If you’re looking for tips for planning a trip to Barbados, you’ve obviously come to the right place.
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- Most visitors to Barbados do not require a visa so long as your passport is valid for the duration of your trip and you have a return ticket booked.
- Make sure you’re up to date on all of your routine vaccinations, in addition to getting vaccinated against Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid. Additional vaccines may be recommended depending on your specific risk factors so check the CDC Traveler’s Health page or another reliable source for up-to-date info.
- Fill out the online customs and arrival form prior to your arrival to speed up processing at the airport.
- Having a rental car is ideal for exploring the more remote northern, eastern, and interior parts of the island. Be prepared to drive on the left side of the road and expect rough roads, but otherwise fairly relaxed driving. Bring an International Driver’s Permit or a license from your home country written in Latin letters, and you will be provided with a Bajan visitors permit at the cost of 5 USD that is good for 2 months.
- There might be almost as many buses in Barbados as there are cars. They’ll honk (often to the tune of “La Cucaracha”) as they’re coming up behind you so you can quickly turn around and flag them down if you want on. It costs 3.50 BBD to ride, no matter the distance.
- Taxis can come in handy but be sure to agree on a fare before getting in. Alternatively, download the PickUp Barbados app to request a taxi and be provided with a fare estimate. This option also allows you to pay with card.
- Pack whatever you need to be comfortable on the beach – flip flops, sunscreen, sunglasses, a good hat that won’t blow off in the wind, a swimsuit and coverup… The island is generally quite casual, but some restaurants such as Champers do request “smart casual” dress, which presumably involves something that provides more coverage than a bikini.
- Barbados uses type A and B outlets (2 parallel prongs) that are the standard in North America. If traveling from elsewhere, consider getting an international travel adapter.
- Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants. However, you may need cash for private accommodations, public transportation, taxis, or smaller vendors. ATMs are readily available to get some Bajan dollars (BBD). Many but not all establishments will also accept USD at a rate of 1 USD to 2 BBD, although some may adjust the exchange rate slightly to offset the inconvenience. Tipping is not mandatory at restaurants, but if you feel like the service was good, a 10 – 15% tip is appreciated. That said, a service charge is also often added to the bill, so check before adding additional tip. For taxi drivers, 10% is typical, and a few dollars per day for housekeeping staff is recommended.
- Most water in Barbados is safe to drink though the flavour isn’t always amazing. Pack a refillable water bottle to reduce plastic waste. When in doubt, a water bottle with a built-in filter will ensure your water is always safe.
- A little advance planning can go a long way. Check opening dates for attractions you would like to visit and plan around them.
- Consider purchasing tickets to Mount Gay, St. Nicholas Abbey, and Harrison’s Cave a few days or weeks ahead of time and make reservations at restaurants you really want to eat at.
These are the tips I found helpful in planning my trip to Barbados, but please share anything you’d like to add.
I hope you found these Barbados trip planning tips helpful. If you’re looking for more, here are all of my posts about Barbados, including essential Barbados travel experiences.
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