An unofficial guide to tattoo souvenirs

Tattoos can be a very controversial topic, with the most recognised style being that of travel tattoos. Many backpackers and travellers alike acquire a mark of their journey around Europe, Australia, Asia or wherever it may be.

Many backpackers and travellers alike acquire a mark of their journey around Europe, Australia, Africa, Asia or wherever it may be. Most individuals that have been inked catch the ‘tattoo bug’ and shortly have multiple tattoos. These serve as a reminder or a ‘souvenir’ if you like, of your time away from the stresses of everyday life. Detailed below is our unofficial guide to acquiring a tattoo souvenir (and keeping it). Follow the steps below for a memorable and meaningful purchase.

1. Respect your body: Remember that this marking, whether it be a symbol or text, will most likely be inked onto your skin for the rest of your life. That is, unless you choose later to remove your tattoo, which is quite costly, or cover it with another tattoo.

2. Make it your own: Embrace the moment, yes. Be spontaneous, yes. But try not to go overboard, think about what the marking really means and what it’s adding to your body. Make sure it feels right and try something unique.

Tattoo story

Josh (left) stayed at Yamba YHA for 507 nights while travelling, and decided to commemorate the experience with some fresh ink.

3. Make sure you are aware of the tattoo! We all know someone with a horrible tattoo they received on holiday that they can’t remember. Even Angelina Jolie is a culprit of the drunk tattoo when abroad. She sported a blue tattoo of a dragon for years from a night out in Amsterdam. She has chosen the path of covering her tattoo on her lower left hip. Don’t make the same mistake, because you probably don’t have the same income as Angelina.

4. Do your research: This step is especially important if your tattoo has a cultural meaning. Altering cultural symbols can alter the meaning of it entirely. Be sure to do your research before you’re stuck with something offensive.

5. Keep it safe (and soapy): It is incredibly important to choose a parlour that is up to scratch with safety standards and an artist that you feel comfortable with. Correct sanitisation of needles is incredibly important and can make a big difference in your health and in the way your body handles the healing process. Listen to instructions about keeping out of water and never forget to keep your fresh ink clean and moisturised. This will ensure that your tattoo stay in good condition for year to come.

6. Work it! Enjoy your new piece of art! Hopefully it stays with you for a long time as a reminder of a great trip. Remember if you’re not sure, it’s probably best to not get the ink.

TRAVEL TO LEARN. LEARN TO TRAVEL

YHA acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We acknowledge and pay our respects to Elders past, present, emerging and the extended Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island community.