Is It Safe To Get A Tattoo While Traveling Abroad To Commemorate Your Trip?

From passport stamps to latitude and longitude coordinates or designs by a local artist that symbolize a place, tattoos are a meaningful way to commemorate a trip or a travel experience with special significance. However, there are a few things you should consider before getting inked internationally. 

Generally speaking, it's safe to get a tattoo to commemorate your travels as long as you do your research and choose a reputable studio and artist. Read through the Google reviews and make sure your artist uses sterilized equipment and single-use needles in a hygienic setting. These are non-negotiables regardless of location. Also, make sure the amazing reviews are for the type of tattoo you want. For instance, an artist who creates gorgeous Yakuza-style tattoos might not excel at cover-ups. And, this is where asking questions is important. A good artist wants you to make an informed decision and asking "stupid" questions can clear up a misunderstanding before it's a problem. 

In addition, just because a studio is considered amazing, doesn't mean it's the right fit for you. It's important that you feel 100% comfortable — after all, you'll remember not just the place but also your tattoo experience every time you look at the art. 

While it might be tempting to get a tattoo in Bali or on one of the sun-soaked under-the-radar beaches in Europe, you need to think twice. Even a quick dip in the ocean could lead to a serious infection. There's an increased risk of contracting Vibrio vulnificus when swimming in warm seawater with an open wound like a tattoo. Often referred to as "flesh-eating bacteria," this infection is no joke. And, the protective plastic wrapping your tattoo won't protect you either. 

Even if you don't go into the ocean, you risk damaging your vulnerable skin in the sun. Contrary to popular belief, it's not only the design that requires protection (although the sun will break down the pigments) but also your inflamed skin. A new tattoo is essentially an open wound and you need to protect the area from harsh UV light to speed up the healing process. That being said, sunscreen will irritate a fresh tattoo, so staying out of the sun is essential. Ultimately, if you want to fully enjoy your beach vacation, consider postponing your tattoo session.

Before getting a tattoo during your travels, you must consider whether you'll be able to follow the aftercare instructions. For instance, if you have a lot of rapid travel right after your tattoo, it will be difficult to keep the area clean and moisturized. Besides, airplanes, trains, and buses aren't known for hygiene. There's also a chance of your backpack or clothes rubbing your new tattoo leading to irritation. 

It's also important to be mindful of what's culturally appropriate. For example, getting a tattoo in Bangkok, Thailand, is perfectly acceptable, but you'll have trouble finding an onsen (hot spring) in Japan that will allow you entrance. In fact, visiting an onsen if you have visible tattoos is one of the things tourists should never do when visiting Japan. Similarly, one rule travelers should know before visiting Thailand is that Buddha's image is sacred. This means you should never ever get a tattoo or purchase souvenirs of Buddha, especially in Thailand. 

Finally, make sure there's no language barrier between you and your artist. While it's okay if you don't speak the same mother tongue (Google Translate is great), communication must be clear. Never assume your artist understands what you mean, and don't be afraid to ask for clarification. When in doubt, remember it's your body and it's okay to be thoughtful, say no, and ask for more time before making a decision.