In depth · Plan your trip
Before You Go: Barbados Essentials
The practical things worth knowing before you arrive, so you can spend your time on the beach.
Updated October 2026
Arriving
Complete the online immigration and customs form at travelform.gov.bb before you fly; it can be filled in from 72 hours ahead. For a smoother arrival, Five Star Fast Track offers a dedicated immigration and customs line, and IAM Jet Centre handles private jets.
Money
The Barbados dollar is pegged to the US dollar; Visit Barbados gives the rate as US$1 = BDS$1.98, and US dollars are accepted island-wide. Carry some cash for rum shops, the fish fry and buses.
Electricity and water
Electricity is 115/230 volts, 50 cycles, with plugs of two flat blades or flat blades with a round grounding pin; most hotels provide converters. The water supply is reliable and safe to drink.
Getting around
The Transport Board’s blue buses, the yellow minibuses and the white ZR route taxis cover almost every route. To drive you need a visitor’s driving permit from your car-hire firm or the Barbados Licensing Authority. Drive on the left, and wear your seatbelt.
Weather and seasons
Visit Barbados gives an average daily high of 30°C (86°F), some 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and sea temperatures of 26–29°C (79–84°F). There are two main seasons: the dry season in the northern winter and spring, a little cooler and with less rain, and the wet season in the northern summer and autumn, warmer and rainier. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November, so if you travel then, take insurance that covers storms and keep an eye on the forecast.
Health and emergencies
In an emergency call the police on 211, an ambulance on 511 or the fire service on 311. The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Bridgetown is the main public hospital, and Bayview is a private hospital; make sure your travel insurance covers medical treatment.
Swimming safely
The west and south coasts are usually calm. The Atlantic east coast has strong waves and currents, and swimming is often not recommended there; enjoy it from the shore and the rock pools.
Questions and answers
Do I need to fill in a form before arriving in Barbados?
Yes: complete the online immigration and customs form at travelform.gov.bb before you fly.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Barbados?
The left. You also need a visitor’s driving permit, issued by car-hire firms or the Barbados Licensing Authority.
Can I use US dollars in Barbados?
Yes. The Barbados dollar is pegged to the US dollar, and US dollars are accepted island-wide.
Entry rules and fees change. Always check official government sources before you travel.