Packing Tips for Barbados: Perfect Barbados Getaway
Barbados, the easternmost Caribbean island, is a paradise that seamlessly blends colonial charm with modern flair. Its warm tropical climate and fine white-sand beaches make it the perfect destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. The island’s culture draws from its British colonial past and African heritage, resulting in a vibrant fusion of flavors, music, and style. Now that you have all of the vacation plans in place for a relaxing getaway in Barbados it is time to pack…but what to pack? That is the struggle. I’m dishing my top packing tips for Barbados so you can tame the chaos of packing for your Barbados vacation.
Reasons to Visit Barbados
Barbados offers so much for the casual traveler seeking relaxation, sun and fun. With over 70 miles of some of the most beautiful beaches you will find in the Caribbean, there is something for everyone. Couples looking for some time to reconnect will find a secluded beach or two. If you are traveling with kids, there are plenty of beach activities to keep them on the move all day. If a couple’s getaway is in your planning, then check out Sandals Barbados is a perfect choice! Sandals Barbados makes your getaway worry free!
Barbados is quickly establishing itself as a “foodie hotspot” in the Caribbean. If you like food, and Caribbean flavors, then Barbados will not disappoint!
Only a quick 3 hour plane trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Barbados is quite accessible for travelers. Flights are relatively inexpensive as well.
The Weather in Barbados
No matter what time of year of you are visiting this island nation, Barbados is hot and humid. You’ll want to pack comfortable, light and airy clothing. Like many Caribbean islands, you will find the lifestyle is easy, laid back and casual, so no need to bring that dressy dress, unless you’ll be attending a destination Barbados wedding.
Pro Tip: Bring clothing that will dry quickly – the humidity in Barbados means that wet or damp clothing will take longer to dry and will probably still feel damp.
Getting Around in Barbados
If you plan to rent a car:
- Driver’s License: Ensure you have a valid driver’s license from your home country.
- Drive on the Left: Remember that Barbados drives on the left-hand side of the road.
Packing Tips: Essential Travel Documents and Money
- Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your travel dates. US, Canadian, UK, and EU citizens do not need a visa for stays under six months.
- Digital Copies: Take photos of your passport, driver’s license, and travel insurance. Store them digitally (email them to yourself) for easy access.
- Prescriptions: Pack all necessary medications and supplements, along with copies of your prescriptions.
Currency and Payment
- Currency: The official currency is the Barbadian Dollar (BBD), but US Dollars are widely accepted (exchange rate: 1 USD = 2 BBD). Exchange currency at local banks for fair rates, avoiding airport or tourist area exchanges.
- Credit Cards: Carry both cash and credit cards. While most places accept credit cards, I never take a card that will charge a foreign transaction fee. Check with your credit card company to see if they charge a foreign transaction fee, and what that fee is.
- Cash: I always suggest carrying some cash, because it is convenient. Aim for around $500 to $1000 in cash, especiallty for leaving tips, and some local shops will only take cash.
Packing List : What to Pack For Barbados
- Bathing Suit(s): I like to have a variety with me, so I pack 2 bottoms and 2 tops that can mixed or matched, thus creating 4 different choices, perfect for a 5 day trip. Also this gives your swimsuits a chance to dry out.
- 1 Sarong OR Coverup to toss over your bathing suit for an impromptu lunch or dinner after time on the beach or at the pool
- 1 pair of Shorts
- Black or white
- 1 Skort
- White or black
- 1 pair White Capris / White denim boyfriend jeans (this is optional – I do not pack any pants except for wearing on the plane – I find a dress is much more comfortable due to the humid weather)
- Tops
- 2 print halter tops or sleeveless to pair with shorts, skorts and capris
- 1 dressy top that can be worn with capris / white denim for dinner
- Black tee: Paired with white skort or white capris / white denim boyfriend jeans this makes a perfect combination take you from a day of island sightseeing to dinner at a five-star restaurant
- Dresses (I carry 4 dresses instead of shorts/skorts and capris)
- 1 smart casual dress (can be long or short) for dinner
- 2 sundresses that can be worn for day or evening
- 1 casual, quick dry dress (I like the Columbia sundresses)
- 1 pair comfortable sandals you can dress up or down
- 1 pair of walking shoes / sandals IF your activities including a lot of walking or hiking
- Wide-brimmed hat: Protect your face from the brutal sun, and to give your outfit an extra punch of whimsy.
- Cardigan or use your sarong as a shawl
- Small crossbody purse: You can toss it into your larger bag with your travel essentials – camera, phone. Carry it when you don’t need a bigger bag
Tips for Packing for a Barbados Getaway
All the items that you bring should be able to be mixed and matched. Packing in this way means less baggage (My goal is to be “carry on only”). Choose a color theme, and then choose your clothing from this perspective. Less time deciding what to wear = more time to get out and explore!
Toiletries and Electronics
- Buy travel size of all toiletries and pack in a clear cosmetic back or quart size bag.
- Pack any prescription medication carry-on.
- Pack your phone chargers and battery chargers into another quart size bag. Gather your electronics (ipad, phone, e-reader, laptop) and stage them with your toiletries, prescriptions, and chargers.
Packing Your Suitcase
After downsizing and living on a boat I learned the value of packing well. Here are some of my top tips:
- Use packing cubes – here are my favorites. Using packing cubes revolutionized the way I pack.
- Use a packing list
- Pack with a color palette – this will keep you on task.
Once your bag is packed, then you can decide if you want to carry a tote bag also. I usually will carry a tote bag that has my electronics, chargers, my cross body bag with travel documents and passports, and cosmetics.
You are set and ready to tackle Barbados and the Caribbean for a week long getaway!
