Everyone brings back souvenirs to remember their latest adventure. Some, however, are coming home with souvenirs that last a lifetime. But what can last longer than a keychain, magnet or the sticker that sticks forever to your mountain bike?
“Tattoo tourism” is totally a thing, and it’s on a steady, trending rise. This new way of travel memory preservation is most popular among Gen-Z and Millennial groups, but that doesn’t mean it’s not for all ages above 18 years old.
If you’re a tattoo enthusiast itching to mark each destination on your list with something more permanent than a postcard, this one’s for you.
A FEW TIPS AND TRAVEL
Here are some helpful tips on planning your next travel tattoo and some great locations to visit in Old Colorado City, the epicenter of tattoo establishments in Colorado Springs.
First off, start by doing your research. A quick Google search will locate local tattoo shops, complete with reviews. Try to find the most well-known places and investigate their Instagram accounts to browse current artwork and artists’ unique styles.
Once you find a shop that speaks to you, schedule an appointment through the website or over the phone before you take your journey. Ask about their pricing and duration, and be specific about the tattoo design you’re looking for.
Avoid getting complex tattoos you can’t commit to completion in one sitting. Something small and quick—two to four hours tops—is the best way to go. Artists may discourage completing unfinished tattoos started by other artists.
Be mindful that you’ll need to exercise proper tattoo care while you’re traveling. This means you’ll need to consider tattoo placement and size of the tattoo. Some areas are more easily irritated if you’re doing plane travel or long road trips.
Many artists will wrap your fresh tattoo with Saniderm, a clear bandage. Most artists recommend waiting four to five days before removing the bandage. This is great, because you’ll still be able to hike that mountain or go nuts on a bike trail—just don’t go overboard. You’ll also need to pack appropriate tattoo care products like Hustle Butter, Mad Rabbit, or Lubriderm.
If you’re planning to go rafting, kayaking or wakeboarding, plan your tattoo once you’re landside. Avoid submerging in hot springs, lakes or rivers for at least two weeks. Long exposure to water can drastically reduce the vibrancy of colors and compromise the tattoo quality.
Whatever needle-pricking adventure you choose on your visit to Colorado, just remember to plan every detail, whether walking in on a whim, or planning a sentimental momento.
BEARDED LADY CUSTOM TATTOO
736 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905
719-964-1601 • BeardedLadyCustomTattoo.com
EL DORADO TATTOO PARLOUR & SOCIAL CLUB
2619 W Colorado Ave. Colorado Springs, CO 80904
719-633-4045 • ElDoradoTattoo.com
ELECTRIC TATTOO COMPANY
2421.5 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
719-204-3544 • TattoosByXander.com
FALLEN HEROES TATTOO AND PIERCING
524 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905
719-635-7431 • FallenHeroesTattoo.com
SIX CROWS TATTOO
3123 W Colorado Ave #80904, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
719-635-0650 • Facebook.com/SixCrowsTattooParlor
STEADFAST TATTOO STUDIO
2616 W Colorado Ave #6, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
719-425-6454 • SteadfastTattooStudio.com
WEST SIDE TATTOO
2031 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
719 735-5455 • WestSideTattoo.net
