£1 BBD 2.70
Today
11:55 pm
-4h from you
Weather in Barbados
Barbados
27°
Overcast
Wed
25
27
Thu
26
27
Fri
25
27
Sat
25
28
Sun
25
28
SPF level in Barbados
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Barbados
Tipping in Barbados
Tipping is customary in Barbados for good service. A service charge is often included in restaurant and hotel bills, so check before you tip.
Restaurant
10-15% if service charge is not included
Bar/Café
10-15% if service charge is not included
Taxi
10% is appreciated
Hotel Porter
1-2 BBD per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
2-5 BBD per day
Tour Guide
10-15% is appreciated for a good tour
Safety in Barbados
Tips for British travellers
Barbados is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Take care when walking alone off busy main roads and taking money from ATMs.
Avoid isolated areas, including beaches, particularly after dark.
Do not carry large amounts of cash or wear expensive-looking jewellery.
Agree the fare in Barbados dollars with the taxi driver before you set off.
Be mindful of motorized water sports and large water equipment when swimming near the shore.
Bonus tips:
It is illegal for anyone to wear camouflage clothing.
Pack your luggage yourself and do not carry anything through customs for anyone else.
Driving in Barbados
A valid UK driving licence is accepted. An International Driving Permit is recommended but not mandatory.
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
80 km/h
Urban speed limit
40 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
211
Ambulance
511
Fire
311
Save 211 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Barbados
Voltage
115V / 50 Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Barbados uses 115V electricity. Plugs are Type A and B. British travellers will need an adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Barbados, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. However, smaller establishments may prefer cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1096
ATMs in Barbados
ATMs are widely available, especially in tourist areas and major towns.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are a convenient way to access cash. Ensure your card is enabled for international use and be aware of potential fees.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming regulations no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Barbados. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for potentially cheaper rates.
Local SIM data package
5GB for 50 BBD (~£20)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Digicel, Flow
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes, particularly in tourist areas. Some public spaces also offer free WiFi.
Average speed
25 Mbps
Staying connected is easy in Barbados. WiFi is widespread, and mobile data is readily accessible. Check the speed and cost before relying on WiFi.
Health & vaccinations in Barbados
While Barbados provides free or subsidised healthcare to its citizens, as a tourist, you are not eligible for this. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, should you need it. Although the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) and European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) are primarily for EU countries, it's always wise to carry them. However, these are not a substitute for travel insurance.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Visit your doctor well in advance of your trip to discuss any necessary vaccinations or preventative measures. Mosquito-borne diseases are present in Barbados, so take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and staying in air-conditioned accommodation. The tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is readily available if you prefer.
Calling Barbados
Country code
+1-246
To call Barbados from the UK, dial 00 1-246 followed by the local number.
To call the British High Commission in Barbados, you would dial 00 1-246 430 7800 from the UK.
The country code for Barbados is 1-246. When calling from abroad, first dial your country's exit code, then 1-246, and finally the local number. Mobile phone coverage is generally good across the island.
UK Embassy in Barbados
British High Commission Bridgetown
Lower Collymore Rock, St. Michael, Barbados
Airport in Barbados
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.