Cash or card in Barbados: Which is the best way to pay?

Are you planning a trip to Barbados soon? If so, you might already be preparing for your trip by working on your itinerary and travel budget. No matter your spending plans, it’s important to understand the financial habits of people in Barbados in comparison to those in the UK.

Barbadians still prefer cash, even though you’ll be able to use your card in hotels, most big stores and restaurants. Since it can be tricky to decide what you should rely on during your trip, we’re here to help. We’ll dive into the details to answer the question - is it better to use cash or card in Barbados?

We’ll also show you a cost-effective way to manage your spending in Barbados. For any international purchases, whether online or in person, you can rely on the Wise card. You can even withdraw cash like a local for low fees* at the mid-market exchange rate.

How cash-centric is Barbados?¹

Cash is accepted everywhere in Barbados and it’s often the only option in local small businesses. However, you’ll be able to use your card in hotels, car rental companies and most restaurants.

Chip and PIN, chip and signature and magnetic strip and signature cards are all accepted in Barbados. When it comes to local convenience stores and other small shops, card payments likely won’t be accepted. Even if they are, shopkeepers likely still prefer cash. However, when you use your card, you’ll probably be asked to provide some form of ID.

Since cash is so popular, you won’t have any issues if an ATM gives you only large bills. It’s quite common to use them in stores, even when you’re making smaller purchases, and it’s not considered rude.

Cash etiquette in Barbados²

Tipping is discretionary in Barbados, especially since a service charge is usually added to hotel and restaurant bills. Even though tips are not expected, they are always a nice way to thank your servers.

The tipping amount is usually 10% of the bill, but this is just a set rule. If you’re satisfied with the quality of the service, feel free to leave more. You can also tip hotel staff, taxi drivers and tour guides. If you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort, make sure you ask about their tipping policy.

Keep in mind that these are just some general guidelines and that the tip amount will mostly depend on the circumstances.

Cash or card in Barbados - the comparison

We’ve listed some situations where you’ll be paying for things in Barbados. Here’s whether you’ll be able to pay by card, in cash or both:

Using your card in Barbados at an ATM

There are plenty of ATMs in Barbados linked to the Plus or Cirrus systems. If you’re staying in Bridgetown or another larger city, you’ll be able to find ATMs rather easily.¹

Withdrawal limits at Barbadian ATMs may vary, but it’s usually around 3,000 BBD per transaction. Make sure you check with the bank operating the ATM you're using.⁶

Will my UK debit card work in Barbados?

Yes, you should be able to use your UK debit card in Barbados. However, keep in mind that many places don’t accept cards as a form of payment at all, especially in smaller towns. Also, additional fees will apply for using your card abroad.

Can I use my UK credit card in Barbados?

Yes, you can use your UK-issued credit card in Barbados, as long as you use it at a place that accepts card payments.

Reasons to use cash in Barbados

First and foremost, cash is the primary payment method in Barbados. If you use it during your trip, you won’t get into any uncomfortable situations due to not being able to pay. Not only is cash accepted everywhere, it’s often the only option available.

Cash is also a better choice because you might miss out on certain experiences if you don’t have it on you. There are so many local street vendors or beach shops in Barbados that only take cash. It’s also good for leaving tips, so it’s good to keep some Barbadian dollars on you.

Finally, even if you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort and you already paid for everything, cash will come in handy for tips.

Reasons to use credit or debit cards in Barbados

If you’re staying in a large hotel in one of the bigger Barbadian cities, you might be able to rely on your card only. It’s much safer and more convenient than carrying large amounts of cash. However, in most other situations, just your card won’t be enough for paying in Barbados.

Are contactless card payments common in Barbados?

Contactless payments aren’t very popular in Barbados. However, you can use chip and PIN, chip and signature or magnetic strip and signature cards.¹ The daily contactless limit in Barbados is usually 100 BBD, after which you’ll need to enter your PIN.⁷

Your Wise card can also be used for contactless payments in Barbados. If you don’t want to carry cards with you, you can get the Wise virtual card with the same features.

Check out the latest GBP to BBD conversion rates below:

Other payment methods in Barbados

Besides traditional credit and debit cards, other payment methods are also available in Barbados.

Mobile payment⁸

When it comes to popular digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Wallet, they’re not available in Barbados as of yet. Google Wallet can only be used for online or in-app payments, but not at POS. However, PayPal can be used in Barbados.

There are also some local wallet apps, mMoney being the most popular one. It can be used for purchases at businesses, but also for paying individuals and taking care of utility bills.⁹ Island Pay, a payment service from the Bahamas, only has limited features available in Barbados, such as sending money, bill payments and withdrawals.¹⁰

For an additional layer of security, you could add your Wise virtual card to your wallet. It has all the benefits of a regular Wise card, but it exists in your phone only. You can freeze your Wise virtual card after every transaction, so top-notch security is guaranteed.

What is the best way to pay in Barbados: cash or card?

If you’re still wondering whether to use cash or card in Barbados, cash is the better option at the moment. It’s accepted everywhere, from buses to hotels and tours. Sometimes, it’s even the only payment option available.

You could also bring your cards with you to Barbados and use them wherever they’re accepted. However, you won’t be able to fully rely on them and not use cash.

Spend like a local in Barbados with the Wise card

Want to spend like a local in Barbados without worrying about exchange rates and hidden fees? The Wise card might be just the option you were looking for.

You can use your Wise card for international payments, from your accommodation costs to daily expenses. It automatically converts your pounds at the mid-market exchange rate with only a small, transparent currency conversion fee*.

You can also use it to easily withdraw cash from the ATMs in Barbados. Each month, you can make 2 withdrawals of up to 200 GBP for free. After that, there is a charge of 0.5 GBP per withdrawal. There’s also a 1.75% fee on any amount you withdraw above 200 GBP.

Spend like a local with Wise

Cash or card in Barbados - FAQs

Here are some of the most frequent questions about using cash or cards in Barbados:

Should I take cash to Barbados?

Cash is the most popular payment method in Barbados, but you could withdraw it once you arrive.

Do you tip in Barbados?

Tipping is discretionary in Barbados, so it’s up to you whether you want to do it.

Do taxis in Barbados take US dollars?¹¹

Yes, US dollars are commonly accepted everywhere, including taxis.

Does Barbados have contactless?

Yes, but it’s not commonly used.

Sources used:

Sources last checked on date: 23-Oct-2024