I love bringing home souvenirs that remind me of the places I’ve visited. If you’re wondering what to buy in Barbados, this guide is for you!
On this trip, I only traveled with my carry-on, so I had to be strategic on what to buy. I’ve put together a list of the best souvenirs from Barbados. These picks are local, authentic, and unique to the island, making them the perfect souvenir to bring home.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BARBADOS:
• Meridian Inn (I stayed here)
• Southern Palms Beach Club (top location on Dover Beach)
• South Gap Hotel (on the beach and close to Gap)
• Sugar Bay Barbados (great location and close to Carlisle Bay)
• OceanBlue Resort (I stayed here)
TOP EXPERIENCES and TOURS IN BARBADOS:
• Turtle and shipwreck snorkeling (my favorite)
• Catamaran cruise with lunch and snorkeling (top-selling tour)
• Harrison Cave tour (I did this)
• Barbados food tour (incredible food tour)
• St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway (I did this)
Barbados offers so much more than the typical fridge magnets. You can get handmade crafts, local delicacies like rum and spice blends, and bring home souvenirs made in Barbados, as opposed to the ones made in China.
Let’s take a look at which authentic Barbados souvenirs you should bring home!
FRIENDLY REMINDER
Never leave for a trip without travel insurance. Unexpected issues can arise so I suggest using insurance that covers people from all over the world, while outside their home country. You can buy this travel insurance even if you are already abroad.
Barbados souvenirs
KEY TAKEAWAYS
● Find out what to buy in Barbados to bring home for friends and family.
● Get ideas for original Barbadian souvenirs, that represent this Caribben island.
● Find out for souvenir shopping in Barbados.
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Best souvenirs from Barbados
Barbados rum
Mount Gay rum is the best souvenir from the island of Barbados!
I’ve tried many rums in Barbados, flavored and unflavored. Of the ones that stuck the most were Foursquare spiced, St. Nicholas Abbey, and of course Mount Gay. I especially loved the vanilla and caramel-infused varieties, as well as the aged rums with deep, rich flavors.
Barbadian rum is considered some of the best in the world, and it’s no surprise — the island is the birthplace of rum production. Mount Gay is the world’s oldest rum distillery, producing rum since 1703. Therefore, Barbados rum is a must-have souvenir.
You can buy it when visiting one of the rum distilleries. This should be one of the top things to do in your Barbados itinerary. You can plan your visits on your own, or join one of the best Barbados tours if you want to learn more about the history of rum.
I bought three different bottles.
Yes, you can bring rum from Barbados in your carry-on — even if you’re flying to Europe! Just make sure the receipt is visible and you don’t open the Duty-Free bag before reaching your final destination.
Where to Buy: You can buy Barbados rum in almost every shop, supermarket, or rum store on the island. You can also purchase them when visiting one of the distilleries, or in duty-free shops in Bridgetown or at the airport.
Price: Price will vary based on the brand, bottle size, and age of the rum. Standard bottles typically cost around $20 to $30 USD, with premium aged varieties reaching $100 USD and more.
Disclaimer: Please drink responsibly. Alcohol is intended for those of legal drinking age. Excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to health risks. Always follow local laws and regulations regarding alcohol purchase and consumption.
Bajan Hot Sauce
Chances are, you will try Bajan hot sauce at least once during your trip to Barbados. And once you do, you’ll want to bring it home!
Unlike traditional vinegar-based hot sauces, Barbadian hot sauce is mustard-based, with a rich, tangy flavor and just the right amount of heat.
The key ingredient of the sauce is Scotch Bonnet peppers. They are combined with mustard, turmeric, onions, garlic, and fresh herbs. You can learn more about the sauce and other Barbados dishes by joining a Barbados food tour.
You’ll find Barbados pepper sauce on every restaurant table in Barbados, served with flying fish, grilled meats, sandwiches, pepperpot stews, macaroni pie, and even fries. If you’re a fan of spicy food, this is a great Barbados souvenir to bring home.
Where to Buy: Find it in supermarkets, local markets, and souvenir shops. Popular brands include Lottie’s, Windmill, and Aunt May’s.
Price: Depending on the brand and size, a bottle of Barbados hot sauce typically costs $5 to $10 USD.
Bajan spice blends
If you want to recreate the bold, flavorful taste of the Caribbean back at home, Bajan spice blends are a perfect souvenir.
These locally crafted spice mixes capture the flavor profile of Bajan cuisine, combining warm, earthy spices with island herbs to add depth to any dish.
Popular blends include Bajan seasoning, a savory mix of thyme, marjoram, parsley, onion, garlic, and hot peppers, perfect for marinating fish and meats. You’ll also find curry powders, jerk seasoning, and spice blends featuring cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, commonly used in traditional dishes like pepperpot stew and Bajan black cake.
You can learn all about the blends and spices used in Barbados dishes on Barbados food tours. With a tour, you will visit local markets, restaurants, and food stalls, sample authentic dishes and learn how these spice blends are used.
Where to Buy: Bajan spice blends are available at supermarkets, local markets, and specialty food shops. Some of the best places to buy them are at the Cheapside Market in Bridgetown or from small, locally owned spice vendors.
Price: Depending on the blend and packaging, Bajan spice mixes typically cost $3 to $15 USD.
Barbados chocolate
Not many people know this but you can also bring home Barbados chocolate. It is another authentic souvenir for anyone who has a sweet tooth to get the taste of Barbados.
It is made with locally grown cocoa, and mixed with traditional ingredients like hazelnuts and almonds, but also with rum, coconut, caramel, and even spices.
You can learn more about the cocoa in the Caribbean, the traditional way of chocolate making, and taste different chocolate bars, truffles, or chocolate-covered treats, on a chocolate factory tour. It’s one of the best things to do for chocolate lovers.
Where to Buy: You can buy Barbados chocolate in local shops, and markets. The most popular places selling it are Cocoa Hill Farm and The Agapey Chocolate Factory. You can also pick up a bar or two in duty-free shops.
Price: Prices vary depending on the % of cocoa in the chocolate and chocolate flavor, but typically a standard chocolate bar will cost around $7 USD ($14 BBD). Plan to spend more on special-edition or artisanal chocolates.
Mahogany woodwork and pottery
For an authentic and unique souvenir, bring home pottery or mahogany souvenirs. Skilled artisans create beautiful pieces inspired by Bajan culture, nature, and history.
Woodworkers craft bowls, masks, and sculptures, often reflecting island life and African heritage. Meanwhile, Bajan pottery is known for its tropical designs, perfect for adding a Caribbean touch to your home.
You can plan a visit to craft markets and artisan studios, with a private customized island tour, where you can watch the artists at work and find one-of-a-kind pieces.
Where to Buy: You can find handcrafted woodwork and pottery at local craft markets, specialty gift shops, and artisan studios. Some of the best places to shop include Earthworks Pottery, Medford Mahagony Craft World, and the Pelican Craft Centre in UNESCO World Heritage Bridgetown.
Price: Small items start at $30 USD, while larger pieces can cost several hundreds of USD.
Locally made jewelry
If you’re looking for a stylish souvenir, locally made jewelry from Barbados is a perfect choice.
Bajan artisans craft unique, handmade pieces using materials like coral, seashells, mahogany, leather, and even volcanic rock.
Some of the most sought-after pieces include hand-carved mahogany pendants, ocean-inspired shell jewelry, and accessories made with semi-precious stones sourced from the Caribbean. Many artisans also incorporate symbols of Barbados, such as the trident (from the national flag) or sea turtles, into their designs.
I got a necklace with a turtle pendant. A perfect representation of Barbados.
Where to Buy: You can find handmade jewelry at local craft markets, jewelry boutiques, and souvenir shops across Barbados. Some great spots include the Pelican Craft Centre, Bridgetown’s shopping district, and independent artisan stalls at farmers’ markets and festivals.
Price: Cost will depend on the materials and craftsmanship, but simple pieces start at around $10 USD, while custom or high-end designs can go up to hundreds of USD.
Stamps
This might not be a souvenir for everyone, but as a philatelist, I love collecting stamps, so of course I have to bring some from Barbados as well!!
I always buy a few at the local post office or ask for them at shops that sell postcards.
Stamps are a perfect souvenir, they are small, lightweight, easy to carry, don’t take much space, and are a beautiful representation of the island’s native flora, famous landmarks, or historic events. Unique and cute reminder of my time on the island.
On one of my trips to Japan, I bought special edition stamps for the 2020 Olympic Games, which ended up getting canceled. Now, those stamps are worth a fortune. Just an example of how collecting stamps can sometimes pay off in unexpected ways!
Where to buy: You can buy stamps at post offices across Barbados, including the main post office in Bridgetown and smaller locations around the island.
Price: Stamps in Barbados are typically very affordable, ranging from $1 to $5 BBD (roughly $0.50 to $2.50 USD), depending on the design and occasion.
Other things to buy in Barbados
In addition to rum and Bajan hot sauce, there are other things you can buy as souvenirs in Barbados.
A popular choice is a classic Barbados souvenir magnet and a T-shirt featuring the island’s iconic landscapes, animals, or fun sayings.
For a more artistic touch, you can find local paintings and prints that capture the beauty of Barbados’ beaches and wildlife. I also bought shot glasses and a teacups with Barbados prints on them.
If you’re a fan of crafts, handwoven baskets made from palm leaves are a great traditional souvenir. You can also bring home some tropical-scented candles and soaps made with local ingredients like coconut or frangipani, perfect for recreating the island’s atmosphere at home.
For something more culinary, Barbados-made jams, syrups, and sugarcane products make for sweet and memorable gifts.
Now, I know some people like to take home sand and shells as souvenirs.
I’m passionately against bringing those home.
I believe it is best to leave nature untouched so future generations can experience and appreciate it just as it is today.
You should also know that many Caribbean islands, including Barbados, have strict regulations about removing marine items like shells, corals (living or dead), sea eggs (out of harvesting season), or turtle products. In fact, taking sand from the islands is illegal in many Caribbean countries. Such items will be confiscated, and those found guilty may face fines or imprisonment.
Final thoughts on Barbados souvenirs
I love bringing home souvenirs that truly capture the essence of the places I’ve visited – ones that are meaningful, unique, and will always remind me of my travels.
If you’re planning a trip to Barbados, I hope you now know what to bring back from Barbados that goes beyond usual magnets and keychains. (To be fair, I bought those as well)
From a bottle of Barbados rum to handcrafted mahogany woodwork or delicious Bajan spice blends. Bring home memorabilia that will remind you of the amazing time you have spent on the island long after you’ve returned home.
As you prepare for your adventure in Barbados, be sure to check out my other Barbados guides for more tips on things to do, where to stay, and the best beaches to visit on the island. Enjoy your time in this beautiful destination!
➤ Read more Barbados travel guides
• Perfect first-timers Barbados Itinerary
• 10 Best things to do in Barbados (+ Map) for a first time visitor
• 5 Best Barbados catamaran cruises that are absolutely worth it
• Ultimate Barbados Packing list: What to pack for Barbados (+ FREE pdf)
• Is Barbados worth visiting? Should you visit this Caribbean island or not
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