Many companions moving to Barbados with their student have not lived outside their home country before. Of course, specific packing lists are going to vary person to person, but there are few general items that have been recommended by companions who have experience living on the island.
Important Documents
This is probably the most essential item on the list of things to pack when moving abroad. Without these, you may not be able to enter Barbados. Make sure you have a printout of your companion's acceptance letter from Ross, current passports for all family members, visa or return flight information, and drivers license or other identification. A government-issued drivers license from your home country is needed to obtain a visitors driving permit. If you are moving with children, make sure to have their birth certification and current immunization record. If you are seeking approval from the Barbados Ministry of Education to homeschool, you will also need an original document, such as a diploma, to meet their documentation requirements.
Toiletries
When it comes to toiletries, you may want to pack any specific items (i.e., certain brands/types) that you are used to using in your home country. Items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoos and conditioners, deodorant can be found on the island, but available options are not always consistent and there may not be variety. Bug spray, sun screen, and aloe vera can be found on the island too, however, they are very expensive when compared to prices in the United States; therefore, it is recommended to bring some along.
Medications
If you are taking any medications, it is a good idea to take a few months’ supply with you. Also, seek your doctor’s advice about refills and potential referrals to a new physician or specialist in Barbados.
Clothing
Since it can get quite hot and humid in Barbados, light-weight clothing is highly recommended. Layering and wearing pants is not ideal due to the heat and humidity. Many female companions recommend summer dresses as the coolest form of clothing (longer ones recommended to handle the wind). Barbados tends to be conservative when it comes to clothing etiquette in public places and nicer clothing, such as business casual, is sometimes required in government buildings. Occasionally it can get cool at night (i.e., after a cool rain), therefore light jackets or wraps may prove useful. If you plan on spending time at the beach, multiple swimming suits are recommended. If you have children, bring clothes and shoes for them to grow into.
Seasonal Items
Since you’re going to be living in Barbados, you will have the opportunity to experience all of its seasons (rainy vs. less rainy). The rainy season occurs between July and December, which consists of hot sunny days with periodic rain. During the remaining months, you may still experience intermittent brief downpours. Umbrellas are recommended (you can find these on the island too). A rain jacket may be useful; however, the humidity can turn a rain jacket into an unpleasant personal sauna.
Footwear
Most companions wear sandals or lightweight shoes. If you decide to not use a car, shoes that are good for walking are a must. For formal occasions and business events, formal footwear is the norm. Sandals and flip-flops are great for the southern and western beaches, but some beaches on the north and east can be rocky so water or dive shoes may come in handy. If you plan to go hiking in the forested areas, additional sturdy/hiking footwear may be desired. Most companions opt to not wear socks (socked feet get really sweaty fast).
Daily Essentials
To get you started, it is a good idea to pack a few items you will most likely require on a day-to-day basis until you are able to get your feet on the ground and find them on the island. There is no Walmart or similar store that contains everything you need, so you may have to shop around to different places to find the things you need. If your home is not furnished, bedding, towels, dishes, eating utensils, and basic tools to use around the house can be super helpful. If you are moving with small children, a few storybooks and favorite toys can be comforting.
Cooking & Food
Appliances and other kitchen tools can be very expensive on the island. Many companions bring a pressure cooker or slow cooker, because it makes cooking more convenient and keeps the heat down. A couple good nonstick pans is also recommended by many. Convenience meals and frozen foods are very expensive. If there are any shelf-stable comfort food or convenience meal items, those can be very helpful until you get used to the types and availability of food on the island. Dairy products are very expensive (especially fresh dairy - think of $7 USD/half gallon of fresh milk at Massys Supermarket). Some families, especially with littles who drink a lot of milk, recommend packing a lot of powdered milk. On the other hand, baby formula is pretty affordable on the island (approx. $15 USD for a 23 oz. container of Similac Advance at Pricesmart). While the water is safe to drink, many companions prefer filtered water so a filtered water bottle or Brita filter may be desired. You may want to plan on bringing your favorite coffee as well.
Household
Fans are very expensive on the island, but very helpful to keep the heat down and save on electricity costs from air conditioning. A small portable fan can help patch you through until you are able to buy a fan for a more affordable costs from another student or find a good deal. Battery-operated fans are useful for when the power goes out. If your housing does not come with a vacuum, it is recommended that you bring a small portable one as well as those are also very expensive on the island.
Kids (in addition to recommendations mentioned above)
Most rental homes only have showers (no bathtubs), which can make bathing littles difficult. Packing portable or inflatable baths for babies is recommended. Lightweight, sturdy strollers are also useful.
Other Advice
Pack as little as possible - think minimalist. This will make the transition for moving off of the island much easier. Using large capacity lightweight duffle bags can help with bringing a lot of items without sacrificing on the weight (50 lb, large capacity duffles can be purchased on Amazon for around $20 each). Bringing US cash is also desirable, because it can be exchanged in Barbados banks for free. ATM fees really add up over time.