Summer’s here! The flights are booked, and your suitcase is (almost) packed. But if you’re planning to get tattooed right before jetting off (or while you’re abroad), there are a few things to keep in mind. At RW.Inks in London, we often see clients who want fresh ink before a holiday or have questions about how their tattoos will hold up while travelling.
Tattoos and travel can absolutely go together, but timing, care, and the environment all matter. Whether you're off to a sunny island, city-hopping across Europe, or planning festival season, here's what you should know.
Am I able to travel with a fresh tattoo?
Technically, yes, but it’s not always ideal. A new tattoo is an open wound that needs time to heal. Travelling (especially by plane or to hot, humid places)m can make that healing process harder.
Here’s why:
Airports & planes are full of bacteria, which increases the risk of infection if you’re not careful.
Sun, sweat, sand and water are your tattoo’s worst enemies in the first two weeks.
Limited access to proper aftercare (or a clean environment) can make healing more difficult while travelling.
If you still want that pre-holiday ink, we recommend getting it at least 2–3 weeks before your departure to give it time to heal properly.
How do I protect my tattoos while traveling
Even if your tattoos are fully healed, they still need attention in the summer sun. Here’s how to keep them looking sharp on your travels:
Use SPF 30+ sunscreen on all visible tattoos. Sun fades ink—especially black and coloured tattoos—faster than you think.
Moisturise daily. Air travel, sun exposure and salt water can dry out your skin and dull your ink.
Avoid long soaks in pools or hot tubs (chlorine can irritate both new and old tattoos).
Pack a good aftercare lotion in your carry-on if you're planning any touch-ups or fresh pieces abroad.
I’m thinking about getting a tattoo abroad
Be cautious. While spontaneous ink on holiday sounds exciting, hygiene and artist skill vary greatly from place to place. Always check the studio’s reviews, equipment, and hygiene practices.
Or better yet—get tattooed at home, by someone you trust. At RW.Inks in London, we offer detailed aftercare instructions so you can leave for your trip stress-free, knowing your tattoo is healing right.
Plan ahead
If you want a new tattoo for your summer look, try to book your appointment a few weeks before your holiday. That way, you’ll have time to heal, enjoy the sun safely, and travel without limits.
Got a trip planned and thinking about a new tattoo? Come see us at RW.Inks in London, and let’s talk about the best timing and design for your travel plans!