If you’re wondering what to pack for Barbados, you’re in the right place.
After visiting this beautiful Caribbean island, I’ve assembled the ultimate Barbados packing list to ensure you’re ready for a carefree and unforgettable vacation.
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)
This Barbados packing guide includes all the essentials, plus tips on what to wear to make your photos stand out.
Also be sure to skip packing any camouflage clothing, as wearing camo in public is prohibited for both locals and tourists.
Barbados is a tropical island, predominantly Christian, with a casual and welcoming culture, so there is no dress code. However, it’s still advised to cover up when visiting towns or local spots. Just like in Maldives or Zanzibar.
Keep reading to find out what to pack when visiting Barbados, and don’t forget to download the free Barbados packing list PDF at the end of this guide to ensure you don’t leave anything behind!
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 packing guide
KEY TAKEAWAYS
● Find out what you should and shouldn’t pack when you visit Barbados to ensure a hassle-free vacation.
● Download your free packing list for Barbados so you won’t forget anything.
● Make sure to keep some extra room in your luggage for the unique local crafts and rum you’ll want to take home!
📌 No time to read? Pin it for later!
Travel essentials
Packing the right essentials is crucial for every trip, no matter where and when you go.
When you pack for Barbados, start with important documents and items that will keep you comfortable, and prepared during your travels.
Here’s what you should bring to Barbados:
☐ Passport and Travel Documents
Keep your passport, flight tickets, and any other important travel documents easily accessible in your carry-on.
TIP: Scan your passport and email it to yourself before the trip, so IF it gets lost, you’ll have a backup for reference.
☐ Travel Insurance
Never travel without it! I’ve heard too many horror stories of the enormous expenses people had for minor health problems. It is not worth the risk, as the insurance will cost you less than expenses after. Keep a copy of your travel insurance details handy for peace of mind and assistance in emergencies.
STAY SAFE ABROAD
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 Visa
Barbados grants visa-free entry to travelers from many countries, but confirm if you come from a country for which Barbados requires visitors to obtain a Visa. If you hold a US, EU, or Australian passport, you don’t need to visa to travel to Barbados.
However, all visitors must have a valid passport for the duration of their trip, a return ticket, and in the intended address of their stay.
☐ Hotel booking confirmation(s)
You might get asked to show your intended address of stay while in Barbados. So book your accommodation in advance and have a confirmation of your stay prepared. It can be printed or shown on your phone. You can obtain confirmations from platforms like Booking or Expedia.
☐ Credit Cards and Cash
While most establishments in Barbados accept credit cards, it’s handy to carry some cash. The local currency in Barbados is the Barbadian dollar (BBD) or you can use USD (United States Dollars) for smaller shops, taxis, or markets.
☐ Basic First Aid kit
Remember to pack items like pain relievers, plasters, bug spray, motion sickness tablets, and any prescription medications you might need. It’s always better to be prepared for minor health issues during your travel.
☐ Reusable Water bottle
Don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle. Tap water is safe to drink in Barbados and a reusable bottle helps reduce the amount of single-use plastic that could potentially pollute the island.
Clothing items and Shoes
Barbados has a tropical climate throughout the year. Temperatures typically range between 24°C and 30°C (75°F to 86°F). Even in paradise brief rain showers can occur, particularly during the wet season from June to November.
As a predominantly Christian country, Barbados is a casual island. It’s perfectly fine to wear swimsuits on the beach, but it’s customary to dress modestly when visiting towns, restaurants, or local establishments.
To stay comfortable it’s important to pack comfortable, lightweight, and breathable clothes. Don’t forget to bring a variety of footwear for different activities, ensuring you’re prepared for everything Barbados has to offer.
Don’t forget that camouflage clothing is illegal in Barbados (including swimsuits and accessories).
Here’s a list of what you should bring to your vacation to Barbados, regarding clothing and shoes:
☐ Bring lightweight dresses and skirts
Great for staying cool and comfortable while on a beach in Barbados, for beach restaurants, or between the beach and your accommodation.
☐ Shorts and long pants
Pack a mix of both to suit various activities. Long pants are useful for a flight to Barbados and evenings when it might get cooler.
☐ Tank tops and T-shirts
Choose breathable fabrics to help you stay cool. Bright colors or fun prints will make your photos pop!
☐ Snorkeling shirt
A long-sleeved, quick-dry snorkeling shirt offers sun protection and keeps you comfortable in the water. It’s a smart choice if you’re planning on doing a lot of water activities in Barbados.
☐ Swimwear
Bring at least two swimsuits so you have a dry one ready while the other is drying after a day at the beach.
☐ Cover-Up or a dress
A stylish cover-up is perfect to be worn on the beach and to restaurants or shops without needing a full change.
☐ Beach shoes and/or flip-flops
Perfect for beach days and casual outings, ensuring you can walk easily on sandy shores. Pair of either beach shoes will do.
☐ Sturdy walking shoes
If you plan to hike or explore more rugged areas, pack supportive shoes for comfort and safety. Running shoes were sufficient when I was walking the trails in Seychelles.
☐ Light jacket or sweater
While it’s mostly warm, and occasional rain can occur, and there are also mosquitos in Barbados so don’t forget to bring a light jacket and a pair of long pants for cooler evenings.
☐ Quick-Dry rain jacket
Packing a lightweight layers, like a smart move, especially if you’re traveling during the wetter months. It will keep you comfortable and dry during unexpected showers.
What colors to wear for stunning photos and videos
Barbados offers a variety of picturesque backdrops. For the best Instagram photos of stunning beaches, yellow George Washington house, and colorful houses in Bridgetown, bring bright and lively colors to match the lively Caribbean island vibe.
Here’s a quick breakdown of each color, including some you might want to avoid:
🤍 WHITE
A timeless choice that looks fresh and elegant against the azure waters and golden sands. Perfect for beach settings like Crane Beach or Dover Beach, but be mindful that it might not stand out as much in darker settings like Harrison’s Cave and Animal Flower Cave.
💛 BRIGHT YELLOW
A cheerful and lively color, also represented in Barbados’ flag. Yellow pops beautifully against the limestone formations, old windmills, and pairs perfectly when taking photos from Cherry Tree Hill viewpoint.
🧡 ORANGE
This bold and eye-catching color is perfect for playful shade and creates a warm glow against the turquoise water or the lush greenery of Andromeda Botanic Gardens or Hunte’s Gardens.
❤️ RED
While it pops, I wouldn’t recommend it as much in tropical settings compared to other colors. However, it pairs well with grey in Codrington College or at St. Nicholas Abbey and complements the flowers in Barbados botanical gardens.
🩷 CORAL PINK
A playful yet elegant color that mirrors the tropical flowers and sunsets of Barbados. Coral works wonderfully for beach settings and adds a soft, romantic touch to photos.
🩷 BRIGHT PINK
Lovely color that pops up on white sand, and pairs well with the grey building of Codrington College. It also pairs well with the yellow George Washington house if you are aiming for more lively and vibrant colors.
🩵 TURQUOISE
Reflecting the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, turquoise enhances any beach photo. It also pairs beautifully with the white sands and is ideal for boat trip snapshots.
💙 BLUE
A is a versatile color that you can wear in Barbados to compliments the ocean and sky. Lighter blues are especially stunning for beach settings like Bottom Bay, while darker blues might blend into the background. Depending on the shade it might pair well with colorful Bridgetown houses.
💚 GREEN
Perfect for blending with the lush greenery in Andromeda Botanic Gardens or Hunte’s Gardens. It is a lovely color but it may not create enough contrast in vibrant beach photos.
🖤 BLACK
A chic and sophisticated option that contrasts well with the white sand. Combined with brighter and bolder colors can work well with greenery, but it might make you blend in with darker backgrounds.
When planning your outfits, choose bright and bold tropical tones to emphasize the lovely vibe of the Caribbean islands.
ALSO READ:
• 10 Best things to do in Barbados (+ Map)
Toiletries and Personal Care
I don’t like to travel with too much stuff, but at the same time, I do agree that bringing the right personal care items can make your trip smoother and more comfortable. Avoid packing too much!
Here’s a list of essentials to bring with you when visiting Barbados:
☐ Sunscreen (reef-safe)
Protect your skin from the strong Caribbean sun with a high-SPF sunscreen. I always opt for reef-safe options to help preserve the coral reefs and marine life when swimming or snorkeling.
☐ Lip balm with SPF
Your lips need protection too! I got severe burns in Grand Canyon, and since then, I never go without an SPF lip balm to avoid sunburn happening again.
☐ Aloe Vera gel
Perfect for soothing your skin after long days in the sun or if you happen to get a sunburn. (it happened to all of us)
☐ Moisturizer
The sun and saltwater can dry out your skin, so I always pack a hydrating moisturizer.
☐ Insect repellent with DEET
Mosquitoes can be a nuisance. There are several mosquito-borne diseases in Barbados, so always bring a good repellent with DEET to stay bite-free.
Don’t forget: Apply sunscreen first and then follow with the repellent.
☐ Shampoo and Conditioner
I like to bring travel-sized shampoos and soaps of my favorite eco-friendly, sulfate-free hair products.
☐ Toothbrush and toothpaste
Compact travel kits are my go-to for oral hygiene on the go. I love my small Curaprox travel set.
☐ Deodorant
Choose a travel-friendly, long-lasting deodorant that will keep you feeling fresh throughout the day. I love Wild deodorants which come with a nice reusable case.
☐ Hand sanitizer
Always useful, especially when you’re on the airplane and on the go, when you don’t have access to water and soap.
☐ Wet wipes
Perfect for freshening up after long travel days or exploring the island.
☐ Menstrual cup
I swear by it! It is a reusable, eco-friendly alternative to tampons or pads. It provides up to 12 hours of protection, making it perfect for active days in Barbados, and it’s compact, easy to clean, and reduces waste. Menstrual cup is ideal for travel!
Accessories
The right accessories can enhance your comfort and style while exploring the birthplace of rum. From sun protection to practical travel items, that will keep you prepared and looking great throughout your trip.
Here are some key accessories to consider packing for your vacation in Barbados:
☐ Sunglasses with UV-protection
Protect your eyes from the bright sun with a good pair of UV-blocking sunglasses. Polarized lenses are great for reducing glare, especially near the water.
☐ Wide-brimmed hat
Protect your face and neck from the sun with a lightweight, breathable hat. It’s both practical and stylish for beach days or walking through Bridgetown.
☐ Lightweight scarf or sarong
This versatile item can be used as a beach cover-up, headwrap, or light layer for cooler evenings. Opt for a bold color or tropical print to complement your outfits.
☐ Beach bag
A durable, sand-friendly bag that is an essential travel item for carrying sunscreen, snacks, and towels. Choose one that’s lightweight yet spacious enough for your essentials.
☐ Jewelry
Stick to lightweight pieces that won’t be damaged by saltwater or sand. A simple necklace or bracelet can add a touch of elegance to casual outfits.
☐ Dry bag or Waterproof bag
A waterproof bag is great for keeping your valuables safe and dry while you’re at the beach or out on a boat. It is also great in case of unexpected rain.
☐ Snorkeling gear
If you plan to snorkel at Dover Beach or Folkestone Marine Park, consider bringing your own mask and snorkel for convenience and hygiene. If you join a snorkeling tour, you will get one there.
☐ Windproof travel umbrella or Light rain jacket
While Barbados is sunny most of the time, tropical rain showers can happen, especially during the wet season. A compact umbrella or rain jacket ensures you stay dry.
Tech and Travel Gear
Packing the right tech and travel gear can make your trip to Barbados smoother. It will keep all of your devices charged, so you will be able to focus on adventure.
Below is a recommended list of tech essentials to include bring on your Barbados vacation:
☐ Chargers and Cords
Bring all necessary chargers and cables for your phone, camera, and other electronics. It’s always good to have an extra cable in case one gets damaged or you are like me and are losing them constantly.
☐ Universal Travel Adapter
Pack travel adapter if your devices are not compatible with the voltage and plug types. Standard voltage is 115v and carries type A and B power plugs (North American standard).
☐ Power Bank
If you are planning a trip to Barbados, don’t forget a power bank. With long beach days and outdoor adventures, a fully charged power bank will keep your devices powered up on the go, to take a lot of amazing shots.
☐ Waterproof phone case
Protect your phone from water and sand during beach days, boat rides, or snorkeling trips. With it, you will also be able to capture marine life while keeping your device safe.
☐ Portable tripod
Ideal for solo travelers or group shots. Use it to steady your camera for sunrise or sunset photos on the beach. I don’t have one but it would come in handy if I did.
☐ Noise-canceling headphones
Useful during flights or when relaxing by the pool or beach, these headphones block out background noise for a peaceful experience.
☐ Flashlight or headlamp
While Barbados is well-lit in most areas, a flashlight or headlamp can be helpful for evening walks. A headlamp leaves your hands free for added convenience.
Are drones allowed in Seychelles
There is a temporary suspension on drone imports and licensing in Barbados, but visitors can still apply for a temporary permit to fly drones under strict regulations.
Anyone applying must follow specific regulations to obtain a temporary drone permit in Barbados.
Applications must be submitted at least six weeks in advance and include proof of public liability insurance of at least USD 250,000. Additionally, you’ll need to pay a fee of $30 BDS ($16 USD) for a radio license and indicate planned flight areas.
Even with a license, strict drone laws in Barbados apply, such as not flying near airports, staying below 400 ft, and avoiding restricted areas like government buildings or military sites.
Given the regulations and potential updates, contact the Barbados Civil Aviation Department or Telecommunications Unit for the most current guidelines before bringing a drone.
When traveling from overseas, ALSO check drone regulations of countries where you have a stop over. Some countries, like Egypt, Oman, Turkey, Vietnam, Cuba etc., may seize them if you do not have the necessary documentation.
Carry-on or Check-in / Backpack or Suitcase?
If you are choosing to bring a backpack or suitcase to Barbados it will all depend on your travel style and activities.
Personally, I prefer to travel light, therefore I’ve spent my week in Barbados with a carry-on backpack only.
I used two D__b__ backpacks: a small white one for essentials (documents, water bottle, etc.) that fits under the plane seat, and a 30L Hugger Backpack in orange for additional items.
But, what should you choose?
In regards to choosing a backpack or a suitcase, I would say a suitcase is a better option.
Bring a small backpack for exploring the island, and visiting sites, and a suitcase or roller bag for your check-in. It’s more convenient for traveling around and provides space for those Barbados souvenirs!
What to Leave Behind
When packing for Barbados, there are several items you can leave behind and avoid packing.
Do not pack ANY camouflage clothing – it is illegal to wear it (even swimsuits) in Barbados for civilians and tourists.
You can also leave home heavy clothing like jackets and jeans. Lightweight, breathable options are all you’ll need.
Leave the high heels, or formal shoes as they aren’t practical for the island’s relaxed vibe and sandy beaches. You can bring them, if you plan on having a fancy dinner.
Instead of all the things you could bring but never wear, save some space for souvenirs. Barbados offers unique items worth bringing home, like a bottle of Mount Gay rum, locally made hot sauces, or beautiful handcrafted jewelry and pottery. By packing light and leaving unnecessary items behind, you’ll have room to take home a piece of the island’s charm.
Free Barbados Packing List PDF
To help you stay organized and ensure you don’t forget any essentials for your trip, I’ve created a FREE Barbados Packing List PDF that you can download.
It’s completely FREE, with a one-click download — no email required.
I find email signups for one-page freebies really annoying, so I don’t do them. I offer 40+ page travel guides in exchange for your email, because I respect your privacy and want to provide real value.
Plus, If you wish to sign up for my newsletter, you can do that at your own convenience.
In addition, you can also download a FREE printable travel planning form to assist you in mapping out your Barbados itinerary and keeping track of your travel plans.
Both resources are designed to make your travel preparation easier and more enjoyable, so be sure to grab them before you start packing for Barbados!
Feel free to print out as many copies as you need, and don’t forget to share them with your fellow travel friends!
Final thoughts on Barbados packing list
So there you have it—my tips on what is recommended to bring when planning a trip to Barbados.
I hope this guide will help you create the perfect packing list and get you ready for an unforgettable trip to the Caribbean.
When preparing for your Barbados getaway, focus on lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable footwear, and sun protection essentials. Also, bring copies of your travel documents and gear for enjoying the island’s stunning beaches or exploring its natural beauty.
Leave behind bulky items and unnecessary formal wear to make room for unique souvenirs that will remind you of your adventure.
Now that you’re all set to visit this tropical paradise, be sure to check out my other Barbados travel guides for recommendations on where to stay, must-visit attractions, the best beaches, and suggested Barbados itinerary. You can also find some interesting facts about Barbados, and Barbados quiz to spark your excitement!
➤ Read more Seychelles travel guides
• Perfect first-timers Barbados Itinerary
• 10 Best things to do in Barbados (+ Map)
• 5 Best Barbados catamaran cruises that are absolutely worth it
• Is it safe to swim in Barbados? All you need to know (+ Map)
• 101+ Barbados Captions for Instagram (+ Hashtags)