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38 wanderlust tattoo ideas & designs for the constant traveler.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click on a link and purchase an item, we will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Travel can be so magical. That’s why travelers love keeping as much as they can to remember their trips. They take lots of photos or buy souvenirs like keychains, fridge magnets, shirts, or stamps.
Some wanderers choose to ink their memories to last a lifetime. Tattooing has been around for centuries and was once seen as a sign of strength and power. Today, tattooing is more popular than ever, with people of all ages and backgrounds getting inked.
So, here’s a compilation of the best wanderlust tattoo designs for immortalizing your next trip.
From world maps to exact coordinates, these designs will surely âinkspireâ you, whether youâre looking for something minimal or large scale.
Excited to get inked? Read on!
Table of Contents
Slogans or Word Tattoos
1. âThe World Is Yoursâ Tattoo
If you think youâre not prepared to take risks and youâre afraid to do something big, this tattoo is a perfect reminder that the world is yours to explore. It symbolizes the endless opportunities waiting for you out there.
Dream big and travel wide. The world is never too small for your ambitions.
2. âLive In the Momentâ Tattoo
If youâre a traveler who needs a reminder to let go of your fears, then this is for you. You canât live in beach paradise forever, but you can cherish every moment and get this tattoo to remind you that tomorrowâs trip is never promised, so live today.
3. âStay Wildâ Tattoo
Stay wild tattoos have grown in popularity over the years as a way of portraying your wild side. Perfect for party lovers and risk-takers, this tattoo is a great way to show the world that youâre out to enjoy your life to the fullest. Theyâre popular among older people as well.Â
Itâs a way to reconnect with your youth and the most exciting times in your life. If you need a reminder to let your hair down, the stay wild tattoo is perfect for you.
4. âLive Life to the Fullestâ Tattoo
No matter what age you are, this tattoo is a great reminder to take every opportunity thatâs thrown your way. So don’t be afraid to book the next flight, tour that country, or try that extreme sport.
Let this tattoo be a reminder that you only have one life to do everything you want.
5. âEnjoy the Journeyâ Tattoo
As a constant traveler, you often get caught up with getting lost, taking a lot of pictures, re-routing, and stumbling on dead ends. And sometimes, you forget how to enjoy the journey.
This tattoo is a perfect reminder to honor your journey and continue traveling the world despite experiencing setbacks.
6. âExploreâ Tattoo
This tattoo is for you if you always seek adventure and go to places you haven’t been before. The ultimate way to enjoy traveling is to explore so let this be a reminder that exploring is what you do and you’re destined to do it for the rest of your life.
7. âNot All Who Wander Are Lostâ Tattoo
This tattoo is perfect for the free-spirited individual who loves to travel. It’s a reminder that even though you may be wandering, you’re never really lost. It’s also a great conversation starter, as people will often ask about its meaning.
8. âLife Is Goodâ Tattoo
Life has its ups and downs, but it’s what makes it worth living. When inked on your skin, this tattoo will remind you that the good times always outweigh the bad.
Youâll realize that traveling the world is something you should be grateful for. At the end of the day, life is still good.
Location or Country Tattoos
9. Coordinates Tattoo
Anyone looking for an outside-of-the-box tattoo idea should consider getting a coordinates tattoo. You can get this to remember a special place that youâve visited.
This tattoo can say a lot about a person, but itâs also one of the most personal tattoos around.
10. Palm Tree Tattoo
The palm tree, also known as the “tree of life,” is associated with travel and, for some, idyllic beach holidays. Adding a setting sun behind the palm tree tattoo will also remind you about your traveling sprees and beach vacations in Bali, Mexico, Costa Rica, Long Island, or Ecuador.
Historically, the palm tree was a symbol of regeneration, immortality, and victory. Nowadays, the palm tree has become the symbol of tropical paradise and places with warm weather.
11. Map Tattoo
When it comes to tattoo designs, a map tattoo is chosen and appreciated by many people for its unique appeal and charm.
As far as symbolism is concerned, a map isnât just a mere outline of geographical location, but it also signifies the unity of the people of the land.
Imbibed with a patriotic theme, a map tattoo is ideal for anybody with an inclination for showing off love for their nation. Some travelers opt for maps that show their favorite continent. You can also put the outline of countries such as Italy, Brazil, or Germany.
12. Desert Tattoo
For travelers who love deserts like Gobi and Sahara, this tattoo is especially for you. Wanderers love going to deserts because of their tranquillity and beauty.
The landscape is unforgettable so it deserves some space on your skin.
13. Beach and Mountain Tattoo
If youâve been to Spain, Hawaii, or Scotland, thereâs a big chance that youâve fallen in love with the beaches and mountains there. Travelers often want to immortalize their memories by inking themselves with such beautiful sceneries.
This tattoo will surely remind you of happy and peaceful times.
Hiking Tattoos
14. Mountain Outline Tattoo
Nature is a great source of inspiration for tattoo artists, and mountains represent an important natural motif with many symbolic meanings. The common meaning of a mountain tattoo is the love for nature and travel, but it could also remind you of a great journey or a special place.
Mountains represent freedom and adventure, making it an amazing mountain climbing tattoo idea.
15. Suitcase Tattoo
One type of tattoo that’s becoming increasingly popular is the suitcase tattoo. This design usually features a vintage or antique suitcase, often with a travel-themed design inside.
Sometimes the tattoo will also include a map or other symbols of wanderlust.
Suitcase tattoos can be a great way to show your love of travel, and they can also be very personal designs.
For example, you could get a tattoo that features a suitcase that belonged to a relative who was a world traveler. Or you could get a tattoo that’s inspired by your personal travel experiences.
16. Road or Trail Tattoo
Climbing steep mountains is an extraordinary feat. Roads and trails can sometimes be challenging to follow, and thatâs what makes hiking a rewarding hobby.
So to commemorate your memorable hikes, you can get a tattoo that shows the roads or trails youâve hiked on.
17. Footprints Tattoo
If youâre into hiking but want a minimal tattoo, this may be what youâre looking for. Footprints symbolize your courage and dedication. Itâs meaningful since it gives off the message that your feet took you to where you are right now.
18. Pine Trees Tattoo
Pine trees have always been a popular choice for tattoos and for good reason. They’re strong and resilient, just like you. And their evergreen needles are reminders that even when the world around you is barren and cold, there’s still hope and beauty to be found.
Ocean-Themed Tattoos
19. Waves Tattoo
Wave and water tattoo designs are appreciated as symbols of lifeâs constant motion, an unstoppable force of nature that continues on and on.
For many cultures, the simple wave tattoo is a gentle reminder that you can choose to fight the current and risk being swept away, or trust in the timeless tide to deliver you to where youâre destined to go.
Whether still waters, a minimalist wave tattoo, or crashing waves, these designs are great ways to symbolize emotion.
20. Stingray Tattoo
Stingray tattoos represent protection for constant travelers who are prone to danger. Inked in several variations and styles, the image can hold symbolic meanings.
Other themes that go hand in hand with the sting-ray image are adaptation, gracefulness, peacefulness, danger, agility, speed, and stealth.
The stingray can hide in the underwater sands, mainly from sharks, and can cover up with sand and lay still. Most sharks can sense prey in the sand based on movement but for the most part, the stingray can hide for this reason.
21. Shark Teeth Tattoo
Like stingrays, sharks represent protection, guidance, and strength as well as ferocity. Theyâre also symbols of adaptability in many cultures. This can represent you as a fearless traveler whoâs one with the ocean.
22. Turtle Tattoo
The turtle or honu is another important creature throughout all Polynesian cultures and has been associated with several meanings. Turtles symbolize health, fertility, longevity, foundation, peace, and rest.
Most travelers go on adventures to find themselves or find the inner peace that theyâve been longing for.
With a turtle tattoo, youâll be reminded that inner peace is your end goal and slow living is the way to go.
23. Ocean Tattoo
An ocean tattoo can be a beautiful and meaningful addition to your body art collection.
It’s a reminder of your connection to the ocean and all that it represents. It can also be a symbol of your love for the sea and its creatures.
There are many different ways to design an ocean tattoo. You can choose from a variety of symbols and images that have personal meaning to you.
You can also use colors that represent different aspects of the ocean. Blue is often used to represent the water itself, while green may be used to represent the plants and sea life.
Nomad Tattoos
24. Compass Tattoo
Compass tattoos are very popular among sailors and travelers. They represent a safe journey and a connection to the sea. They can be simple or complex, and they can be placed anywhere on the body.
Compass tattoo designs are usually small and delicate, making them perfect for placement on the wrist, ankle, or behind the ear.
25. Broken Compass Tattoo
This type of tattoo can symbolize the many twists and turns that you experience on your journey through life, and how ultimately you’re the one who controls your destiny.
There are a number of different ways to design a broken compass tattoo, and you can even incorporate other elements into the design to make it more personal.
26. âWandererâ Tattoo
Sometimes the simplest designs carry the deepest meanings. The wanderer is someone who travels the world rather than settling in one place.
There are only a few people who understand this kind of lifestyle so if you need a reminder of who you are despite what other people might say, this tattoo is for you.
27. Globe Tattoo
There’s something about getting a globe tattoo that just feels right. It may be its symbolism of it â representing the world and all its beauty and mystery. Or it may be the way a globe tattoo looks, with its intricate lines and patterns.
Whatever it is, there’s just something about a globe tattoo that speaks to people. And if you’re looking for a tattoo that has meaning and is absolutely gorgeous, then this design is the perfect choice for you.
There are all sorts of different ways to design this tattoo. You can go for a traditional look, with the continents outlined in black and white. Or you can add some color to it, with different shades representing different parts of the world.
You can also get creative with your tattoo, adding in other elements like stars, clouds, or even animals.
28. Arrow Tattoo
Arrow tattoos are popular among both men and women. They’re simple, yet elegant and can be placed almost anywhere on the body. They can represent many things, such as strength, direction, or even love. Whether you’re looking for a small tattoo or a large one, an arrow tattoo is definitely a great choice.
Tattoos that Symbolize Freedom
29. Swallow Tattoo
Historically, sailors tattooed swallows on their throats or hands to ensure a safe return home from sea.
In Western countries, they’re often associated with sailors, criminals, and prisoners. But in recent years this connotation has shifted and the tattoo is now seen as a symbol of hope, new beginnings, and good luck.
Swallow tattoos can be found in a variety of different styles and designs. The most popular ones include traditional nautical swallows, old school swallow tattoos, and modern swallow tattoos.
30. Airplane Tattoo
Airplane tattoos are a great choice for those who want to show their love of flying or travel. They can also be a good choice for those who appreciate the engineering and design of airplanes.
Airplane tattoos come in many different designs. Some may feature a single airplane, while others may feature a flock of birds or a series of planes in formation. The designs may also include other elements such as clouds, stars, or the horizon.
31. Bicycle Tattoo
The bicycle tattoo symbolizes freedom, movement, and the desire to achieve your goal. To reinforce this meaning, itâs often depicted with wings or as a perpetual motion machine. By choosing a bicycle tattoo, you can hope that life will change for the better.
32. Wind Tattoo
The wind tattoo suggests weightlessness and independence. Itâs suitable for people who constantly travel and often change their place of living. This symbol can mean freedom of spirit and quick thinking. This element is a source of energy.
Wind can be represented in many different ways. Quite often, itâs written in Chinese or Japanese hieroglyphs. But you can use the Arabic technique of writing, or just write in Latin. You can also dream up and come up with an image of your wind.
33. Sign Language Tattoo
Getting a tattoo in this natural language is extra special. People don’t get sign language tattoos very often, but there’s something about them that looks good. Maybe because they look more interesting than lettering would, or because they look different from any other tattoos out there.Â
Additionally, it shows that you value inclusivity. As a constant traveler, youâll encounter different types of people, including those who can’t speak or hear. If they see your tattoo, there’s a good chance they’ll understand what you want to say (or remember).
Nature-Themed Tattoos
34. Island Tattoo
If youâre a frequent visitor to small tropical countries, this tattoo is perfect for you. Inked with a combination of trees, mountains, and the sea, travelers will love the vibe this tattoo gives off. Theyâll always remember the feeling of relaxation, comfort, and safety they felt on their most memorable trip to an island.
35. Peace Sign Tattoo
The peace sign tattoo is a very popular tattoo choice. It can be placed almost anywhere on the body, but is often seen on the wrist, arm, or back. The peace sign is a symbol of peace and love, and is often used as a statement against violence and war. If you’re looking for a tattoo that represents your beliefs, then the peace sign tattoo is a great choice.
36. River Tattoo
A river usually symbolizes the power of nature. Still, itâs often used as a metaphor for time because itâs always moving and can’t be stopped. Also, it stands for something that can’t be changed. In ancient cultures, rivers were also a sign of fertility.
37. Beach Tattoo
Beach tattoos are a great way to show your love for the ocean. They’re also a great way to show off your body art.
There are many different designs that you can choose from when you’re looking for a beach tattoo. You can find designs that depict the sun, waves, sand, shells, and even palm trees. You can also find designs that are more abstract, such as those that depict the ocean’s horizon.
38. Camper Tattoo
Camping tattoos are for the traveler whoâs wild at heart. If camping was important to your childhood and your family, then this tattoo has personal meaning for you as well.
A camping tattoo represents oneâs hunger for adventure, but thereâs much more to it than that. The ink signifies the necessity of exploration and courage, which are dying values in a world where our social lives are bound to technology, and our most common âexplorationsâ are web searches.
These designs can draw on the beautiful imagery of campfires, mountains, and evergreen trees. They can be spare or elaborate, cartoonish or photographic.
Final Thoughts
Getting a new tattoo is sometimes a tough decision, but if you figure out what you love and want to constantly remember, the process will be easier. Find inspiration from this list of wanderlust tattoos so youâll be prepared the next time you get inked.
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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 experiencesâsome 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, youâll find some of our favorites.
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 youâre not committed to a forever tattoo just yet, then check out Etsyâs temporary tattoos to test one out, (I personally LOVE WearFINKâs simple mountain range .
How Should You Pick What Type of Meaningful Tattoo to Get
If youâre 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 thereâs any story behind the idea. Itâs important to be sure that this type of tribute to something means something to you before moving ahead with the ideaâthink 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 youâve been dreaming about for years. That experience is something you’ll never forgetâso why not mark it forever with an inspiring travel tattoo?
That experience is something you’ll never forgetâso 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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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 youâre looking for ways to honor your travels with ink, thereâs 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 runningâat 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, Iâm 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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