Many of the local small businesses in Barbados are still primarily cash-based, so you’ll need to carry dollars as well as a card. However, hotels, car rentals, the majority of restaurants and boat trip companies will all happily accept card payments. Visa and Mastercard credit cards are widely accepted and you might be able to use your American Express card in some places, too.
Some businesses, including the majority of supermarkets, require you to show a valid photo ID when you use your credit or debit card, and some might request your passport. In many locations you’ll be asked to sign for the transaction, so remember to sign your card before you go.
Some merchants accept American Express or Discover cards, but they aren’t as popular and widespread as Visa and Mastercard.
You may not find any ATMs that accept Discover or American Express cards.
| Merchant acceptance | ATM acceptance | |
|---|---|---|
| Visa |  High | High |
| Mastercard | High | High |
| American Express |  Low | Not accepted |
| Discover | Low | Not accepted |
There are two types of fees you could incur when using your credit card in Barbados:
Avoid these fees by paying in local currency and using a credit card without foreign transaction fees.
Both American Airlines and JetBlue Airways fly between the US and Barbados. With one of their cards, you could earn and redeem miles on your flights.
By exercising some caution when using your credit card in Barbados, you’ll have a relatively trouble-free experience.
If you make an ATM cash withdrawal with a credit card, you’ll incur cash advance fees and an APR. Use a debit card for cash withdrawals to avoid such fees.
Smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards, but everyone takes US dollars. Keep around $200 in your wallet to pay for such things as flying fish “cutters”, snacks, drinks, souvenirs, taxis and so on.
No, but you can pay in US dollars. Note that Uber doesn’t operate in Barbados.
Chip and PIN credit cards are slowly gaining traction in Barbados. Don’t forget that you may be asked for photo ID when using your card at a shop.
Remember to ask your bank for a PIN before traveling to Barbados.
Consider getting a Visa or Mastercard as they’re more widely accepted and you’ll easily find ATMs should you need cash.
Opt to use a debit card to make cash withdrawals as they have no associated cash advance fees and APR. A travel credit card is the best choice for making purchases abroad without incurring foreign transaction fees.
See more guides on using a credit card in other countries.
Here are our picks for the top travel cards on the market.
Many of the provider’s Visa and Mastercard products offer coverage.
Transfers are simple but expensive. Avoid them when possible.
There are several methods to avoid checked baggage fees.
There are a few ways to get free checked bags on a JetBlue flight.
Get checked baggage fees waived with certain credit cards, elite status or premium fare classes.
Board your plane early to get your preferred seat.
Settle in your seat sooner with priority boarding.