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Barbados travel tips, help and advice

You have your sights set on beautiful Barbados and are looking to embark on a luxury Caribbean holiday of a lifetime.

Stunning Barbados, with its piercing turquoise lagoons and picture-perfect white-sand beaches, is an idyllic island setting nothing short of perfection.

Unsure where to start with your Barbados travel plans? We’re here to help. From dress codes to currency, driving permits to passports, we’ve compiled a list of the need to knows ahead of a visit to this tropical haven.

Passport requirements

Passports are required to visit Barbados, and it is strongly recommended that all visitors travel with a passport which is valid at least six months past the date of departure from the island. It is also advised that you check any specific requirements of your country of origin, as these may vary.

For more information on US passports, visit the US Department of State. Further information on UK passports can be obtained from the HM Passport Office.

Currency

The Barbados Dollar (BDS) is fixed to the US Dollar (USD) and does not fluctuate. The island’s currency is converted at the rate of $1.98 BDS to $1.00 USD. The BDS rate compared to other currencies changes daily based on fluctuations relative to the US Dollar.

As you explore Barbados, you will find that both US and UK currency are also accepted across the island, with many restaurants, supermarkets and stores accepting major credit cards alongside traveller’s cheques.

Credit cards

The island’s restaurants, hotels and other businesses accept major credit cards. The readily accepted cards are:

There are several commercial banks located across the island, most of which are Canadian or British, which will accept major credit cards and have ATMs available.

Traveller’s cheques

UK, US and Canadian traveller’s cheques can be cashed at many outlets across the island.

Travel insurance

It is strongly recommended that you take out travel insurance ahead of your trip to Barbados. Travel insurance can be arranged by visiting the Post Office or by searching online. If you have any further queries regarding travel insurance for your Barbados holiday, our expert team is available and happy to help, contact us here.

Dressing for Barbados

With soaring temperatures all year round, we advise packing clothes for a tropical climate. Lightweight cotton dresses and light jackets are perfect for an evening meal. Casual trousers, lightweight shorts and skirts are ideal for times when you are not relaxing in swimwear. Also remember to pack sunglasses, plenty of sun cream and flip flops!

Driving on the island

You can obtain a driving licence for Barbados by producing a valid national or international driving licence. If you are looking to secure a permit for the island, a visitor permit is US$5 for a two-month permit and US$50 for a one-year permit.

There are numerous authorised car rental companies located across the island. These can issue your Barbados driving licence on presentation of a valid national or international licence.

Police stations

In the unlikely event that you need to visit a local police station during your stay, there are several located across the island:

Find out more

At Elite Island Holidays, we believe that every guest should feel like a VIP throughout their stay. If you would like to find out more information and advice about beautiful Barbados and your luxury Caribbean holiday, contact us today.

Our friendly, expert team will be more than happy to provide you with further information to help you plan your dream Caribbean break today.