Barbados has long been one of the most popular Caribbean destinations for UK travellers, and it is easy to understand the appeal. Pink sand beaches, warm turquoise water, excellent food and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Before you go, here is what you need to know about money.
What Is the Official Currency of Barbados?
Barbados uses the Barbadian dollar as its official currency. The currency code is BBD and you will see prices displayed with the symbol Bds$ or simply $.
One of the most useful things to know about the Barbadian dollar is that it is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of 2 BBD to 1 USD. This rate does not change, which makes it straightforward to get a rough sense of costs in a currency you are probably already familiar with. Banknotes come in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 Barbadian dollars, and coins cover smaller values.
Can You Use Pounds or US Dollars in Barbados?
US dollars are widely accepted across Barbados, particularly in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants and shops. You will generally receive change in Barbadian dollars when paying in USD, which is worth bearing in mind.
Pounds are not widely accepted for day-to-day transactions, so you will need either Barbadian dollars or US dollars for most of your spending.
Exchanging Money in Barbados
Banks and licensed bureaux de change in Bridgetown and across the main tourist areas offer currency exchange. The Grantley Adams International Airport also has exchange facilities on arrival, though as with most airports, rates there may not be the best you will find once you are in the country.
The good news is that Barbadian dollars are available to buy in the UK before you travel, so you can arrive with local currency already in your pocket. At TravelCash we offer competitive exchange rates on Barbadian dollars with 0% commission. Find your nearest bureau and collect before you fly.
Using ATMs in Barbados
ATMs are widely available across the island, particularly in Bridgetown and the main tourist areas along the west and south coasts. Most international debit and credit cards are accepted, though it is worth checking whether your bank charges foreign transaction or withdrawal fees before you travel.
Let your bank know you are heading to Barbados before you leave the UK to avoid your card being flagged for unusual activity.
Paying by Card in Barbados
Barbados is relatively card-friendly by Caribbean standards. Hotels, larger restaurants, beach bars, supermarkets and most tourist-facing businesses accept card payments, and contactless is becoming more common.
Smaller vendors, beach sellers, local transport and some smaller guesthouses will often prefer or require cash, so it is important not to rely entirely on your card. Keeping a reasonable amount of Barbadian dollars on you at all times gives you the flexibility to pay however is needed.
As always, if you are offered the option to pay in pounds rather than Barbadian dollars at a card terminal, choose the local currency. Dynamic Currency Conversion is rarely in your favour.
Is Cash or Card Better in Barbados?
A combination works best for most trips. Cards are convenient for hotels and larger purchases, but cash is essential for local transport, tips, beach vendors, smaller restaurants and any situations where card acceptance is uncertain.
Barbados is more card-friendly than many Caribbean islands, but it is not somewhere you would want to go without a decent supply of local currency.
Tipping in Barbados
Tipping is a normal part of life in Barbados and is genuinely appreciated. In restaurants, check the bill first as a service charge of around 10 percent is sometimes already included. If it is not, leaving 10 to 15 percent is a good guide. Hotel staff, taxi drivers, tour guides and water sports instructors will all appreciate a tip for good service.
Tipping in Barbadian dollars or US dollars is both perfectly acceptable.
How Much Does Barbados Cost?
Barbados is one of the more expensive Caribbean destinations. It is not a budget holiday in the way that some long-haul destinations can be, and costs are noticeably higher than neighbouring islands. That said, the quality of accommodation, food and infrastructure tends to reflect the price.
A comfortable mid-range daily budget for food, transport and activities might be around £80 to £150, though this varies considerably depending on your accommodation and travel style. Dining at local restaurants and using public transport rather than taxis will bring costs down.
Practical Money Tips for Visiting Barbados
Order Barbadian dollars before you travel to arrive with local cash ready
Keep US dollars handy as a backup, as they are widely accepted
Carry cash for tipping, beach vendors, local transport and smaller purchases
Always pay in Barbadian dollars rather than pounds when given the option on a card terminal
Let your bank know you are travelling before you leave the UK
Check your restaurant bill before tipping, as a service charge may already be included
Get Your Travel Money Sorted Before You Go
Arriving in Barbados with Barbadian dollars already in your wallet means you can enjoy those first moments without having to hunt for an ATM or queue at an airport exchange desk.
At TravelCash we offer great rates on Barbadian dollars with 0% commission. Find your nearest TravelCash bureau and get your travel money sorted before you fly.
