Many people experience some pre-vacation stress when it comes to packing their suitcases. Most of us will typically pack last-minute, causing rushed actions and making it impossible to find everything you need. At the end of the day, you’re very likely to forget something. Because we know this struggle all too well, we’ve decided to create an essentials list, to make your life a bit easier when the time comes.
Absolute Necessities
These 5 things are the absolute necessities you need to take with you or consider in order to visit Barbados or any other destination, for that matter. Read on as we provide you with the 5 most importaqnt items when travelling.
1. Negative COVID-19 Test Certificate
Before the pandemic, this item was not one of the things we needed to worry about, but with post-pandemic travel and the “new normal”, it’s important to check what the entry requirements are for the destination you are visiting. Take a look at the Barbados Travel Protocols and gain insight into what is applicable to you.
2. Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance has always been a must-have when going on holiday, however nowadays it is more crucial than ever and some destinations will even require you to have one in case you need treatment for COVID-19 or any other illness that requires medical attention.
3. Passport
This item is probably the most important one, as you won’t be able to leave your departing country without it. But while you’re on vacation, we also suggest keeping it handy as you might need it when renting a car, checking into your hotel or in the event you are required to identify yourself to island officials.
4. Driver’s License
If you wish to explore Barbados on your own terms, renting a car would be a great idea. In order to do this, you need your valid driver’s license. As a bonus, your driver’s license can also double as your ID.
5. Cash, Debit or Credit
Barbados’ currency is the Barbados Dollar (BBD). This can seem a bit confusing, as the BBD symbol is the same as the US Dollar ($). Typically, you will see BDS$, to help distinguish BBD from other dollar currencies, but when in doubt, we do recommend asking a local to help clarify. Major debit and credit cards are accepted in most places and US Dollars in cash is also accepted. 1 US Dollar is approximately 2 Barbados Dollars
To Make Your Life Easier
Once you land on Barbados, the last thing you want to worry about are the following 5 items. You can purchase any of these items on the island as well, but it would definitely be easier to have these handy to avoid a rushed arrival.
6. Flip Flops & Swimwear
A tropical island getaway requires proper attire. After all, how can you feel the sand on your toes if you’re wearing sneakers? Pack your swimsuits, flip flops and all your tropical island attire. During the day, the island temperatures can range between 28-30 degrees Celsius and at night between 26-29 degrees Celsius.
7. Sunscreen
Need we say more? If you’re not used to being in the sun 24/7, then sunscreen is an absolute must. The strength of the Caribbean sun is not to be underestimated and the last thing you would want is to spend your days in Barbados dealing with a bad sunburn. Pack up that SPF and apply it multiple times a day.
8. Sunglasses
Although your skin is very important, SPF won’t protect your eyes! A good pair of sunglasses is of high importance, especially between noon and 4 PM. Once the sun starts going down, put your sunglasses away and enjoy the most beautiful sunsets you will ever experience.
9. Phone and Charger
Nowadays with smartphones, travellers rarely carry separate cameras to document their tropical holiday. If you’re a smartphone-photographer, you most definitely need your phone and its charger during your stay.
10. Power Plug Adapter
When travelling, it’s handy to have power plug adapters with you in order to make sure you can actually charge your devices during your visit. Hotels will often have a spare adapter to borrow or purchase, but bringing your own relieves you from any last-minute charging stress.
Now pack up and get ready for the holiday of a lifetime!
