30+ Best Compass Tattoo Design Ideas (2024 Updated!)

Compass tattoos are so unique and playful while being different than anything else. This is because they can symbolize loads of different paths and periods during your life. They can also help you and guide you the right way if you’re feeling stuck or lost in the moment.

If you’re interested in exploring and looking at 30 different compass tattoos you will enjoy this article and our variety, as well as unique options. Find your compass tattoo idea down below that is appropriate for men and women.

15 Big Compass Tattoo Design Ideas

1. Compass Tattoo Design Black & White Print

Large tattoos such as this one are for those who want something gorgeous and dramatic. It is a time-consuming design so be ready.

This tattoo represents monochrome and stable intentions. If you’re not too sure how to overcome new obstacles and you’re looking for something large and breathtaking, this is it.

2. Compass Tattoo Ideas Over Arm

This arm or forearm tattoo with subtle color is for those who love to catch and grab attention. Show off your love for old-time and unique concepts with this compass.

It will symbolize your will to change and your new path. If you’re ready for a new challenge and time is of the essence, stick to this tattoo.

3. Compass Tattoo On Hand & Shoulder

This forearm and shoulder tattoo is a gorgeous design that you’ll enjoy if you’re trying to look powerful and grandiose.

This Viking compass tattoo is for anyone who finds themselves as a Viking or a warrior but knows how to manage and pull through from any situation at every given moment.

Fun fact: compass was invented in Ancient China.

4. Compass Watercolor Tattoo

If you’re a fan of color and you love watercolor splashes or powerful images this one is for you.

The watercolor shows your quirky personality and your power to swiftly adapt and adjust to your given situation. A compass will symbolize your forever-changing personality.

5. Compass Tattoo Forearm Colorful Idea

This is another splash of watercolor that symbolizes your persistence and your playful character. It will take you 5-8 hours to achieve this tattoo.

This outstanding color combo will represent your mood switch and how it can adapt and change during every moment and as you grow.

6. Compass Watercolor Tattoo Colorful

If you live for tribal tattoos and you’re trying to embrace your colorful journey – this image is for you. Make sure that your tattoo artist is good at doing precise and tribal tattoos before you fully commit to this design.

The color combo represents your optimism and your chance to overcome any negative emotion. If you feel like you’re guided the right way this tattoo will suit you.

Did you know that a magnetic compass can’t point to a geographic pole?

7. Nordic Compass Tattoo Arm Idea

Stick to black and red tattoos if you’re someone who doesn’t love to look overpowering with your chosen tattoo. This compass will take you less than three hours to place on top of your body.

It stands for creative persona and possibly lost presence. If you’re stuck in time or life you will enjoy this tattoo since it is an accurate representation.

8. Viking Compass Tattoo Leg Design

Thigh or leg tattoos are quite common among men who love to look powerful and masculine. You can also go for this thigh tattoo if you’re a sexy woman who loves to stand out at all times.

You will represent your personality and your forever lost soul who is trying to find meaning.

9. Nautical Compass Tattoo With Black Details

This compass with a feather image is for spiritual and creative people. It helps you express your full potential and your journey with others.

If you’re trying to overcome any hard times and you need a bit of guidance you will appreciate the beauty of this tattoo. It will show others that you’re always capable of leaning on true you.

Fun fact: a liquid compasses uses lamp oil and mineral oil.

10. Side Stomach Arrow Compass Tattoo

This side stomach tattoo will hurt, so heads up before you get it. It is a gorgeous piece yet you can feel a bit of discomfort when you get it.

It will symbolize your power and your ability to adapt to anything. You will come off as a pure soul who knows how to combat every and any evil.

11. Realistic Compass Geometric Tattoo

If you’re someone who doesn’t like a lot of colors this tattoo is for you. It is for those who are on a budget and who want something quick and easy.

Black is a color of persistence and mysterious intentions. It also makes you look like a beauty inside out.

12. Giant Shoulder Compass Tattoo Design

Do you want a gorgeous shoulder tattoo and something with a pop of blue? This shoulder piece is for anyone who loves to stand out. It will take you around five hours to tattoo this symbol.

Blue is a color of elegance and royalty. Are you someone who knows how to adapt and grow? Let the compass guide you.

Did you know that the fleur-de-lis is a symbol used to mark North on a compass?

13. Nautical Compass Tattoo On Leg

If you’re a fan of smaller or medium-sized tattoos this compass is for you. It is for anyone who is trying to rock and represent the true beauty of a compass.

This tattoo idea stands for true intentions and rightful moves. If you need detailed tattoos and you’re trying to express your creative side you can do it with this compass.

14. Compass & Anchor Tattoo Over Chest

Chest tattoos are for people who know how to enjoy dramatic ink. If you work out and you’re always exploring new options in life this one will take you 4-6 hours to place.

Chest tattoos and compass tattoos stand for power and people who are always seeking rightful and glorious moments. If you’re a showman this idea is ideal.

15. Forearm Blue Compass Arrow Tattoo

Is blue your favorite color? If this seems like a piece of art to you; get it. It is a quick and easy yet outstanding idea.

If you often feel stuck in time and space you will enjoy the beauty of this tattoo. It will represent your character who is always seeking rightful and justice moves for others that are around him or her.

Fun fact: a magnetic compass uses the Earth’s magnetic field.

15 Small Compass Tattoo Design Ideas

1. Small Compass & The Sea Tattoo

If you’re afraid of the tattooing process and you need something that is quick and easy, this is ideal. It won’t hurt either due to its practical placement.

The wave symbol within your compass will represent your courage to battle and conquer to storm. If you’re always seeking salvation you can get this tattoo.

2. Black Ink Compass Tattoo Realistic Idea

This is the ultimate and original compass idea. If you prefer realistic ideas and you’re trying to rock something that is common and not too hard to achieve this is for you.

It symbolizes anyone who is always in movement and looking for justice. It also truly symbolizes your will to find a way.

3. Compass Nature Inspired Tattoo

Are you a nature lover? How about someone who appreciates the beauty of life? If you believe in nature and you’re trying to preserve it – this compass inspo is for you.

Green is a color of wealth. It will let the world see you for who you are-a nurture and realistic person.

Did you know that both genders move around differently? Women navigate by landmarks and visual memories while guys move around by direction.

4. Blue Forearm Compass Tattoo Spiritual Print

A forearm tattoo is for those who prefer medium-sized ideas. This one is not too hard to achieve and it isn’t pricey either.

It will show that you’re always trying to come back home, no matter where you may be in the world. The bright side? There’s always an opportunity for you to enjoy the beauty of Mother Earth and your next trip. Try to make your home your next trip.

5. Back Simple Compass Tattoo On Back

Back or neck tattoos are not for everyone. However, they can be for you! If you’re trying to express your minimalistic side and you’re afraid of the needle you will appreciate this tattoo.

It stands for your pure feminine side as well as the will to find yourself. If you’re lost and you need a bit of encouragement you will love this compass as a guideline in your life.

6. Forearm Compass Tattoo Black Ideas

This is a minimalistic piece and a cute tattoo that you’ll enjoy if you’re someone who knows how to appreciate the beauty of effortless tattoos. The forearm placement is the best go-to in this case.

Where do you stand with the rest of the world, literally? This compass will let everyone see your true colors and your ability to adapt to new situations.

Fun fact: people used compasses years back for fortune telling.

7. Compass Arrow Tattoo

You don’t have to stick to black ink at all times. You can go for a pop of red to make it different and interesting. This design is for anyone who loves feminine and beautiful forearm tattoos.

It represents your persuasive personality and your will to enjoy creativity and new paths that surround you. It is for men and women.

8. World Of Map Compass Tattoo

How badly do you want to travel? Are you trying to conquer the world? If you’re up for something gorgeous and geometrical that will represent your new journey, this is it.

This image shows your will and power to conquer the world and to enjoy change. If you can easily adapt to new situations and you’re always seeking your new adventure, show it with this map of world compass tattoo.

9. Leg Compass Unique Tattoo

Leg tattoos can also look amazing when you’re showing off your compass. This cute piece is great for men who love koi fish along with their compass prints.

This duo will represent your will to adapt and change during every journey. You will also look like someone who can embrace new adventures in your life.

Did you know that sailors used to remagnetize the needle?

10. Small & Delicate Compass Back Tattoo

Do you enjoy back or neck designs? If you’re a subtle queen and someone who enjoys cute detailed artsy prints this one will suit you.

This compass represents your perfectionist side. It also shows that you’re always trying to please and satisfy others around you while keeping close and tight to your core.

11. Blue Compass Tattoo Over Forearm Design

Blue is a color of elegance and wealth, as well as royalty. This side arm tattoo will take you 3-4 hours to achieve, and it can be relatively pricey.

Remind yourself that you will never walk alone and that the rest of the world is always with you. Try to enjoy big and small steps, as well as your path along with it.

12. Neck Compass Tattoo For Guys

Neck tattoos look so sexy once done the right way. If you’re someone who can wear something similar since your job allows you to, you will love this print.

This compass on such a visible and easily spotted place will represent your inner will and power to conquer it and have it all. You will also overcome any hard or simple obstacles that are in your way once you have the right guidance.

Fun fact: the first-ever compass was made during the Qin dynasty (221 B.C.).

13. Wrist Compass Tattoo Idea

Wrist tattoos are for anyone who want smaller and playful ink. If you are into gorgeous and precise ink you will want this holy idea that is a quick & easy two hour tattoo.

This is the typical & common compass tattoo that will represent your personality and your agenda in life. If you love cute and glorious ideas that can help you in life and with your guidance, give this a go!

14. Chest Masculine Compass Tattoo

If you work out or if you’re on the lookout for chest designs this is great and just right for you. Guys who love to look masculine and who enjoy genuine tattoos will admire this one.

Compass over your heart can symbolize your hardships and your rough or tough love life. We all often face tricky love situations, but knowing how to deal with them or overcome is what should be on your agenda.

15. Unique Palm Wrist Compass Tattoo

Lastly, you can admire or slay arm or palm tattoos. If you’re someone who wants to look quirky and you enjoy noticeable ideas; try this black & white compass tattoo.

Add a term and a sentence ‘’never’’ and make this design emotionally impactful. You will remind yourself that it is never too late for a change, and it is never too late to start your new journey.

Did you know that honeybees navigate using the Sun as a compass?

Compass Tattoo: More FAQs

What Does A Compass Tattoo Symbolize?

If you want to get a compass tattoo; be our guest! This design is gorgeous, sentimental, as well as unique + it can have loads of different meanings. Usually, it is used as a symbol of guidance for anyone who is lost in time, stuck in process, or who needs a bit of guidance through life.

Who Can Get A Compass Tattoo?

If you’re feeling stuck or if you’re trying to find meaning in life (spiritual, for instance) you will enjoy a compass tattoo. Guys and girls will enjoy different kinds of compass options.

Where to place a compass tattoo?

The best placement for this tattoo is usually somewhere visible & practical, just so that you’re reminded of your everyday journey & road that is ahead. Usually, forearm or wrist is the best go-to.

Does the tattooing process hurt?

Usually, compass tattoos will not hurt, unless you end up getting a giant and large print that can take hours to create.

Are compass tattoos pricey?

Not really & luckily! Most tattoo artists will charge around $200 for a simple medium-sized black & white compass tattoo.

Which size and color to go for when it comes to your compass tattoo?

Are you someone who prefers minimalism, or do you want to stand out fully when it comes to your tattoos? Usually, the best option is black & white compass since it is so sleek & straight to point. You can also opt for brown or red colors since they will complement the design.

Also Read:

70+ Small Tattoos with Big Meanings You’ll Fall in Love with

Best Realistic Tattoo Artists On Instagram

33 Best Airplane Tattoos Design Ideas (Forearm, Collarbone, and Finger )

95 Great Tattoo Ideas for Men: Ultimate Guide (2023 Updated)

Time To Get Tattoos

Make sure that you let us know which one tattoo was your favorite. Everyone can wear a compass tattoo, no matter your age or your gender. So, which one tattoo you can’t wait to rock among these 30 options?!