world map.

Even though we all use Google Maps nowadays, these tattoos are still trendy. The possibilities are endless. You can choose to get the world map tattooed all over your back or only outline the boundaries of your own country for a minimalist tattoo . You can opt for the map of a country you traveled to or an area in the world that has a particular meaning to you. For instance, your birthplace or a city where you learned something that changed life.

2. Hot Balloons 

Hot balloons are such a cute idea for a travel tattoo! They represent lightheartedness and cheerfulness. But they also symbolize complete freedom and eagerness to discover new places. 

3. Coordinates

Similar to the map, coordinates are an extremely personal tattoo. You can choose the place where you asked your partner to get married, your favorite spot as a kid, or any other place of significance to you. Every time you look back at it, you will be reminded of the meaningful experience connected to that particular place. 

Coordinates tattoos are discreet and could even pass unnoticed. Hence, they are one of the better options for those who are new to tattoos and want to start off easy.

4. Airplanes, trains, boats, bikes… and footprints! 

Just choose your favorite means of transportation and get a tattoo! 

Airplanes can represent the distance between you and your loved ones or a life you no longer live. They are also a symbol of fast travelers, constantly moving from one place to another. If you are eager to see and discover as many places as possible, this could be the right option for you. 

Trains can be more appealing to people who like to travel slowly. If you prefer to spend months in a specific country to discover its culture opt for these types of tattoos.

Boats are connected to the sea and are perfect for those who feel a strong attachment to this natural element. 

Bikes are the perfect option for outdoor lovers. They do not necessarily represent the life of someone traveling across countries but of people who like to explore and spend time outdoors in nature. 

From a simple line tracking the profile of a mountain to a palm tree or a feather, the possibilities are endless. You can choose to represent a certain mountain meaningful for you or a particular tree or flower. Nature tattoos are representative of your connection to nature and your love for exploration.

6. Skylines

Is there a city that particularly touched you during your backpacking adventures? Maybe you spent a  night in Paris  that changed your life, or a wonderful day in  Rome  that reminded you of how it feels to be truly happy. If this also happened to you, commemorate your time there with a unique travel tattoo! One of our favorite ways to do so is by sketching the skyline of your chosen city with all its most iconic buildings.

Camping tattoos are a fantastic idea for a minimalist travel tattoo. A small tent, van, and a hammock next to each other. If that doesn't remind you of good vibes, I don't know what will! 

Like nature tattoos, camping tattoos don't necessarily represent the eagerness to constantly travel from one place to another. They are a symbol of a simple way of life, of your connection with nature, and the importance you give to outdoor experiences over the busy and stressful life of the city. In the end, you don't need to go far to travel! 

A nice quote is always an elegant idea for a tattoo. Whether you decide to get it on your shoulder, arm, or hip, quotes tattoos will always look fantastic on your skin. You will only have to choose the quote that better resonates with your idea of traveling.

Some of our favorites are: 

The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page  - Saint Augustine 
Not all those who wander are lost  - Tolkien 
Live with no excuses and travel with no regrets  - Oscar Wilde.

Compasses are the perfect option for those who like vintage symbols. A compass tattoo symbolizes the willingness to get lost to find your way. But it also represents orientation, our aims and goals in life, and our eagerness to achieve all of them

10. Passports stamps

Passports are one of the most valuable possessions of true travelers. Not only are they one of the material objects that allow us to cross borders, but they also share so many adventures with us! Checking our passport pages and taking a close look at the many marks and stamps left there is a bit like watching a photo album. It takes us back to beautiful moments of our past travels. So why not dedicate a tattoo to our passport as well?! 

Getting a tattoo of the different stamps on your passport is becoming more and more popular. Passport stamps tattoos are one of the most original ways to put all the countries you visited so far on your skin. Just make sure to choose an area of your body with plenty of space as you may have to add a few new stamps every year! 

Let Pilot create your next trip!

Once you decide which tattoo you're going to get, just find the perfect studio and… book a flight ticket! More and more people are starting to get tattoos while traveling to remember their experiences.

Let travel tattoos be a way to remember the good times during your travel journeys and let Pilot help you get inspired and plan future travels. If that sounds like a great plan, why not give Pilot a try?

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39 Travel Tattoos For Adventurers

What are the symbols for travel and adventure? Wear your passion on the sleeve with these unique and meaningful travel tattoos.

Traveling is not just something we do for leisure. It’s a way of living. Be it hiking in the Grand Canyon or snowboarding in Aspen, traveling is both educating and fun.

Saint Augustine said, “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” For many, traveling is a way to learn about the world as it is. A new language, new people, cuisines, and customs, the things we get to know on our journey stick with us for a lifetime.

And there are many symbols that travelers and adventurers relate to. For example, a compass symbolizes orientation. Back in the days when GPS was not available, a compass is a must-have for sailing and hiking.

So what are some classic symbols of travel? Check out these travel tattoos and adventure tattoos to wear your passion on the sleeve.

Disclaimer:  This tattoo collection is for inspiration only. Please do not copy the artwork. If you love these tattoos, follow artists and show them some support.

Exhilarating travel tattoos and meaning 

Mountain tattoo.

Landscape tattoo for traveler by @janapadar

If you love nature, consider the mountains as the design of your travel tattoo. It can be an abstract landscape. Or it can be an exact illustration of your dream destination. Whichever it is, a mountain tattoo will be a motivation to continue to explore and rise.

HIghway tattoo

Hit the road triangle tattoo by @pejczi

Start, and you are halfway there. The moment you hit the road, the best part of the adventure begins. As a symbol of travel, the highway is a reminder to enjoy every moment of the journey. The path is as beautiful as the destination.

The adventurer tattoo for women

Girl with an adventure spirit by @yan_san.art

@yan_san.art

Floral plane tattoo on the ribcage

Floral pattern plane tattoo on the ribcage by @bunami.ink

@bunami.ink

Airplanes carry us to different places in the world. To some, the plane means departure and separation. Thus it represents long-distance friendships or relationships.

But airplane tattoos can also symbolize adventures. You don’t need to be a pilot to wear one. If you love traveling across the globe, plane tattoos may speak to you.

Pack your bags

Pack your bags travel tattoo by @camomilletattoo

@camomilletattoo

Path to unknown

Path to unknown - travel tattoo by @klax.tattooer

@klax.tattooer

You never know what will happen on the way and where a small path will lead you to. But it’s the uncertainty that makes each journey special.

The moon, the ocean and the mountains

Moon sea and mountain symbol tattoo for travelers by @bunami.ink

If you don’t have a specific place in mind to tattoo on your skin, consider these minimalist nature symbols. You can never go wrong with these symbolic tattoos. Go big or go small; it’s all up to you.

Small airplane collarbone tattoo

Minimalist plane tattoo by @bodycanvastattooart

@bodycanvastattooart

Airplane window

Looking out from the plane window by @inkpplcom

Who loves to sit by the window on a plane? I do. Gazing out from the window is both soothing and exciting. You get a birds-eye view of the world, and the experience is unforgettable. Sounds like you? Then this unique wrist tattoo may resonate with you.

Hot balloons tattoo for adventurers

Hot balloons tattoo for adventurers by @march.tattoo

@march.tattoo

If you have been to many different cities or countries, you might not remember every one of them. But breathtaking scenery like the hot balloons in this tattoo is unforgettable. A realistic and vibrant tattoo like this one not only shows your love for traveling. It’s also a conversation piece that has everyone talk about it.

Hit the road

On the road tattoo by @nevilleandco

@nevilleandco

Keep flying, keep exploring

Hot ballon tattoo on the nape by @unpointsept

@unpointsept

Paper planes and balloons are popular elements in travel tattoos. They represent the pursuit of freedom and adventure. This nape tattoo combines both of them and will speak to passionate explorers.

Matching campervan tattoos

Matching van tattoos for traveler couple by @thepalmvan

@thepalmvan

When I was a kid, it was my dream to travel in a campervan. It’s like taking your home while going to different places. If you and your partner share the same enthusiasm, these matching couple tattoos will be proof of your bond and passion.

Traveler lizard

Traveler lizard by @buoythefishlover

@buoythefishlover

Travel tattoos aren’t always about meaningful symbols or quotes. Instead, they can be light-hearted and fun, just like this one. This cute traveler lizard tattoo will be perfect for those who love spontaneous trips and enjoy the fun of going into the unknown.

Around the globe – a girly tattoo for travelers

A flower globe tattoo by @mapzmapas

Architecture nape tattoo for travelers

Architecture nape tattoo for travelers by @cagridurmaz

@cagridurmaz

If you love traveling, chances are you have a special place at heart. It can be a city, a street, a park, or any place you’ve been to. If so, why not get a tattoo to honor the trip and the memories? This simple architecture tattoo sets a good example.

Camera tattoo for nature lovers

A camera tattoo by @mr.ok_tattoo

@mr.ok_tattoo

Are you a fan of snapping shots on the way? This unique blackwork tattoo combines a camera and natural landscape. It will be an expression of identity and passion for travel photographers.

Break the window

Break the windows tattoo for adventurers by @ciotka_zu_tattoo

@ciotka_zu_tattoo

The pandemic has taken the joy of traveling away from many of us. And this dramatic tattoo expresses the desire to go outside and travel again. It also reminds us to be grateful for adventures and life.

Coordinate tattoo

coordinate tattoo by @tattoosbyina

@tattoosbyina

Coordinates are strings of numbers that represent a location. Usually, when people get coordinate tattoos, they want to remember a special place. For example, it may be a place they have visited or where their home is located. Also, because coordinates are easier and less painful to tattoo, they can be a good fit for tattoo virgins.

Door to the new world

Door to the new world by @saegeemtattoo

@saegeemtattoo

Dokodemo Door, or the Anywhere Door, is a magical gadget in the Japanese cartoon Doraemon. It’s a door that leads to any place you want. Traveling is a lot like opening a Dokodemo Door. You know where you are going. What you don’t know is what awaits at the other side of the door. And that uncertainty makes every trip interesting.

A forearm tattoo for travel lovers

Home is where the journey is at by @cuongle.tattoo

@cuongle.tattoo

Camping tattoo

Camping tattoo by @kellyneedles

@kellyneedles

Some say camping is the real way of exploring the world. Imagine spending time outdoors, sleeping under the starry night. It’s even better if you are with a loved one. So if you love spending time in nature, this small camping tattoo can be your next ink.

Wine and plane tattoo

Plane and wine tattoo by @thais.foxtattoo

@thais.foxtattoo

Sailboat tattoo

Sailing boat tattoo by @kelseyknown

@kelseyknown

This tattoo is not only for sailors. Ships and sailboats are often associated with courage. Without those who put their lives at risk and sailed to the unknown, the world might not as connected as it is today. So if you are a free-spirit and a brave traveler, consider sailboats to be your next ink.

Rocket tattoo

Rocket tattoo by @thommesen_ink

@thommesen_ink

Why stay on the ground while you can soar to the moon?

Wanderlust one word tattoo by @stefano__mazza

@stefano__mazza

Wanderlust, by word, refers to a lust to wander. Those who have wanderlust refuse to stay put or to be stuck in a rut. They are relentless explorers. New places and adventures fuel their souls.

Read also: 60 Meaningful one-word tattoos to wear your heart on the sleeve

Matching world map tattoos for besties

World map tattoo for best friends by @vladabenson

@vladabenson

Read also: 85 Hearty matching tattoos for best friends

Minimalist boat and world tattoo

Minimalist boat and world tattoo for travelers by @cagridurmaz

Simple shapes and lines never go out of time. And this small tattoo is a good example. The tattoo consists of a boat on the earth. What’s amazing about it is that the entire tattoo is one single line. It showcases both the creativity and technique of the artist.

Yosemite landscape tattoo

Yosemite landscape tattoo by @nycyla

If you have spent an unforgettable time in a place, it may be a good idea to tattoo it on the skin and make the memories permanent. And this Yosemite tattoo is a good example.

Tattoo for island-hoppers

Sunshine and beach tattoo by @tattoo_artist_olive

@tattoo_artist_olive

So even when you are at home, you can still relive the time sunbathing in on the beach.

Telescope tattoo

Telescope tattoo by @my_michelle_tattoo

@my_michelle_tattoo

We use telescopes to observe from afar. And as a tattoo, it symbolizes curiosity and the urge to explore.

Flying around the world

Travel around the world arm tattoo by @japassou_tattoo

@japassou_tattoo

To the sea_small tattoo for travelers by @tes.travelss

@tes.travelss

The ocean represents freedom. If you are a beach person and love staying by the sea, this simple quote tattoo may speak to you.

Road trip tattoo

Road trip tattoo by @marujostudio

@marujostudio

Ready to go

Ready to go by @tattoosbyina

Sleeve tattoo for hikers

Ready to go sleeve tattoo by @jikatattoo

@jikatattoo

Tiny suitcase tattoos

Suitcase tattoo by @sarakori

Passport stamps tattoo

postmark tattoo by @laissntattoo

@laissntattoo

Each passport stamp tells a story about a country. And that’s what makes stamps tattoos so personal. As an ink, they are a conversation piece.

Stamps tattoo

Stamps tattoo for adventurers by @tattooist_sigak

@tattooist_sigak

Stamps are considered to be collectibles for a reason – they represent a period, a special event, or a location. For people who relate to those elements, stamps can be a unique token of their memory.

This cute stamps tattoo is no exception. With the landmarks of different cities, the design says a lot about the wearer’s journeys and passion.

Which of these travel tattoos is your favorite?

Do you have a travel tattoo? What’s the story behind it? Share in the comments!

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Symbols of Travel Tattoos: Their Meanings and Significance

travel tattoos symbols

Are you a lover of travel and tattoos? If so, why not combine both passions and get a travel-inspired tattoo? Travel tattoos are a fantastic way to showcase your wanderlust and commemorate your adventures around the world. From compass roses to airplanes, each symbol is rich in meaning and holds a special significance for travelers.

In this article, we will explore the meanings and significance behind some of the most popular travel tattoos. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or dreaming of your next adventure, these symbols are sure to inspire and captivate. So, let’s dive in and uncover the stories behind these travel-inspired tattoos!

Table of Contents

Compass Rose

The compass rose is a symbol commonly associated with travel and navigation. It represents direction and guidance, making it a popular choice for those who have a strong sense of wanderlust. The compass rose typically features the four cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west) along with points in between, creating a circular design.

For travelers, the compass rose serves as a reminder to stay true to their path and embrace new adventures with an open mind. It symbolizes the desire to explore and discover new places, as well as the ability to navigate through life’s journey.

Some people choose to incorporate additional elements into their compass rose tattoos to personalize their meaning. This can include landmarks or symbols that hold significance to the individual, such as mountains, waves, or a specific location on a world map.

No matter the design or placement, a compass rose tattoo is a powerful symbol of travel and the endless possibilities that come with it.

The airplane is a popular symbol among travelers and represents a sense of adventure and freedom . It is often chosen as a tattoo design by those who have a love for exploration and a desire to see the world.

For many, an airplane tattoo symbolizes the joy of travel and the excitement of embarking on new experiences. It serves as a reminder to embrace the unknown and to always seek out new destinations and cultures.

Additionally, the airplane can also represent a personal journey or transformation. It can be a symbol of leaving behind the past and moving forward towards new horizons and opportunities.

Overall, the airplane tattoo is a powerful symbol of travel and the desire for exploration. It serves as a reminder to never stop exploring and to always keep an adventurous spirit.

Wanderlust is a term often associated with a strong desire to travel and explore the world. It represents a deep longing for adventure and new experiences. For many people, wanderlust is more than just a feeling – it’s a way of life.

Those who choose to get a wanderlust tattoo often do so as a way to express their love for travel and their desire to constantly explore. The symbol of wanderlust can vary, but it often includes elements such as a compass, a world map, or the word “wanderlust” itself.

Getting a wanderlust tattoo can serve as a constant reminder to follow your dreams , embrace new cultures, and seek out new experiences. It can inspire you to plan your next adventure or provide comfort in knowing that there is a whole world waiting to be explored.

Wanderlust tattoos are not only visually appealing, but they also hold deep personal meaning for those who wear them. They are a celebration of the freedom and joy that comes with travel and can serve as a symbol of personal growth and self-discovery.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or simply someone who dreams of exploring far-off lands, a wanderlust tattoo can be a powerful statement of your love for travel and your adventurous spirit.

The world map is a popular symbol of travel that represents a sense of adventure and exploration. It signifies a desire to see and experience different parts of the world, and often reflects a love for travel and a curiosity about diverse cultures.

For many people, the world map tattoo serves as a reminder of past adventures and a motivation to embark on new ones. It can symbolize a wanderlust spirit and a constant yearning to discover new places.

The world map tattoo can also hold personal significance, representing specific countries or cities that hold special memories or hold a deep connection. It can serve as a reminder of the places one has been or as a bucket list of places still to visit.

For some, the world map tattoo is a symbol of unity and interconnectedness, emphasizing that despite our differences, we are all citizens of the world. It can remind us of the beauty and diversity of our planet and the importance of preserving it.

Overall, the world map tattoo is a powerful symbol that encapsulates the spirit of travel, adventure, and a love for exploration.

Mountain Range

The mountain range is a popular symbol in travel tattoos, representing the love for adventure and the desire to explore new heights. Mountains are often associated with strength , resilience, and the ability to overcome challenges.

For many travelers, the mountain range tattoo symbolizes the joy of climbing mountains and conquering personal obstacles. It serves as a reminder of the breathtaking views and sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching the summit.

Mountains can also represent the beauty and serenity of nature, encouraging individuals to connect with the natural world and seek solace in its simplicity. They symbolize the vastness and grandeur of the world, reminding us of the limitless possibilities that await us beyond our comfort zones.

Whether it’s a small range of mountains or a panoramic view, a mountain range tattoo can inspire a sense of adventure and encourage individuals to embrace new challenges and seek personal growth.

The anchor is a popular symbol in travel tattoos, representing stability, strength, and a grounded nature. Historically, anchors have been used by sailors to keep their ships steady in rough waters, making it a fitting symbol for those who have a love for travel and adventure.

In the context of travel tattoos, the anchor can also symbolize a sense of home or a reminder of one’s roots. It can be a powerful symbol for those who are constantly on the move, serving as a reminder of the importance of staying grounded amidst their journeys.

Additionally, the anchor can also represent a person’s desire to explore new horizons and seek out new experiences. It can symbolize their readiness to embrace the unknown and navigate through the challenges that come with travel.

Overall, the anchor tattoo is a meaningful symbol that holds different significance for each individual. It serves as a reminder of their love for travel, their strength in navigating through life’s challenges, and their desire to stay grounded amidst their adventures.

The passport is a symbol of travel and exploration. It represents the freedom to explore new places and experience different cultures. A passport is an essential document that allows individuals to travel internationally and serves as proof of identity and citizenship.

Getting a passport is often seen as a rite of passage for travelers, marking the beginning of their adventures. It is a tangible reminder of past trips and a motivation for future ones. Many people choose to get a passport tattoo to commemorate their love for travel and the memories associated with their journeys.

A passport tattoo can be designed in various ways, including incorporating the actual passport cover design or passport stamps from different countries. Some may choose to include their own personal details, such as their name or birth date, to make the tattoo more meaningful.

For travelers, the passport tattoo is a reminder of their passion for exploring the world and a symbol of the experiences and memories that travel brings. It serves as a constant reminder to embrace new adventures and to never stop exploring.

A suitcase tattoo is a popular symbol for travel and adventure. It represents a love for exploring new places, immersing oneself in different cultures, and embracing the freedom and excitement of travel.

For many people, a suitcase tattoo serves as a reminder of past adventures and a constant motivation to continue exploring the world. It represents the desire to always be ready for the next journey, to pack up and leave at a moment’s notice.

The suitcase tattoo can also symbolize a sense of independence and self-reliance. It signifies the ability to navigate unfamiliar territories, adapt to new situations, and rely on oneself during travels.

Some people may choose to incorporate other travel-related elements into their suitcase tattoo, such as a compass or a map, to further enhance the symbolism and personal meaning of the tattoo.

Overall, a suitcase tattoo embodies the spirit of travel and adventure, serving as a permanent reminder of the joy and excitement that comes with exploring the world.

Feathers are a popular symbol in travel tattoos due to their association with freedom, spirituality, and the ability to soar to new heights. Feathers are often seen as a connection to the natural world and are believed to have spiritual significance in various cultures.

In Native American traditions, feathers are considered sacred and are often used in ceremonies and rituals. They are seen as messages from the spirit realm and are believed to carry the power and wisdom of birds . Feathers can represent a connection to the divine and a symbol of guidance and protection during travels.

Feathers can also symbolize personal growth and transformation. Just as birds molt and shed their old feathers to make way for new ones, individuals who choose a feather tattoo may see it as a representation of leaving behind the past and embracing new experiences and opportunities.

For travelers, a feather tattoo can serve as a reminder of their adventurous spirit and desire for exploration. It can symbolize the freedom to go wherever the wind takes them and the courage to embrace new journeys and experiences.

Feathers can be depicted in various styles and designs, from intricate and detailed feathers to simple and minimalist outlines. Some may choose to incorporate specific bird feathers, such as an eagle feather for strength or an owl feather for wisdom.

Ultimately, a feather tattoo is a personal symbol that can hold different meanings for each individual. It can serve as a reminder of the beauty of the natural world, the power of freedom, and the transformative nature of travel.

The sun is a common symbol used in travel tattoos and holds various meanings and significance. It represents warmth, light , and life, and is often associated with positivity, energy, and vitality.

In travel tattoos, the sun can symbolize new beginnings and the start of a new journey. It represents the excitement and optimism that comes with exploring new places and experiencing different cultures.

Additionally, the sun can symbolize adventure and bravery. It reminds travelers to embrace the unknown and step out of their comfort zones to seek new experiences and personal growth.

Furthermore, the sun can also represent freedom and liberation. It embodies the feeling of being able to wander and explore without any constraints or limitations.

Overall, the sun is a powerful symbol in travel tattoos that captures the essence of travel and the joy of embarking on new adventures.

The wave is a popular symbol in travel tattoos that represents the love for the ocean, the spirit of adventure, and the freedom of exploration. It is often associated with a passion for surfing, sailing, or simply being in and around the water.

The wave symbolizes the dynamic and ever-changing nature of life and travel. It reminds us to go with the flow, embrace new experiences, and ride the wave of opportunities that come our way.

For some, the wave tattoo may also hold a deeper spiritual meaning, symbolizing the power of the subconscious mind or the cyclical nature of existence.

Whether you have a love for the ocean or seek a reminder to be open to new experiences, a wave tattoo can serve as a beautiful and meaningful symbol of your adventurous spirit.

Tree of Life

The Tree of Life is a symbol that transcends cultures and religions, representing the interconnectedness and unity of all living beings. It is a powerful symbol that represents growth, strength, and resilience. The Tree of Life is often depicted as a tree with roots that reach deep into the earth and branches that extend towards the sky.

In various mythologies and spiritual traditions, the Tree of Life represents the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. It symbolizes the interconnectedness of all living things and the balance between the physical and spiritual realms. The roots of the tree signify grounding and stability, while the branches represent expansion and growth.

The Tree of Life is also associated with wisdom and knowledge. In many cultures, the tree is seen as a source of wisdom, with its branches reaching towards the heavens, where divine knowledge resides. It serves as a reminder to seek knowledge, understanding, and enlightenment throughout our journey in life.

When it comes to travel tattoos, the Tree of Life can be a meaningful symbol for those who want to embrace the idea of exploring new places and experiencing personal growth. It reminds us of the importance of staying grounded while reaching for new heights, and of the interconnectedness of all living beings, no matter where we go.

Overall, the Tree of Life is a beautiful and timeless symbol that represents the unity and interconnectedness of all living things. It serves as a powerful reminder to embrace growth, seek wisdom, and appreciate the beauty and diversity of the world around us.

Symbolic tattoos can be a meaningful way to express your love for travel and exploration. Each symbol holds its own unique significance and can be a reminder of your adventurous spirit. Whether you choose a compass rose to represent guidance and direction, an airplane to symbolize freedom and adventure, or a world map to showcase your wanderlust, these tattoos can serve as lifelong reminders of your love for travel.

No matter which travel tattoo you choose, it’s important to remember that the meaning behind your tattoo is personal and can hold different interpretations for different people. Ultimately, the most important thing is that your tattoo resonates with you and represents your own journey and experiences. So, embrace your love for travel and let your tattoo be a symbol of the incredible adventures that await you.

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travel tattoo meaning

Linda Callaway is a passionate history buff and researcher specializing in ancient history, symbolism, and dream interpretation. Her inquisitive nature has been a life-long pursuit, from her childhood days spent exploring the past, to her current academic studies of the ancient world. Linda has a strong interest in the symbolism associated with everyday objects, as well as the interpretation of dreams as a way to uncover hidden truths.

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46 Wanderlust Tattoos For Anyone Obsessed With Travel

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on January 20, 2022 |

Travellers all over the world are constantly collecting passport stamps, soul-stirring stories and often, stunning wanderlust tattoos. Each one tells a story, a tale of adventure, inspiration and often, personal achievement. They’re badges of honour, proudly emblazoned on the bodies of those whose hearts are stirred by travel. We asked YOU for your real travel ink stories (and pics), and as always, you did not disappoint. Brace yourself for an inspiration overload! #MeetMyInk

Here are 46 wanderlust tattoos for anyone obsessed with travel:

1. “The globe stands for Asia and the compass that ensure I will always know where my home is. The arrow stands for the jump into something new.”

wanderlust tattoos

📸: Tanja Gremmelmaier – Germany

2. “I’ve always wanted a palm tree tattoo, but I’m glad I waited to get this done on my trip to Bali as it has given it even more meaning and reminds me of my time there.”

wanderlust tattoos

📸:  Annina – Finland

3. “My life goal is to travel as much as I can, as often as possible, and that’s pretty much what the tattoo means to me!”

wanderlust tattoos

📸:  Vittoria – Brazil

4. “I got this wanderlust tattoo before I went on a backpacking trip to South America for six months. I work in travel and I grew up with travelling – that’s why I got this quote on my ribs.”

wanderlust tattoos

📸: Jana Shl – Germany

5. “I am a firm believer that tattoos should represent what you stand for and believe in. That is precisely the reason why I’ve tattooed the word ‘GO’ on my forearm. It’s a mantra, a moto, an inspiration – when life gets rough, when the day at work just doesn’t seem to be coming to an end. I try to remind myself I’m doing it for a reason: to be able to travel in the future, to have the luxury of experiencing a bunch of ‘firsts’ and to not take daily things for granted.”

wanderlust tattoos

📸: Pia – Slovenia (Tattoo by @fertattoo)

6. “I lived abroad for over 10 years, but home is always where the heart is.”

wanderlust tattoos

📸: Anmar Wilding – UK (Tattoo by Dolly at Black Sails, Brighton, UK)

7. “I made my tattoo on a trip in Thailand as is the Thai tradition, with bamboo. It is a Thai amulet that means luck and protection.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Thais Espildora – Brazil

8. “I’ve got the coordinates of Hawaii as a tattoo because I spent two wonderful months there. So if I’m lost, please send me back!”

wanderlust tattoos

📸: Judith Nora – Germany

9. “The latitude and longitude show where I come from, and the map shows where I’m going.”

wanderlust tattoos

📸: Washington Rosthayni – Brazil

10. “I went on a contiki trip to Europe in 2013 and met my amazing friend/Australian soul sister Eden. I went to visit her in Australia a year later and we decided to mark our friendship for life with this tattoo! Since I live in Canada, it’s my sun when it’s her moon, so we drew this one up and got it tatted. Then of course, we went to the beach.”

wanderlust tattoos

📸: Madison Baillie – Canada

11. “The world is about people and the moments you live with them.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Maria Eduarda Lacerda – Brazil

12. “My heart is in the mountains and never being tied down, so I got ‘wild’ to symbolize who I am! The tree is the Colorado state tree.”

wanderlust tattoos

📸: Vicky Petrauskas – USA

13. “Got my wanderlust tattoo compass done back in Latvia when I realised how much I want to go to places I’ve never been to.”

wanderlust tattoos

📸: Victoria Zarecneva – Latvia

14. “Got it after having lived near the ocean (Australia & Spain) and learning how to surf”

wanderlust tattoo

📸: Anneline Akkersdijk – Netherlands

15. “Tomorrow I’ll be going with a backpack all by myself to the Chapada Diamantina! Go, go!”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Maysa Santos – Brazil

16. “Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow.” – Anita Desai

wanderlust tattoo

📸: Martina Anliker – Switzerland

17. “I LOVE palm trees! This is my first tattoo and I got it in Sri Lanka from a French guy who was living in Thailand. Plus, I got it for free!”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Melina Trovatello – Germany

18. “My rose of the winds Daniele Duarte, who guides me to the most crazy and amusing ways of Brazil with our eternal friendship.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Lucas Sorreano – Brazil

19. “Got this one done by Coen Mitchell in New Zealand during my working holiday adventure”

wanderlust tattoo

📸: Julie Van Oosterwyck – Belgium

20. “’Not all those who wander are lost’ is my life phrase. Photo taken during the crossing of the Serra Fina Mountain, on top of Capim Amarelo.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Gabriel Oliveira – Brazil

21. “I just had to have my itchy feet eternalized with a palm tree.”

wanderlust tattoo

📸: Sandra de Groot

22. “’We travel, some of us forever, to seek other places, other lives, other souls.’ – Anais Nin

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Carina Katharina – Germany

23. “I discovered a few years ago (since the age of 18 I have travelled without my parents) that I love travelling and ever since then, I prepare every year to discover a destination. It is amazing to learn about other cultures, including exploring my own country! I feel that my heart gains part of every place I have ever visited.”

wanderlust tattoo

📸: Ana Carolina Dias – Brazil

24. “I’ve been to over 30 countries before the age 23. I worked for an airline in the States. Traveling has been a huge part of my life and has made me to who I am. I’m a more global thinker, more empathizing towards others, and it has made me more curious about other cultures. If I don’t get on a plane for couple of months, I start getting jittery! I know my love for travelling will never leave me, so that’s why I got a tattoo! (Pic taken on the beaches of Tamarindo in Costa Rica!)”

wanderlust tattoo

📸: Olivia Dwan

25. “I’m the captain of my soul!”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Camila Fernanda

26. “After breaking my neck in New Zealand I had this tattooed with a Maori pattern (given to me on a kiwi river stone from my nurse) in the ‘P’ and ‘C’ to remind me how lucky I was.”

wanderlust tattoo

📸: Kinging-It – UK (Full story here if you want to know more: How I Broke My Neck) 

27. “I won this in a competition haha! I decided to mark the places I liked the most and to register a year that was unforgettable.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Luana Borges – Brazil

28. “A tattoo in the jungle of Thailand. A representation of an elephant for my best friend who passed away years ago, because an elephant never forgets.”

wanderlust tattoo

📸: Ryan Mitchell

29. “After the ascent to Mt Rinjani (3726m) in Lombok, Bali, I got this tattoo with the outlines of the mountain with my two friends.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Tina Specowius – Germany

30. “It represents all directions under the horizon, symbols of change and new paths.”

wanderlust tattoo

📸: Thaís Machado – Brazil

31. “All it takes is a backpack to travel the world.”

wanderlust tattoo

📸: Joe Nic-Smith

32. “Free hand wanderlust tattoo in a little hut on a beautiful island in Fiji.”

wanderlust tattoo

📸: Tessa Jerman

33. “A reminder that, wherever my soul wants to be, my feet will take me. Travel is, and always will be, one of the most amazing, spiritual journeys we could ever experience. Much love to my fellow free spirited travellers.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Toni-Lea Shin

34. “Quote means: ‘Travelling is the longing for life.’ by Kurt Tucholsky”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Silvana So – Germany

35. “This is my first wanderlust tattoo. I got it last Friday and I took this pic today!”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Tiago Wallace Barros

36. “I did a road trip with a camper/caravan in the western USA, and during a stopover in Las Vegas I got this tattoo.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Joke Blankenstein. Germany

37. “She’s mine. Besides signifying my passion for travel, it marked a uni exchange and my graduation in fashion.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Pamela Nardino – Brazil

38. “This stands for adventure, off-the-beaten-track. To experience things you can’t find in a brochure. It stands for my time in Spain when I volunteered as a juvenile tour guide, without even knowing the language and living with strangers, giving everything every day.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Vanessa Wepunkt

39. “My little feet will take me to the most wonderful and enchanting places in this world!”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Simoni Celis – Brazil

40. “Adventure! The tree is a cedar and is standing for my Celtic birth date. The paper plane stands for serenity and freedom during adventures.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Theresa Fuxjäger – Germany

41. “I had our ‘Kinging-It’ crown and a map of Bali tattooed on my shin on my 27th birthday in Bali to signify a new beginning. Kinging-It forevz. As cliché and straight forward as this tattoo is, it’s one of my favourites.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Kinging-It – UK

42. “I got my wanderlust tattoo during my year abroad in Estonia. It reminds me every day how beautiful this year was and how much there is to see in the world.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Jasmina Meyer

43. “Light house in Warnemünd.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Käthy Nuarb – Germany

44. “To overcome the fear of my first trip alone and show me that I can go wherever I want.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Thábita Ojana – Brazil

45.”My tattoo is a reminder to never stop seeing the world, no matter whether that’s in a faraway land, or an adventure in my own country.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Mari – USA

46. “Every time I look at my tattoo, it reminds me to keep travelling, learning and following my dreams around the globe.”

travel tattoo meaning

📸: Eduardo – Brazil

Thanks to everyone who submitted photos, and to the amazing @thetraveltellers for the banner image!

Download the Hostelworld app to start meeting people from the moment you book

travel tattoo meaning

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The 90 Most Popular Symbols For Travel Tattoos

  • April 5, 2024

Travel tattoos have become increasingly popular in recent years as people seek to commemorate their journeys and adventures around the world. These tattoos often incorporate symbols and images that hold personal significance for the wearer, whether it be a location, a cultural icon, or a mantra that embodies the spirit of travel.

Symbols, in particular, are a common element of travel tattoos, as they can represent a wide range of meanings and emotions without the need for words. From compasses and maps to planes and trains, the symbols used in travel tattoos can be as diverse as the experiences they represent. In this article, we will explore some popular symbols for travel tattoos and their significance to help you choose the perfect symbol to mark your own wanderlust-inspired tattoo.

  • Why do people get travel tattoos?

1. Suitcase:

2. mountain range: , 5. moon: , 8. bird: , 9. feather:, 10. butterfly:, 11. dragonfly:, 12. elephant: , 18. snake: , 20. dolphin:, 21. octopus: , 22. jellyfish:, 24. mermaid:, 25. pirate ship: , 26. lighthouse:, 28. scuba diver:, 29. surfboard: , 30. hiking boots:, 32. campfire:, 33. road trip:, 34. motorcycle:, 35. bicycle: , 39. subway:, 40. taxi: , 41. cruise ship:, 42. sailboat:, 43. fishing boat:, 47. snowflake:, 48. snowboard:, 49. skiing:, 50. ice skates:, 51. hockey stick:, 52. baseball bat:, 53. football: , 54. basketball:, 55. volleyball:, 56. soccer ball:, 57. rugby ball, 58. golf club:, 60. yoga pose:, 61. meditation:, 62. lotus flower:, 63. buddha: , 64. om symbol:, 66. star of david:, 67. crescent moon:, 68. yin yang:, 70. infinity symbol:, 74. feather:, 75. dreamcatcher:, 76. mandala:, 77. sunflower:, 80. cherry blossom:, 81. pineapple:, 82. palm leaves:, 83. cactus:, 84. bamboo:, 86. butterfly: , 87. dragonfly:, 88. hummingbird:, 90. ladybug:, how can i choose a symbol for my travel tattoo, conclusion .

travel tattoo meaning

Travel tattoos have become a popular way for people to commemorate their adventures and experiences around the world. These tattoos often feature symbols, images, or phrases that hold special meaning for the person who got them.

So why do people get travel tattoos? Here are a few reasons:

To remember a special trip: Many people get tattoos to remember a specific trip that was meaningful to them. This could be a trip to a foreign country, a backpacking adventure, or even a road trip with friends. Getting a tattoo is a way to immortalize that experience and keep it with you forever.

To show off their love for travel: For some people, travel is a huge part of their identity. They love exploring new places, meeting new people, and trying new things. Getting a travel tattoo is a way to express this passion and show it off to the world.

To mark a personal transformation: Travel can be a transformative experience for many people. It can challenge your beliefs, push you out of your comfort zone, and help you grow as a person. Getting a tattoo after a particularly transformative trip can serve as a reminder of the changes you went through and the person you became.

To connect with others: Travel tattoos can also be a way to connect with other travelers. When you see someone with a travel tattoo, it’s an instant conversation starter. You can swap stories about your adventures and bond over your shared love of travel.

To symbolize a place or culture: Finally, travel tattoos can be a way to symbolize a specific place or culture that was meaningful to you. This could be anything from a city skyline to a traditional symbol from a foreign culture. These tattoos serve as a reminder of the unique experiences and connections you made while traveling.

Read More: 50 Small Travel Tattoos That Will Inspire Inner Wanderers

The Top 90  Symbols For Travel Tattoos And What They Mean

Sure, here are some possible meanings for each of the 10 symbols for travel tattoos:

This symbol can represent a love for travel and adventure, as well as the desire to explore new places and cultures. It may also symbolize the importance of being prepared and ready for whatever the journey may bring.

travel tattoo meaning

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This symbol often represents a love for the outdoors, hiking, and exploring. It can also symbolize the challenges and obstacles one has overcome or hopes to overcome, as well as the feeling of being on top of the world.

travel tattoo meaning

  • 9 Styles: you will receive 144 pieces summer party tattoos in 9 patterns, 16 pieces per pattern, sufficient quantity to meet most of your needs and share with family and friends
  • Summer and holiday vibes: the tropical temporary tattoos are full of summer elements including surfboard, sun, beach ball, flip flops, island, pineapple, crab and coconut, vivid design can easily make you feel the cool and happy feel of hitting the waves, even can remind you of the joyful memories of holiday and summer
  • Easy to apply: the tropical tattoos are easy to stick and remove, just wet the tattoo with water and press it for about 15 seconds, after that an eye-catching look is finished; The tattoo stays on for about 2 to 4 days, the specific time is depending on the part that you stick the tattoo

120 PCS Glitter Summer Tattoos Temporary For Kids Hawaiian Luau Themed Tattoos Tropical Beach Waterproof Tattoos Stickers Pool Party Favors Decoration Supplies For Adults

  • Glitter Summer Tattoos For Kids : You Will Receive 20 Pieces 2.8*4.8 Inches Glitter Summer Party Tattoos Accessories In 120 Patterns, Whether You’Re a Teen, Girl, Boy, Baby, Lady, Or Just Looking To Have Some Fun With Family And Friends, These Beach Tattoos Are Sure To Add Some Excitement To Your Summer.
  • Featuring a Range Of Glitter Luau Tattoos :Such As Surfboards, Sun, Watermelon, Sharks, Beach Balls, Flip Flops, Pineapples, Butterflies, Mermaids, Crabs, And Coconuts, These Tattoos Are Designed To Evoke a Sense Of Joy And Adventure. With Their Vibrant Colors And Playful Designs, They Can Transport You To a Carefree World Of Sun, Sand, And Surf.
  • The Beach Tattoos Are Incredibly User-Friendly, Requiring Only Water And 15 Seconds Of Pressure To Apply. They Can Be Easily Removed As Well, Without Any Hassle. Once Applied, The Tattoos Can Last For Up To 4 Days, Depending On The Location Of The Application. With These Tattoos, Achieving An Eye-Catching Look Has Never Been Easier!

This symbol often represents relaxation, tranquility, and a love for the ocean. It may also symbolize the desire to escape and unwind, as well as the beauty of nature.

This symbol often represents warmth, light, and energy. It may also symbolize vitality, life, and growth, as well as the idea of a new day and new opportunities.

travel tattoo meaning

  • High quality fashionable temporary tattoo, which looks like real
  • Size: 1.57" x 5.43"
  • Quantity: 12 in one set

Supperb Temporary Tattoos - Moon phase Bohemian Temporary Tattoos, Moon Tattoos

  • Package include: 2 sheet of Supperb temporary tattoo (ST-143). Sheet Size: 8 x 4 inches wide and tall (20cm x 10cm). Quality temporary tattoo. Safe & non-toxic, printed with vegetable-based ink.
  • Long lasting and waterproof. They will not wash off and will last for 2-3 days. (If you don't rub temp tattoos against clothes, it will last even longer).
  • Great for parties, club nights, Halloween, gatherings, daily wear, going shopping, wear at beach or swimming pool, concerts, cosplays, birthdays, photoshoots, arts & crafts projects and more...Create your own unique style…

This symbol often represents the night, mystery, and the unknown. It can also symbolize femininity, intuition, and the ebb and flow of life.

This symbol often represents guidance, inspiration, and hope. It may also symbolize achievement, success, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.

This symbol often represents growth, strength, and stability. It may also symbolize the importance of roots and grounding, as well as the beauty and diversity of nature.

travel tattoo meaning

  • Size:60mm x 105mm (2.36" x 4.13")
  • Use temporary tattoos to decorate your mood. You'll find dream catcher, elephants, feathers, mandalas, flowers, butterflies, bracelet tattoos, dandelion, fairy tattoos and beautiful mehndi designs tattoos in my store.
  • Very easy to apply. Please take a look at the directions. The tattoos not only make you look fabulous during your daily routine, but also amazing for any special occasion.

Inkbox Temporary Tattoos, Semi-Permanent Tattoo, One Premium Easy Long Lasting, Water-Resistant Temp Tattoo with For Now Ink - Lasts 1-2 Weeks, Flying Birds, 2 x 2 in, Willughby

  • Skin Deep, But Not Too Deep: Inkbox tattoos are made with For Now Ink, which is a semi-permanent tech that sets Inkbox apart from the temporary tattoos you knew as a kid. Unlike most fake or temporary tattoos, Inkbox works because it sits in your skin, not on top of it.
  • Lasts Longer Than Most Temporary Tattoos: While most temporary tattoos only last a few days, Inkbox lasts up to 1-2 weeks and is water-resistant. You can shower, sweat, and go about your day. Just avoid scrubbing, and you’re good to go. Your tattoo gradually fades as your skin naturally exfoliates and regenerates.
  • Easy to Apply: Easily apply your Inkbox tattoo in 1-2 minutes and then chill for 1 hour. Take this time to read, sing, stream, meditate... you do you. Keep in mind, your tattoo will darken over the course of 24-48 hours.

This symbol often represents freedom, grace, and the ability to soar to new heights. It may also symbolize the idea of migration and the importance of taking flight and exploring new horizons.

This symbol often represents lightness, purity, and spirituality. It may also symbolize the idea of letting go and allowing oneself to be carried away by the winds of change.

This symbol often represents transformation, beauty, and the idea of rebirth. It may also symbolize the fleeting nature of life and the importance of living in the moment.

Sure, here are some common meanings of the symbols you mentioned as tattoos for travel:

A dragonfly tattoo often represents change, transformation, and adaptability. In some cultures, dragonflies are also associated with good luck and prosperity.

travel tattoo meaning

  • Pattern rich: Cute Temporary Tattoos Baby Elephant Tattoo Funny Pink Blue Animal for Kids include 8 Sheets 96 PCS, the size of each sheet is 6.1 * 3.1 inches. Having a variety of characteristics, shapes and vibrant colors can stimulate your children's imaginations and bring a creative atmosphere to your Elephant Baby Shower Party.
  • Widely used: These Cute Temporary Tattoos Baby Elephant Tattoo Funny Pink Blue Animal pieces are suitable for many occasions such as birthday parties, birthday gifts, party decorations, gatherings and other special celebrations. It also can be applied on laptop, cup, luggage, phone case and so on which could make you look more impressive.
  • How to use: It’s very simple and easy to use. Cut your favorite tattoo from the sheet and stick it on your hands, arms, face or wherever you like. Simply removed by baby oil or alcohol to wipe it back and forth.

INKARTLINK Tattoo Tech, 2 Sheets Large Semi Permanent Tattoo, Adult Art Design Temporary Tattoos, Lasts 1-2 Weeks, Waterproof, Realistic Look, No Adhesive, No Reflection (Thai Elephant Deity Design)

  • Amazing Product: Different from you know ordinary temporary tattoo stickers or fake tattoos. It is so real and comparable to the real tattoo. It is a semi-permanent technology, waterproof, friction-resistant, and can last for a long time, staying on your skin for 1-2 weeks.
  • Fashionable Design: All INKARTLINK tattoo designs are created by talented illustrators, storyterators, and entrepreneurs and they spend years completing their work. We are fortunate to cooperate with the best tattoo artist in the world to form a diverse tattoo design directory, which is suitable for everyone.
  • Easy to Apply: According to the instructions of use, you can easily use INKARTLINK tattoos in 30 seconds, spend time reading, singing, streaming media, and meditation ... you will do it. Remember that your tattoo will be darker during 24-72 hours.

An elephant tattoo often symbolizes strength, power, wisdom, and loyalty. Elephants are also associated with family and community in many cultures.

A lion tattoo often represents courage, strength, and leadership. Lions are also associated with royalty, nobility, and pride.

A tiger tattoo often symbolizes courage, power, and strength. Tigers are also associated with ferocity, protection, and bravery.

Read More: The Art of Travel: Exploring the World of World Traveler Tattoos

A bear tattoo often represents strength, courage, and protection. In some cultures, bears are also associated with healing and spirituality.

A wolf tattoo often symbolizes loyalty, family, and community. Wolves are also associated with independence, strength, and perseverance.

A horse tattoo often represents freedom, strength, and grace. Horses are also associated with travel, adventure, and exploration.

travel tattoo meaning

  • What You Get: we will provide you with 22 sheets tattoos for women in snake style, including various snake patterns, sufficient in quantities and styles to meet your daily requirement of using, replacing and sharing
  • Reliable and Comfortable: temporary snake tattoo is made of quality ink, which is reliable and no harm to your body, you can use these tattoo stickers on your arms, wrists, fingers, ankles, neck, shoulders, feet, legs and back, fit for most people
  • Attractive Snake Styles: our fake tattoos are designed in lifelike snake styles, including flowers and swords elements, showing your personal tastes, can be properly matched with your daily outfits, making you more eye catching

Fashion Realistic Big Size Black Snake Temporary Tattoo Stickers for Women Men Waterproof Fake Tattoo Waist Body Forearm Arm

  • - Size: 4.3 x 9.8 Inch (11 x 25CM)
  • - The package includes: 1 x Snake Tattoo Sticker
  • - Applicable scenarios: clavicle, ankle, thigh, arm and other body parts.

A snake tattoo often symbolizes transformation, rebirth, and healing. Snakes are also associated with knowledge, wisdom, and protection.

A shark tattoo often represents strength, power, and determination. Sharks are also associated with adaptability, survival, and fearlessness.

A dolphin tattoo often symbolizes joy, playfulness, and intelligence. Dolphins are also associated with communication, friendship, and freedom.

travel tattoo meaning

  • SAFE FOR ALL SKIN FULL ARM PIRATE KRAKEN FULL ARM STICKER TATTOO BUNDLE - contains 2 x sheet Kraken temporary tattoo which are printed with non-toxic ink, Your friends will think you had a new viking style tattoo! Great fun for parties, cosplay, halloween, special events Also for testing to see if you like a real tattoo look like
  • THESE BODY ART STICKERS WATERPROOF AND REMOVABLE - last for 1-2 days, depends on how many showers you take and how many times you scrub the tattoo with soap and water,Easy to apply in 10-20 seconds with just water and easily removed by rubbing alcohol, body oil, olive oil
  • AFFORDABLE EXTRA TEMPORARY TATTOOS WITH NO PAIN - if you’ve wanted a tattoo but worried about the pain and cost, now’s your chance! Apply these realistic tatoo body stickers in seconds and no-one will believe they’re not the real deal

Dopetattoo Tattoo design 6 Sheets Temporary Tattoos Octopus Temporary tattoo Neck Arm Chest

  • Temporary Tattoos could be used for men women adults neck arm chest.
  • Size:6 temporary tattoos with the same pattern,each size is 3.7 x 3.7 inches (9.5 x 9.5cm)
  • Waterproof and Durable:You can take it to the beach swimming pool.It lasts 3-5 days,depending on how many times you bathe and how many times you scrub your tattoos with soap and water.

An octopus tattoo often represents intelligence, adaptability, and mystery. Octopuses are also associated with flexibility, agility, and survival.

A jellyfish tattoo often symbolizes grace, beauty, and simplicity. Jellyfish are also associated with adaptability, survival, and tranquility.

A crab tattoo often represents protection, defense, and adaptability. Crabs are also associated with patience, perseverance, and renewal.

A mermaid tattoo often symbolizes beauty, femininity, and mystery. Mermaids are also associated with independence, freedom, and exploration.

travel tattoo meaning

  • 【Package Included】Our tattoo sticker includes 6 sheets and each sheet measures 18 cm x 11 cm (7.08 inch x 4.33 inch).
  • 【New Semi-permanent Temporary Tattoos】Transform your temporary tattoo sticker into a realistic and fashionable semi-permanent piece of art! It is the latest in temporary tattoo technology and looks even more realistic compared to regular temporary tattoos.
  • 【How to use】To apply, first remove the transparent film and adhere it to dry, clean skin. Then, use a wet paper towel to wipe the tattoo and remove the paper, allowing it to dry. You may notice that the tattoo appears light in color at first, but it will gradually darken and deepen over a period of 24-72 hours until it is a dark navy blue.

A pirate ship tattoo often represents adventure, freedom, and rebellion. Pirate ships are also associated with exploration, treasure hunting, and the open sea.

A lighthouse tattoo often symbolizes guidance, safety, and direction. Lighthouses are also associated with hope, perseverance, and navigation.

A wave tattoo often represents power, fluidity, and movement. Waves are also associated with change, transformation, and the flow of life.

A scuba diver tattoo often symbolizes adventure, exploration, and the love of the ocean. Scuba divers are also associated with courage, curiosity, and discovery.

travel tattoo meaning

  • SURF BIRTHDAY PARTY: It belongs to our popular collection and will accommodate your expectations at birthday party, party decorations, and special celebrations. Each tattoo set covers 8 sheets in total with 96 Pcs.The dimension of each sheet is 6.1*3.1 inches, including tattoo pieces that have proportions reasonable for adults to kids. Our tattoo stickers designed in different styles promise to develop the impression for the party ^^
  • SURF TATTOOS: If you haven’t had the option for a SURF theme birthday party yet, SURF temporary tattoos complete with themed aloha SURFboard styles, summer stuff for beachgoers, and SURFing will be a terrific choice for you on their momentous day. Sure enough to believe that kids have fun a lot of when playing with our tattoo stickers. The tattoo is the best gift for a birthday party together with the important meaning that it says ^^
  • SAFE AND HIGH QUALITY: Our temporary tattoos are made of environmentally friendly materials and are non-toxic. These tattoos are made of high-quality safety and green paper

103PCS Summer Surfing Surf Temporary Tattoos Birthday Theme Party Decorations Favors Supplies Decor Cute Beach California Hawaiian Ocean Surfer Stickers Gifts for Kids Boys Girls Carnival Class Prizes

  • The Perfect Summer Surfing Surf Theme Party Gift: 10 Sheets Beach California Hawaiian Ocean Surfer Surfboard Tropical tattoos stickers, each sheet measures 6.1 * 3.1 inch , one size fit all adult and kids. One of the most popular party themes for children, make the best party gifts for your children & Carnival gifts, help your children become small heroes at the party! Bring nonstop joy to the whole party! Make your kids receive full of expectation and exploration in every festival.
  • Cute patterns: Summer Surfing Surf Beach California Hawaiian Ocean Surfer Surfboard Tropical Palm Tree Coconut Temporary tattoos stickers, features an assortment of themed characters, colors are bright, and designs are adorable, which are attractive to children.
  • Various Tattoo Set: Our party favors are based on children's happiness both in appearance and inwardness. Use our party favors can bring joy to your baby, birthday gifts, Christmas sock stuff, family party prize, treasure boxes, Carnival prizes, Classroom rewards, etc. Cute and lively temporary tattoo's element can be used for laptops, backpacks, desks, suitcases, books, water cups and other things you can see everywhere to bring visual enjoyment.

A surfboard tattoo often represents freedom, joy, and the thrill of riding waves. Surfboards are also associated with relaxation, fun, and the beach lifestyle.

Hiking boots and tattoos often represent adventure, exploration, and the love of nature. Hiking boots are also associated with strength, endurance, and perseverance.

A tent tattoo often represents adventure, exploration, and the love of the outdoors. Tents are also associated with self-sufficiency, simplicity, and freedom.

A campfire tattoo often symbolizes warmth, community, and the joy of gathering around a fire. Campfires are also associated with storytelling, relaxation, and the camping lifestyle.

A road trip tattoo often represents adventure, freedom, and the love of travel. Road trips are also associated with self-discovery, exploration, and the open road.

A motorcycle tattoo often symbolizes freedom, rebellion, and the thrill of the ride. Motorcycles are also associated with adventure, independence, and the biker lifestyle.

travel tattoo meaning

  • Pattern rich: Cool Bike Bicycle Extreme Mountain Dirt Biking BMX Sports Temporary Tattoos for Kids include 8 Sheets 96 PCS, the size of each sheet is 6.1 * 3.1 inches. Having a variety of characteristics, shapes and vibrant colors can stimulate your children's imaginations and bring a creative atmosphere to your Bike Bicycle Theme Party.
  • Widely used: Cool Bike Bicycle Extreme Mountain Biking BMX Sports Temporary Tattoos pieces are suitable for many occasions such as birthday parties, baby showers, birthday gifts, party decorations, gatherings and other special celebrations. It also can be applied on laptop, cup, luggage, phone case and so on which could make you look more impressive.

8 Sheets (96PCS) Dirt Bike Temporary Tattoos Themed Bicycle Motocross Birthday Party Supplies Favors Decorations Stickers For Kids Boys Gifts Classroom School Prizes Rewards

  • DIRT BIKE TATTOOS : It belongs to our popular collection and will accommodate your expectations at birthday party, party decorations, and special celebrations. Each tattoo set covers 8 sheets in total with 96 Pcs. The dimension of each sheet is 6.1*3.1 inches, including tattoo pieces that have proportions reasonable for adults to kids. Our tattoo stickers designed in different styles promise to develop the impression for the party
  • DIRT BIKE BIRTHDAY PARTY SUPPLIES: If you haven’t had the option for BIKE themed birthday party decorations yet, DIRT BIKE tattoos complete with DIRT BIKE helmet, kids DIRT BIKE, DIRT BIKE stand, DIRT BIKE carrier, mens DIRT BIKE will be a terrific choice for children on their momentous day. Sure enough to believe that kids have fun playing with our tattoo stickers. The tattoo is the best gift for a birthday party together with the significant meaning that it says

A bicycle tattoo often represents freedom, simplicity, and the joy of riding. Bicycles are also associated with environmentalism, health, and the cycling lifestyle.

A car tattoo often symbolizes independence, freedom, and the ability to travel far and wide. Cars are also associated with adventure, exploration, and the open road.

A train tattoo often represents travel, adventure, and the love of the journey. Trains are also associated with speed, efficiency, and the romance of the rails.

A bus tattoo often symbolizes travel, exploration, and the joy of the journey. Buses are also associated with community, adventure, and the open road.

A subway tattoo often represents urban life, speed, and efficiency. Subways are also associated with connectivity, exploration, and the hustle and bustle of city living.

travel tattoo meaning

  • The Perfect Cute And Funny Happiness New York City Cityscape Theme Party Gift: 8 Sheets Happiness New York City Cityscape NYC Taxi tattoos stickers, each sheet measures 6.1 * 3.1 inch , one size fit all adult and kids. One of the most popular party themes for children, make the best party gifts for your children & Carnival gifts, help your children become small heroes at the party! Bring nonstop joy to the whole party! Make your kids receive full of expectation and exploration in every festival.
  • Cute patterns: Cute Happiness New York City Cityscape NYC Taxi Skyline Temporary tattoos stickers, features an assortment of themed characters, colors are bright, and designs are adorable, which are attractive to children.
  • Various Tattoo Set: Our party favors are based on children's happiness both in appearance and inwardness. Use our party favors can bring joy to your baby, birthday gifts, Christmas sock stuff, family party prize, treasure boxes, Carnival prizes, Classroom rewards, etc. Cute an

Cars and Trucks Stickers Party Supplies Pack Toddler - Over 160 Stickers for Toddler Boys and Girls (Cars, Fire Trucks, Construction, Buses & More!)

  • Crenstone Cars and Trucks Stickers Party Supplies Pack Toddler -- Over 160 Stickers (Cars, Fire Trucks, Construction, Buses & More!).
  • Over 160 colorful Cars and Trucks stickers on eight 8" x 4" sheets. These stickers make a great addition to any cars or trucks themed birthday party. Stickers are bright and fun -- perfect for toddlers and kids.
  • Includes 1 individually wrapped Cars and Trucks sticker packs. Each pack includes 8 sheets of stickers -- total of 8 sticker sheets. Perfect to hand out as Cars and Trucks party favors at birthday parties.

A taxi tattoo often symbolizes travel, adventure, and the convenience of getting around. Taxis are also associated with urban life, exploration, and the fast pace of the city.

A cruise ship tattoo often represents luxury, relaxation, and the joy of being on the water. Cruise ships are also associated with adventure, exploration, and the travel lifestyle.

A sailboat tattoo often symbolizes freedom, independence, and the joy of sailing. Sailboats are also associated with adventure, exploration, and the beauty of the open water.

A fishing boat tattoo often represents the love of fishing, the sea, and the outdoors. Fishing boats are also associated with patience, perseverance, and the quiet beauty of nature.

A kayak tattoo often symbolizes the love of kayaking, the outdoors, and the freedom of the water. Kayaks are also associated with exploration, adventure, and the beauty of nature.

A canoe tattoo often represents the love of canoeing, the outdoors, and the peace of the water. Canoes are also associated with exploration, adventure, and the beauty of nature.

A raft tattoo often symbolizes adventure, exploration, and the thrill of rafting. Rafts are also associated with teamwork, perseverance, and the beauty of nature.

A snowflake tattoo often represents the beauty and uniqueness of snow, winter, and the cold. Snowflakes are also associated with purity, individuality, and the changing seasons.

A snowboard tattoo often symbolizes adventure, adrenaline, and the thrill of snowboarding. Snowboards are also associated with independence, freedom, and the winter sports lifestyle.

A skiing tattoo often represents the love of skiing, winter, and the thrill of the slopes. Skiing is also associated with freedom, independence, and the winter sports lifestyle.

An ice skate tattoo often symbolizes the love of ice skating, winter, and the gracefulness of gliding on ice. Ice skates are also associated with balance, precision, and the beauty of winter sports. Additionally, ice skate tattoos can represent perseverance, as ice skating requires practice and skill to master.

A hockey stick tattoo often represents the love of ice hockey, team sports, and competition. Hockey sticks are also associated with strength, agility, and the winter sports lifestyle.

A baseball bat tattoo often symbolizes the love of baseball, team sports, and the joy of the game. Baseball bats are also associated with perseverance, focus, and the American sports culture.

travel tattoo meaning

  • Package contents: you will receive 6 sheets of football tattoos, totaling 144 pieces in 24 designs, sufficient to meet your use needs for football party games; and the size of each sheet is 9.4 x 6.3 inch/24 x 16 cm
  • Diverse design: our football temporary tattoos have featuring unique football themed design, our football team tattoos are robust in color and fadeless; you can wear the tattoos to show your passion about the exciting sports
  • User guide: adopting the cutting lines design, our football themed party favors are easy to use; you can peel off the protective film, put the tattoos on your skin, then wet and press the tattoos for 15 seconds; the tattoos can be removed using micellar water or makeup remover

xo, Fetti Football Temporary Tattoos - 60 Foil Styles | Sport Birthday Party, Touchdown Team Party Supplies, Football Themed Party Favors, School Activity, Gift

  • Go Team! Our football tattoos are the party decor you've been looking for + a guaranteed hit!
  • Touchdown: two sheets with a total of 60 silver foil tattoos featuring handdrawn designs of footballs, helmets, field goals, uniforms, foam fingers, flags, megaphones, equipment, touchdowns + more that guests will absolutely love!
  • Game Time: our fun temporary tattoos have been put through rigorous party testing and are 100% guaranteed to last day into night - the perfect football theme party decorations!

A football tattoo often represents the love of football, team sports, and the excitement of the game. Football is also associated with athleticism, teamwork, and the American sports culture.

A basketball tattoo often symbolizes the love of basketball, team sports, and the thrill of the game. Basketballs are also associated with skill, speed, and the American sports culture.

A volleyball tattoo often represents the love of volleyball, team sports, and the joy of the game. Volleyballs are also associated with teamwork, communication, and the beach lifestyle.

A soccer ball tattoo often symbolizes the love of soccer, team sports, and the passion of the game. Soccer balls are also associated with agility, strategy, and the global sports culture.

A rugby ball tattoo often represents the love of rugby, team sports, and the toughness of the game. Rugby balls are also associated with strength, endurance, and the British sports culture.

A golf club tattoo often symbolizes the love of golf, precision, and the beauty of the course. Golf clubs are also associated with strategy, focus, and the golf lifestyle.

59. Tennis Racquet: A tennis racquet tattoo often represents the love of tennis, skill, and elegance of the game. Tennis racquets are also associated with precision, agility, and the tennis lifestyle.

A yoga poses tattoo often symbolizes the love of yoga, mindfulness, and the practice of self-care. Yoga poses are also associated with balance, flexibility, and the mind-body connection.

A meditation tattoo often represents the practice of meditation, mindfulness, and inner peace. Meditative symbols are also associated with clarity, focus, and the pursuit of spirituality.

A lotus flower tattoo often symbolizes purity, beauty, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Lotus flowers are also associated with rebirth, growth, and the beauty of nature.

travel tattoo meaning

  • TEMPORARY TATTOO SLEEVES - 6 sheets full temporary arm sleeve tattoos which are measured dimension 7'' x 19'' . Your friends will be surprised you took a such big tattoo! Great fun for parties, special events also for testing how would a real tattoo look like.
  • AFFORDABLE EXTRA TEMPORARY TATTOOS WITH NO PAIN - if you’ve wanted a tattoo but worried about the pain and cost, now’s your chance! Apply these body stickers in seconds and no-one will believe they’re not the real deal.
  • DURABLE, WATERPROOF AND REMOVABLE - long last for 2-5 days, depends on how many showers you take and how many times you scrub the tattoo with soap and water,Easy to apply in 10-20 seconds with just water and easily removed by rubbing alcohol, body oil, olive oil.

12 Sheets Chest Arm Shoulder Fake Tattoos Stickers Body Art Tattoo Sleeves 5.9'x8.3' Waterproof Temporary Tattoos for Men and Women (Buddha)

  • Skin-friendly Material - The raw materials of temporary tattoos are in compliance with FDA standards, waterproof, non-toxic and non-allergic, it can last for many days on the body. The effect of fake tattoo sticker is close to the real tattoo. It can deceive others by sticking on your body.
  • Arm Shoulder Temporary Tattoos: 12 sheets shoulder temporary tattoos which are measured dimension 5.9" x 8.3". These temporary tattoos will last 2 to 5 days, depending on where it is placed and how well you take care of it. Take care of your tattoo: avoid any soap, sunscreen, lotions or oils near or on your tattoo.
  • How to Apply - Cut around your tattoo design leaving 2mm. Ensure the skin is clean and oil free (no hair is good too). Peel the clear plastic backing off your tattoo. Apply the tattoo to your desired area with the design facing your skin. Using a damp cloth or sponge saturate the backing paper completely. Apply moderate pressure to the tattoo for 30 seconds. Peel back the backing paper and slide off and the tattoo will have transferred. Rinse with water and allow to dry.

A Buddha tattoo often represents the teachings of Buddhism, inner peace, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Buddha symbols are also associated with wisdom, compassion, and the pursuit of truth.

An Om symbol tattoo often symbolizes the sacred sound of the universe, meditation, and the pursuit of spiritual growth. Om symbols are also associated with unity, harmony, and the pursuit of enlightenment.

A cross tattoo often represents faith, spirituality, and belief in a higher power. Crosses are also associated with sacrifice, redemption, and the Christian religion.

A Star of David tattoo often represents the Jewish faith, spirituality, and the pursuit of wisdom. Star of David symbols are also associated with protection, unity, and Jewish culture.

A crescent moon tattoo often symbolizes femininity, intuition, and the moon’s phases. Crescent moons are also associated with mystery, magic, and the beauty of the night sky.

A Yin Yang tattoo often represents the balance of opposites, harmony, and the interconnectedness of all things. Yin Yang symbols are also associated with the Taoist philosophy, meditation, and the pursuit of inner peace.

A heart tattoo often symbolizes love, affection, and the emotional connection between people. Hearts are also associated with passion, joy, and the pursuit of happiness.

An infinity symbol tattoo often represents eternity, continuity, and the limitless nature of the universe. Infinity symbols are also associated with timelessness, balance, and the pursuit of infinite possibilities.

A key tattoo often symbolizes the unlocking of potential, opportunity, and the pursuit of freedom. Keys are also associated with protection, security, and the pursuit of knowledge.

travel tattoo meaning

  • Wide Range Of Use - Tattoo grip is suitable for ordinary tattoo long needles commonly used in the market. Applicable for coil machines, motor machines and rotary tattoo machine.
  • Ergonomic Design - Anti slip texture, increase friction, better for bandage fixation, or use directly, unique and exquisite appearance, beautiful and practical.
  • Self Locking Grip - Fine workmanship, attention to details, self locking tattoo grip, easy to hold and operate, a must have grip for professional tattoo artist.

INK-EEZE Ink Lock Tattoo Aftercare Cream for Tattoo Enthusiast, Non-Ointment, Essential Ingredients, Vegan, Made in USA, Coconut, 1oz

  • MOISTURIZER- INK LOCK provides moisture and pH balance while still allowing air to get through to your skin. INK LOCK contains natural extracts and ingredients known to conserve, protect, and enhance your tattoos
  • SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED- Our cream-based tattoo aftercare includes vitamins a, c, and e, soybean, sunflower, oat, licorice, cucumber, green tea, cucumber, cranberry, sweet almond and pomegranate extract to be absorbed by the skin to moisturize and heal your tattoo like never before
  • BENEFITS- INK LOCK will help lock in moisture and protect your tattoo from daily elements that are known to break down your skin. If used regularly, this product helps reduce lines from blowing out and prevent ink from fading

A lock tattoo often represents the securing of potential, safety, and the pursuit of stability. Locks are also associated with mystery, secrecy, and the protection of valuable possessions.

An arrow tattoo often symbolizes direction, focus, and the pursuit of goals. Arrows are also associated with strength, speed, and the pursuit of adventure.

A feather tattoo often represents freedom, grace, and the beauty of nature. Feathers are also associated with spirituality, wisdom, and the pursuit of enlightenment.

A dreamcatcher tattoo often symbolizes protection, filtering out negative energy, and the pursuit of positive dreams. Dreamcatchers are also associated with Native American culture, spirituality, and the beauty of nature.

A mandala tattoo often represents the universe, spirituality, and the pursuit of inner peace. Mandalas are also associated with meditation, balance, and the beauty of symmetry.

A sunflower tattoo often symbolizes happiness, joy, and the beauty of nature. Sunflowers are also associated with optimism, loyalty, and the pursuit of growth.

A rose tattoo often represents love, beauty, and the emotional connection between people. Roses are also associated with passion, grace, and the pursuit of happiness.

A lotus tattoo often symbolizes purity, beauty, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Lotus flowers are also associated with rebirth, growth, and the beauty of nature.

A cherry blossom tattoo often represents the fleeting nature of life, beauty, and the pursuit of happiness. Cherry blossoms are also associated with grace, simplicity, and the beauty of nature.

A pineapple tattoo often symbolizes hospitality, warmth, and the pursuit of adventure. Pineapples are also associated with friendship, generosity, and the beauty of tropical destinations.

A palm leaf tattoo often represents relaxation, peace, and the beauty of exotic locations. Palm leaves are also associated with the beach, sunshine, and the pursuit of a carefree lifestyle.

A cactus tattoo often symbolizes resilience, survival, and the beauty of arid regions. Cacti are also associated with adaptability, protection, and the pursuit of a minimalist lifestyle.

A bamboo tattoo often represents strength, flexibility, and the beauty of natural environments. Bamboo is also associated with simplicity, peace, and the pursuit of a balanced lifestyle.

A fern tattoo often symbolizes growth, change, and the beauty of the natural world. Ferns are also associated with resilience, protection, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life.

travel tattoo meaning

  • 【Butterfly Temporary Tattoos for Women】There are 6 sheets large black butterfly temporary tattoos in one package, size is 4.72*7.48 inch, you can used these tattoos for arms, shoulders, back,chest, legs,neck and worn any where on your body. the butterfly dancing on the body.
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A butterfly tattoo often represents transformation, beauty, and the pursuit of freedom. Butterflies are also associated with grace, elegance, and the pursuit of personal growth.

A dragonfly tattoo often symbolizes change, transformation, and the beauty of the natural world. Dragonflies are also associated with adaptability, flexibility, and the pursuit of a carefree lifestyle.

A hummingbird tattoo often represents energy, agility, and the beauty of the natural world. Hummingbirds are also associated with love, joy, and the pursuit of adventure.

A bee tattoo often symbolizes hard work, productivity, and the beauty of the natural world. Bees are also associated with community, cooperation, and the pursuit of a sustainable lifestyle.

A ladybug tattoo often represents luck, protection, and the beauty of the natural world. Ladybugs are also associated with innocence, happiness, and the pursuit of a carefree lifestyle.

travel tattoo meaning

Choosing a symbol for your travel tattoo can be an exciting yet daunting task. With so many different symbols and icons to choose from, it can be difficult to decide on one that perfectly captures your love for travel and adventure. However, by considering a few key factors, you can choose a symbol that is not only meaningful to you but also represents your unique travel experiences and aspirations.

  • Consider your travel experiences and memories.

Think about the places you have visited and the experiences you have had while traveling. Consider choosing a symbol that is associated with a specific country or culture that you have a special connection to. For example, if you fell in love with the culture and scenery of Japan, you might choose a cherry blossom or a koi fish as a symbol for your travel tattoo.

  • Think about your future travel plans.

If you have a bucket list of travel destinations that you hope to visit in the future, consider choosing a symbol that represents your travel aspirations. For example, if you dream of exploring the African savannah and going on a safari, you might choose a lion or elephant as your travel tattoo symbol.

  • Look for universal travel symbols.

There are certain symbols that are universally associated with travel and adventure. These symbols can be a great choice for your travel tattoo as they represent your love for travel in a more general sense. Examples of universal travel symbols include compasses, maps, airplanes, hot air balloons, and suitcases.

  • Consider the style of your tattoo.

The style of your tattoo can also influence the choice of symbol. For example, if you prefer a minimalist or geometric tattoo style, you might choose a simple symbol such as a mountain peak or wave. If you prefer a more intricate and detailed tattoo style, you might choose a symbol, such as a compass or a map, that can be illustrated in greater detail.

  • Choose a symbol that resonates with you personally

Ultimately, the most important factor in choosing a travel tattoo symbol is that it resonates with you personally. Your travel tattoo should be a reflection of your unique travel experiences, aspirations, and personality. Choose a symbol that speaks to you on a personal level and that you will be proud to wear on your skin for years to come.

In conclusion, symbols are an incredibly meaningful and powerful choice for travel tattoos. They allow individuals to commemorate their adventures, remember the places they have been, and celebrate the cultures they have experienced. From the wanderlust-inducing compass and map designs to the deeply personal and emotional representations of animals, landmarks, and cultural icons, symbols for travel tattoos are as diverse as the experiences they represent. 

Whether you are a seasoned traveler or simply dreaming of your next adventure, a travel tattoo can serve as a constant reminder of the transformative power of travel and the memories that come with it. So whether you choose a subtle and minimalistic design or a bold and intricate one, a travel tattoo can be a beautiful and permanent way to honor your wanderlust and the places that have captured your heart.

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55 Meaningful Travel Tattoo Ideas to Inspire Wanderlust

Do you love to explore the world? If so, you may be thinking about a way to commemorate your wanderlust experiences—some other way than just sticking some photos in an album or posting about it on social media. Getting a meaningful travel tattoo that celebrates your love of adventure may be the answer.

There are many different tattoo designs to choose from, and each idea is unique. Below, you’ll find some of our favorites.

travel tattoo meaning

These Meaningful Travel Tattoo Design Ideas Will Inspire Your Wanderlust

Why should you get a travel tattoo.

A travel tattoo is the perfect way to collect beautiful, meaningful memories of your journeys. It can commemorate a special moment or remind you of an experience that had a lasting impact. Going through the process of choosing a design and getting inked will help make it even more meaningful as you’ll be actively participating in adding something unique to your life story.

Additionally, having something tangible like this is more memorable than just taking pictures or simply keeping souvenirs; you’ll have something that carries with it its own meaning and serves as an instant reminder of where you’ve been and what you’ve done.

Remember, tattoos are permanent, so this is not a decision you should take lightly.

If you’re not committed to a forever tattoo just yet, then check out  Etsy’s temporary tattoos  to test one out, (I personally LOVE WearFINK’s simple  mountain range .

How Should You Pick What Type of Meaningful Tattoo to Get

If you’re considering getting a meaningful tattoo, then consider what it is about the design that resonates with you. Ask yourself why you want to get it, if it has special meaning for you and if there’s any story behind the idea. It’s important to be sure that this type of tribute to something means something to you before moving ahead with the idea—think about if you will still feel proud when pointing at your ink many years down the line? It will be with you forever, so choose wisely!

What are Some Travel Tattoo Ideas

Everyone feels inspired when they travel, whether it’s conquering a fear of heights by trekking through the mountains or finally exploring that place you’ve been dreaming about for years. That experience is something you’ll never forget—so why not mark it forever with an inspiring travel tattoo?

That experience is something you’ll never forget—so why not mark it forever with an inspiring travel tattoo? From language-based pieces to honoring your ancestral home, there are countless ways to symbolize your journey with a special tattoo. Why not get an image of the city skyline or the country flag of the place where you had your transformative experience? Or even a design that incorporates important dates and personal mementos from your journey?

Whether it’s a quote from a local language, the coordinates of somewhere meaningful or an image that symbolizes the experience, travel tattoos can be a great way to commemorate special memories from your travels. Here are some of our top picks:

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Travel Tattoo

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Travel Tattoo

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Travel Tattoo RF

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Travel Tattoo RF

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Travel Tattoo RF

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Travel Tattoo

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Travel Tattoo

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Travel Tattoo

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Travel Tattoo

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Travel Tattoo

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Travel Tattoo

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Travel Tattoo

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Travel Tattoo

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Travel Tattoo

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travel tattoo meaning

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Travel Tattoo

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Travel Tattoo

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Travel Tattoo

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Travel Tattoo

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How Should You Prepare for Getting a Tattoo

Getting a tattoo is a big decision! It’s not just about getting some ink; it’s about making sure you get the quality and design you’re looking for, and that you find a safe place to get it done.

When prepping for your first tattoo, take time to research good studios with experienced artists who are reliable and have positive reviews. Make sure the shop is sanitary and that all needles are single-use and sterilized before each use. Also consider what kind of design you want: think about which artist’s style speaks to you, if you want something custom or pre-drawn, what size would work best, and even where on your body its placement could be perfect.

These are all things that can help make sure your experience goes well and that you leave with an unforgettable piece of art.

How Should You Take Care of Your Tattoo After Getting It

Taking care of a new tattoo properly is essential for maintaining its vibrancy and minimizing the risk of infection. Immediately after getting a tattoo, your artist should cover it with a layer of petroleum jelly and gauze to help protect it.

To keep your tattoo looking good, gently wash it twice daily with an antimicrobial soap, ensure that it stays moisturized by applying an authorized ointment several times each day, and avoid exposure to sunlight or the chlorine in swimming pools.

Furthermore, try not to scratch or pick at scabs as they form since this can damage the tattoo. Lastly, be sure to follow any other instructions given by your artist since their advice is tailored specifically to you and your healing process. Taking care of a new tattoo may require some extra effort but will pay off in making sure your design looks great for years to come.

If you’re looking for ways to honor your travels with ink, there’s no shortage of meaningful travel tattoo ideas to inspire wanderlust. A classic and simple world map is always a great option with lots of personalization choices, but as you can see there are many other great designs to choose from. No matter which idea you go for, travel tattoos are a great way to show off your love for exploring the world and make sure you never forget those incredible experiences!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

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18 thoughts on “55 Meaningful Travel Tattoo Ideas to Inspire Wanderlust”

Great tips, I’m going to check them!

Wow! All of these tattoos are so cool. :)

So awesome tattoos and stunning photos you shared.

Wow some of these are really intricate! I’d love an outline of the world map that I could colour in as I visited a new country… though visiting Russia or China will be painful! >.<

Russia and China would definitely take a little bit longer than Fiji or Belize!!

I loved some of those tats, for some reason the little boat was my fav :) My travel tattoo is an elephant head that I got at the Elephant Nature Park in Thailand. I got it done at the park by a woman who volunteers full time there. Amazing tattoo, amazing experience. You can read about it if you’d like: https://travellingcrone.com/2013/01/25/travelling-crone-takes-home-a-permanent-souvenir/

Wow! What a way to remember an incredible experience. I have been to the Elephant Nature Park and it was AMAZING!

There’s always a story behind all tats. That hiking tattoo has to be the coolest for me because I love the outdoors.I love being on mountain tops. I love the intimacy of the outdoors.

I agree, there is always some story behind a tattoo!

These are fantastic tattoos! I love it when tattoos share a story of someones vacation. It is my dream to travel to a Buddhist temple to be tattooed by a monk. I believe that that is the ultimate travel tattoo! :)

Cool designs. I never thought that travel tattoos can be this awesome. Thanks for sharing.

A full sleeve tattoo is on my bucket list and is nearly completed now. You can see the first part of my lion portrait which is a work of art at https://www.thesonofthom.com/lion-tattoo/

Wow! That looks really cool!

Sounds like the well-known swearing that starts with f…Anyway, the best reason against getting a tattoo seems to be that the skin is a living organ and a butterfly that one has had painted today can become in several years a moth! Besides, isn’t the human body beautiful enough without ink on it? Just a thought–or two.

Fantastic article…Thanks for sharing such a great information with us.You are really an amazing writer.Good job.Keep it up.

Lost of good information here.Thanks so much for share this article.

I read your full blog and it was very informative, and helped me a lot. I always look for blog like this thanks for sharing

Fantastic blog. Thank for sharing this wonderful website with us. I’ll share this blog with my colleagues. I’m sure this info will be useful to those who need it.

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travel tattoo meaning

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  • Design and Ideas

40 Inspiring Travel Tattoo Ideas For Wanderers Out There

  • May 23, 2018
  • 3 minute read

Table of Contents Hide

Inspiring travel tattoo ideas for wanderers.

Inspiring Travel Tattoo Ideas For Wanderers , which also have deep meanings, are what we need to express our love for travelling. Travelling is fun; and it’s not just the fun part that makes people go crazy about travelling, a lot of valuable things can be learnt by making regular trips to known and unknown places.

Inspiring Travel Tattoo Ideas For Wanderers

If you acknowledge the importance of travelling, and you personally are a hardcore traveller, then getting a travel tattoo done would be the best bet. Thankfully, there are plenty of Inspiring Travel Tattoo Ideas For Wanderers that you can indulgently choose from. Here will let you know about the amazing tribal tattoo designs and ideas.   Check out the most appealing ones here-

The tattoo of a compass

Inspiring Travel Tattoo Ideas For Wanderers

A compass stands for direction. And the concept a wanderer can completely relate to is that of direction. Sometimes, people make planned trips and they know what lies ahead in their journey; and at times, they are completely oblivious of the destination, and are just concentrating on the moments the entire journey is woven of. Hence, the existence of direction or its lack thereof is what the life of a travel enthusiast revolves around. Hence, a compass tattoo suits them the best.

A paper aircraft with a trail

Inspiring Travel Tattoo Ideas For Wanderers

Talking about Inspiring Travel Tattoo Ideas For Wanderers, you certainly can’t overlook a paper aircraft with a trail. Although it’s a common tattoo that travel enthusiasts get done, it expresses everything in the mind of a travel aficionado in the simplest possible way. An aircraft signifies travel, and the trail behind it says that the plane is always on the move, and it’s not static.

The world map

Inspiring Travel Tattoo Ideas For Wanderers

The world is full of travel worthy places. And every place- big or small has its own specialities. The adventure and uncertainty that every journey entail is what makes travel enthusiasts want to travel again and again. If you think every place on earth is beautiful, no matter how remote it is, then you sure are a true adventurous traveller, and a tattoo of world map is perfect for you.  Here are best Cute Sleeve Tattoos For Girls that can suggest the best artwork for you. You can also add your creativity to the design.

A cute suitcase

Inspiring Travel Tattoo Ideas For Wanderers

No matter where in the world you go, do you ever leave your home without your travel bag? Well, we know the answer! And that is why a suitcase is what you need for a tattoo. With a suitcase tattoo behind your ears, on your wrist or your ankle, you can easily show the world that you are a free-spirited soul ready to move. The best thing about getting this tattoo done is that you can go for any combination of colours you want. But to keep things simple yet attractive, we suggest, you stick to the basic black colour.

The “Wanderlust” tattoo

Inspiring Travel Tattoo Ideas For Wanderers

So, you like to travel places; you can’t stay put in one location for too long; you love the air and vibes of different places in the world; and you simply love the moments spent on a trip. How would you describe yourself? Well, you will probably describe yourself as a “wanderlust.” Yes, there is no better way to describe a die-hard traveller. So, why wait? Get the word “wanderlust” etched on your skin, and let the world know about your love for travelling.

Inspiring Travel Tattoo Ideas For Wanderers

Getting inked is always a special thing. But what makes a tattoo special is how unique it is, right? While your tattoo design can be super cool, how about cranking it up a notch? So, be prepared to ditch the conventional tattoos this time and give super Futuristic glow in dark tattoo ideas a try. 

Inspiring Travel Tattoo Ideas For Wanderers

How many times has it so happened that you felt like screaming it out loud to the world that you love to travel? This is a peculiar desire almost every travel enthusiast nurtures. Here are Mightiest Superhero tattoo designs that are a way for us to show how much we admire certain heroes, whether that is their virtues, their morals, or simply just their image.   And if you are one among them, then listen up- you can flaunt your love for travelling with a wonderful travel tattoo. Starting from aircrafts, and suitcases to world maps and paper aircrafts, there is simply no end to Inspiring Travel Tattoo Ideas For Wanderers . So, don’t make any delays. Contact a tattoo artist right away and tell them how you would like your love for travelling expressed through a tattoo!

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History Fangirl

The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015

1001 Inspired Travel Tattoo Ideas & What to Expect If You Get a Tattoo While Traveling

Italy - Rome - Woman with Tattoo - Travel Tattoo Ideas

Last Updated on: 22nd January 2024, 04:11 pm

Whether you have zero or twenty tattoos, if you love traveling then you’ve probably considered getting a travel tattoo at some point. 

Consider this the complete guide to getting a travel tattoo. First, I share my own experience of getting a travel tattoo in Jerusalem and questions for you to consider about getting one of your own.

Next, I have a giant – and I do mean freaking giant – list of travel tattoo ideas. I have general ideas at the top, then ideas for every country, sixty major cities, and every state in the US.

There are great ideas for travel tattoos for guys and travel tattoos for girls. I hope there’s a little something for everyone!

Can’t read now? Pin for later!

Travel Tattoo Ideas and a List of Travel Tattoos plus How to Get a Tattoo While Traveling

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These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.

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Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viato r .

Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com .

For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars .

Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.

For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon .

Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).

For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.

How to Get a Tattoo while Traveling

A tattoo is a common travel souvenir, but is it the perfect souvenir for you?

While I absolutely love my own travel tattoo and think they’re a great idea, there are still things you need to consider ahead of time. 

My Experience Getting a Travel Tattoo in Jerusalem

Jerusalem - Razzouk Tattoo - Getting a Travel Tattoo while Traveling

Before I visited Jerusalem in 2017, I had read about Razzouk Tattoo, which claims to have been in business since 1300!

As a history fan, I obviously wanted to check out the shop, but I wasn’t sold yet on whether I should get a tattoo here or not.

They do typical modern tattoos, but they also still do Coptic tattoos based on a set of blocks that have been in use for hundreds of years.

The original patrons of the shop were Coptic Christians and Crusaders, so a lot of these blocks feature Jerusalem crosses and other symbols that Crusaders wanted to commemorate what they saw as their time in a holy war.

Jerusalem - Razzouk Tattoo - Getting a Travel Tattoo while Traveling

I wanted to get a tattoo from one of these antique blocks, but I wanted to avoid getting anything with overt religious symbolism.

I found this flower detail that was a broken piece from a larger block.

I absolutely adored it, and it fit what I wanted: small, simple, and highlighting the different techniques used.

I even had them ink in the places where the edges of the stamp got ink on my skin since what I loved was the connection to history and the process as much as the tattoo itself.

Jerusalem - Razzouk Tattoo - Getting a Travel Tattoo while Traveling

My own travel tattoo was such a mix of research and impulse that I didn’t know I would actually get it ahead of time, but I knew if I ran into the tattoo shop that I would find out more (which I did by happenstance during a walking tour of Jerusalem).

I hadn’t even mentioned the possibility to anyone ahead of time!

Three years later, and I still love it!

Travel tattoos are really personal, and they’re as much about the experience and what it means to you as what it looks like.

So when you pick out what tattoo you want, your own opinion is the most important one.

Jerusalem - Razzouk Tattoo - Getting a Travel Tattoo while Traveling

There were a few things I had to give up in order to get it.

Besides having to spend the next week of my trip adding aftercare to my vacation itinerary, I had to skip a day trip to the Dead Sea since you can’t swim for two weeks after getting a tattoo. 

Things to Know Before You Get a Travel Tattoo on the Road

Getting a World Map Tattoo

Before I got one, I didn’t really think about a lot of these issues, but after going through it myself I now know these are things you need to consider before getting a travel tattoo:

First, if you’re excited to go to a particular tattoo parlor, find out if you need to make an appointment or if they typically are able to take walk-ins.

Next,  consider when you plan on getting it during your trip. Since you can’t swim and you need to keep it bandaged at night for a few days, you might not want to get it early in your trip.

Make sure you will be able to follow hygienic tattoo aftercare on your trip before you commit to a tattoo.

Next,  remember that you will need to travel home with it. If you get a large tattoo or a tattoo in a sensitive place, it may hurt for days afterward.

If you’ve ever traveled with a bad sunburn and been crammed into a plane, bus, car, or train, you know this can get very unpleasant. Make sure you can tolerate traveling with the soreness.

Finally, make sure a travel tattoo fits into your budget. Even small, simple tattoos at reputable places can cost a pretty penny. A tattoo might last forever, but they also are an investment.

Should You Wait to Get Your Travel Tattoo at Home?

I would suggest getting your tattoo on the road if the specific tattoo parlor is part of the experience, if you’re getting something a design that is special to the local culture and local artists will be the best to execute it, or if you want to get a tattoo in a local method like Bamboo tattooing in Japan.

If you are getting a common or easy design, like a word or phrase, you might want to wait to get it until you’re back home.

You should also wait if you know that good tattoo aftercare won’t be possible on your trip, or if you don’t have time in your itinerary (like you’ll be on a guided tour with little free time).

Alternatively, if you want something very complicated or large, you might want to get it at home if it will require multiple sessions. 

Tips for Picking the Right Travel Tattoo for You

Woman Traveling with Tattoos

Make sure you will like the placement, style, and content of your tattoo for years to come. This might be the only permanent travel souvenir you can get!

Style: there are lots of different styles of tattoos. You can get something watercolor, realistic, geometric, traditional, tribal, neotraditional, new school, etc.

Any motif you choose can be done in different styles. While an Eifel Tower tattoo might seem cliche, you can put a twist on it by doing it as a watercolor or as a small geometric tattoo.

Size:  you need to make sure you like the size of the tattoo AND that the tattoo makes sense for the size. Some pictures don’t look good small, while others look awkward when blown up too big.

Color:  if you will be getting something that has color, make sure it’s a color you can live with, especially if it will show. 

Visibility:  if you want something private that most people won’t see, get a tattoo on your ankle, behind your ear, or underneath your clothing. If you want something that will be easy to see, get something on your arm, leg, shoulder, or wrist. 

Best Travel Tattoo Ideas

Okay, here are approximately one billion travel tattoo ideas. Just kidding, it’s only a little over one thousand. For each of these, I’m providing the motif or subject. You can take these ideas and do them in hundreds of different ways. The sky is the limit!  

Train Tattoos

UK - Scotland - Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct in Scotland with the Jacobite steam train passing over

There’s nothing as romantic as train travel, and there are lots of ways to commemorate your love of trains and travel with a train tattoo. Consider getting:

A vintage train tattoo

A subway car tattoo

A cable car or tram tattoo (think San Francisco style)

A train window (think curtains and perhaps a beautiful view)

A train bridge tattoo

Train tracks tattoo (perhaps with a beautiful scene around them)

The Harry Potter Train tattoo

A train engine or mechanics tattoo (would be especially cool if it’s a bit steampunk)

A train conductor tattoo

A tattoo of train passengers

Air Travel & Airplane Tattoos

Travel Tattoo Ideas

Airplane tattoos instantly make me think of adventure and making a getaway. There are a lot of different kinds of tattoos you can get to celebrate air travel and flying the open skies. Some airplane tattoo ideas:

A cute little black airplane tattoo (They’re a staple for a reason. You can get them filled in or as a silhouette. They also are often accompanied with lines or other decorations like dots or dashes).

The view through a plane window. (Think clouds, sunrise, stars, etc).

The view through the cockpit. (This is a great tattoo for pilots).

An airport code tattoo (Think LAX for Los Angeles, CDG for Paris, etc.)

A tattoo of a plane over a map or globe.

A paper airplane tattoo.

A vintage plane tattoo. (This is another great steampunk tattoo idea).

A helicopter tattoo.

An actual airplane tattoo. (Not a silhouette or an old plane, but an actual representation of current airplanes).

A tattoo of Pilot Wings. (This is especially cool if you get one for an old airline that’s no longer in business).

Passport & Passport Stamp Tattoos

travel tattoo meaning

There’s no item an international traveler holds more dear than his or her passport, which makes it a great travel tattoo motif. Here are different ways to incorporate this theme into a travel tattoo:

A passport stamp tattoo. (you can pick an actual design from your passport or one that’s a bit more artistic. Either way, you can use your real travel date as the date, which is extra cool).

A passport stamp tattoo collage. (If you’re looking to get a tattoo from every country you visit, this is a good theme to go with. You can do this in all black or pick different colors for different stamps).

A visa tattoo. (If you have a cool visa in your passport, like my old Turkey visa, these are a cool alternative to passport stamps).

A passport cover tattoo.

A passport page tattoo. (You can fill the stamps in over time. Just remember you will eventually run out of room…just like a real passport).

Road Trip Tattoos

Compass Tattoo

Road tripping on the beautiful roads of America, Europe, and Asia are some of my favorite travel memories of all time. Here are some tattoos you can get to commemorate epic road trips!

A highway sign tattoo. (Especially if the sign is of a famous road like Route 66 or the Pacific Coast Highway).

A vintage car tattoo. (Bonus points if you’ve actually road tripped in that car).

A road map tattoo. (Yes, we used to road trip using maps. Even if you only use Google maps for your road trips, I would opt for a more vintage or watercolor feel than an app).

A steering wheel tattoo. (You can expand it to the whole dashboard).

A tattoo of the view from the dashboard. (Ah, the open road ahead).

A tattoo of the view from the passenger seat. (Think views of mountains, lakes, or monuments).

An open highway tattoo.

A small dirt road tattoo. 

A tattoo of a roadside stop. (Think neon signs and gigantic balls of yarn).

Beautiful nature tattoos. (Get a mountain tattoo, lake tattoo, waterfall tattoos, wheatfields, prairies, etc. if you saw something you want to remember on your trip).

Postcard Tattoos

United States - New York - Souvenir Postcard

Postcards have the romance of mail and travel and bring tidings from far away lands. They are the perfect encapsulation of everything we love about travel. Here are some ideas if you’re leaning towards a postcard tattoo:

The front of a postcard tattoo. (The style here matters almost as much as what scene you choose to depict. You can bring in a real tattoo to help with inspiration).

A tattoo of the back fo the postcard. (You can even include a message in a script, like “I wish you were here!” or find your own).

A postage stamp tattoo. (You can use a real postage stamp from where you are for inspiration or work with your tattoo artists to create one using a mix of landmarks and symbols).

A canceled stamp mark tattoo. (These are the marks of the post system so they are great for travel tattoos since they mention the city and country the postcard is being sent from. You can send yourself a postcard if you want to have an example to work with, though you’ll probably want to put more of a flourish on it).

An entire postcard tattoo, front and back. (Basically include every element listed above. These tattoos are big and great for an arm or calf).

Travel Tattoo Quote Ideas

Travel Inspirational and motivational quotes - Your wings already exist, all you have to do is fly. Retro styled blurry background.

I have a giant list of 250 travel quotes , but a lot of these are way too long for an easy-to-read tattoo. Here are a few short travel quotes that will work beautifully:

Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all. -Helen Keller

To live will be an awfully big adventure. -Peter Pan

Travel far enough, you meet yourself -David Mitchell

So shut up, live, travel, adventure, bless and don’t be sorry. -Jack Kerouac

Paris is always a good idea. -Audrey Hepburn

You’ll miss the best things if you keep your eyes shut. -Dr. Seuss

Life is short and the world is wide. -Simon Raven

Not all those who wander are lost. -J.R.R. Tolkien

Every exit is an entry somewhere else. -Tom Stoppard

Not until we are lost do we begin to understand ourselves. -Henry David Thoreau

Nautical Tattoos

Sailboat Tattoo

Not every journey starts in a plane, train, or automobile. Sailing enthusiasts, cruise lovers, and the like can get journey tattoos that fit their favorite kind of travel. Here are some maritime and nautical tattoos to choose from:

A sailboat tattoo. (Or another kind of boat. Think a kayak tattoo, canoe tattoo, cruise ship tattoo, tugboat, etc).

A nautical map tattoo.

An artisanal knot tattoo. (Think Portlandia but more fun).

A wave tattoo. (I especially like these when they are beautiful watercolor or fun geometric).

An oar tattoo. (Alone or as part of a larger rowboat tattoo).

A compass tattoo.

An astrolabe tattoo. (Or other vintage nautical equipment).

A tattoo of a boat in a glass bottle. (This is a great way to showcase a really gorgeous vintage ship).

An anchor tattoo.

A wooden helm tattoo.

Adventure Tattoo Ideas

USA - Arizona - Travel in Grand Canyon, man Hiker with backpack enjoying view, USA

If you love going on adventures like backwoods camping, multi-day hiking, rock climbing, etc, these are some ideas for adventure tattoos:

A mountain tattoo from a mountain you climbed. (Or a similar geographic landmark you’ve traversed etc).

A tattoo of a pair of running shoes. (Hiking shoes, climbing shoes, etc).

A tattoo of the coordinates of an important point on your adventure.

A number tattoo that’s important to your adventure. (Think 26.2 for a marathon tattoo, the height of a mountain, or the distance of a multi-day trek).

A tattoo of something that’s important to your kind of trip. (Think a carabiner tatoo, an oar tattoo, a runner’s bib tattoo, a hot air balloon tattoo, etc).

Study Abroad Tattoos

Trinity college, Dublin, Ireland

Studying abroad can be a really magical and formative experience, and it makes sense that an adventure this big would make you consider getting a commemorative tattoo. Here are a few ideas for getting a study abroad tattoo:

A beautiful campus building tattoo. (Especially if the campus has a famous landmark building or an especially beautiful one).

A tattoo of a beautiful word in the local language. (This is great if the place where you’re studying abroad speaks a different language than your native tongue. If the country uses a different alphabet than your own, make sure you know what the word means and exactly how it should be written).

A quote tattoo from a local author. (This is perfect for anyone studying literature abroad).

A number that is meaningful to you. (Maybe your apartment number, the room number of your favorite class, or even your flight number from your incoming flight).

A tattoo that represents the city. (Think landmarks, symbols, plants, airport code, etc. There are endless possibilities here).

Funny Travel Tattoos

Italy - Rome

If you want to have your travels inked with a little bit of levity, consider getting a funny travel tattoo.

A funny travel pun tattoo. (I have a giant list of travel puns here, plus articles on puns for many cities and countries that you can use for inspiration).

A tattoo of your favorite travel food. (Even better if it’s had a bite taken out of it. Think a gelato from Italy or a slice of apple pie from the USA).

A cartoon character from the country you’ve visited.

A tattoo of a funny word or joke in the local language.

A tattoo that commemorates a hilarious adventure you had. (If something especially funny happened on your trip, get a tattoo to remember it by. Then you can tell the story whenever someone asks you about the tattoo).

Camping Tattoos

USA - Colorado - The Camping Tent near mountain lake in the summer

If you love camping, get a camping tattoo to celebrate your hobby. Here are some ideas for camping tattoos:

A tent tattoo. (It doesn’t have to be the kind of tend you actually own. You can get a tent that’s a little more vintage or Wes Anderson-inspired).

A campfire tattoo.

A camping scene tattoo. (Think the tent, the campfire, a mountain or lake, etc).

A water canteen tattoo.

A bow and arrow tattoo. 

A trail map tattoo.

An RV tattoo. (Or a camper van tattoo. You can get a tattoo of your real motorhome or a vintage one. Alternatively, if your RV has a name, then you can get the name tattooed instead.).

A boy scout or girl scout tattoo. (If you were one, obviously).

A sleeping bag tattoo.

Pilgrimage Tattoos

Signal indicating the pilgrims heading to Santiago de Compostela

Whether you go on a religious, spiritual, or personal pilgrimage, these kinds of trips can result in a lot of soul-searching.

It’s common to come out on the other side changed, and a tattoo to solidify that progress or celebrate the experience is a great idea.

Of course, not every religion allows tattoos. If you do want to get a pilgrimage tattoo, here are a few ideas:

A religious tattoo. (Like the Jerusalem cross I mentioned above, there are sometimes special religious symbols for specific pilgrimages. These make great tattoos as long as they are done with respect).

A journey tattoo. (If you’re going on a walking pilgrimage like the Camino de Santiago, there are lots of special symbols about the journey, from the seashell that marks pilgrims on the road to the waymarkers on the path).

A landmark tattoo. (If your pilgrimage is about the destination and not the journey, why not get a tattoo of an important landmark in your destination city or village?)

A significant number tattoo. (It could be the date of your trip or the distance you walked).

A short prayer tattoo. (If your pilgrimage has a specific prayer associated with it, you can get this as a tattoo if it’s short enough, or get a quote from it if it’s longer).

Latin Travel Tattoos

Italy - Rome

People love tattoos in Ancient Latin and Roman Numerals. An unlike significant tribal tattoos and symbols in foreign languages that you don’t speak, a tattoo in Latin is neutral since it’s a dead language. Here are a few ancient Latin tattoos ideas:

A tattoo in Roman Numerals. (It could be the date of your trip or another significant number from your trip).

A tattoo of a famous Latin phrase. (Think Carpe Diem or Vini Vidi Vici).

An ancient Latin pun or joke tattoo. (Just make sure you are 100% sure of the meaning or you’ll have Latin nerds making fun of you the rest of your life).

A tattoo of an inscription. (If you love a particular ancient Roman building or statue, get the Latin inscription tattooed).

The Latin name for your favorite pace. (For example, I could get a Serdika tattoo to celebrate Sofia since that’s what the city was called during the Roman Empire).

Travel Tattoo Sleeves

Travel Tattoo Sleeve

If you love to travel and you do it often, you can get an entire sleeve. Great themes for sleeves include passport stamps, state flowers, landmarks, etc. Just think about what you want to do ahead of time so there’s some sort of cohesive plan.

A great tattoo artist can make it work, but it’s nice to go in with a plan. You can get the tattoos as you travel or get them done all at once after you’re back home.

Some cool travel tattoo sleeves that I’ve seen are a Route 66 themed sleeve, an  Oklahoma tattoo sleeve, and a sleeve of postcard tattoos.

Should You Get a Tattoo in Every Country You Visit?

This can be really fun, but it can end up being quite a large area if you do a lot of traveling!

If you want a small area then pick a minimalist travel tattoo for each country. Make sure it’s something that looks good as you’re getting it done and will also look good as you add more countries.

World Country Tattoos

Here are a few suggestions for travel tattoos from every country and major territory.

Afghanistan Tattoo Ideas

An Afghan Hound tattoo.

A pomegranate tattoo.

A Rubab tattoo.

Albania Tattoo Ideas

A Berat house tattoo.

An Albanian Bunker tattoo.

A tattoo of your favorite piece of Tirana street art.

Algeria Tattoo Ideas

A Ghardaia skyline tattoo.

A Fennic Fox tattoo.

An Oran architecture tattoo.

Andorra Tattoo Ideas

A tattoo of the Andorra Coat of Arms.

A skiing-inspired tattoo.

A Coma Pedrosa tattoo.

Angola Tattoo Ideas

An Ilha do Cabo tattoo.

An Angola Flag tattoo.

A tattoo of Kalandula Falls.

Anguilla Tattoo Ideas

An Anguilla Crayfish tattoo.

An Anguilla Catholic Church tattoo.

A Sandy Island tattoo.

Antigua & Barbuda Tattoo Ideas

A Rum Punch tattoo.

A Wadadli Beer tattoo.

A tattoo of the view from Shirley Heights.

Argentina Tattoo Ideas

A Ceibo Flower tattoo.

An El Sol de Mayo tattoo.

An Aconacqua tattoo.

Armenia Tattoo Ideas

An Armenian monastery tattoo.

An Armenian alphabet tattoo.

A Mount Ararat tattoo.

Australia Tattoo Ideas

An Australian animal tattoo. (For example a kangaroo tattoo or a koala tattoo).

An Acacia flower tattoo.

A 12 Apostles tattoo.

Austria Tattoo Ideas

A Prater tattoo.

A Klimt tattoo inspired by his colors and style.

An Edelweiss tattoo. 

Azerbaijan Tattoo Ideas

A fire tattoo. (This could be literal or something like the Flame towers).

A tattoo inspired by the tilework at the Palace of the Sheki Khans.

A petroglyph tattoo from Gobustan.

Bahamas Tattoo Ideas

  • A flamingo tattoo.

An Exuma pig tattoo.

A Blackbeard or pirate tattoo.

Bahrain Tattoo Ideas

A pearl tattoo.

A Bahrain Coat of Arms tattoo.

A Bahrain-style tattoo. (Think the beautiful Bahrain-style henna tattoos, but tattooed in permanent ink).

Bangladesh Tattoo Ideas

A Bangladesh flag tattoo.

A Bengal tiger tattoo.

A Bangladesh Coat of Arms tattoo.

Barbados Tattoo Ideas

A Rhianna song tattoo. (Perhaps an…umbrealla tattoo?)

A trident tattoo.

A flying fish tattoo. 

Belarus Tattoo Ideas

A colorful wooden house tattoo.

A Polesie moor tattoo.

A tattoo of the National Library of the Republic of Belarus.

Belgium Tattoo Ideas

A Magritte tattoo based on your favorite work.

A Chimay beer tattoo (or another great Belgian beer).

An Atomium tattoo.

Belize Tattoo Ideas

A Black Orchid tattoo.

A Laughingbird Caye tattoo.

A Rio Frio Caves tattoo.

Benin Tattoo Ideas

A leopard tattoo.

A Benin flag tattoo.

A tattoo based on your favorite bronze or wood carving.

Bermuda Tattoo Ideas

A Bermuda skink tattoo.

A Bermuda cedar tattoo.

A Gibbs Hill Lighthouse tattoo.

Bhutan Tattoo Ideas

A Bhutan Dragon tattoo.

A Jakar Dzong tattoo.

A Himalayan Blue Poppy tattoo.

Bolivia Tattoo Ideas

A Llama tattoo.

A Salar de Uyuni tattoo.

A traffic control zebra tattoo.

Bosnia & Herzegovina Tattoo Ideas

A Stari Most tattoo.

A Visegrad bridge tattoo.

A Sarajevo rose tattoo.

Botswana Tattoo Ideas

A Seven Sisters tattoo.

A Lilac-breasted Roller bird tattoo.

A Matsieng Footprints tattoo.

Brazil Tattoo Ideas

An Oscar Niemeyer tattoo based on your favorite of his buildings. 

A Brazil flag tattoo.

An Escadaria Selarón tattoo.

Brunei Tattoo Ideas

A Kota Batu tattoo.

A Simpor flower tattoo.

A National Emblem of Brunei tattoo.

Bulgaria Tattoo Ideas

A Buzludzha tattoo.

A Kopitoto tattoo.

A tattoo based on the colors and patterns of Rila Monastery.

Burkina Faso Tattoo Ideas

A White Stallion tattoo.

A Burkina Faso flag tattoo.

A mask tattoo.

Burundi Tattoo Ideas

A Karera Falls tattoo.

A Burundi Flag tattoo based on the 1962 flag.

A Tanganyika fishing boat tattoo.

Cambodia Tattoo Ideas

A tattoo of a tree taking over a temple. (Though if you aren’t Hindu or Buddhist then I would make the temple non-descript as I do not advocate coopting a religion that’s not your own).

An Angkor monkey tattoo.

A Romduol flower tattoo.

Cameroon Tattoo Ideas

A Cameroon flag tattoo.

A Mount Oupay tattoo.

A tattoo of the silhouette of the Monument de la Reunification. 

Canada Tattoo Ideas

A Maple Leaf tattoo.

A Canada Goose tattoo.

A Nova Scotia lighthouse tattoo.

Cape Verde Tattoo Ideas

A Cape Verde star flag tattoo.

A Cabo Verde map tattoo.

A tattoo of the view from Calhau beach.

Cayman Islands Tattoo Ideas

A Grand Cayman Parrot tattoo.

A stingray tattoo.

A tattoo of one of the dive sites. (Great for scuba diving enthusiasts)

Central African Republic Tattoo Ideas

An elephant tattoo.

A Bouar megaliths tattoo.

A Boali Falls tattoo.

Chad Tattoo Ideas

A Gala Beer tattoo.

A Nile Crocodile tattoo.

An Emnedi desert tattoo.

Chile Tattoo Ideas

A Copihue flower tattoo.

An Easter Island tattoo.

A Hand of the Desert tattoo.

China Tattoo Ideas

A panda tattoo.

A peony flower tattoo.

A Ginko tree tattoo.

Colombia Tattoo Ideas

A Fernando Botero tattoo.

A Wax Palm tree tattoo.

An emerald tattoo.

Comoros Tattoo Ideas

A Comoros map tattoo.

A Humpback whale tattoo.

A Mount Ntingui tattoo.

Congo Tattoo Ideas

A mango tattoo.

A Nabemba Tower tattoo.

A Republic of Congo flag tattoo.

Costa Rica Tattoo Ideas

A Parque Francisco Alvardoa tatto.

A Pura Vida tattoo. (But try to come up with a unique angle since this is the most common Costa Rica tattoo).

A La Guaria Morada orchid tattoo.

Croatia Tattoo Ideas

A lavender tattoo.

A Podgaric monument tattoo.

A maraschino cherry tattoo.

Cuba Tattoo Ideas

A Cuban flag tattoo.

A White Mariposa flower tattoo.

A vintage Cuban car tattoo.

Cyprus Tattoo Ideas

A tattoo based on your favorite piece of Cyprus street art.

  • A Cyclamen flower tattoo.

A halloumi tattoo. 

Czech Republic Tattoo Ideas

A Czech beer tattoo.

A Lime tree tattoo.

A Bohemian Paradise tattoo.

Democratic Republic of the Congo Tattoo Ideas. 

A DRC flag tattoo.

An Okapi forest giraffe tattoo.

A Mount Nyiragongo tattoo.

Denmark Tattoo Ideas

A Little Mermaid tattoo.

A Carlsberg tattoo.

A Danish Modern furniture tattoo.

Djibouti Tattoo Ideas

A Lac Assal tattoo.

A Djibouti flag tattoo.

A Lake Abbe tattoo.

A Sisserou parrot tattoo.

A sea turtle tattoo.

A scuba diving tattoo.

Dominican Republic Tattoo Ideas

A mahogany tattoo.

A baseball tattoo

A mangrove tattoo.

Ecuador Tattoo Ideas

A Cotopaxi tattoo.

An empanada tattoo.

A Galapagos turtle tattoo.

Egypt Tattoo Ideas

A Hatshepsut tattoo.

  • A lotus tattoo.

An ankh tattoo.

El Salvador Tattoo Ideas

  • A camel tattoo.

A Dahlak Islands tattoo.

A tattoo based on the Gama cave petroglyphs.

Equatorial Guinea Tattoo Ideas

A Silk Cotton tree tattoo.

A Malabo skyline tattoo.

A Colobus monkey tattoo.

Eritrea Tattoo Ideas

An Eritrean flag tattoo.

A Fiat Tagliero service station tattoo. 

Estonia Tattoo Ideas

A cornflower tattoo.

A Walls of Tallinn tattoo.

A barn swallows tattoo.

Eswatini Tattoo Ideas

A lion and an elephant tattoo.

A Coddia flower tattoo.

A rhinoceros tattoo.

Ethiopia Tattoo Ideas

A Calla Lily tattoo.

An Ethiopia coat of arms tattoo.

An Erta Ale volcano tattoo.

Fiji Tattoo Ideas

A Tagimaucia flower tattoo.

A Fijian Druras boat tattoo.

A Fiji map tattoo.

Finland Tattoo Ideas

A whooper swan tattoo.

A Crusell Bridge tattoo.

A ladybug tattoo.

France Tattoo Ideas

A fleur-de-lis tattoo.

A Gallic Rooster tattoo.

A Pont du Gard tattoo.

French Guiana Tattoo Ideas

A Lily tattoo.

An Ariane 5 Rocket tattoo.

Les Roches Gravées Petroglyphs tattoo.

Gabon Tattoo Ideas

A tattoo based on Gabon’s green, yellow, and blue national colors.

A tattoo based on the poetry of Maurice Okoumba-Nkoghe.

A Pathers football tattoo.

Georgia Tattoo Ideas

A Khinkali tattoo.

A tattoo of your favorite piece of kitsch at the Dry Bridge Market.

A Borjgali tattoo.

Germany Tattoo Ideas

A funny Germany tattoo. (You can use one of these Germany puns ).

A German castle tattoo. (One fo the palaces in Potsdam would work nicely).

A poem based on the works of Herman Hesse.

Ghana Tatoo Ideas

A Ghana flag tattoo.

A Golden Eagle tattoo.

Kintampo Waterfall tattoo.

Great Britain Tattoo Ideas

A Union Jack tattoo.

A tattoo based on Great Britain’s great children’s literature.

A British Isles map tattoo.

Greece Tattoo Ideas

A Greek Island house tattoo.

An olive tree tattoo.

A Temple of Delphi tattoo.

Grenada Tattoo Ideas 

A Grenada Dove tattoo.

A Bougainvillea tattoo.

A Cricket tattoo.

Guadeloupe Tattoo Ideas

A Gallic rooster tattoo.

A Guadeloupe flag tattoo.

A La Grande Soufrière volcano tattoo.

Guatemala Tattoo Ideas

A Quetzal tattoo.

A coffee tattoo.

A marimba tattoo.

Guinea Tattoo Ideas 

A Mount Nimba tattoo.

A Tinkisso Falls tattoo.

A turtle tattoo.

Guinea-Bissau Tattoo Ideas

A  Guinea-Bissau flag tattoo.

A Bissagos Islands tattoo.

An Orango National Park tattoo.

Guyana Tattoo Ideas

A Jaguar tattoo.

A water lily tattoo.

A Kaieteur Falls tattoo.

Haiti Tattoo Ideas

  • A Hibiscus tattoo.

A Hispaniolan Trogon bird tattoo.

A Port-au-Prince Houses tattoo.

Honduras Tattoo Ideas

A Scarlet Macaw tattoo.

A Roatan tattoo.

A Honduras coat of arms tattoo.

Hong Kong Tattoo Ideas

A Giant Panda tattoo.

A Hong Kong orchid tree tattoo.

A Hong Kong skyline tattoo.

Hungary Tattoo Ideas

A Turul tattoo.

A Hungarian wine tattoo.

A paprika tattoo.

Iceland Tattoo Ideas

An Icelandic horse tattoo.

A Gyrfalcon tattoo.

A Northern Lights tattoo.

India Tattoo Ideas 

An India train tattoo.

A tattoo inspired by the colors of the Meenakshi Amman Temple.

A Vallam boat tatoo.

Indonesia Tattoo Ideas

A Komodo Dragon tattoo.

An Ubud monkey tattoo.

A Bali swing tattoo.

Iran Tattoo Ideas

A Mount Damavand tattoo.

An Azadi Tower tattoo.

A tattoo based on the colors or tilework of the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque (the Pink Mosque).

Iraq Tattoo Ideas

An Ishtar Gate tattoo.

An Eagle of Saladin tattoo.

A Lion of Babylon tattoo.

Israel Tattoo Ideas

A tattoo based on the architecture of Tel Aviv

A Hoopoe bird tattoo.

Italy Tattoo Ideas

  • An Italian coffee or drink tattoo.
  • An Italian wolf tattoo.
  • A Vespa tattoo.

Ivory Coast (Cote d’Ivoire) Tattoo Ideas

  • An African elephant tattoo.
  • A Baobab Flower tattoo.
  •  A Cascade in Man tattoo.

Jamaica Tattoo Ideas

  • A Red Stripe tattoo.
  • A Jamaican boat tattoo.
  • A Dunns River Falls tattoo.

Japan Tattoo Ideas

  • A tattoo based on the artwork of Hokusai. 
  • A traditional Bamboo tattoo.
  • A Chery Blossom tattoo.

Jordan Tattoo Ideas

  • An Amman Citadel tattoo.
  • A tattoo based on the artwork in Petra.
  • A Wadi Rum tattoo.

Kazakhstan Tattoo Ideas

  • A Nomad’s Land tattoo.
  • A Big Almaty Lake tattoo.
  • An Emblem of Kazakhstan tattoo.

Kenya Tattoo Ideas

  • A Mount Kilimanjaro tattoo.
  • A Maasai Market tattoo.
  • A lion tattoo.

Korea Tattoo Ideas 

  • A Korean magpie tattoo.
  • A Siberian tiger tatoo.
  • A Kimchi tattoo.

Kosovo Tattoo Ideas 

  • A Newborn monument tattoo.
  • A Stone Bridge tattoo.
  • A Balkan lynx tattoo.

Kuwait Tattoo Ideas

  • An Arfaj dessert flower tattoo.
  • A Kuwait Towers tattoo.

Kyrgyzstan Tattoo Ideas

  • An Epic of Manas tattoo.
  • A Komuz tattoo.
  • A Peregrine falcon tattoo.

Laos Tattoo Ideas

  • A Plumeria flower tattoo.
  • An Asian elephant tattoo.
  • A Kuang Si waterfall tattoo.

Latvia Tattoo Ideas 

  • A White Wagtail bird tattoo.
  • A Freedom Monument of Riga tattoo.
  • An amber jewel tattoo.

Lebanon Tattoo Ideas

  • A Cedar of Lebanon tattoo.
  • A Ruins of Tyre tattoo.

Lesotho Tattoo Ideas

  • A Black Rhinoceros tattoo.
  • A tattoo based on iconic Lesotho textiles.
  • A Lesotho map tattoo.

Liberia Tattoo Ideas

  • A Liberian flag tattoo.
  • A Pepper flower tattoo.
  • A Pygmy Hippopotamus tattoo.

Libya Tattoo Ideas 

  • A Barbary Lion tattoo.
  • An Afzejare Arch tattoo.
  • A tattoo based on the Tadrardt Acacus rock art.

Liechtenstein Tattoo Ideas 

  • A Jägerndorf shield tattoo.
  • A Vaduz Castle tattoo.
  • A Yellow Lily tattoo.

Lithuania Tattoo Ideas

  • A Lithuanian flag tattoo.
  • An iron wolf tattoo.
  • A White Stork tattoo.

Luxembourg Tattoo Ideas

  • A Goldcrest bird tattoo.
  • A Vianden Castle tattoo.
  • A Bofferding beer tattoo.

Macau Tattoo Ideas 

  • A Macau flag tattoo.
  • A Morpheus tattoo.

Madagascar Tattoo Ideas

  • A Ring Tailed Lemur tattoo.
  • A Baobab tree tattoo.
  • A Tsingy de Bemaraha tattoo.

Malawi Tattoo Ideas 

  • A Thomson’s Gazelle tattoo.
  • A Lake Malawi rocks tattoo.
  • A Chongoni Rock Art tattoo.

Malaysia Tattoo Ideas 

  • A Petronas Towers tattoo.
  • A Malayan tiger tattoo.
  • A Gunung Mulu tattoo.

Maldives Tattoo Ideas

  • A Yellowfin tuna tattoo.
  • A Maldives map tattoo.
  • A Pink rose tattoo.

Mali Tattoo Ideas

  • A Tomb of Askia tattoo.
  • A Firefinch tattoo.
  • An ancient Timbuktu skyline tattoo.

Malta Tattoo Ideas 

  • A Maltese balcony tattoo.
  • A Maltese fishing boat tattoo.
  • A Pharoah Hound tattoo.

Martinique Tattoo Ideas

  • A large Madnina flower tattoo of the different flowers on the island.
  • A manicou opossum tattoo.
  • A Trois Rivieres  rum tattoo.

Mauritania Tattoo Ideas

  • A White Antelope tattoo.
  • An Atar Stone Circles tattoo.
  • An Oulata architectural detail work tattoo.

Mauritius Tattoo Ideas

  • A Mauritius flag tattoo.
  • A Dodo bird tattoo.
  • A Star and Key tattoo.

Mayotte Tattoo Ideas

  • A seahorse tattoo.
  • A Mayotte map tattoo.
  • A ylang-ylang flower tattoo.

Mexico Tattoo Ideas

  • An eagle holding a snake tattoo.
  • A Nopal cactus tattoo.
  • A dahlia flower tattoo.

Moldova Tattoo Ideas

  • An Eternal Flame monument tattoo.
  • A Struve Geodetic Arc tattoo.
  • A cognac tattoo.

Monaco Tattoo Ideas

  • A Hedgehog tattoo.
  • A Barbagiuan tattoo.
  • A Monaco skyline tattoo.

Mongolia Tattoo Ideas

  • A Przewalski horse tattoo.
  • A seabuckthorn berry tattoo.
  • A falcon tattoo.

Montenegro Tattoo Ideas

  • An Our Lady of the Rocks tattoo.
  • A Sveti Stefan tattoo.
  • A mimoza tattoo.

Montserrat Tattoo Ideas

  • A Montserrat Oriole tattoo.
  • A Heliconia tattoo.
  • A pribby tattoo.

Morocco Tattoo Ideas

  • A Barbary lion tattoo.
  • A Chefchauouen tattoo.
  • An Ait Benhaddou skyline tattoo.

Mozambique Tattoo Ideas

  • A Mount Panda tattoo.
  • A Maputo railway station tattoo.

Myanmar/Burma Tattoo Ideas

  • An Inle Lake boat tattoo.
  • A Chinthe tattoo.
  • An Indo-Chinese tiger tattoo.

Namibia Tattoo Ideas

  • An oryx tattoo.
  • An Ecola tattoo.
  • A red sand dunes tattoo.

Nepal Tattoo Ideas

  • A Madal tattoo.
  • A Peepal tree tattoo.
  • A Khukuri tattoo.

New Zealand Tattoo Ideas

  • A kiwi tattoo.
  • A silver fern tattoo.
  • A Wanaka tree tattoo.

Nicaragua Tattoo Ideas

  • A Sacuanjoche flower tattoo.
  • A motmot tattoo.
  • A five volcanoes tattoo.

Niger Tattoo Ideas

  • A Dama Gazelle tattoo.
  • A Maraadi architecture tattoo.
  • A Dabous giraffe petroglyph tattoo.

Nigeria Tattoo Ideas 

  • A Red Eagle tattoo.
  • A Nigerian flag tattoo.
  • A Y tattoo.

North Macedonia Tattoo Ideas

  • A Skopje statues tattoo.
  • A Macedonian pine tattoo.
  • A Lake Ohrid boat tattoo.

Norway Tattoo Ideas

  • A moose tattoo.
  • A purple heather tattoo.
  • A cod tattoo.

Oman Tattoo Ideas

  • A Khanjar dagger tattoo.
  • The Giant Incense Burner tattoo.
  • An Oman roundabout tattoo.

Pakistan Tattoo Ideas

  • A jasmine tattoo.
  • A markhor tattoo.
  • A Himalayan Cedar tattoo.

Palestine Tattoo Ideas

  • A West Bank Separation Wall tattoo. (If you want to make a political statement).
  • A Banksy hotel or street art inspired tattoo. (Another good political tattoo idea).
  • A Palestine sunbird tattoo.

Panama Tattoo Ideas 

  • A Holy Ghost Orchid tattoo.
  • A Panama beer tattoo.
  • A Panamanian Golden Frog tattoo.

Papua New Guinea Tattoo Ideas

  • A Dugong tattoo.
  • A Sepik Blue Orchid tattoo.
  • A Tree Kangaroo tattoo.

Paraguay Tattoo Ideas

  • A Pink Lapacho tattoo.
  • A Pampas fox tattoo.
  • A Paraguayan harp tattoo.

Peru Tattoo Ideas

  • A vicuña tattoo.
  • A Cantuta flower tattoo.
  • A Peruvian panflute tattoo.

Philippines Tattoo Ideas

  • A Jeepney tattoo.
  • A Sampaguita jasmine tattoo.
  • A Phillippine pearl tattoo.

Poland Tattoo Ideas 

  • A Warsaw dragon tattoo.
  • A Red Corn Poppy tattoo.
  • A Pierogi tattoo.

Portugal Tattoo Ideas

  • A Portuguese tilework tattoo.
  • A Barcelos Rooster tattoo.
  • A Portuguese University Robes tattoo.

Puerto Rico Tattoo Ideas

  • A Coqui frog tattoo.
  • A Puerto Rican flag tattoo.
  • A Cuatro tattoo.

Qatar Tattoo Ideas

  • A Limonium tattoo.
  • A Museum of Islamic Art tattoo.

Reunion Tattoo Ideas

  • A Reunion map tattoo.
  • An Ile Bourbon tattoo.
  • A Piton de la Fournaise volcano tattoo.

Romania Tattoo Ideas

  • A Bran Castle tattoo.
  • A Romanian egg tattoo.
  • A Great White Pelican tattoo.

Russian Federation Tattoo Ideas

  • A Russian bear tattoo.
  • A Cosmonaut tattoo.
  • A Cheburashka tattoo.

Rwanda Tattoo Ideas

  • A Sprinbok tattoo.
  • An Inanga tattoo.
  • A Rwanda flag tattoo.

Saint Kitts and Nevis Tattoo Ideas

  • A map tattoo of the islands.
  • A poinciana flower tattoo.
  • A Saint Kitts and Nevis flag tattoo.

Saint Lucia Tattoo Ideas

  • A Saint Lucia flag tattoo.
  • A Saint Lucian parrot tattoo.
  • A Gros Piton tattoo.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Tattoo Ideas

  • A map tattoo.
  • A St. Vincent Parrot tattoo.
  • A Soufriere Tree tattoo.

Samoa Tattoo Ideas 

  • A manumea bird tattoo.
  • An Alofaaga Blowholes tattoo.
  • A Fuipisia Falls tattoo.

Sao Tome and Principe Tattoo Ideas

  • A  Sao Tome and Principe flag tattoo.
  • A Sao Tome shrew tattoo.
  • A Cao Grande Peak tattoo.

Saudi Arabia Tattoo Ideas

  • An Arabian horse tattoo.
  • A Mada’in Salih tattoo.
  • A Royal Jasmine tattoo.

Senegal Tattoo Ideas

  • An African Spoonbill tattoo.
  • A Green star tattoo.
  • A Kora tattoo.

Serbia Tattoo Ideas

  • A Lily of the Valley tattoo.
  • An Ada Bridge tattoo.
  • A Golubac Fortress tattoo.

Seychelles Tattoo Ideas

  • A Striped Dolphin tattoo.
  • A Seychelles flag tattoo.
  • A Triangle instrument tattoo.

Sierra Leone Tattoo Ideas

  • A Lion tattoo.
  • A Charlotte Falls tattoo.
  • A Hoddu tattoo.

Singapore Tattoo Ideas

  • A Merlion tattoo.
  • A Singapore skyline tattoo.
  • A Supertree Grove tattoo.

Slovakia Tattoo Ideas

  • A  Čumil, Man at Work tattoo.
  • A Linden tree tattoo.
  • A Most SNP tattoo.

Slovenia Tattoo Ideas

  • A Lippizaner horse tattoo.
  • A Špičnik 1 heart road tattoo.
  • A Ljubljana Dragon tattoo.

Solomon Islands Tattoo Ideas

  • A Conch shell tattoo.
  • A Five Stars tattoo.

Somalia Tattoo Ideas

  • A Leopard tattoo.
  • A durbaan drum tattoo.
  • A King Protea tattoo.

South Africa Tattoo Ideas

  • A Capetown skyline tattoo.
  • A King Protea flower tattoo.
  • A Blue Crane tattoo.

South Sudan Tattoo Ideas

  • An African fish eagle tattoo.
  • A Suddia grass tattoo.
  • A tattoo of Juba from above.

Spain Tattoo Ideas

  • A Camino de Santiago tattoo.
  • A Bull tattoo.
  • A Spanish guitar tattoo.

Sri Lanka Tattoo Ideas

  • A blue water lily tattoo.
  • A Sri Lankan birdwing butterfly tattoo.
  • A Columbo Lotus Tower tattoo.

Sudan Tattoo Ideas

  • A Sudan Cheetah tattoo.
  • A Rose Mallow flower tattoo.
  • A Nubian pyramid tattoo.

Suriname Tattoo Ideas

  • A Faja Lobi flower tattoo.
  • A Paramaribo architecture tattoo.
  • A Sipaliwini Savannah Petroglyph tattoo.

Sweden Tattoo Ideas

  • A Swedish horse tattoo.
  • A  Swedish cabin tattoo.
  • A Stockholm skyline tattoo.

Switzerland Tattoo Ideas

  • A Matterhorn tattoo.
  • A Swiss Flag tattoo.
  • A Swiss Chocolate tatoo.

Syria Tattoo Idea

  • An Olive Tree tattoo.
  • A Palmyra tattoo.
  • A Syrian Bear tattoo.

Tajikistan Tattoo Ideas 

  • A Rising Sun tattoo.
  • An Iskanderkul tattoo.
  • A Tajikistan flag tattoo.

Tanzania Tattoo Ideas

  • A Giraffe tattoo.
  • An African Blackwood tree tattoo.

Thailand Tattoo Ideas

  • A Siamese Fireback Pheasant tattoo.
  • A Thai elephant tattoo.
  • A Long-tail boat tattoo.

The Gambia Tattoo Ideas

  • A Gambia River & Canoe tattoo.
  • A Jul Brew tattoo.

The Netherlands Tattoo Ideas

  • A windmill tattoo.
  • A wooden shoe tattoo.
  • A funny Amsterdam tattoo. (You can use one of these Amsterdam puns if you want).

Timor Leste Tattoo Ideas

  • A Hibiscus flower tattoo.
  • A Mount Ramelau tattoo.
  • A Sia Maubara tattoo.

Togo Tattoo Ideas

  • A Hippopotamus tattoo.
  • A Togo flag tattoo.
  • A plantain tattoo.

Trinidad & Tobago Tattoo Ideas

  • A Chaconia tattoo.
  • A steelpan tattoo.
  • A Scarlet Ibis tattoo.

Tunisia Tattoo Ideas

  • A Tunisian door tattoo.
  • A tagine tattoo. 
  • A Cape Angela lighthouse tattoo.

Turkey Tattoo Ideas

  • An Ottoman house tattoo.
  • A tattoo based on Turkish tilework.
  • A Cappadocia hot air balloon tattoo.

Turkmenistan Tattoo Ideas

  • An Akhal-Teke horse tattoo.
  • A Darvaza Gas Crater tattoo.
  • A Turkmenistan TV Tower tattoo.

Turks & Caicos Tattoo Ideas

  • A Turk’s Head Cactus tattoo.
  • A conch shell tattoo.

Uganda Tattoo Ideas

  • A Crested Crane tattoo.
  • A Lake Bunyonyi tattoo.
  • A tattoo based on the poetry of Okot p’Bitek. 

Ukraine Tattoo Ideas

(Please do not get a Chernobyl tattoo unless you have more of a connection to it than just a tourist).

  • A Kyiv tattoo.
  • A Nightingale tattoo.
  • A Batkivshchyna Maty tattoo.

United Arab Emirates Tattoo Ideas

  • A Burj Khalifa tattoo.
  • A Tribulus Omanense tattoo.

United States of America Tattoo Ideas (USA)

  • An American Flag tattoo.
  • A Statue of Liberty  tattoo.
  • A Route 66 tattoo.

Uruguay Tattoo Ideas

  • A La Mano tattoo.
  • An Uruguayan sun tattoo.
  • A Mercado del Puerto tattoo.

Uzbekistan Tattoo Ideas

  • A Plov tattoo.
  • A tattoo inspired by the colors of Uzbekistan tilework.
  • An Amir Timur Museum tattoo.

Venezuela Tattoo Ideas

  • An Orinoco river tattoo.
  • A Flor de Mayo tattoo.
  • A Venezuelan troupial bird tattoo.
  • A Ha Long Bay tattoo.
  • An egg coffee tattoo.
  • A bamboo sling tattoo.

Virgin Islands Tattoo Ideas

  • An oleander tattoo.
  • A Mourning Dove tattoo.
  • A Bananaquit bird tattoo.

Yemen Tattoo Ideas

  • A tattoo inspired by the poetry of Waddah al-Yemen.
  • A Yemen National Library tattoo.
  • A Socotra Dragon tree tattoo.

Zambia Tattoo Ideas

  • A Victoria Falls tattoo.
  • A Zambia Flag tatoo.
  • A  Lukusuzi National Park tattoo.    

Zimbabwe Tattoo Ideas

  • A Flame Lily tattoo.
  • A Sable Antelope tattoo.

World City Tattoos

If you want to rep your favorite city to travel to (or even your home city), these are tattoo ideas for some of the world’s major cities.

Tokyo Tattoo Ideas (Japan)

  • A Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower tattoo.
  • A tattoo of your favorite plane or scene at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
  • A geometric tattoo based on Shibuya Crossing.

Jakarta Tattoo Ideas (Indonesia)

  • A Thousand Islands tattoo. (The islands outside of Jakarta, not the salad dressing).
  • A Monas Tower tattoo.
  • A tattoo of a dragon with pearls in its mouth. (Based on the ones at Jin De Yuan).

Delhi Tattoo Ideas (India)

  • An India Gate tattoo.
  • A tattoo of your favorite scene, plant, or tomb in the Lodi Gardens.

Seoul Tattoo Ideas (South Korea)

  • A  Gyeongbokgung Palace tattoo. (You can pick something based on the colors, patterns or architecture).
  • A Dongdaemun Design Plaza tattoo. (This would be especially cool as a minimalist tattoo of just the shape).
  • A tattoo of a scene from Bukhansan National Park.

Manila Tattoo Ideas (Philippines)

  • A seal of Manila tattoo.
  • A Manila skyline tattoo.
  • A Coconut Palace tattoo.

Mumbai Tattoo Ideas (India)

  • A Gateway of India Mumbai tattoo.
  • An Elephanta Island tattoo.
  • A tattoo based on the Bandra–Worli Sea Link Bridge.

Shanghai Tattoo Ideas (China)

  • A tattoo of the Oriental Pearl tv tower.
  • A tattoo of your favorite plant or scene from the Yu Garden.
  • A Shanghai Disneyland tattoo.

New York City Tattoo Ideas (United States)

  • The quote “I’m in a New York State of Mind” tattoo. (Or pick another New York City quote or pun ).
  • An art deco tattoo from the Chrysler Building or Empire State Building.
  • An “I Heart NY” tattoo. (It’s not just for NYC souvenirs )!

Beijing Tattoo Ideas (China)

  • A Forbidden City tattoo. (Take inspiration from the colors, designs, and architecture).
  • A Drum Tower or Bell Tower tattoo.
  • A tattoo of a boat on Kunming Lake.

Mexico City Tattoo Ideas (Mexico)

  • A Frida Kahlo-inspired tattoo.
  • A tattoo of the Palacio de Bellas Artes.
  • A Chapultepec Castle tattoo. (It is one of the most beautiful castles in the world after all).

Moscow Tattoo Ideas (Russia)

  • A St. Basil’s Cathedral tattoo. (You can go literal or pick some of the colors and patterns for a more abstract interpretation).
  • A Bolshoy Theater tattoo. (You can pick the building or something from the inside of the opera house or something inspired by a performance you saw there).
  • A Shukhov Radio Tower tattoo.

Cairo Tattoo Ideas (Egypt)

  • A Pyramids of Giza tattoo.
  • A Nile River tattoo.
  • A tattoo of a scene or plant from the Orman Botanical Garden.

Bangkok Tattoo Ideas (Thailand)

  • A Skytrain tattoo.
  • A tattoo of a boat on the Chai Phraya River.
  • A scene or symbol from the  Chatuchak Market.

Los Angeles Tattoo Ideas (United States)

  • A tattoo of the Hollywood sign. (Bonus points if you make it say ‘Hollywoo’ instead).
  • A Santa Monica pier tattoo.
  • A Disneyland tattoo.

Buenos Aires Tattoo Ideas (Argentina)

  • A Caminito Tattoo. (Great if you want a really colorful tattoo from Buenos Aires).
  • A  Centro Cultural Borges  tattoo.
  • A Kavanagh Building tattoo.

Istanbul Tattoo Ideas (Turkey)

  • A Galata Tower tattoo.
  • An Istanbul cat tattoo.
  • A Bosphorus Bridge Tattoo.

Lagos Tattoo Ideas (Nigeria)

  • A Lagos Bridge tattoo. (The city has a few great ones to pick from).
  • A National Arts Theatre tattoo.
  • A DANFO tattoo.

Rio de Janeiro Tattoo Ideas (Brazil)

  • A Sugarloaf Mountain tattoo.
  • A tattoo of the Escadaria Selarón.
  • A Cable Car tattoo.

Lima Tattoo Ideas (Peru)

  • A Park of Love tattoo.
  • A Lima coat of arms tattoo.
  • A tattoo based on the work of Mario Testino.

Paris Tattoo Ideas (France)

  • An Eiffel Tower tattoo. (Yes, it’s cheesy, but you can find ways to make it original).
  • A funny Paris tattoo. (Feel free to borrow a Paris pun ).
  • A tattoo of a detail from the artwork or architecture of one of Paris’s churches.

London Tattoo Ideas (United Kingdom)

  • A Big Ben tattoo. 
  • A funny London tattoo. (Feel free to borrow a London pun ).
  • A tattoo of a sign or symbol from your favorite London tube station.

Ho Chi Minh City / Saigon Tattoo Ideas (Vietnam)

  • A tattoo of your favorite flower or scene from the  Saigon Zoo And Botanical Garden  
  • A Mong Bridge tattoo.
  • An abstract tattoo based on the colors and designs of the  Temple Goddess Mariamma.  

Bogota Tattoo Ideas (Colombia)

  • A tattoo based on your favorite piece in the Gold Museum.
  • A Monserratte tattoo.
  • A Guadua Bridge tattoo.

Chicago Tattoo Ideas (United States)

  • A Chicago Dog tattoo. (If you want a funny Chicago tattoo but don’t want food, you can use a Chicago pun).
  • A Chicago Bean tattoo.
  • A tattoo based on your favorite piece or art at the Art Institute of Chicago.

Johannesburg Tattoo Ideas (South Africa)

  • A Johannesburg skyline tattoo.
  • A Nelson Mandela Bridge tattoo.
  • A tattoo based on the amazing Johannesburg street art.

Taipei Tattoo Ideas (Taiwan)

  • A tattoo based on the colorful village of Jiufen
  • A Xiaolongbao tattoo. 
  • A Bubble Tea tattoo. (It was invented in Taipei ).

Hanoi Tattoo Ideas (Vietnam)

  • A  Pont Thê Húc Bridge Tattoo. 
  • A tattoo based on the beautiful architecture of the Hanoi Old Quarter.
  • A Train Street tattoo.

Kuala Lumpur Tattoo Ideas (Malaysia)

  • A Petronas Twin Towers tattoo.
  • A tattoo based on your favorite piece in the Kuala Lumpur City Gallery.
  • A Batu Caves inspired tattoo.

Santiago Tattoo Ideas (Chile)

  • A street art tattoo based on your favorite piece in the  Museo Cielo Abierto .
  • A tattoo based on a sculpture at the Sculpture Park Museum
  • A Calicanto bridge tattoo.

Madrid Tattoo Ideas (Spain)

  • A Real Madrid tattoo. (I would only get this if Real Madrid is your favorite team).
  • A Madrid landmarks tattoo.
  • A tattoo based on the Chrystal Palace.

Toronto Tattoo Ideas (Canada)

  • A CN Tower tattoo.
  • A tattoo inspired by Nathan Phillips Square.
  • A Lake Ontario inspired tattoo. 

Miami Tattoo Ideas (United States)

  • A Miami lifeguard station tattoo.
  • A Cape Florida Lighthouse tattoo.
  • A street art tattoo from your favorite piece of Miami street art.

Dallas Tattoo Ideas (United States)

  • A Dallas Cowboys tattoo. (If they’re your favorite team).
  • A Reunion Tower tattoo.
  • A kitschy Dallas tattoo based on your favorite item in the International Bowling Museum.

Houston Tattoo Ideas (United States)

  • A NASA tattoo. 
  • A Kemah Boardwalk tattoo.
  • A tattoo of the Beer Can House.

Philadelphia Tattoo Ideas (United States)

  • A South Street tattoo based on the works of Isaiah Zagar.
  • A Ben Franklin or Walt Whitman Bridge tattoo.
  • A Love Park tattoo.

Barcelona Tattoo Ideas (Spain)

  • An LGTB tattoo inspired by the monument  Barcelona’s Monument to Trans History
  • A Flor-de-Barcelona tattoo.
  • A Gaudi tattoo based on your favorite work.

Atlanta Tattoo Ideas (United States)

  • An ATL tattoo. 
  • A tattoo of your favorite piece from the High Museum of Art (one of America’s best art museums ).
  • A vintage Coca Cola tattoo.

St. Petersburg Tattoo Ideas (Russia)

  • Your tattoo inspired by the Hermitage museum.
  • An Aurora Cruiser tattoo.
  • A Neva River or Dvortsovyy Most tattoo.

Washington DC Tattoo Ideas (United States)

  • A tattoo of your favorite piece or art of historical artifact in the Smithsonian.
  • A tattoo based on the portraits of Michelle Obama or Barack Obama. (I’d go with colors and symbols over something literal).
  • An American Beauty Rose tattoo.

Sydney Tattoo Ideas (Australia)

  • A Sydney Opera House tattoo (though I personally would do something geometric or based on the shape as opposed to realistic here).
  • A Sydney Harbour Bridge tattoo.
  • A Vintage Sydney Olympics tattoo.

Boston Tattoo Ideas (United States)

  • A Boston Tea Party tattoo.
  • A Boston Terrier tattoo.
  • A Beacon Hill tattoo.

Melbourne (Australia)

  • A Flinders Street Railway Station tattoo.
  • A Melbourne Skyline tattoo.
  • A Luna Park tattoo.

Phoenix Tattoo Ideas (United States)

  • A Camelback Mountain Tattoo
  • An actual Harry Potter-style Phoenix tattoo.
  • A tattoo of your favorite plant from the Desert Botanical Garden.

Montreal Tattoo Ideas (Canada)

  • A  Pont Jacques-Cartier tattoo.
  • A Habitat 67 tattoo.
  • A La Plateau house tattoo.

Vancouver Tattoo Ideas (Canada)

  • A Vancouver Skyline tattoo.
  • A tattoo inspired by your favorite hike near Vancouver.
  • A Van City tattoo.

Prague Tattoo Ideas (Czech Republic)

  • An  Astronomical Clock tattoo.
  • A Charles Bridge tattoo.
  • A tattoo based on the works of Kafka.

Budapest Tattoo Ideas (Hungary)

  • A funny Budapest tattoo. (Feel free to use one of these Budapest puns ).
  • A Danube River Bridge tattoo.
  • A tattoo inspired by the artwork in the Gellert Spa and Bath.

Berlin Tattoo Ideas (Germany)

  • A Brandenberg Gate tattoo.
  • A tattoo of a piece of Berlin street art.
  • An Ampelmann tattoo. (I have an explanation of these here ).

Venice Tattoo Ideas (Italy)

  • A Gondola tattoo.
  • A tattoo of the Giant Hands of Venice.
  • A tattoo based on the maze of canals and houses in the city.

Athens Tattoo Ideas (Greece)

  • A Parthenon tattoo. (Or another building on the Acropolis ).
  • A laurel wreath tattoo.
  • A tattoo of the Mask of Agamemnon.  

Nashville Tattoo Ideas (Tennessee)

  • A Grand Ole Opry tattoo.
  • A tattoo of your favorite piece of Nashville street art.
  • A Nashville Hot Chicken tattoo.

Rome Tattoo Ideas (Italy)

  • An SPQR tattoo.
  • A Bernini-inspired tattoo.
  • A Spanish steps tattoo.

Edinburgh Tattoo Ideas (Scotland)

  • A tattoo of your favorite flower or plant in the Royal Botanic Garden.
  • A  Greyfriars Bobby tattoo.  
  • A tattoo based on your favorite piece in the Scottish National Gallery.

Dublin Tattoo Ideas (Ireland)

  • A Ha’Penny Bridget tattoo.
  • A tattoo of your favorite artifact in the Little Dublin Museum. (I vote for the James Joyce death mask myself).
  • A colorful Georgian door tattoo.

Las Vegas Tattoo Ideas (United States)

  • A tattoo of the iconic Las Vegas sign.
  • A casino-themed tattoo.
  • A Las Vegas skyline tattoo.

Lisbon Tattoo Ideas (Portugal)

  • A tattoo of a Pasteis de Nata from Belem .
  • A Lisbon tram tattoo.
  • A Pont 25 de Abril tattoo.

Amsterdam Tattoo Ideas (The Netherlands)

  • An Amsterdam Canals tattoo.
  • An Amsterdam houses tattoo.
  • A bicycle tattoo with Amsterdam tulips.

US State Tattoo Ideas

Here are a few ideas for tattoos of American states.

Alabama Tattoo Ideas

  • A University of Alabama tattoo. (Think cute elephants, the Roll Tide motto, etc).
  • A camellia tattoo.
  • A Sweet Home Alabama tattoo.

Alaska Tattoo Ideas

  • A tattoo of Alaska from the water. (Think mountains and whales and beautiful waves).
  • An Alaskan animal tattoo. (Think bears, moose, seal, puffins, etc).
  • A tattoo of the Alaskan state motto “North to the Future.”

Arizona Tattoo Ideas

  • A Grand Canyon tattoo.
  • A saguaro cactus tattoo.
  • An Arizona flag tattoo. (Love the stars and colors on the Arizona flag).

Arkansas Tattoo Ideas

  • An apple blossom tattoo.
  • A Thorncrown Chapel tattoo. (This would be a great opportunity for a cute geometric tattoo).
  • A tattoo of a scene of Hot Springs.

California Tattoo Ideas

  • A tattoo of the word Eureka!
  • A cable car in San Francisco tattoo.
  • A funny California tattoo. (Feel free to borrow one of these California puns ).

Colorado Tattoo Ideas

  • A Colorado flag tattoo.
  • A Rocky Mountain tattoo.
  • A Pikes Peak sign tattoo.

Connecticut Tattoo Ideas

  • A Mystic Lighthouse tattoo.
  • An American robin tattoo.
  • A Stars Hollow tattoo. (Yes it’s a fictional town, but it lives in our hearts forever.

Delaware Tattoo Ideas

  • A peach blossom tattoo.
  • A Kalmar Nyckel tattoo.
  • A tattoo of Delaware state motto “Liberty and Independence”

Florida Tattoo Ideas

  • A Disney World tattoo.
  • An orange blossom tattoo.
  • A pelican tattoo.

Georgia Tattoo Ideas

  • A Georgia peach tattoo.
  • An Eastern Tiger Swallowtail tattoo.
  • A tattoo of the Fountain at Forsyth Park in Savannah. (If you’re a fan of the book or movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, note that the statue is actually in Illinois).

Hawaii Tattoo Ideas

  • A pineapple tattoo.
  • A tattoo of the Hawaiian archipelago.
  • A volcano tattoo (especially if you fell in love with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park )

Idaho Tattoo Ideas

  • A tattoo of a scene from Idaho’s magnificent landscapes. 
  • A potato tattoo. (Especially if you’re looking for funny Idaho tattoos).
  • A mountain bluebird tattoo.

Illinois Tattoo Ideas

  • A Frank Llyod Wright tattoo. (You could go minimalist with a geometric pattern from his work or something bigger inspired by the houses in Oak Park).
  • A cardinal tattoo.
  • A monarch butterfly tatoo.

Indiana Tattoo Ideas

  • A Hoosier pun tattoo.
  • A peony tattoo. 
  • A tattoo of Indiana’s flag.

Iowa Tattoo Ideas

  • A geode tattoo.
  • An acorn tattoo.
  • A goldfinch tattoo.

Kansas Tattoo Ideas

  • The tattoo of the state motto “Ad Aspera Per Aspera.”
  • A Jayhawk tattoo.
  • A sunflower tattoo.

Kentucky Tattoo Ideas

  • A honeybee tattoo.
  • A banjo tattoo. (Or another Bluegrass-inspired motif like an Appalachian Dulcimer).
  • A Viceroy butterfly tattoo.

Louisiana Tattoo Ideas

  • A green treefrog tattoo.
  • A Pirogue boat tattoo.
  • A magnolia tattoo.

Maine Tattoo Ideas

  • A lobster tattoo.
  • A Portland Head Lighthouse Tattoo.
  • The tattoo of the state motto “Dirigo.”

Maryland Tattoo Ideas

  • A Baltimore Oriole tattoo. (The bird or the baseball team).
  • A crab tattoo.
  • A Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly tattoo.

Massachusetts Tattoo Ideas

  • A cranberry tattoo.
  • A Dr. Seuss tattoo.
  • A Norman Rockwell tattoo. 

Michigan Tattoo Ideas

  • A Lake Michigan tattoo.
  • A Pictured Rocks tattoo.
  • A Model-T tattoo.

Minnesota Tattoo Ideas

  • A blueberry muffin tattoo.
  • A tattoo of the state motto “L’Etoile du Nord.”
  • A North Star tattoo.

Mississippi Tattoo Ideas

  • A Spicebush Swallowtail butterfly tattoo.
  • A Gulf of Mexico-inspired tattoo.

Missouri Tattoo Ideas

  • A St. Louis Arch tattoo.
  • A silver dollar tattoo.
  • A flowering dogwood branch tattoo.

Montana Tattoo Ideas

  • A Going-to-the-Sun Road Tattoo (or another scenic road or beautiful Montana landscape).
  • A Montana seal tattoo.
  • A bitterroot tattoo.

Nebraska Tattoo Ideas

  • An ear of corn tattoo. (Or another corn theme).
  • A goldenrod tattoo.
  • A Kool-aid Man tattoo.

Nevada Tattoo Ideas

  • A Hoover Dam tattoo.
  • A Desert Tortoise tattoo.
  • A Seven Magic Mountains tattoo.

New Hampshire Tattoo Ideas

  • A Red-Spotted Newt tattoo.
  • A Ladybug tattoo.
  • A Purple Lilac tattoo.

New Jersey Tattoo Ideas

  • A Boardwalk tattoo.
  • A Cape May Lighthouse tattoo.
  • A Dogwood tattoo.

New Mexico Tattoo Ideas

  • A hot air balloon tattoo.
  • A Dusty Roadrunner tattoo.
  • A New Mexico state flag tattoo.

New York Tattoo Ideas

  • A Niagara Falls tattoo.
  • A Lilac tattoo.
  • A Montauk Lighthouse tattoo. (Or other motifs from small towns in New York ).

North Carolina Tattoo Ideas

  • A Whirligigs tattoo.
  • An Outer Banks lighthouse tattoo.
  • A wild Spanish Mustang tattoo.

North Dakota Tattoo Ideas

  • A Wild Prarie Rose tattoo.
  • A Western Meadowlark tattoo.
  • A Flickertail March tattoo.

Ohio Tattoo Ideas

  • A bullfrog tattoo.
  • An Ohio Buckeye tattoo. (The tree or the university).
  • A Hocking Hills waterfall tattoo.

Oklahoma Tattoo Ideas

  • A Redbud Tree tattoo.
  • A bison tattoo.
  • A scissortail flycather tattoo.

For more, check out my guide to Oklahoma tattoo inspiration.

Oregon Tattoo Ideas

  • A Mount Hood tattoo.
  • A tattoo of the Oregon state motto “She Flies with Her Own Wings.”
  • A Crater Lake tattoo.

Pennsylvania Tattoo Ideas

  • A Hershey Kiss tattoo.
  • A Fallingwater tattoo.
  • A firefly tattoo.

Rhode Island Tattoo Ideas

  • A Castle Hill Lighthouse tattoo.
  • A Rhode Island Red tattoo.
  • A Harbor Seal tattoo.

South Carolina Tattoo Ideas

  • A South Carolina Flag tattoo.
  • A Yellow Jessamine tattoo.
  • A Loggerhead Sea Turtle tattoo.

South Dakota Tattoo Ideas

  • A Sylvan Lake tattoo.
  • An American Pasque tattoo.
  • A Triceratops tattoo.

Tennessee Tattoo Ideas

  • A Smoky Mountains tattoo.
  • A Dollywood or Dolly Parton tattoo.
  • A Raccoon tattoo.

Texas Tattoo Ideas

  • A San Antonio Missions or Alamo tattoo.
  • A Bluebonnet tattoo.
  • A Texas Longhorn tattoo. (The animal or the university.

Utah Tattoo Ideas

  • A Rocky Mountain Elk tattoo.
  • A tattoo based on one of Utah’s National Parks.
  • A cherry tattoo.

Vermont Tattoo Ideas

  • A Red Clover tattoo.
  • A Sugar Maple tattoo.
  • A Vermont Flag tattoo.

Virginia Tattoo Ideas

  • A Shenandoah tattoo. (Especially views or trees on Skyline Drive ).
  • A tattoo of the state motto “Sic Semper Tyranus.”
  • An Oyster tattoo.

Washington Tattoo Ideas

  • A Seattle Space Needle tattoo.
  • A Public Market Sign tattoo. (Or another landmark in Seattle tattoo).
  • A Mount Rainer tattoo.

West Virginia Tattoo Ideas

  • A West Virginia state tartan tattoo.
  • A New River Gorge Bridge tattoo.
  • A Golden Delicious apple tattoo.

Wisconsin Tattoo Ideas

  • A Milwaukee Art Museum tattoo. (Think geometric tattoo or something inspired by it rather than a literal version).
  • A Wisconsin Badger tattoo. (The animal or the university).
  • A cheese tattoo. (If you want a funny Wisconsin tattoo, I have a giant list of cheese puns you can use).

Wyoming Tattoo Ideas

  • A Bucking Horse and Rider tattoo.
  • A Horned Toad tattoo.
  • An Old Faithful tattoo.

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5 Things to Pack for Your Trip

Canada - Toronto -Luggage

The   Lonely Planet   guidebook. It can be kind of a pain to find the major guidebooks once you land, or you’ll find them overpriced. I always like to pick mine up ahead of time.

An Unlocked  Cell Phone   so that you can use a local sim card while here to help navigate public transportation and when you’re on the road. (For people without local cell phone plans).

Backup Charging Bank  for your cell phone since you’ll be using it as a camera, GPS, and general travel genie.

A Camera  since you’ll want to take a million pictures on your trip. I use a mix of my  Nikon D810  and my  Samsung8  smartphone these days.

A Great Day Bag   so you can carry what you need with you (like your camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, cash, etc). My current favorite is the  Pacsafe Citysafe , which is especially great for travel because it has many anti-theft features designed to deter pickpockets. It also transitions to a night bag more easily and won’t embarrass you if you go to dinner directly after sightseeing all day or cities with pickpockets. 

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

Before you leave for your trip make sure you have a valid  Travel  Insurance Policy  because accidents happen on the road. I pay for  World Nomads,  and I happily recommend them. It’s especially important to get travel insurance if you’ll be hanging enjoying time in the beautiful (but occasionally slippery) outdoors.

I have been a paying customer of  World Nomads  for travel insurance for three years, and I happily recommend them.  If you get sick, injured, or have your stuff stolen, you’ll be happy to have the ability to pay for your medical bills or replace what’s stolen or broken.

Pin this Guide to the Best Travel Tattoos & Travel Tattoo Ideas for Your Next Trip!

Travel Tattoo Ideas and a List of Travel Tattoos plus How to Get a Tattoo While Traveling

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travel tattoo meaning

12 of My Travel Tattoos and the Stories Behind Them

I make a strong effort to collect permanent souvenirs as I make my way around the world. Whether it be tattoos that I get while traveling or tattoos with a travel theme, there’s nothing I like more than a little international ink.

Here’s a small collection of some of my favorites, along with a bit of backstory for each.

travel tattoo meaning

I got this outline of a world map tattooed on my left wrist at Sacred Heart Tattoo in Vancouver, BC, after a five-day train journey across Canada. My best friend and I had arrived just in time for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics and decided that we'd both celebrate with some West Coast ink. As a self-proclaimed map-obsessed geography major, it wasn’t a question of if I'd get a map tattoo—it was when. We got our tattoos and celebrated many of Canada’s great medal wins. This is still my favourite tattoo to date.

travel tattoo meaning

Compass rose

After getting the world map tattooed on my left wrist, I wanted to get a compass rose on my right to display as a pair. The same friend I'd traveled to Vancouver with was getting some work done on her sleeve at Immortal Impressions in the small, rural town of Keswick, ON, so I tagged along on the three-hour drive. The artist made it quite a bit darker than I'd hoped, so this is the only tattoo I'm slightly less than impressed with.

travel tattoo meaning

It took me about two years of searching all over the world to find a place that would tattoo the hand of someone who wasn’t already heavily tattooed. It isn’t something that tattoo artists like to do, so I was excited on the day an artist at New Tribe Tattoo in downtown Toronto finally said yes. It was a quick walk-in appointment, and, before I knew it, I finally had a tiny airplane on my right ring finger.

Intermission

Chicago’s soaring new attraction takes you flying over the windy city, dickie's extravagant white villa in 'ripley' is actually an airbnb that you can rent.

travel tattoo meaning

Aside from getting travel-related images, I make a point of trying to get a new tattoo in each country I visit. I got this feather on the inside of my upper left arm at Inner Vision Tattoo in Sydney, Australia, after spending one month road tripping around the country. One of the reasons I decided to get a feather was to represent one of my favourite quotes: “I always wonder why birds choose to stay in the same place when they can fly anywhere on the earth, then I ask myself the same question,” (Harun Yahya).

travel tattoo meaning

Chief Seattle

I might get a lot of tattoos while already traveling, but this was the first tattoo I actually planned an entire trip around. I'd been a fan of Nick Bertioli’s work for quite some time, so when I learned he'd be coming back to Montreal for a short time from London, I immediately booked an appointment, and a bus ticket. I made the eight-hour Megabus journey up to MTL Tattoo, spent a few days eating and drinking in the city, and got this incredible portrait of Chief Seattle on my inner right forearm. Not only was I named after Chief Seattle because of my Native heritage, but I really admire the man he was and love his words, “Take only memories, leave nothing but footprints.” Nick Bertioli currently works at Seven Doors Tattoo in London, UK.

travel tattoo meaning

After a winter adventure trip around snowy Finnish Lapland, I returned to Helsinki and headed straight for Paradise Tattoo + Piercing, a small second-floor shop in the city centre. One of the most painful tattoos to date, the word "wanderlust" was scripted onto the top of my right foot. The special Finnish connection behind it is that the letter “t” is blue to match the blue cross of the Finnish flag. This is the only coloured tattoo I have.

travel tattoo meaning

Coordinates

Along with majoring in geography at university, I also specialized in GIS (geographic information systems). This meant a lot of time with digital mapping software, GPS devices, and a big focus on learning how to properly use coordinates. So it was only natural that I'd want to get coordinates permanently embedded on my body. I chose the coordinates to the house I grew up in and still consider my home, as well as the coordinates of the first place I ever visited outside North America, which was southern Italy. These coordinates were positioned on the top of my right shoulder at Dawg Pound Tattoo in Niagara Falls, ON.

travel tattoo meaning

Hawaiian islands

I have what I admittedly refer to as my “cheesy tourist tattoos,” ink that has a lot of meaning to me but is probably shared with thousands of travelers around the world. The first is the outline of the Hawaiian islands on my left foot that I had done at Island Ink in the hippy town of Paia, Maui. Combining the fact that Maui is my second-favourite location in the entire world with my background in geography, I knew I wanted a map of the islands to represent that. The placement on the top of my foot was even more painful than the previous wanderlust tattoo.

travel tattoo meaning

After one month of rescuing sea turtles, exploring rainforests, and some hardcore relaxation in Costa Rica, I couldn’t think of a better way to round out the trip than to get a tattoo. While I originally thought the motto pura vida (directly translated to "pure life") was more of a clichéd, North American adaptation after a surf holiday, I soon learned it was simply the way of life in Costa Rica. I heard it day in and day out, used for hello, goodbye, okay, no worries, and to express general agreement or acknowledgement. I expected a bit of an eye roll from the artists at Anchor’s End Tattoo in Jaco, but Fito de la Rocha happily set to work scrawling the words across my left rib cage. Added bonus: I had it done on Earth Day.

travel tattoo meaning

Passport stamps

My travel-themed half sleeve is my largest and most carefully thought out tattoo. I put years into planning it and will likely spend years getting it done, eventually becoming a full travel sleeve. So far, it consists of three large roses with animals that represent the members of my family (an elephant for my mother, a fish for my father, and an owl for my sister), which are all surrounded with passport stamps scanned directly out of my passport (Iceland, Finland, Turkey, and Australia). I plan to add at least two more animals and several more passport stamps to blend them down into the lower half of my arm. This beautiful work of art is being done by Morgan MacDonald of Seven Crowns Tattoo in Toronto, an artist I highly recommend.

travel tattoo meaning

Sak yant bamboo tattoo

By way of taxi, van, bus, and finally a rickety motorbike for three, I traveled from exhaustingly chaotic Bangkok to peaceful Wat Bang Phra, Thailand, questing for a magical sak yant tattoo. This wasn’t just any tattoo—it was a traditional bamboo tattoo administered inside a temple by a Buddhist monk continuously tapping the end of a long pole to puncture the skin in a chosen design. However, the choice wasn't mine. Not only did the monk decide where the tattoo would go on my body, but he chose what design to give me. I received a Hah Taew design on my left shoulder blade, which displays five rows of magical spells for protection, good luck, love, fortune, and success, all sealed with the monk's blessing.

travel tattoo meaning

Jim Morrison + quote

I originally contacted Tribo Tattoo in Prague, Czech Republic, to request an appointment with one of my favourite artists, Musa. In a bittersweet twist, Musa was out of town, but award-winning portrait artist Adam Kremer was in. I took one look at his portfolio and knew exactly what I wanted. There was a bit of a language barrier, but we communicated enough to make sure everything was understood before beginning. The second installment came from Mike Beddome at Adrenaline in Toronto, ON, where the following addition of Morrison’s poetry was made: “There’s only two ways to get unraveled, one is to fly and the other in travel.” Both are placed on my left thigh.

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Expert World Travel

21 Travel Tattoos Idea to Fuel Your Wanderlust

Travel tattoos are more than just ink on skin; they’re a lifelong commitment to adventure, wanderlust, and the memories made while exploring new horizons. These designs capture the essence of journeys taken and dream destinations yet to be explored.

Dive into our curated list of travel tattoo ideas and let your spirit of exploration be forever etched on your canvas. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or someone with a dream to roam, there’s a design here to inspire your next adventure.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Black Poison Tattoos (@blackpoisontattoos)
            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Sushmita Roy | Tattoo Artist Oshawa (@frozeninkandart)
            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Tattoo Snob (@tattoosnob)
            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Ink or Dye Studio (@inkordyestudio)
            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Celebrity Ink™ Chiang Mai (@celebrityinktattoochiangmai)
            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by TRIPPINK Tattoo Studio (@trippinktattoos)
            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by ZEALAND TATTOO STUDIO (@zealandtattoo)
            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by mecandon (@me.can.don)
            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by pashaztattoostudio (@pashazstudio)
            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by The Iron Monk himself (@tattoosbymonk)
            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by (@579tattoo)
            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Gourav Jamwal (@taboothetattooist)
            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by East River Tattoo (@eastrivertattoo)
“Travel along” – My new dotwork tattoo design inspired by traveling, adventures and wanderlust. Hope you’ll like it, you can find more designs on my Instagram (@the_rawflow). 🖤 by u/tamasRAWAF in TattooDesigns

About the Author Anna Timbrook

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

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Travel Tattoos: Why We Get Them And What They Mean

By Lauren Klarfeld

As our body journeys through life, and life journeys on our body – why is it that some people feel the need to make reminders of their journeys on themselves? And what do these look like?

To answer this, we may have to look at our own tattoos differently to begin with – and instead of asking what we got – ask ourselves why we got it; why we actually felt the need that day to leave a permanent mark on our skin…

If you have a tattoo (although I don’t think you need to have one to relate to this) try and remember the moment you got it. Remember? As the ink punctured onto your skin? And the machine buzzed as tiny lengths of pain struck you? And how maybe for a moment you were realizing that this ink was going to be irreversible and forever?

What it became that day, was a choice. An enhanced and controlled version of a scar left on your body by choice. It’s a story to tell, but also a new part of you.

The new you, or a reminder of the old you. So while you were given the body at birth, you are now deciding to add something new to it – and that is something fundamental in the culture surrounding the naked body today (and in older civilizations too) – that we are giving ourselves the power of deciding what we would like to add to it.

And as change is a constant – as our houses, our money, our friends, our things and even our lovers can always disappear – the one thing that we will always remain the closest to, will be our minds and our bodies. They are interrelated. And I believe that sometimes the mind needs to sprawl itself on the body – as much as a body may sprawl itself on our minds.

So where is this analysis heading to? Like paintings and art currents, themes are easy to spot. And as I travel to meet other travelers for my book , it didn’t take long until I understood the categories of tattoos travelers wore on their skin.

Some shared stories of how their tattoos were reminders of their homes – or reminders of where they had been. Typically, these tattoos would come in the form of the outline of a country; a symbol of that place, coordinates on maps etc. They were more precise reminders of the places they had moved to and that had moved them in return. They were reminders of fixed places. A point and place in time. They were the reminders of the geography and lengths they had been to – and those they chose to remember.

Ironically and many may not admit it yet, but travelers are often going great lengths to look for what home means to them. And when they have found a closer meaning of it, that’s when the skin becomes the best canvas to remind it. Because sometimes homes aren’t where we are right now. But they are out there somewhere. Somewhere where we felt AT home…

Finally the last category of travel tattoos I have seen, have to do with symbols and states of minds. Typically these would be sentences like “wanderlust,” a paper plane, a map of the world, a compass…The symbiotic of the wanderlust generation.

Those that have travelled a lot or a bit – but rather than finding – or having found a home, want to keep the reminder of what drives them; the passion for travel, or more so, the will to keep exploring. The curiosity for life and self-discovery.

Our travel tattoos are our resources. Our points of departures – our protections. They are what make us different, and what shape our minds when we fear we might be in doubt. And what makes us doubt more than life itself.

And if when we travel it is true to say that we carry ourselves with – then it seems only logical to carry ourselves with the resourceful reminders of what we learned while we travelled and when we came back.

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