Barbados is a beach island with real rules about clothing. Camouflage is illegal for civilians, swimwear stays on the beach, and you'll want a nicer outfit for dinners on the west coast.
Barbados weather by month
Daily high and low (°C), and days with rainSee the numbers
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | 29°C84°F | 29°C84°F | 29°C84°F | 30°C86°F | 31°C88°F | 31°C88°F | 30°C86°F | 31°C88°F | 32°C90°F | 31°C88°F | 30°C86°F | 29°C84°F |
| Low | 24°C75°F | 24°C75°F | 24°C75°F | 25°C77°F | 26°C79°F | 27°C81°F | 26°C79°F | 26°C79°F | 26°C79°F | 26°C79°F | 25°C77°F | 24°C75°F |
| Rain days | 18 | 15 | 12 | 13 | 17 | 22 | 26 | 25 | 18 | 21 | 23 | 17 |
Season by season
Dry season
December–MayThe most popular months. Highs run 29–31°C (84–88°F) and lows 24–26°C (75–79°F). March is the driest month with 12 rain days, January averages 18. These numbers come from Grantley Adams airport on the south coast. Pack swimwear, light clothes and one smart outfit.
Wet season
June–AugustHotter and wetter. Highs reach 30–31°C (86–88°F) and lows 26–27°C (79–81°F). July is the wettest month with 26 rain days, June 22 and August 25, often short heavy showers. The Atlantic hurricane season starts in June. Bring quick-dry clothes and a light rain jacket.
What to bring to Barbados
0 of 22 packed- Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof Packing CubeBags & Luggage
Keeps your phone dry on catamaran trips and in sudden summer showers.
- RAYMYLO 64 oz Insulated Water BottleWater Bottles & Hydration
A big cold bottle for 31°C (88°F) beach days.
- Crocs Classic ClogFootwear & Shoe Care
Easy on the sand and quick to rinse after a swim.
- Sawyer 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent Lotion, 4 ozHealth & Safety
Mosquitoes bite at dusk, more so in the wet months.
- Dramamine Less Drowsy ChewablesHealth & Safety
Catamaran trips along the west coast can roll.
- Bearwind S40 Portable Handheld Turbo FanTech & Power
Helps on still, humid nights in summer.
- Anker Nano Power Bank 5,000mAh (Built-In USB-C)Tech & Power
Keeps your phone charged on long beach and boat days.
Clothing
- Swimsuits · 2
- Beach cover-up · 1Swimwear is for the beach only.
- Quick-dry clothes · 5 setsWet season brings short heavy showers, Jun–Aug.
- Smart dinner outfit · 1West coast restaurants expect collared shirts or a dress.
- Light rain jacket · 1July averages 26 rain days.
Footwear
- Sandals · 1 pair
- Water shoes · 1 pairThe east coast is rocky and rough.
- Smart sandals or loafers · 1 pairFor dinner.
Gear
- Sun hat · 1
- Sunglasses · 1
Health and toiletries
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- After-sun lotion
Documents and money
- Passport
- Travel insuranceHurricane season peaks Sep–Nov.
Tech
- Plug adapter · 1UK, EU and Australian visitors need one.
Hurricane season peak (September–November)
September is the hottest month at 32°C (90°F). Rain days run 18–23 a month. Keep plans flexible, watch forecasts and buy travel insurance.
What shoes should you pack for Barbados?
Sandals, water shoes and one pair of nicer shoes. Beaches on the west and south coasts are easy sand, while the east coast is rocky and rough. Bring smart sandals or loafers for dinner.
What do people wear in Barbados?
Casual by day, smart in the evening. Swimwear is for the beach only; wearing it in town or shops is frowned upon. West coast restaurants often expect collared shirts and long pants or a dress. Camouflage clothing is illegal for civilians, including children.
Is camouflage clothing illegal in Barbados?
Yes. Civilians, including visitors, may not wear camouflage, and that includes bags and kids' clothes. Leave any camo print at home.
What plugs does Barbados use?
Barbados uses Type A and B sockets at 115V, the same plugs as the US. US visitors need no adapter. UK, EU and Australian visitors need one, and should check that chargers and hair tools work at 115V.
Tours and things to do in Barbados
Packed and ready? Browse guided tours, day trips and tickets for Barbados.
What should you leave at home for Barbados?
Camouflage anything, heavy layers and beachwear meant for town. The coolest low is 24°C (75°F). Leave expensive jewelry too.
Packing for Barbados: questions people ask
What should I wear in Barbados in December?
Light clothes, swimwear and a smart outfit. December averages a 29°C (84°F) high, a 24°C (75°F) low and 17 rain days.
Is camouflage illegal in Barbados?
Yes, for all civilians, including tourists and children.
Can I wear swimwear in Bridgetown?
Not really. Swimwear is for the beach; cover up in town and shops.
Do I need an adapter in Barbados?
Not from the US or Canada. Sockets are Type A and B at 115V.
What is the rainiest month in Barbados?
July, with 26 rain days on average.
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