
In Barbados, you can use American dollars in some tourist areas, but it's not widely accepted. Many businesses, such as restaurants and shops, prefer the Barbadian dollar.
Some tourist-friendly places like hotels and resorts may accept American dollars, but you'll likely get a poor exchange rate. You might even receive change in Barbadian dollars.
It's generally a good idea to exchange your money to Barbadian dollars or use a credit/debit card to avoid any confusion or fees.
Using American Dollars in Barbados
You can use American dollars in Barbados, but you won't get a favorable exchange rate.
Many businesses in Barbados, especially in tourist areas, accept US dollars, but you'll likely get a poorer exchange rate than if you use the local currency, the Barbadian dollar.
To avoid confusion, it's a good idea to have some local currency, especially for smaller purchases or when venturing off the beaten path.
Quasi-U.S. Dollar Use
As you plan your trip to Barbados, you might be wondering if you can use American dollars for everyday expenses. The U.S. dollar is widely accepted in Barbados, so you can use it for commerce and other transactions.

In fact, the U.S. dollar is used as a quasi-currency in many countries, including tourist destinations like the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Costa Rica, and Panama. You can use your American dollars to pay for accommodations, food, and activities in these places.
Some countries even use the U.S. dollar as the dominant currency, although it hasn't been declared legal tender. These countries include Bermuda, Myanmar, Cambodia, Cayman Islands, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Somalia.
If you're planning to retire in a foreign country, you might be interested to know that the U.S. dollar is used as a quasi-currency in popular retirement destinations like Belize and Panama. In Panama, the U.S. dollar is even legal tender alongside the national currency, the Balboa.
Here are some countries where you can test the acceptance of the U.S. dollar:
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Costa Rica
- Panama
In addition, you can also use the U.S. dollar in countries like Liberia, major cities in Vietnam, and the Old City of Jerusalem, where it's widely accepted as a form of exchange.
Acceptance by Local Businesses

Many local businesses in Barbados accept American dollars, especially in tourist areas and popular shopping districts. Some businesses may even quote prices in US dollars.
You can easily find businesses that accept American dollars in areas like Bridgetown, the capital city, and Speightstown, a charming coastal town.
However, it's worth noting that some local businesses may not accept US dollars, so it's always a good idea to ask before making a purchase.
In some cases, businesses may accept American dollars but offer a less favorable exchange rate than the official one. Be sure to check the exchange rate before making a purchase.
Some local businesses may also have a minimum amount that they will accept in US dollars, so it's a good idea to have some Barbadian dollars on hand as a backup.
On a similar theme: How Do I Buy Rubles
USD to BBD Exchange Rate
The USD to BBD exchange rate is a crucial aspect to consider when traveling to Barbados. You can exchange your American dollars for Barbadian dollars at various currency exchange offices, banks, and even some hotels.
The exchange rate can fluctuate, but as of our knowledge cutoff, 1 USD is equivalent to approximately 2 BBD. You can check the current exchange rate on websites like XE or Oanda.
It's worth noting that while some businesses in Barbados may accept US dollars, it's generally recommended to have some local currency on hand to avoid any confusion or inconvenience.
Current Exchange Rate
The current exchange rate for USD to BBD is constantly fluctuating, but as of our last update, you can expect to get approximately 1.96 BBD for every 1 USD.
The exchange rate can vary depending on several factors, including the current market conditions and the demand for the Barbadian dollar.
As of our last update, the highest exchange rate for USD to BBD in recent history was 2.07 BBD per USD, which occurred in 2022.
However, it's essential to note that exchange rates can change rapidly, and it's always a good idea to check the current rate before making any transactions.
The exchange rate can also be influenced by the economic conditions of both the United States and Barbados, such as inflation rates and economic growth.
Conversion Methods
To convert USD to BBD, you can use online currency converters or mobile apps that provide real-time exchange rates.
One way to convert USD to BBD is by using the current exchange rate, which is subject to fluctuation and can be influenced by various economic factors.
You can also use historical exchange rates to analyze past trends and make informed decisions. For example, in 2022, the exchange rate was 1 USD = 7.4 BBD.
Another method is to use a bank or financial institution's services, such as wire transfers or currency exchange services, which often come with fees and may require documentation.
The fees associated with converting USD to BBD can vary depending on the service provider and the amount being converted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best currency to use in Barbados?
The Barbadian dollar is the best currency to use in Barbados, widely accepted everywhere. Some establishments also accept US dollars, but the local currency is preferred.
Sources
- https://www.originaltravel.co.uk/travel-guide/barbados/travel-advice
- https://www.westernunion.com/us/en/currency-converter/usd-to-bbd-rate.html
- https://www.investopedia.com/articles/forex/040915/countries-use-us-dollar.asp
- https://www.td.com/ca/en/personal-banking/solutions/currency-exchange-services
- https://www.forbes.com/advisor/money-transfer/currency-converter/usd-bbd/
Featured Images: pexels.com