Your flights are booked and now it’s time to pack for your Barbados vacation, so where do you start… This is why we’ve created this Barbados packing list just for you! I was amazed by the amount of people that came into shops saying that they packed all the wrong things and that their clothes were too hot and heavy to wear here. So we are telling you exactly what to bring to Barbados. So our Barbados packing list consists of some essentials for the beach, night life and daily activities. But first:
What Not To Pack For Barbados
What To Pack For Barbados
Beach Essentials
1. Swimsuit
The number one necessity when packing for Barbados is a swimsuit, obviously. One peice swimsuits are quite popular here but if you want to really get your tan on then opt for a bikini. Here are a few of our suggestions for what to bring to Barbados!
2. Cover – Up
Even though we are a very laid back country, please cover up when walking down the road. There are so many beautiful cover ups available so here are some of our favorites.
3. Mask and snorkel
Ok, if snorkelling is not your thing then just skip this one, but it is kind of handy to have your own mask and snorkel sometimes. These should be included when packing for Barbados especially if you plan to swim with sea turtles or want to check out some of the reefs around the island. We have heard fantastic reviews about this all in one mask and snorkel which is why it is our number one choice for our packing list.
4. Sun hat
Not only do these look great for your instagram pictures, they also protect you from the sun! so it’s definitely a necessity when you are packing for Barbados. These are some of our favorite.
5. Beach bag
Another essential for any beach vacation. We love a good beach bag, bonus if it can fold up small when we are travelling. Here are some of our favorites.
Evening essentials
1. Multifunctional Maxi dress
Something that can go from day to night is absolutely perfect. You also need to make sure that its very light and airy, so anything cotton has made our Barbados packing list. Here are some great options for dresses.
2. Evening sandals
If you want to avoid the heels while your on vaation then bring a nice pair of sandals. They are so much easier to pack and can look just as fabulous.
3. Fun pouch
I love this little pouches, so functional. You can keep all your electronics etc in them at the beach and then put your evening essentials in them for dinner.
4. Cocktail dress
If you plans include a fancy event or even a beautiful dinner at one of our fabulous restaurants then maybe you need something slightly fancier. These cocktail dresses are perfect for a romantic dinner.
5. Make Up
Top of your look with some natural make up thats great for travelling.
Day time essentials
1. Shorts
A flowy pair of shorts or even denim shorts are a great call for activities like our self-drive island tour and walking around the shops.
2. Cotton tops
Light and flowy is perfect for during the day especially when you’re not at the beach.
View some of our Wandering Bajans tees here.
3. Shoes
We wear our slippers around everywhere here, but if that’s not your thing then a pair of converse can work just as well.
4. Shades
We love our blenders shades and we practically live in them, so naturally these are our recommendation for our Barbados packing list. They have so many fun, instagramable pairs that you could go nuts!
5. Tote Bag or backpack
Perfect for walking through the shops. Some of these bags are totally double as a beach bag as well so you can save space in your luggage.
Other Essentials
1. Camera
Definitely a necessity, if you only want to carry one then maybe a good gopro would work. You would also be able to use it underwater when you go and swim with sea turtles!
2. Aloe Gel
You will get sun burnt at some point. Trust us, grab this before you leave or pick something up at one of the groceries here on the island.
3. Sunblock
We don’t really use a lot of sunblock block but you should totally make sure you have that as well so you don’t need the aloe gel! These are also reef safe, because other chemical sun blocks damage our reefs. Check out these other reef safe sunscreens.
4. Turkish towels
These are fantastic for the beach and to use in the shower and for anything else you can think of, and they pack up small.
5. Medication & Passport
This is a no brainer. Do not forget your medication at home or your passport!
This a very Good information. Thank you for your helpful information. i really love Barbados
What a useful guide – if only Barbados was on the agenda. Useful none the less for my Australian adventure coming up, particularly the “Do not Disturb” sunhat!
I never thought a packing list would inspire me to visit a destination but here we are, LOL! Great list – can’t wait to visit Barbados somedayyy. Also those shorts are adorable.
Ooh those shorts! I want all three! I am going to Philippines soon so although this list is for Barbados I’m stealing some ideas 😉
Thank you for the heads up! Multi use dresses are essential for any travel experience. I always take a couple with me when traveling through the islands.
Going to Barbados this summer, part of a cruise I’m going to. This should come in handy.
Great list! I love those shades and the cover ups!
Perfect list, so much useful stuff. I definitely have to buy a new hat, lost mine in Mexico.
Great list…really helpful!
Here’s one item you MUST NOT take… anything with camouflage. It is against the law to wear any item of clothing with camouflage, including a cap.
** YOU WILL BE ARRESTED if you ignore this law.
Yes definitely!
Do not forget bug spray, especially if travelling to the South Coast, Hastings area..