Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off Date
4.67/5
Based on 1,300+ reviews
Excellent
Trustpilot
Barbados
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Barbados
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Barbados
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Barbados
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Barbados, a stunning Caribbean island, is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. While taxis and buses are available, renting a car provides the ultimate freedom to explore every corner of this paradise at your own pace. Here's why a rental car is the best way to experience Barbados.
Unmatched Freedom and Flexibility. Public transportation in Barbados can be limited and infrequent, especially in more remote areas. With a rental car, you can travel wherever and whenever you want, without being constrained by bus schedules or taxi availability.
Access to Hidden Gems. Barbados is full of secluded beaches, charming villages, and breathtaking viewpoints that are difficult to reach without your own transportation. Discover hidden treasures like Bathsheba's rugged coastline or the tranquil beauty of the Animal Flower Cave.
Comfort and Convenience. Travelling with luggage on public transport can be a hassle. A rental car offers a comfortable and convenient way to get around, perfect for families, couples, or solo travellers seeking a stress-free holiday.
Cost-Effective for Groups. For families or groups of friends, renting a car can be more economical than relying on taxis or organised tours. Splitting the rental cost and fuel expenses makes exploring Barbados together affordable and enjoyable.
Drive on
Left hand side
Speed limit within city centre
40 km/h or 25 mph
Languages
English
Average petrol price
£1.30 per litre or £4.92 per gallon
Speed limit outside the city
60-80 km/h or 37-50 mph
Currency
Barbadian Dollar
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.08%
Score
7.8/10
Dialling Code
+1-246
Driving in Barbados is generally a pleasant experience, but it's crucial to understand the local rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here’s what you need to know before hitting the road.
1. Driving on the Left Remember that Barbadians drive on the left side of the road. This can take some getting used to for drivers from right-hand drive countries. Be extra cautious, especially at roundabouts and when making turns.
2. Speed Limits Adhere to the speed limits, which are typically 40 km/h (25 mph) in urban areas and 60-80 km/h (37-50 mph) on motorways. Speed limits are strictly enforced, so pay attention to signage.
3. Seatbelt Laws Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers in the front and rear seats. Ensure everyone in the vehicle is buckled up before starting your journey.
4. Roundabouts Barbados has numerous roundabouts. Give way to traffic already on the roundabout, approaching from your right. Indicate your intentions clearly when entering and exiting.
5. Parking Pay attention to parking signs and avoid parking in prohibited areas. Illegally parked vehicles may be ticketed or towed. Look for designated parking lots or street parking where permitted.
Many tourists and travellers say that cars in Barbados is a necessity, not a luxury. And they are absolutely right. All Barbadians, without exception, use cars.
Many tourists prefer travelling by car, and car hire is the perfect solution when your holiday is short and you want to see as much as possible but the public transport will not take you to all destinations of your choice. That is why car rental is well developed in Barbados, and you can hire any vehicle on the island, from a compact car to a luxury convertible. Since the Republic’s land area is small, one or two weeks of holiday with a car can be enough to explore it all.
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £45 / $56 / €53
Electric:
from £25 / $31 / €29
Classic:
from £18 / $22 / €21
Executive:
from £38 / $47 / €45
7 Seater:
from £42 / $52 / €49
Automatic:
from £22 / $27 / €26
SUV:
from £20 / $25 / €24
Average price for hiring a car per day in the Barbados
Peak season (December to April): Prices start at approximately £45 / $56 / €53 per day*. Higher demand due to winter tourism drives up prices. Book well in advance for best rates.
Low season (May to November): Discounts available from around £30 / $38 / €35 per day*. The rainy season sees fewer tourists, resulting in lower car rental costs.
*Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on factors such as vehicle type, rental duration, and location.
Renting a car in Barbados gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace, but costs can quickly add up. Here are some smart ways to save money on your car rental while still enjoying the best experience.
1. Book Early for the Best Deals: Rental prices tend to increase closer to your pick-up date. Booking in advance not only secures better rates but also gives you a wider selection of vehicles.
2. Compare Prices & Look for Discounts: Use price comparison websites to find the best car rental deals. Many rental companies offer discounts for early bookings, longer rentals, or partnerships with airlines and hotels.
3. Choose the Right Car for Your Needs: Larger vehicles cost more to rent and consume more fuel. If you're travelling solo or as a couple, an economy car is the most budget-friendly option.
4. Check Insurance Options Carefully: Rental companies may offer expensive insurance add-ons. Before purchasing, check if your existing car insurance or credit card provides coverage for rental cars to avoid unnecessary charges.
5. Refuel Before Returning: Returning a car with an empty tank can result in high refuelling charges. Always refill the tank at a local petrol station before drop-off to save money.
6. Consider Off-Airport Rental: Rental locations at the airport can sometimes be more expensive due to convenience fees. Consider renting from a location slightly outside the airport to potentially save money.
Renting a car in Barbados is generally a straightforward process, but you'll need to meet a few essential requirements before hitting the road. Here’s what you’ll need.
Valid Driver’s Licence – You'll need a valid driver's licence from your home country. If your licence is not in English, it's advisable to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well.
Barbados Driving Permit – In addition to your valid driver's licence, you'll need to obtain a Barbados Driving Permit. These can typically be purchased from the car rental company upon arrival.
Minimum Age Requirement – Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, although some may have higher age requirements or charge additional fees for drivers under 25.
Credit Card – A valid credit card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. The credit card must have sufficient available credit to cover the deposit amount.
Proof of Identity – You'll need to provide a passport or another form of government-issued identification for verification purposes.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our clients rate such place as Barbados as
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Pretty chill vibe
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 17.08.2024
Barbados exceeded expectations! Exploring the island with my family was effortless and so much fun.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 15.03.2025
Pretty relaxed, really.
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 05.07.2025
Pretty laid-back, really.
Maya Rodriguez
Reviewed: 30.06.2025
Island time truly lived up to its name! Cruising the coast, relaxing on the beach – pure bliss.
Olivia Peterson
Reviewed: 28.12.2024
Quick business trip, but Barbados charmed me! Getting around was a breeze with a rental car. Highly recommend.
David Wilson
Reviewed: 14.11.2024
Island life suited me perfectly! Exploring every cove and beach was so freeing with a car.
Ben Carter
Reviewed: 23.12.2024
Barbados was efficient! Exploring the island for my quick business trip was a breeze.
Jessica Garcia
Reviewed: 11.10.2024
Pretty chill, yeah.
Kevin Lee
Reviewed: 15.02.2025
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Barbados was stunning! Driving around was easy, although the beach vendors were a bit pushy at times. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 25.11.2024