Packing is always a difficult thing to do because you’re never sure how many things you should bring with you. It can be hard to predict exactly what you’ll be doing in Barbados or things you might need in an emergency, but hopefully this list can help you sort out some of the more important details.
First of all, the obvious thing is that you should bring your passport, plane tickets, and other important documents. However, don’t forget to make some copies in case the originals get lost or stolen. Also, don’t forget to bring the necessary paperwork for the hotel room you’ve booked, or the other activities you have planned, and include copies of those papers just in case. Better be safe than sorry!
If you’re thinking of packing some medication with you, you have to bring the prescription note from the doctor as well. Whether you’re bringing sleeping pills or eye drops, it’s always good to be prepared.
Now that the obvious issues are out of the way, it’s time for you to think of what clothes you should pack. You’ll most likely end up sunbathing or relaxing by the hotel’s swimming pool, so bringing a few pairs of swimsuits is a must. Also, temperatures in Barbados are on the high side, so make sure you have some light-weight and light-colored clothes: shirts, skirts, dresses, shorts. Light-colored clothes won’t overheat you, and light-weight clothes will allow you to cool off. If you plan on doing some shopping in Barbados, you can only bring enough clothes for the first two or three days and just buy something from the local stores.
As for shoes, stick to sandals, flats, flip flops and athletic shoes. If you’re certain you’re going hiking, then bring a pair of hiking boots. Otherwise, don’t pack things you’re not sure you’ll need. Save the extra space for souvenirs! Also, if you’re going to a restaurant for dinner, make sure you have a cocktail dress and some heels or elegant flats. Barbados is still very formal as far as clothing etiquette is concerned. And if you’re going out in the evening, bring a wrap to protect you against cool weather and an umbrella to protect you against the rain. Don’t panic if you forget those last two items, since you can easily purchase them in Barbados.
Toiletries are also essential for anyone who is travelling, so you should also think about what you want to take with you or leave at home. While most resorts will provide you with shampoo and soap, you can also use your own. However, don’t bring large bottles that will take up a lot of space in your bags. You can purchase sample bottles from beauty stores and use them to keep your favorite shampoo, shower gel, face cream, or body lotion. Also, items such as toothpaste and deodorant can be purchased in travel size containers. However, you can always wait until you arrive in Barbados to purchase some toiletries.
You should also make sure to include some sunscreen and bug spray to help you deal with sun rays and mosquitoes, but also some medication for potential bug bites. Finally, don’t bring your entire make up kit, especially since you won’t even use half of what you have. Limit yourself to packing a small cosmetics bag with some mascara, your favorite lipstick, and some basic skincare products. Temperatures are high and you don’t want make up dripping all over your face.
This is just a couple of tips that can help you figure out what to bring to Barbados. Also, don’t worry if you’re an over-packer. Simply try and limit yourself to bringing simple clothes which you can easily mix and match. Also, you can always pick up something you’ve left at home when you arrive to your destination. Sometimes, it’s better to do that, rather than carry around a heavy bag.
Barbados might be a long flight from home but once you’re there the rest is easy. Hopefully this list will have kickstarted your packing list and got you dreaming of your holiday. If you’re still looking for travel packing tips, try Travel Fashion Girl’s blog. Her guide to packing for a Mexico trip is also very applicable to Barbados.