The list of things to bring is short. The preparation behind the list is what actually matters. Here's everything you need for the day of your tattoo appointment, whether it's your first or your fiftieth.
In this article
The Night Before
Sleep. A well-rested body handles pain better and is less prone to anxiety. Don't stay up late and expect a smooth experience in the chair.
No alcohol. Skip the drinks for at least 24 hours before your appointment. Alcohol thins your blood (more bleeding, harder session for your artist), dehydrates you, and lowers your threshold.
Hydrate. Drink water consistently in the 24 hours leading up to your session. Well-hydrated skin accepts ink more easily.
Eat a real meal 1 to 2 hours before. Do this the day of, not the night before. A solid, balanced meal keeps blood sugar stable for the duration of the session and is the main way to prevent feeling faint or dizzy in the chair.
What to Bring
Government-issued ID. A driver's license or passport. Studios require this without exception before tattooing anyone. Don't leave the house without it.
Payment and tip. Know how you're paying and have cash for the tip. The industry standard is 15 to 25%, and cash is always appreciated even if the studio takes cards for the main payment. Bring it with you — don't plan to find an ATM after.
Water. A large water bottle. Stay hydrated throughout the session. This is especially important for longer sittings.
Snacks. Bring something with fast carbohydrates in case your blood sugar dips — a granola bar, fruit, or a juice. Even a short session can cause a drop if you didn't eat enough beforehand.
Headphones and entertainment. Music, a podcast, or an audiobook makes any session easier. Bring a power bank if it's going to be a long one.
The right clothing. Wear something loose, comfortable, and appropriate for the placement. If you're getting a thigh tattoo, wear shorts. If you're getting a rib piece, wear a top that gives your artist easy access. Don't wear your favorite shirt — there's always a small chance of staining.
If You're Using Numbing Cream
Apply it at home before you leave — not at the studio. The cream needs to be in place for 90 to 120 minutes under cling film to build full effectiveness. If you apply it when you arrive, it won't be ready when your session starts.
Tell your artist before or when you arrive that you've applied numbing cream. This isn't optional — they need to know to adjust their technique accordingly. Most experienced artists have no objection and appreciate the heads-up.
For longer sessions, bring a spray in your bag for mid-session use on broken skin. Ask your artist if they're comfortable applying it during a break.
Apply 90 to 120 minutes before your session in two coats under cling film. Backed by a money-back guarantee.
What to Have Ready at Home
Have your aftercare supplies at home before you go. You'll need to do your first wash within a few hours of getting home. Running out to a pharmacy on a fresh tattoo is not a good first step.
You need a fragrance-free liquid soap or dedicated cleansing foam, a soothing gel for the first few days, and a nourishing balm from day three onward. Paper towels for patting dry (cloth towels can harbor bacteria and snag on a fresh wound). That's the complete kit.
FAQ
Should I bring a friend to my tattoo appointment?
That depends on your studio's policy and your personal preference. Many studios welcome a single support person; others have a one-client policy, especially in smaller spaces. Check with the studio before bringing someone. A calm, quiet friend who won't distract the artist can be a genuine help during a difficult sitting. Someone who's nervous or chatty may be the opposite.
Do I need to tip my tattoo artist?
A tip is not required but is standard practice and deeply appreciated. 15 to 25% is the common range for a good session. If your artist offered a significant discount, went over their estimate without charging more, or did exceptional work, leaning toward the higher end is appropriate. Cash is easier for the artist than a card tip. Bring it with you — don't count on finding an ATM after the session.
What should I wear to a tattoo appointment?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that provides easy access to the placement. If the tattoo is on your lower back, wear low-waist pants. If it's on your ribs, wear something you can easily lift or remove. If it's on your thigh, wear shorts or something with a loose leg. Don't wear your best or most expensive clothes — a small amount of ink transfer onto fabric is normal and doesn't wash out.
Can I bring my phone to a tattoo appointment?
Yes. Your phone is one of your best distractions during a long session. Bring headphones and a power bank if you're there for more than an hour or two. Keep it on silent or vibrate. Don't film your artist without asking first.
What if I feel faint during my tattoo?
Tell your artist immediately. This is common, especially for first-timers or anyone who underestimated how much the session would take out of them. Your artist will have you lie down, bring you juice or sugar, and give you time to recover. This is not an emergency and it's not embarrassing. What makes it worse is waiting until you're lightheaded and not saying anything. The moment you feel off, speak up.
Is there anything I should avoid doing before my appointment?
No alcohol for at least 24 hours. No aspirin or ibuprofen the day of (they thin the blood). No heavy exercise the morning of (you need your energy). No tanning or sunburn on the area in the week before (damaged skin is harder to tattoo). No new skincare treatments or retinoids on the area in the two weeks before. Don't apply moisturizer to the area the morning of your appointment — clean, dry skin is what your artist needs.
Have Aftercare Ready Before You Go
Soothing gel for the first few days, nourishing balm from day three onward. Have it at home waiting for you when you get back.
Shop the Aftercare Bundle →Formulated at Historic Tattoo in Portland, Oregon. 100% money-back guarantee.