Getting a Tattoo in Bali: What to Know Before You Book

Why So Many Travellers Get Tattooed in Bali

Bali has a relaxed, creative energy that makes it a natural place to mark a milestone – a honeymoon, a birthday, a friends' trip or simply a fresh start. Many visitors also like the idea of having the time to plan properly: no rushing back to work, a chance to meet your artist in person and design something together.

The key is choosing a studio that treats your tattoo with the same care you'd expect at home.

Choosing the Right Studio

Not every studio works the same way. A few things worth looking for:

• Custom design. Ask whether your design will be drawn just for you. At Mr Ink Bali, every piece is 100% custom and never recycled – we don't pull designs off a wall.
• Artists who specialise. Fine line, realism, blackwork, colour – different styles need different strengths. Our award-winning artists each specialise in a style, so your idea is matched with the right artist.
• Attention to detail. Busy, high-volume shops can feel rushed. We're an exclusive, high-end tattoo studio, limited to 6 beds so every client receives our full attention.
• Reputation. Look at recent work, reviews and how the studio communicates before you book. We're proud to be 5-star rated, newly renovated, and as featured in the Daily Mail.

Whether you're staying in Canggu, Kuta or Seminyak itself, it's worth travelling a little for the right studio.

Hygiene and Safety: Non-Negotiables

This is the big one. Before booking anywhere, ask directly about hygiene practices. You want to hear that:

• Needles are single-use and opened in front of you
• Surfaces and equipment are cleaned and protected between clients
• Artists wear fresh gloves and follow clear procedures

At Mr Ink Bali, we use single-use needles to Australian standards, and every needle is opened in front of you – we show you the expiry date and check it with you before we start. If a studio is vague about any of this, keep looking.

How Booking Works

Good studios plan ahead, and spots are often limited – particularly in peak season. Our process is simple:

1. Send your idea and size. The easiest way is an Instagram DM to @mrinkbali. You can also WhatsApp us on +62 812-8225-1400 or email [email protected].
2. Get a quote. We'll come back to you with a quote based on your idea.
3. Pay a 25% deposit to hold your spot.
4. Design together in the studio. When you arrive in Bali, you'll sit down with your artist to finalise the design before tattooing begins.

We recommend reaching out before you fly so you can lock in a time that works around your trip.

Only after something small? Walk-ins are welcome for small tattoos.

Plan Your Trip Around Your Tattoo

A fresh tattoo is an open wound while it heals, and Bali's best activities – swimming, surfing, sunbaking – aren't ideal for new ink. A few planning tips:

• Book early in your trip if you want time to see your artist again, or late if you want to enjoy the water first. Many travellers get tattooed in the last few days so they can swim freely beforehand.
• Leave room in your schedule for the session and a quiet day afterwards.
• Pack loose clothing that won't rub on the area.

For detailed tips, read our guide to tattoo aftercare in Bali, and always follow the aftercare instructions your studio gives you. Every Mr Ink Bali client receives aftercare instructions – including one Bali-specific tip: rinse your tattoo with bottled water after your shower, rather than relying on the tap water.

Big Pieces and Comfort Options

If you're planning a larger piece, ask about comfort options. We offer the Bali Tattoo IV Drip, given by a qualified doctor from a local practice who comes to the studio. For clients wanting extensive work, we also offer tattooing under general anaesthesia, done in a Bali hospital by our own artists with a full medical team. We'll talk through what's involved so you can decide what suits you.

What Happens After You Fly Home?

This is where many travellers get caught out: what if something needs a touch-up once you're back home? All work at Mr Ink Bali is guaranteed by our sister studio, Mr Ink Tattoo Lounge on the Sunshine Coast, Australia, with free touch-ups. It's peace of mind that lasts well beyond your holiday.

Who Gets Tattooed With Us

We welcome clients from all over the world – including footy and soccer players, music artists, DJs, rappers, TV personalities, pro BMX riders and athletes – alongside honeymooners, families and solo travellers. Everyone gets the same unhurried, personal experience.

Ready to Start?

Send your design idea and size to @mrinkbali on Instagram, or WhatsApp +62 812-8225-1400. Find us at Jalan Drupadi No. 6, Seminyak, or learn more on our homepage.