the bahamas travel

Bahamas Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

Postcard-perfect beaches, crystalline waters, and a plethora of resorts make the Bahamas a popular destination for millions of tourists every year — especially vacationing Americans and cruisers.

Composed of 700 islands, of which 31 are inhabited, the Bahamas offers more than just upscale resorts. There’s a huge range of historical, cultural, and natural attractions in this country. But, like most islands in the Caribbean , it’s not a cheap destination to visit.

Fortunately, while you can definitely come here to splurge, you don’t have to go home broke if you plan ahead. There are plenty of things to see and do that don’t cost an arm and a leg.

This travel guide to the Bahamas can help you save money and make the most of your time in this island paradise!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on the Bahamas

Top 5 Things to See and Do in the Bahamas

1. Go diving in the Tongue of the Ocean

The “Tongue of the Ocean” is an oceanic trench that runs between Andros Island and New Providence. The Andros Barrier Reef is the third largest barrier reef in the world and is spectacular for diving. This submerged geological feature is actually part of the underwater Great Bahama Canyon and the wall of the trench plunges from 120 feet (about 37 meters) to an almost 6,000-foot drop (nearly 2,000 meters) to the seabed where divers can see turtles, lobsters, tropical fish, and get up close and personal with reef sharks as they swarm in to feed. Two-tank drives are about 110-120 BSD.

2. Indulge at Atlantis

This is one of the most expensive hotels in the world but its water park is fun (albeit pricey) and makes for a nice day trip. It’s a tropical luxury experience with perfect white sand beaches and incredible snorkeling. There are a variety of exhibitions and also interactive animal feedings. The Aquaventure Waterpark has 11 pools, huge water slides, river rapids, and rock climbing. If you’re a foodie, there are 16 restaurants both fine dining and casual, including some celebrity chef establishments. A day pass to the waterpark is 250 BSD if you’re not a hotel guest.

3. Celebrate Junkanoo

Every Boxing Day December 26 and New Year’s Day, Bahamians celebrate their national festival, Junkanoo with vibrant parades, music, and costumes. The tradition comes from the history of enslaved African people who were granted holiday celebrations after Christmas and it continued after their emancipation. Today, it’s a colorful celebration of life and culture that includes brass bands, drums, cowbells, and whistles, providing the soundtrack for thousands of people dancing in the streets. There’s also a mini-festival held in June too.

4. Learn about pirates

The interactive Pirates of Nassau museum is dedicated to the history of piracy during the ‘golden years’ of 1690 to 1720. You’ll walk around replica pirate ships, visit the dungeon, and learn about how pirates set up base here. There are plenty of exhibitions, including displays on female pirates, flags, pirate trials, and treasures and artifacts. There is even an escape room dedicated to the pirate Blackbeard (currently closed due to COVID so check before you go). It’s cheesy but fun. Admission is 13.50 BSD.

5. Visit Harbour Island

Harbour Island, located off the northern tip of Eleuthera, is filled with ritzy resorts and stunning white-and-pink sandy beaches. This tiny island is known for having one of the best beaches in the Bahamas — and incredible weather. You can easily spend a day chilling or snorkeling, swimming, and even horseback riding on the pristine beach. It’s even more expensive than other parts of the Bahamas, so if you want an upscale place for a holiday, this is it. Otherwise, stay on nearby Eleuthera Island and hop over on a day trip.

Other Things to See and Do in the Bahamas

1. kayak the exuma cays land and sea park.

The Exuma Cays is a chain of over 365 islands in the middle of the Bahamas. It has been a protected land and sea park since 1959 — the first marine conservation park of its kind in the world. Spanning over 112,000 acres, the park is home to all kinds of seabirds, as well as groupers and lobsters (much of the area was overfished before the region became protected). Most guided trips are multi-day excursions and cost around 300-325 BSD per day. You can set out on your own kayaking trip for about 50 BSD per day with a rental from Out Island Explorers.

2. Tour the Garden of the Groves

Located on Grand Bahama Island, this 12-acre eco-tourism park is home to alligators, exotic birds, 10,000 different species of plants, four waterfalls, and dozens of lakes. It’s a good place to wander and learn about the ecology of the islands. Admission is 17 BSD.

3. Explore Lucayan National Park

This 40-acre park in Grand Bahama is home to the world’s largest underwater limestone cave system. Most caves are only accessible to experienced divers, although two caves are open for swimming. For everyone else, there are various hiking trails that wind throughout the pine forest and along Gold Rock Beach. Definitely visit Ben’s Cave and Burial Mound Cave while you’re here. Admission to the park is 11 BSD and guided tours are 15 BSD.

4. Hang out at Port Lucaya Marketplace

This 12-acre open-air shopping complex in Freeport has more than 60 shops, a dozen restaurants, 90 vendors, two dozen artists, hair braiders, and even live music. You’ll find great bargains on hand-crafted goods and one-of-a-kind items. It’s touristy, but the locals hang out here too, and there’s plenty to keep you busy. Come here to browse, shop, and people-watch.

5. See Fort Charlotte

Fort Charlotte overlooks the harbor in Nassau and dates to the 1780s. Constructed by British Lord Dunmore, the fort has a large moat, cannons, hidden passageways, and dark dungeons to explore. It was never actually used for defense as it was over budget and poorly designed. For that reason, the fort was nicknamed “Dunmore’s Folly” and abandoned entirely. It’s free to visit.

6. Swim with the pigs

The Bahamas is the official home of the swimming pigs, a group of twenty or so world-famous pigs and piglets living on Pig Beach. Nobody knows how they got there as Big Major Cay is uninhabited and the pigs are not native to the island. You can only get there by boat, and tours aren’t cheap — they start around 250 BSD from Nassau or George Town for a full-day trip, but you’ll get lots of extras like snorkeling gear, lunch, and an open bar. A half-day tour with Four C’s Adventures starts from about 160 BSD per person for three hours. And Pearl Island Bahamas has a 5-hour trip with lunch for 190 BSD. If you’re traveling with friends you can also charter a boat, but it’ll be significantly more expensive.

7. Tour the John Watling’s Distillery

Located in an 18th-century estate, this distillery in downtown Nassau makes delicious homemade rum, which you can sample as you tour the facilities. If rum isn’t your drink of choice, they also make a tasty vodka filtered with pink sand from Eleuthera. Tours are free.

8. Relax on the beach

If you just want to plop down on a sandy beach and relax with a tropical cocktail, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Cable Beach and Jaw’s Beach are both located near Nassau and are popular choices. Gold Rock Beach on Grand Bahama Island is worth the trip for crystal clear waters, a white sandy beach, and pure relaxation. The shallow waters with perfect visibility here make for some prime snorkeling opportunities too. On Eleuthera, don’t miss French Leave Beach and Pink Sands Beach.

9. Take a food tour

One of the best ways to sample all the local dishes and learn some of the history and culture behind them is via a food tour. Tru Bahamian Food Tours is one of the most popular choices, offering a couple of different food tours in Nassau. Their main tour lasts five hours and stops at six different eateries, providing ample opportunity to indulge your foodie dreams.

10. See the Ocean Atlas

Located near Nassau , this sculpture by artist Jason deCaires Taylor is located 16 feet (5 meters) underwater. Standing 16 feet tall and weighing some 60 tons, it’s the biggest underwater sculpture in the world, designed to hopefully stimulate coral growth in the area. You can swim or snorkel to see it up close.

For information about other Caribbean destinations, check out these guides:

• British Virgin Islands
• Saint Lucia

Bahamas Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Lodging in the Bahamas is expensive. There are virtually no hostels here since it’s a luxury destination and camping on the beach or on public land is strictly prohibited. Your best bet is to go with either a budget hotel or Airbnb.

Budget hotel prices – Budget three-star hotels start at 100-150 BSD per night. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and AC. A few hotels also include free breakfast.

Airbnb is available in the Bahamas, with private rooms ranging from 100-140 BSD per night. An entire home/apartment averages 180-240 BSD per night. Book early or prices will double.

Food – Unsurprisingly, traditional cuisine in the Bahamas relies heavily on seafood. Fish, shellfish, and lobster are all common staples, though the national dish is conch (a large sea snail). Tropical fruits and pork round out the diet, with rum being the local drink of choice. Expect to see dishes like stewed fish, johnnycakes (a cornmeal flatbread), baked crab, peas and rice, and cracked conch (deep-fried conch).

While there are lots of places to splurge here, one of the best ways to eat cheap is to do a fish fry. For about 12-15 BSD, restaurants serve you a big plate of delicious seafood, potato salad, Bahamian macaroni and cheese, and peas and rice.

You can grab a breakfast of grits from a food cart for less than 3 BSD, while a plate of fish tacos or chicken wings from a food truck is around 10 BSD.

Bakeries and cafes serve filling fast food like Jamaican-style patties starting from 3 BSD. For meals like clam chowder or jerk chicken, expect to pay 8-15 BSD. Meals at a western restaurant start from 15 BSD for a burger with fries, while fast food (think McDonald’s) costs about 8.50 BSD for a combo meal.

For fine dining, you’ll spend 40-50 BSD for an entrée like lamb or pork loin from a resort or high-end restaurant.

Beer is around 5 BSD, as is a latte or cappuccino. Bottled water is 2 BSD.

If you plan on cooking your own food, expect to spend around 60-70 BSD per week for groceries. That gets you basic staples like rice, seasonal vegetables, and some chicken or seafood.

Backpacking the Bahamas Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking the Bahamas, my suggested budget is around 140 BSD per day. This covers staying in a private Airbnb room, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, taking cheap public transportation to get around, and sticking to mostly free activities like swimming and hiking. If you find a spot at one of the hostels, plan on 100 BSD per day.

On a mid-range budget of about 195 BSD per day, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out for most meals, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like rent a kayak or go diving.

On a “luxury” budget of 340 BSD or more per day, you can stay in a nice three-star hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, island hop, and do whatever activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in BSD.

Bahamas Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

The Bahamas is expensive as it mostly caters to vacationers who want to splash out on luxury. However, with a little creativity, you can manage to visit without going bust. Here are some ways to save money in the Bahamas:

• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals for free. It’s not fancy, but you’ll save money and get to connect with a local who can share their insider tips and advice. There aren’t a lot of hosts here, however, so send your requests early.
• Use nightclub passes – Many hotels and even taxi drivers will sell you a discounted pass to get into the clubs around town. This is a particularly good value if you are visiting on a weekend when cover charges may be 50 BSD at a swanky spot.
• Drink rum – Imported alcohol is expensive in the Bahamas so stick to local rum if you’re going to be drinking
• Get free stuff – Many hotels offer free use of snorkeling equipment, include free breakfast, and arrange free or cheap organized excursions. Always ask to see what free stuff is available!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Look for discounts – The Bahamas tourism website (nassauparadiseisland.com/deals) often lists great one-off deals, like discounted hotel rooms or book-a-third-night-free deals. Check it out before you book to see if anything catches your eye.
• Cook your own food – Eating out for every meal will ruin your budget. Cook your own meals to save money. It won’t be fancy, but you can use those savings for fun activities instead!

Where to Stay in the Bahamas

Budget accommodation is severely limited in the Bahamas so you’ll need to plan ahead and book early. Here are a few suggested places to stay:

• The Towne Hotel
• Ocean Front Hostel & Resort Viking

How to Get Around the Bahamas

Fly – You can fly between islands quickly and conveniently, especially to the more remote areas. Bahamasair, Pineapple Air, and Western Air all operate within the islands. A flight from Nassau to Eleuthera takes 20 minutes and costs about 115 BSD, while Nassau to George Town (Exuma) is a 40-minute flight for around 135 BSD. The longest route is Nassau to Inagua, which is about 165 BSD and takes 90 minutes.

Ferry – The ferry service in the Bahamas is run by Bahamas Ferries, with frequent high-speed services between Nassau and Eleuthera, and less frequent services between Nassau and Andros, Long Island, and Grand Exuma. Some of these routes take a long time (Nassau to Long Island is 19 hours and only runs once a week). Prices vary so ask your accommodation for a current price list.

Bus – In Nassau, you can take private minibusses (also known as jitneys ) everywhere, with fares between 1.25-2.50 BSD. It’s a pretty casual service and there’s no real timetable or set route so you’ll have to ask the driver about your destination. Freeport also has jitneys to Port Lucaya but these services often do not run at night though.

Taxi – Taxis in the Bahamas are safe and reliable, and readily available everywhere in Nassau and Freeport (less so in smaller towns). Their base rate is 4.50 BSD and then 3.75 BSD per additional mile. They add up fast, however, so skip them if you can.

Water taxi – There are often water taxis navigating back and forth between Nassau and Paradise Island, as well as taxis that run shorter routes between Mangrove Cay and South Andros. Fares depend entirely on the company but usually cost around 20 BSD.

Car rental – This is one of the best ways to get around (especially if you’re sharing a ride). Rentals aren’t cheap, costing around 60 BSD per day, however, if you can share a ride you’ll save money and have a lot of flexibility. Just remember that you’ll be driving on the left! For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to the Bahamas

Mid-December to mid-April is the country’s peak tourist season and this is the best time to visit for hot temperatures as daily highs range between 26-28°C (80-84°F).

Although peak season is when room rates are the highest and tourist crowds are the thickest, I still recommend going during this time to avoid hurricane season (which is between June-November). Otherwise, you’ll be at risk for tropical storms, and most of those months also fall into the region’s rainy season, which will prevent you from enjoying all the Bahamas’ natural wonders!

How to Stay Safe in the Bahamas

While the Bahamas are mostly considered safe, there are some areas of Nassau that experience more crime. Avoid the city’s “over the hill” (south of Shirley Street) after dark, especially if you’re alone.

That said, most of this crime is targeted at other Bahamians so you don’t need to worry too much. Just follow normal common sense precautions. Don’t leave your valuables out in the open at the beach (or anywhere). If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight as break-ins can occur.

Scams are rare but you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 or 919 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Bahamas Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Bahamas Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling the Caribbean and continue planning your trip:

9 Ways to Explore the Caribbean Sustainably

My 16 Favorite Things to Do in the Virgin Islands

Bermuda: The Impossible Budget Destination? Maybe Not!

How to Save (and Not Save) Money in the Virgin Islands

I Didn’t Like Curaçao (But I Didn’t Hate it Either)

The Best Places on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Lynden Pindling International Airport Guide

48 Hours in the Bahamas

Day Trips From Nassau

Top Things to Do in the Bahamas

Best Things to Do in Nassau

The Bahamas' Best Beaches

Snorkeling in the Bahamas

Shopping in the Bahamas

Bahamian Food to Try

Nassau's Best Restaurants

Best Bars in the Bahamas

Your Trip to the Bahamas: The Complete Guide

Patricia Vazquez / 500px  / Getty Images 

With 700 islands and 2,400 cays throughout the clearest water in the world,   the Bahamas have it all: glorious beaches, warm surf, fabulous coral reefs, and challenging golf courses . Whether you're interested in sunbathing or shark-diving, there's no shortage of activities in the Bahamas , and the destination is guaranteed to appeal to every traveler—you just have to know where to look. Read on for your ultimate guide to the islands, including the capital of Nassau as well as the out islands: Freeport, Abaco, Eleuthera, Exuma, Grand Bahama, and Paradise Island.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : The ideal time to visit is from mid-April to early July, after the peak tourist season is over, and before the start of the hurricane season.
• Language: English, Bahamian Creole
• Currency : Bahamian dollar; U.S. dollar widely accepted.  
• Getting Around: When in Nassau, you will have no difficulty with finding a cab downtown, as it is the most popular island. We recommend booking Romeo's Executive Limousine & Taxi Services for a long weekend in the nation's capital, as the drivers are kind, knowledgeable, and charming.
• Travel Tip: If you’re visiting in January through May, or October through November, be sure to check out the Tea Party at the Government House , hosted by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism. And sign up for a People to People experience at any time of year to have dinner in the home of a local family—another opportunity provided by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism.

Things to Do

Unsurprising for an island nation named for its turquoise surroundings (the name 'Bahamas' comes from the Spanish term for clear waters, “Baja Mar'), many of the most popular activities correspond to exploring the Caribbean Sea. On the Out Islands (the Abacos, Eleuthera/Harbour Island, Long Island, Cat Island, and The Exumas, among others) you’ll find pristine diving and fishing sites and a more authentic West Indian character. The most exciting dining and drinking options exist in the nation's capital of Nassau—we suggest strolling Downtown and visiting the various rum bars and local restaurants for a taste of Bahamian culture.

• From swimming with sharks at the Bimini Scuba Center to exploring the Sir Nicholas Nuttall Coral Reef Sculpture Garden off the coast of New Providence, excellent snorkeling (and, for the more adventurous: diving) opportunities abound throughout the island nation.
• Sunbathe at some of the world-famous beaches in the Bahamas—whether you’re interested in the pink sands of Harbour Island or the Palm-tree lined coast of Andros, there’s no shortage of pristine coastline to satisfy even the most discerning sun-worshippers
• When in the Bahamas, do as the pirates once did, and drink rum! From tasting tours at John Watling's distillery (order the Rum Dum) to Bahama Papas at the Poop Deck (pair it with conch), you will find that rum is almost as prevalent in the Bahamas as sunshine.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the best things to do in the Bahamas and the best things to do with kids.

What to Eat and Drink

From Bahama Mamas to Bahama Papas, and Rum Dums to Rum Punch, the Bahamas is legendary for its rum cocktails. Rum has been the drink of choice on the island for centuries—as it has on many Caribbean islands. Thanks to the plentiful sunshine that allows tropical fruit to flourish throughout the Bahamian islands, the local juice is Mother Nature's perfect mixer (or chaser) for visitors imbibing. Rum is part of the nation's history, and nowhere is this more apparent than at the historic John Watling's Distillery in downtown Nassau. If you're more of a beer drinker, head over to Pirate Republic Brewing . Wine-lovers should visit  Bahama Barrels , the first-ever winery founded in the Bahamas. Scenesters should visit  Sip Sip in Harbour Island for the legendary Sky Juice.

Of course, it's not all about the drinks—even the heartiest rum-lover needs nourishment every once in a while. Thankfully, the food scene in the Caribbean has been flourishing in recent years. Classic Bahamian cuisine includes rock lobster, rum cake, guava duff, and baked macaroni and cheese, and, of course, conch. Make sure to try a conch dish; this chewy mollusk is prepared as chowder, stew, salad, and fritters. Conch in all its variations is a must-order on the island, though we particularly recommend the cracked conch, either as an appetizer or an entree. Most resorts have fine-dining restaurants serving anything from continental cuisine to sushi, but try to seek out small local places where you can sample authentic island cuisine. You’ll notice American South influences in Bahamian dishes like boiled fish and grits. Bahamian specialties are spicy and center on seafood and local produce: We suggest an afternoon spent with Tru Bahamian Food Tours to experience it all.

Explore our articles on the best food to try in the Bahamas., as well as the best bars to visit.

Where to Stay

Hotel options in the Bahamas range from all-inclusive resorts with such a dizzying array of food and entertainment options you’ll never need to step foot off the property, to quiet and homey guesthouses. Resorts like those on Cable Beach are great options for families and you can often get steep discounts if you book your flight and room together as a package deal. For a more authentic, Bahamian experience, look for a smaller inn or a private guesthouse, particularly in the Out Islands . Try the welcoming Seascape Inn or Compass Point.

Explore our ultimate itinerary for 48 hours in the Bahamas , and check out our recommendations on the best hotels and dive resorts in the Bahamas.

Getting There

The most popular destination is Nassau/Paradise Island, located in New Providence Island and less than an hour by air from Miami. For visiting out islands, there are ferry services (including Bahamas Ferries ) which take guests on day trips from Nassau to nearby islands (including Bimini, and Abaco). For further island destinations, check out Pineappleair ,  Southern Air , Bahamasair , and  Bahamas Air Tour.

• Lynden Pindling International Airport: Located in the capital city of Nassau, it is the largest international airport in the Bahamas serving around four million passengers.   A hub for Bahamasair, it also services many international airlines. There is no need to rent a car, as cabs are plentiful and the airport is only located eight miles from downtown Nassau.
• Grand Bahama International Airport : Grand Bahama Island is home to the popular Bahamian city of Freeport. The Grand Bahama International Airport services local airlines (including Flamingo Air and Sky Bahamas Airlines), as well as international carriers: Delta and American Airlines.
• Exuma Airport: The Exuma Airport has expanded in recent years, and now receives direct flights from Florida and North Carolina (as well as Nassau, of course). Located 15 miles northwest of George Town (the largest settlement in Exuma), guests can either rent a car or book a taxi, as it is a 30-minute drive to your final destination.
• Governor's Harbour Airport : This airport in Eleuthera receives daily flights from Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Nassau via international airline carriers including United and American Airlines. For travelers that are not based in Florida, it is easier to travel to Nassau first and then hop on a connecting flight via Bahamasair, Southern Air, or Pineapple Air to their final destination in Eleuthera.

Explore our guide to visiting the out islands , as well as our full-length article on the best time to visit the Bahamas.

Bahamas Culture and History

The Lucayan Indians lived throughout the Bahamas from 900 to 1500 A.D. but were wiped out by slavery and disease within 25 years of Europeans' arrival. In 1648, a group of English Puritans landed, seeking religious freedom. The Bahamas became a British crown colony in 1718 and remained under British rule until July 10, 1973. Approximately 90 percent of Bahamas residents are of West African descent, ancestors of slaves brought to work the cotton plantations.   Bahamian culture combines influences from Africa and Europe and is related to Caribbean Creole culture as well as the Gullah culture of the southern U.S.

Check out our article on the top cultural events, festivals, and concerts in the Bahamas , as well as our monthly Caribbean event calendar for more information.

Money-Saving Tips

• Though the cost of travel in the Bahamas spikes in the wintertime, the tropical climate remains relatively consistent year-round. The trade winds keep the archipelago cool even in the summertime, so economical travelers should consider visiting in the off-season.
• If you’re visiting during any of the key festivals and events occurring on the Bahamian archipelago during your vacation be sure to check them out as these are often celebrated with street parades that are free to attend.
• Check to see if the service fee is included in your hotel or restaurant bill, otherwise, a 10 to 15 percent tip is customary.
• For larger groups, consider booking an all-inclusive resort to cut back on additional expenses while traveling. Resorts like those on Cable Beach are great options for families and you can often get steep discounts if you book your flight and room together as a package deal.
• The best activity to do in the Bahamas (going to the beach, of course), is not only blissfully relaxing but also free of charge. Those seeking solitude head to Treasure Cay in the Abacos , a stunning, almost empty, 3.5-mile flour-white strip. Gold Rock Beach is part of Lucayan National Park, a protected area that contains some of Grand Bahama’s wildest and most gorgeous beaches.

Learn more about the cheapest ways to have fun by exploring with our article on Caribbean budget travel tips and destinations.

The Islands Of The Bahamas. "About the Bahamas."

The Islands of the Bahamas. "Travel Tips."

Nassau Airport Development Company. "Annual Report 2019." Page 9. January 2020.

Central Intelligence Agency. "The World Factbook: The Bahamas."

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The 14 best things to do in The Bahamas

Nov 29, 2022 • 7 min read

The Bahamas offers turquoise waters, fresh seafood, and a number of cultural traditions to discover © blue-sea.cz / Shutterstock

With its turquoise waters, pillowy sand beaches and laid-back island attitude, everything really does seem better in The Bahamas .

With 16 major islands and 259,000 sq km (100,000 sq miles) of some of the world’s clearest water, there’s no shortage of island adventuring to be had — whether it’s hitting the waves for a snorkeling expedition or unwinding with a frosty rum-laden beverage in hand. 

If you’re a water sports enthusiast, The Bahamas is a great destination for indulging in your passion. Snorkeling and scuba diving adventures await, with deserted islands and intimate coves providing an undisturbed peek at the marine life enjoying the warm, clear waters that surround the islands. 

But if you’d prefer to keep your itinerary close to shore, there’s plenty to explore there as well.  Need proof? Here’s a list of the top things to do while in The Bahamas.

1. Dive into a cave at Lucayan National Park

The 16-hectare (40-acre)  Lucayan National Park is one of the largest underwater cave systems in the world, two of which are open to the public for swimming and exploration. Located east of Freeport over on Grand Bahama Island , Lucayan is an ecological treasure, playing host to all six of the Bahamas’ vegetation zones.

Detour:  Before cooling off in the cave’s waters, walk or ride a horse along one of the park's paved paths and experience its mangrove swamps, rocky coppice landscape and singular hardwood forest. 

2. Pick up souvenirs at the straw market

Sharpen your negotiating skills — and snag a few locally made souvenirs — at Nassau’s frenzied Straw Market , located next to the boutique shops on Bay Street. You’ll find vendors with individual stalls hawking all manner of wares, from straw purses and wood carvings to touristy tees and hats. The Straw Market is open seven days a week from 8am to 8pm. 

Local tip:  Haggling isn’t only acceptable in this open-air market, it’s encouraged.

3. Tame the water slides at Atlantis Paradise Island

Who says careening down waterslides at breakneck speeds and giddily screaming the whole way through is strictly for kids? The Aquaventure attraction at Atlantis Paradise Island offers 57 hectares (141 acres) of high-speed water slides, winding lazy rivers and 11 swimming pools set amongst the “ruins” of Atlantis. Access to Atlantis is free for overnight guests of the resort, but you can pick up a day pass if you’re staying elsewhere. 

4. Get a massage on Cabbage Beach

Atlantis isn’t the only attraction on Paradise Island — walk around to the island’s east side and discover the public entrance to Cabbage Beach , a two-mile stretch of pristine sand framed by swaying palm trees. 

If the waters are a bit choppy, seek out one of the beachside huts where you’ll find a masseuse waiting to administer a muscle-melting massage set to the crashing waves of the ocean beyond.  

Top 14 beaches in the Bahamas   

5. Soak up the sun on pink sand

No, your eyes haven’t been taken over by an Instagram filter — the sand on Pink Sands Beach in Harbour Island is indeed pink. The rosy pink hue is courtesy of microscopic coral insects with bright pink and red shells. 

In a slightly grim twist, the waves crush their shells and mix the remains with the sand and coral on shore, creating a soft pink hue. The sand here is almost always cool, making the three-mile stretch of beach perfect for daytime strolls or sunbathing.

6. Sip on a boozy frozen drink at the Daq Shack 

If you haven’t guzzled a daiquiri or three, did you really visit The Bahamas? Avoid falling victim to that question and get yourself to the Daiquiri (Daq) Shack , an open-air wooden hut known for its boozy blended concoctions using fresh tropical fruits and healthy pours of rum. 

The island has many pretenders to the throne, but the original is located on Cable Beach . Look for the one with all of the visitor photos and business cards stapled to the walls — and then, after tipping your bartender, add one of your own. 

When is the best time to go to The Bahamas 

7. Dine at the historic Graycliff Hotel

A former pirate hangout and playground for the rich and (in)famous, the luxuriously ornate grounds of the Graycliff Hotel have courted all manner of interesting characters for nearly 300 years. 

While best known for its cigars, the mansion also houses one of the world’s largest wine cellars and, yes, a five-star restaurant. Think: high-end takes on traditional Bahamian cuisine.

Planning tip:  Make sure to call ahead for reservations — the restaurant tends to be fully booked weeks in advance.

8. Order up some conch at the Fish Fry

After you’ve checked the daiquiri off your Bahamas bingo card, your next stop is conch. Fried or fresh, the most popular spot to grab the island’s unofficial dish is the Fish Fry in Nassau. The collection of wooden shacks houses individual vendors hawking fried and fresh conch along with Bahamian staples like plantains and rice. 

The Fish Fry is open seven days a week, but it’s Friday and Saturday nights that invite a party-like atmosphere fueled by rum-spiked drinks and music. 

9. Watch a cricket match with a cold beer

The Cricket Club is where British ex-pats get their fill of Premier League Football, pints of beer and plates of Yorkshire pudding (along with legit bangers and mash). Post up at one of the tables on the upper-level balcony and watch a cricket match on the pitch below. The balmy Caribbean breezes and ice-cold beer are just the things to take the edge off a sizzling tropical day. 

10. Sample some rum at John Watling’s Distillery

What’s a visit to a Caribbean island without a bit of rum? John Watling’s Distillery has been producing the sugar cane molasses-based liquor since 2003. The distillery uses coconuts to filter their juice, which might seem tropically gimmicky at the outset, but actually does the job. 

Situated on the lush two-acre Buena Vista Estate, the distillery is open seven days a week for tours and tastings — don’t forget to pick up a half gallon of one of their estate cocktails to go. 

Do you need a visa to go to The Bahamas? 

11. Try your luck at the Baha Mar Casino

While The Bahamas has plenty of natural beauty to keep you entertained, the island archipelago also has a decidedly glitzy side, and it’s on full display at the Baha Mar complex in Nassau.

Comprising the SLS, Grand Hyatt, and Rosewood resorts, the Baha Mar Casino ties all the properties together and can add “largest casino in the Caribbean” to its resume. Join the well-heeled crowd with a good-luck cocktail before hitting up one of the 119 live table games, 1000 slot machines or placing a bet on a televised live sports game. 

12. Dive into a grotto like 007

Thunderball Grotto is an underwater cave system best known for its star turn in a James Bond movie. Located just west of Staniel Cay, the craggy aquamarine pool is perfect for a day of diving, swimming and snorkeling while channeling your inner international spy — even if for just a few minutes.

13. Enjoy a day of snorkeling at Sandy Toes

Only a short 30-minute boat ride from Nassau, Rose Island is home to Sandy Toes , the quintessential Bahamian beach bar. Located on the shores of a secluded tropical island, you can opt to spend the day snorkeling in the surrounding crystal clear waters or romping around with the island’s nine resident pigs (if that’s something that interests you).

Afterward, grab a frozen daiquiri from the bar and kick back in one of the island’s rope hammocks.  

14. Snorkel around the barrier reef on Andros

Time to put your mask and fins to good use — the barrier reef on Andros Island is the third-largest on the planet and offers a one-of-kind peek at the colorful array of marine life that inhabits the Caribbean waters. Known as “the Big Yard,” Andros is largely unpopulated, allowing much of the natural Bahamian terrain to remain wild and undisturbed. 

But it’s the 190-mile barrier reef that steals the show, with its submerged shipwrecks, underwater blue holes, and schools of parrotfish, speckled scorpionfish, and blue tangs.

This article was first published Jan 21, 2022 and updated Nov 29, 2022.

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The Bahamas

First-time visitors to the Bahamas are drawn in by the promise of white-sand beaches and gently lapping waves, but they discover that this wonderland of 700 islands offers so much more. From raucous carnivals and events tied to the nation’s British colonial history to world-class diving into blue holes and hiking in national parks, from romantic afternoons spent on deserted island beaches to family-friendly day trips on fishing boats, the Bahamas offer unique experiences for everyone. The best part: things move more slowly in the Bahamas, which means you’ll have plenty of time to explore.

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How to get around The Bahamas

All visitors must possess a valid passport and proof of onward or return travel. Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau is the main air hub, with service to many other islands. Abacos has two small international airports with U.S. connections. Private and public ferry services are available between most major islands.

Major airlines connect the United States with the Bahamas, and if you plan to stay in Nassau, Paradise island, or Freeport, your journey is a simple one. If you plan on reaching one of the Out Islands, options are more varied—and more exciting. You can charter a plane or speedboat, or secure passage on a mail or delivery ship, like an adventurer of old. More than a dozen Bahamian islands are served by U.S. airlines and Bahamasair; reaching the Exumas, Eleuthera, and the Abacos is a straightforward affair. Car rental isn’t a necessity in the Bahamas; both Nassau and Freeport have solid taxi and transportation networks, while many of the roads on the Out Islands are in such poor condition that driving isn’t worth the effort. Car rental is also exceptionally expensive, even by Caribbean standards. One exception is Grand Bahama Island; driving here is simple and straightforward. Remember that in the Bahamas you drive on the left. Hitching a ride on one of the 19 “Post Office Navy” ships isn’t as common as it once was, though all 30 inhabited Bahamian islands are still serviced. Boats leave from Potter’s Cay and Prince George Wharf each morning, with voyages that can last from 5 to 12 hours, depending on your final destination. Prices are cheap, but accommodations are sometimes rough (depending on the boat). Conversely, seeing the islands by charter boat is a remarkable experience, and comes with a remarkable price tag. Charter companies operate on all of the major islands.

Culture in The Bahamas

The culture of the Bahamas is characterized by African, Caribbean, European, and American influences, while the Out Islands have developed their own traditions, folklore, and arts. Music is generally considered one of the nation’s most important cultural exports, with acts like the Baha Men enjoying global appeal. The traditional music scene, including local styles like rake and scrape, soca, and the ever-popular calypso, serve as a wonderful introduction to Bahamian culture. The Bahamas have more churches per capita than any other nation on earth, and religious capital is important. Folklore and oral traditions have enjoyed something of a revival in recent years, while the islands have long been known for tremendous arts and crafts.

There’s such a thing as too much sun and surf (especially if you forgot your sunblock), even in an island paradise like the Bahamas. Fortunately, there’s plenty to enjoy on solid ground. The islands have a history of hosting tremendous Caribbean carnivals that last for a month and take over city streets. The best known is the Junkanoo celebration on Boxing Day, a celebration of folk art with roots that date back to the 16th century. The largest Junkanoo street festival takes place annually in Nassau. The Fox Hill Day Freedom Festival is held on the second weekend in August and includes the important Emancipation Day Memorial Service. The three-day Andros Crab Festival runs the first week of June at Fresh Creek, while the Bahamas International Film Festival is held every December. The Eleuthera Pineapple Festival, first held in Gregory Town in 1988, now welcomes more than 5,000 visitors to the islands during the first week of June. The Coconut Festival is held around the same time.

Food and drink to try in The Bahamas

Gastronomic bliss in the Bahamas begins and ends with the mighty conch, pronounced conk. Conch is traditionally served fried (known as cracked conch) or raw with a side of rice and peas. Bahamian cuisine is notable for an abundant use of fish and shellfish. Lobster, crab, grouper, and bonefish are particularly popular, while goat remains a common livestock staple. Bahamian food traditions are influenced by the American South, so it’s common to find grits, split peas, and pudding served as sides.

How you spend your time on the beach depends mainly on how much time you have. Pack a few books and unroll your towel by the pool at one of Paradise Island’s world-class beach resorts. If you’d prefer to ride on the water, climb aboard a sailing catamaran with a Flying Cloud Catamaran Cruise. Snorkel around Nassau’s shallow coral reefs, scuba dive the world’s third largest barrier reef with an Andros Barrier Reef Expedition, or mount a Scenic Underwater Bubble—like a cross between motorcycling and scuba diving—for a truly unique glimpse into the Bahamian water world. Of course, anyone would understand if you simply basked all day on Tahiti Beach where rum cocktails, bright skies, and relaxed sunbathers reign.

Guide Editor

Flash Parker is currently studying to become a wilderness survival expert in the same tradition as Paul Bunyan, though his beard has yet to mature, and blue ox are less common than they once were. Flash moonlights as a writer, photographer, and photojournalist. His work has been published by AFAR, Lonely Planet, Conde Nast, Canadian Living, USA Today, Get Lost Magazine, GQ Magazine, Asian Geographic, Escape Magazine, American Cowboy and more.

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Is It Safe to Travel to the Bahamas? Here’s What You Need to Know.

A string of gang-related murders in the local community prompted the U.S. embassy in the island nation to issue a security alert.

By Shannon Sims

Drawn by clear turquoise waters and miles of white-sand beaches, around seven million travelers visit the Bahamas each year, but a new warning about increased violence on the island nation has raised alarm over the safety of visiting there.

On Jan. 24, the U.S. Embassy in Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, issued a security alert advising U.S. citizens “to be aware that 18 murders have occurred in Nassau since the beginning of 2024. Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets.”

The startling alert was unusual for the Bahamas. In addition to security alerts and other notices released by its embassies, the State Department issues travel advisories for countries to provide the suggested vigilance visitors should take. Currently, the Bahamas has a Level 2 (“Exercise increased caution”) warning.

Many tourism-reliant countries, including Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic, currently have Level 2 warnings, and most travelers experience safe and enjoyable vacations. The tourism industry in the Bahamas contributes around 70 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce, and employs half the country’s work force.

Here’s what you need to know about the security alert and traveling to the Bahamas.

What prompted the alert in the Bahamas?

According to the State Department, “retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders,” and it is primarily affecting the local population, particularly on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands, where the cities of Nassau and Freeport are. The warnings mention that the violent crime has been occurring in both tourist and nontourist areas.

What does Level 2 mean?

To help advise Americans traveling to particular countries, the State Department employs a scale from 1 to 4 to indicate the local security situation, starting with the safest, Level 1. The levels can vary within a country, with certain areas considered a greater security risk than others.

According to the department’s website , Level 2 means, “Exercise increased caution: Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security.”

Many parts of the world are under Level 2 advisory, for reasons ranging from street crime to concerns over terrorism. The majority of visitors to those countries do not experience any danger — many are not even aware of the heightened risk indicated by the levels.

Level 3, by contrast, advises Americans to “reconsider” or “avoid” travel (countries such as Egypt, Nigeria and Pakistan are now at Level 3). Level 4 means “Do not travel” and emphasizes that “during an emergency, the U.S. government may have very limited ability to provide assistance.” Currently, Russia and Ukraine are among the countries with a Level 4 rating.

What about the rest of the region?

Currently, Turks and Caicos and Cuba are also Level 2 because of concerns over crime. Many areas of Mexico are under elevated warnings ranging from Level 2 (Mexico City) to Level 4 (Colima). On Jan. 23, Jamaica was raised to Level 3 because of crime and uneven medical care, with the State Department warning that “sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts.”

Aren’t there sharks in the Bahamas, too?

On Jan. 15, a 10-year-old boy was attacked by a shark while participating in a “shark experience” at a hotel on Paradise Island, according to the Royal Bahamas Police Force. He was reported to be in stable condition. Last month, an American woman died by shark attack while paddle-boarding in the Bahamas, the police said.

However, shark attacks are extremely rare in the Bahamas: The Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File indicates that there have only been 29 unprovoked attacks in the country since the 16th century.

How can I stay safe on my trip?

The U.S. Embassy in Nassau offers some guidance for staying safe , advising travelers to use “extreme caution” in the eastern part of New Providence Island — where Nassau is — especially “when walking or driving at night.” Specifically, the Over the Hill neighborhood , south of Shirley Street, should be avoided.

Travelers are also advised to take typical precautions and use common sense: to remain aware of their surroundings (leaving jewelry and electronics at home), to create a personal security plan, not to answer the door if you don’t know who it is and, if things go wrong, not to physically resist any robbery attempt. The U.S. government suggests staying especially vigilant if you’re staying at a short-term-rental property without a security presence, and women traveling alone may want to take special precautions .

Before traveling, consider obtaining traveler’s insurance, including a medical evacuation policy. Most foreign hospitals and doctors do not accept U.S. health insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid.

Another way to stay informed is to enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program . The free program sends travelers updated information on security situations by email or text message, and makes it easier for a U.S. Embassy to contact you should an emergency arise.

Ultimately, travel comes down to a question of one’s personal comfort. If you interpret a Level 2 warning as sufficient reason to cancel your trip, there’s no shame in making a choice that eases your mind.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this story misstated that gang violence prompted the State Department to raise its travel advisory level for the Bahamas. The advisory was already at Level 2. The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a security alert for the Bahamas, but the State Department did not raise the travel advisory in response to the violence.

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Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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The Bahamas

Travel Advisory January 26, 2024

The bahamas - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Updated with additional water safety information.

Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to  crime . 

Country Summary : The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands. In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the “Over the Hill” area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population. Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence.   

 Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications.  Always review and heed local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities. Commercial watercraft operators have discretion to operate their vessels regardless of weather forecasts; injuries and fatalities have occurred. Due to these safety concerns, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.   

Never swim alone, regardless of your age or level of swimming skills.  Keep within your fitness and swimming capabilities. Be mindful of sharks when swimming and engaging in water activities, as there have been recent fatal and non-fatal incidents involving sharks.  Be aware of weather and water conditions and heed local warnings. 

Read the country information page  for additional information on travel to The Bahamas. 

If you decide to travel to The Bahamas:  

• Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.  
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.  
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.  
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram .  
• Review the Country Security Report  for The Bahamas.  
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency and medical situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .  
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Passports must be valid at time of entry through departure (throughout the duration of stay).

Two pages are required for entry stamp.

Visitors must declare currency and other negotiable instruments of $10,000 or more upon entry.

Visitors must declare currency and other negotiable instruments of $10,000 or more upon exit.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy nassau.

P.O. Box N-8197 #42 Queen Street Nassau, The Bahamas Telephone: +(242) 322-1181 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(242) 322-1181 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the  Bahamas Immigration  website for the most current visa information. U.S. citizens are generally required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to The Bahamas, as well as proof of anticipated departure from The Bahamas. Those traveling to The Bahamas on a cruise may use another  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative  (WHTI) compliant document, such as a U.S. passport card. However, we strongly recommend you obtain a passport before travel in case of an unforeseen emergency that requires you to disembark and return by air. U.S. travelers coming for tourism will not need a visa for travel up to 90 days. All other travelers will need a visa and/or work permit.

The Bahamas requires compliance with regulations to divert child abduction similar to  U.S. policies . Review those policies before traveling.

HIV/AIDS restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of The Bahamas. Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Crime:  The Department of State rates the criminal threat level in New Providence Island (includes Nassau and Paradise Island) as critical. The vast majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) Islands. Criminal activity on the outlying Family Islands does occur, but to a much lesser degree than on New Providence or Grand Bahama. In Nassau, exercise caution in the “Over the Hill” area (south of Shirley Street). Violent crime such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults occur, but generally not in tourist areas. For the latest  security messages , visit our website. Find more information about common safety and security concerns in The Bahamas including  credit card fraud ,  real estate matters , and  water sport and scooter safety  on our website. Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 919 or 911, and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(242) 322-1181. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Adventure Tourism:  Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. Watercraft are often not maintained, and many companies do not have safety certifications to operate in The Bahamas. Reconsider going on the water in rough seas or inclement weather, as accidents and fatalities have occurred in such conditions. U.S. citizens seeking to engage in adventure tourism-related activities, including boat tours, are strongly encouraged to confirm the following with any tour operator:

• Credentials and certification to operate in The Bahamas
• Liability in the event of an accident
• Safety and rescue protocols for guides

Jet-Ski Operators:  Jet-ski operators have been known to commit sexual assaults against tourists. As a result, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.

Watersports Advisory: Carefully assess the potential risks of recreational water activities and consider your physical capabilities and skills. Be aware of sharks when in or on the water, as shark bites do occur and can result in serious injury or death. Never venture out alone, particularly at isolated beaches or far out to sea. Avoid entering the water above your waist if you have been drinking and always be mindful of jet ski and boat traffic in the area. Do not engage in water activities during times of inclement weather or rough seas. Commercial watercraft operators have discretion to operate their vessels regardless of weather forecasts; injuries and fatalities have occurred.

Hurricanes:  Hurricane season generally runs from June through November, although hurricanes can occur outside that period. Monitor local weather reports closely. Airports and seaports cease operations well before a predicted storm arrives, and seats on most commercial transportation may sell out far in advance. For more information on hurricane preparedness, please refer to the Department of State’s page on  Crisis Abroad and the U.S. Embassy Nassau’s  Hurricane Preparedness  page.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Drugs:    Marijuana and all products that contains its derivatives such as cannabidiol (CBD) and  tetrahydrocannabinol  (THC) -- to include gummies, oils and other edible products -- are NOT legal in The Bahamas.  Having a prescription or medical card for cannabis/marijuana does not exempt you from being prosecuted under Bahamian law, which makes no distinction between medical and recreational use of marijuana.

The possession or use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, and ecstasy, is a criminal offense in The Bahamas and can result in time in prison. While visiting The Bahamas, you are subject to Bahamian law.  Drug violators are regularly arrested, even for possession of small quantities . All persons 16 years of age or older in The Bahamas are tried as adults in court. If you are arrested for drug possession, you should expect to spend at least one night, and possibly longer, in custody. Stay away from drug traffickers, who may be often armed and violent. Do not accept packages from people you meet during your stay.

Firearms, Ammunition, and other weapons are not permitted in The Bahamas .  According to The Bahamas Firearms Act, individuals found to have a firearm or ammunition in their possession without a legally issued Bahamian gun license face a penalty of up to 10 years’ incarceration and $10,000 fine.  Declaring the weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into The Bahamas.

If you have a firearm or ammunition onboard a boat entering Bahamian waters, you must declare it with Bahamian Customs at the first point of entry.  Only declared shotguns and handguns are allowed in Bahamian waters.  You must provide the serial number, name of the manufacturer, and an exact count of ammunition.  Declared firearms cannot be removed from your boat and must be kept locked at all times.

If a U.S. citizen illegally brings a firearm or ammunition into The Bahamas, the U.S. Embassy will not be able to secure their release.  All foreign nationals are subject to Bahamian law and must follow local law enforcement procedures.  Please read more information on the Department of State’s page for Travelers With Firearms here .

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information. Travelers should also be aware that Bahamian laws do not include a right to a public defender in lower courts. Any legal representation is at the expense of the visitor.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in The Bahamas.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information   page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance .  Accessibility and accommodations in The Bahamas are very different from in the United States. Newer buildings, especially in tourism-centric areas are accessible, but many older buildings are not.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For more information about  customs concerns ,  boating , and  wildlife , please visit our website.

Medical care is available on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands. However, serious illnesses or injuries might not be treatable locally. Serious health problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost tens of thousands of dollars in up-front costs. Outer islands have only small clinics, and medical care is limited.

Ambulance service is available on the major islands, but traffic congestion on New Providence Island can cause delays.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas insurancecoverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of  The Bahamas  to ensure the medication is legal in The Bahamas. Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Driving in The Bahamas is on the left-hand side of the road. Traffic congestion in Nassau is severe, and drivers frequently display aggressive or careless tendencies. Accidents involving pedestrians on New Providence Island are common. Drive defensively and be alert to cars pulling out from side streets. Local practice is to allow this on an individual basis. It is not uncommon to see poorly maintained or excessively loaded vehicles on roadways. Rural roads can be narrow, winding, and in poor condition. Road flooding occurs frequently in many areas, including Nassau and Freeport, during and after rainstorms. Be alert for unmarked or poorly marked construction zones.

Traffic Laws: Seatbelts are required for drivers and passengers in The Bahamas. Wearing helmets on a scooters and motorbikes is also compulsory.

Public Transportation: Public transportation is available by minibus (known as jitneys) and taxi. Jitneys stop frequently and often without warning at undesignated stops. Taxi fares are based on zones and surcharges can apply for additional passengers and luggage. It is important to agree on a fare prior to departing for the destination.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the website of The Bahamas’  Ministry of Tourism  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of The Bahamas’ Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of The Bahamas’ air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to The Bahamas should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts .  Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnin gs .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
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• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  The Bahamas . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Best Times To Visit Bahamas

The best time to visit the Bahamas is from mid-December to mid-April, the country's peak season. Though temperatures here are great year-round (they rarely dip below 60 degrees), the islands fall within the hurricane belt, so hurricanes may be a factor between June 1 and Nov. 30 (the Atlantic hurricane season). Most of these months (plus May) also fall within the region's rainy season, which can leave you with fewer days spent enjoying the islands' outdoor activities. But keep in mind that mid-December to mid-April's sublime weather attracts hordes of tourists, so prices will be at their highest and crowds at their thickest during these months.

Weather in Bahamas

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Bahamas Visitors Guide

How to get there, things to do & more.

Updated June 2024 ⋅ Written by Laura Schulthies ⋅ Edited by Daniel Mode

Welcome to The Bahamas

The Bahamas has something for everyone. Whether you’re a single wanting to get away, a couple looking for quality time, or a family seeking adventure, the Bahamas is the ultimate island destination. Swim in the blue waters , explore vibrant markets and visit historic cultural sites in this tropical paradise. With 700 islands and 2,500 cays, the opportunities are endless! This guide will help you better explore, relax and enjoy your next Bahamas vacation.

Bahamas Map

A Bit Of History

Some of the earliest settlers to The Bahamas were the Lucayan people who thrived on the islands for hundreds of years until Christopher Columbus arrived in 1492. In 1649, puritan English colonists from Bermuda known as Eleutheran Adventurers arrived and settled on the island of Eleuthera.

The Bahamas became a British crown colony in 1718, and it was around this time that pirates began to use many of smaller islands as hideouts for raiding European ships in the area, especially around Nassau . The British eventually put an end to piracy, and over the following centuries, the Bahamas flourished.

American settlers soon arrived as well, and the islands became a hotspot for trade during the Civil War and Prohibition Era . In 1973, the Bahamas became a free country, ending over 300 years of British rule.

The Bahamas Today

The Bahamas have been a thriving tourist destination since 1898. The tourist economy actually began during the Prohibition era when wealthy Americans sought out the islands as an escape from the government’s restrictions. Today, thousands of people travel from all over the world to experience the countless attractions the island nation has to offer. Though the capital city Nassau on the island of New Providence has the highest population, there are numerous islands with substantial populations, tourism infrastructure, and wonderful hotel and luxurious resort options.

Is The Bahamas Safe?

The Bahamas are very attractive when it comes to having beautiful white sand beaches , but it is not the safest country in the region to travel to.

Violent crimes, assaults, and thefts have risen a bit in recent years but seldom target tourists. While the majority of crimes are due to drug or gang-related incidents, it is advised to use caution still and avoid non-touristic areas when alone or after dark.

Where are The Bahamas?

click map to enlarge

The Bahamas are an archipelago of more than 3,000 islands, cays, and islets that stretch over 500 miles in the West Indies area of the Atlantic Ocean.

The island nation is located north of Cuba, northwest of the Dominican Republic and the Turks & Caicos , and southeast of Florida.

The Best Time to Visit The Bahamas

Looking for the best time to go to The Bahamas? The temperatures in The Bahamas range from the high 70s to high 80s year-round. However, there are dry and wet seasons. The Atlantic hurricane season is something all travelers should be aware of.

December to April

Mid-December to mid-April is widely considered the best time to travel to The Bahamas. The weather is perfect during this time, but this also means more tourists and higher prices on flights, hotels and tours. March to mid-April is Spring Break season in America, so popular beaches can be overrun with college kids.

May to November

This is technically the offseason and as such, you may be able to find great deals during the months of May to November. However, this is also the “rainy” season. Though the weather is still quite nice most of the time, you do risk having your trip canceled or cut short as this is also the region’s hurricane season.

  When Is The Bahamas Hurricane Season?

The Bahamas hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak months being August, September, and October. The risk of hurricanes hitting the Bahamas has increased in the past few years, but they are unpredictable and not a guarantee even during peak season. Hurricanes are infrequent in the Bahamas, and when one does come, satellite forecasts generally give adequate advance warning. Be sure to check weather reports before your trip, and we always recommend getting travel insurance during these months just in case of inclement weather.

How to Get to The Bahamas & Around

There are a few ways to get to and around The Bahamas.

Arrival by Air

With 20 international airports the Bahamas welcome flights from around the world. If you want to get to the outer islands you will fly through Nassau first.

The main airport in the Bahamas is the Nassau Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS). Many American and Canadian airlines have direct flights to this airport from major cities.

If you are connecting to one of the Out Islands from Nassau, it’s a good idea to allow at least 1½ hours to clear Immigration and Customs. Then simply proceed to the domestic terminal to check-in for your departing flight.

  Search for great deals on flights here .

Arrival By Cruise

The Bahamas are a huge destination for cruise ships, and there are many ports of call within the islands. Many of the major cruise lines sail here, including Norwegian Sky, Mariner of the Seas and Disney Dream.

The top cruise ship ports in the Bahamas are Nassau on New Providence Island and Freeport on Grand Bahama Island. Each port offers visitors a different experience.

  Search for great deals on cruises here .

Shuttles in The Bahamas

While it’s easy to find airport transfers at many international airports, that’s not the case in the Bahamas. If you are interested in airport transfers, both shuttles and private transportation can be pre-arranged to pick you up and take you from the airport to your accommodation.

Private transportation transfers typically cost around $88 for a 4 passenger sedan and $160 for a 10 passenger van. Keep in mind that many of the hotels in Nassau have their own complimentary shuttles, so make sure to check with your accommodations while booking.

  You can easily  book ground transportation from the airport to your hotel here .

Jitney Buses in The Bahamas

The local public transportation, known as Jitney Buses, travel to select parts of some of the islands. While they are not known for being the most punctual, they are known for being the most budget friendly way to travel around the islands.

One-way rides on Jitney Buses cost around $1.25 to $3.50 per person, and only exact change is accepted. The Jitneys operate from about 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m, however they don’t have set timetables.  

You’ll have to wave a Jitney down to get it to stop, and to get off the bus just say “stop” and the driver will pull over to let you off.

Rental Cars in The Bahamas

Many people get around the larger islands by renting a car or taxi. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, then renting a car may be worth it. 

You can rent a car upon arrival at all of the major airports in the Bahamas. Rental cars cost about $70 per day for economy cars and $100 per day for standard SUVs. Larger SUV’s cost around $140 per day. You’ll need to drive on the left side of the road, and a U.S. driver’s license is valid for driving in the Bahamas for up to 3 months.

  Search for great deals on rental cars here .

Water Taxis & Ferries in The Bahamas

Island hopping can be a bit difficult in the Bahamas. However, water taxis can be used as transport from Nassau to Paradise Island.  They are also common throughout the Out Islands.

Visitors can also use inter-island ferries that go from Nassau to Harbour Island, Eleuthera, Grand Bahama Islands, the Abacos, Long Island, Andros and the Exumas.

Ferries cost around $135 per adult and $100 per child (age 2 – 11) for one-way travel, and $250 per adult and $180 per child (age 2 – 11) for the roundtrip travel.

Visit the World-Famous Beaches

The Bahamas have some of the most amazing beaches in the world. Two of the most notable are Cable Beach in Nassau and the pink beaches of Harbour Island. The pink beaches get their pink color from an organism with a reddish-pink shell, known as foraminifera.

Cable Beach, on the other hand, has white sand, turquoise waters, and an abundance of colorful fish. Big Major Cay, also known as Pig Beach, is a favorite among visitors who want to swim with the pigs. Head to Love Beach and you may even see a low-flying airplanes buzzing by while lounging in the sand or splashing in the water.

Many islands have incredible secluded beaches like the one in North Exuma pictured above.

   Take a look at this Oasis Ocean Rose Island Charter .

  Check out more in our Best Bahamas Beaches Guide.

Go Boating!

Sail. Catamaran. Kayak. There are so many ways to get out on the water in The Bahamas. Hire a private charter to go snorkeling at Pearl Island, do some private beaching at Rose Island, or take a swim with native sea turtles at Green Cay.

Join a sunset dinner cruise and enjoy a Caribbean cruise ON the Caribbean! Or head out for a day of sport fishing . There is a wide variety of tours for visitors to enjoy.

  Take a look at this highly rated sunset dinner cruise from Nassau.

  Charter a fishing boat for the day!

  ISLAND LIFE TRAVEL TIP : GET TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel Insurance is a must in our opinion. Standard health insurance likely doesn’t cover you while outside of the country so travel insurance will cover any emergency medical needs as well as trip cancellation, lost or stolen luggage (it happens), flight delays, missed connections and more. You can easily compare the top-rated travel insurance plans here .

Enjoy the Epic Diving and Snorkeling

There are numerous islands that offer fantastic diving and snorkeling in The Bahamas. Grand Bahama Island is one of the best, with glassy blue waters and unique coral reefs. Paradise Cove is a great option if you are looking to snorkel directly off the beach.

The small and secluded Rose Island is also renowned for its bustling reef, abundant with tropical fish and shipwrecks. Rose island has no formal infrastructure, but can be easily accessed from Nassau or Paradise Island. There are also several guided snorkeling tours available throughout the islands, such as this Pear Island Snorkeling Tour .

  Snorkeling options abound in the Bahamas. Book one of these amazing snorkeling tours to swim with turtles, sharks, or the famous Bahamian swimming pigs!

  Take a look at these great scuba diving tours in the Bahamas.

   Check out this Snorkeling The Spanish Well tour or this Swimming With Turtles on Rose Island tour .

Explore the National Parks

There are over 30 National Parks in The Bahamas. Abaco National Park is a birdwatcher’s delight, known to be an ideal location to spot the Bahama parrot or white-crowned pigeon (pictured above). One of the most frequented and unique national parks is the Lucayan National Park, where visitors can explore six miles of underwater caves and tunnels.

Another popular location is the Clifton Heritage National Park, which features hiking trails, caves, old plantations, and beaches for snorkeling. For the true nature-lover seeking a rustic outdoor adventure, Primeval Forest National Park offers an undisturbed forest featuring caverns and sinkholes that are accessed by boardwalks, steps, and bridges.

  Take a look at this amazing ATV National Park Tour or this awesome Bonefish National Park Kayaking tour .

Visit the Glass Window Bridge on Eleuthera Island

The Glass Window Bridge is fondly referred to as the “narrowest place on earth”. This man-made bridge got its name from an 1895 painting by the artist Winslow Homer. Here, visitors can see the deep Atlantic Ocean meet the calm turquoise waters of the Bahamas.

Dine at Arawak Cay for a Foodie’s Delight

Arawak Cay, located on West Bay Street in Nassau, is one of the most popular Bahamian restaurants in the region. The establishment has been nicknamed “The Fish Fry” and offers many seafood delicacies such as shrimp, lobster, fried snapper (pictured above), and conch. Make sure to wash your food down with some Kalik, “the beer of The Bahamas.”

   There are several great food tour options in the Bahamas. Check out this Nassau Food Tasting and Cultural walking tour .

  Take a look at this great Nassau Rum and Food walking tour  perfect for those wanting to taste their way around Nassau.

Island Hop to Blue Lagoon Island or Harbour Island

Make sure you enjoy all that The Bahamas has to offer by island hopping! Some great locations outside of Nassau are Blue Lagoon Island and Harbour Island. Blue Lagoon Island is famous for its playful dolphins that often interact with their visitors by pushing them through the water with their snouts.

Harbour Island, on the other hand, is famous for its pink sand beach (pictured above), which many say is one of the best beaches in the world.

  Check out this amazing Pearl Island Private Ocean View Cabana .

  Take a look at this fun  Blue Lagoon Island Beach Day tour .

Browse the Farmers' Markets and John Waltings Distillery

A great place to meet some locals is at one of Bahama’s famous farmer’s markets! A popular option is Nassau’s Straw Market which has been around since the 1940s and offers food, woven straw goods, and souvenirs.

The Doongalik Farmer’s Market is also highly recommended, offering local fruits, veggies, and even sorbets. After enjoying the farmer’s markets, you can walk over to John Watling’s Distillery which produces small-batch rum and is located in an 18 th century estate.

   Check out this fun Rum Reggae and Rhythm Tour that takes you to John Watling’s Distillery.

Tour the Art Galleries

There are many highly acclaimed art galleries throughout The Bahamas for visitors to enjoy. Some of the most popular are Leo’s Art Gallery, the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas (pictured above), and Sandpiper Arts and Crafts. Window shop and enjoy the craftsmanship, or purchase a one-of-a-kind piece as a keepsake.

You can’t visit The Bahamas without trying the national food: conch. This shellfish has a texture similar to squid and can be steamed, fried, or served raw. Visitors can enjoy this tropical delicacy in a conch salad (pictured above), fritter, chowder, and even a sandwich. If you’re interested in sampling the best foods Bahamas has to offer, consider booking the Nassau Bites and Sites Food and Cultural Tour or Nassau’s Island Food Tour .

   Take a look at this amazing Conch Cooking Lesson and Tasting .

Where to Stay in The Bahamas

There are all types of accommodations in The Bahamas. From all-inclusive resorts to boutique hotels and more. Location and amenities are the two top things to look for. For great hotel info and recommendations, check out our Bahamas Hotel Guide or our Bahamas All Inclusive Resort Guide.

For hotel recommendations for every budget, check out our Bahamas Hotel Guide

What to Eat in The Bahamas

You can find a wide range of wonderful bites to eat in the Bahamas. If you’re looking for a culinary adventure, check out our Bahamas Restaurant Guide .

For great restaurant recommendations, check out our Bahamas Restaurant Guide

What To Pack For Your Trip!

The Caribbean is an enchanting wonderland of relaxation and adventure, one can easily have the trip of a lifetime here. Packing for such a vacation shouldn’t be hard, so we’ve put together a checklist to help you pack and included some of our favorites as well. Check out our What To Pack For Your Trip Guide .

Check out our guide for what to bring on your Caribbean vacation!

Islands, Beaches, Cuisine and More

Share This Post

This post has 14 comments.

Would you recommend visiting the Bahamas on its own, or arriving by cruise ship for a day or two?

Definitely on its own. Too much to see in a day or two!

Thank you for recommending the Pear Island Snorkeling Tour. It was the high-light of our trip and some of the best snorkeling we’ve had in the Bahamas.

The Rum, Reggae, and Rhythm tour was the coolest experience on our trip, and we would have never known about it without your guide. Thanks!

Thank you for all the great tips! 🙂

Happy to help Samantha!

Thank you for the great guide! This was my first time visiting the Bahamas outside of a cruise and I couldn’t have planned a better itinerary without your help.

We’re glad you enjoyed it! We will be adding more content soon.

Which is better to visit? Grand Bahama or Nassau? Thanks!

Excellent guide, thank you for putting it together. Much appreciated.

You bet. So happy you enjoy it. More to come!

Are the bars currently open in Nassau?

Yes, they are. Enjoy!

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• Original U.S. State Certified Birth Certificate or a certified copy; or an original Consular Birth Abroad Certificate from the U.S. State Department.
• Permanent Resident Card (Alien Resident Card "ARC" OR Green Card) AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship - If traveling to Canada by air, ground/car or by sea
• Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after your cruise ends.
• Guests age 16 and older whose ARC has no photo must present a valid government issued photo ID.
• Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) that is not expired - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea

Accepted Identification for Canadian Citizens & Permanent Residents

• Canadian Permanent Resident Card AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship
• Guests age 14 and under may also present either:
• Canada may require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from European homeports (excluding Southampton, England; Haifa, Israel & Istanbul, Turkey)

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Europe. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Additionally, visas or travel permits will soon be required to enter European Union countries.

• Traveling to Europe
• Coming Soon - All visitors will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.
• Sailings that have a European Union Port of Call
• For Transatlantic sailings, the United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Accepted Identification for European Citizens

• Guests are responsible for any requirements a country may have.
• Royal Caribbean strongly recommends that all guests travel with a valid passport. Learn why a passport is best
• EU Government ID
• Cruise itinerary must call only on countries within the Schengen Region .
• EU Government ID must be valid at least 3 months after your cruise ends.
• A Multi-Entry Schengen Visa may be required
• Coming Soon - European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
• Some nationalities will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.
• A Schengen Visa may be required
• European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
• Coming Soon - Some nationalities will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Dubai

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Dubai. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.K. Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Central & South American homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Central and South America. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Australian citizens cruising to and from Buenos Aires, Argentina and Valparaiso, Chile require additional documentation.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Singapore

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Singapore. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.S. Passport Book AND Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)
• All visitors are required to get an Singapore Arrival Card to travel to Singapore.

Accepted Identification for Singaporean Citizens

• Singaporean Passport Book
• Passport Book AND Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)

Travel document requirements for sailings from Japanese homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Japan. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for Japanese Citizens

• Japanese Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Chinese homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from China. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for Chinese Citizens

• Chinese Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Istanbul, Turkey

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Istanbul, Turkey. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.S. Passport Book AND Turkish Visa
• All visitors are required to get a Turkish Visa to travel to Turkey.
• Passport Book AND Turkish Visa

Travel document requirements for sailings from Haifa, Israel

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Haifa, Israel. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• All visitors will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Seward, Alaska

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the Seward. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Canada may require a Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Southampton, England

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Southampton. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Additionally, visas or travel permits will soon be required to enter the U.K. and European Union countries.

• Entering the U.K.
• Coming Soon - All visitors will soon be required to get an U.K. Travel Authorization (ETA) to travel to the U.K.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the Honolulu. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).

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International travel documents for children

See what documents a child needs to travel to or from the U.S. alone or with a parent or relative.

Children traveling to the U.S.

All children, including infants, must have their own travel documents such as a passport or document from a Trusted Traveler Program to enter the U.S. If you travel or are going to travel with a child, consider taking the following documents:

• If the child is traveling with only one of their custodial parents, they must have a letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent or signed by both parents. The letter should say "I acknowledge that my son/daughter is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."
• If one parent has sole custody of the child, a copy of the custody document can take the place of the other parent's letter.
• Parents who frequently cross the border by land with a minor must always carry a letter of permission from the other parent.

U.S. citizen children traveling abroad

Ports of entry in many countries have security measures to prevent international child abduction . If you are traveling alone with your child, you may be required to present documentation proving you are the parent or legal guardian. You may also need a letter of permission from the other parent for your child to travel. 

If your child travels alone, depending on the country, they may be required to present a notarized letter from both parents or their legal guardian. If a minor is traveling abroad and is not accompanied by both parents or a legal guardian, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting and ask about entry and exit requirements for that country.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Olivia Brower’s SI Swimsuit Debut in the Bahamas Is the Best Travel Inspo

Ananya panchal | jun 4, 2024.

Olivia Brower made her SI Swimsuit debut in 2019, when she traveled to the marvelous tropical location of Great Exuma, Bahamas with photographer Laretta Houston. She returned to the fold a year later, and posed for visual artist Josie Clough in Scrub Island, in the British Virgin Islands .

The California native began modeling when she was a teenager and has starred in campaigns for Intimissimi, Freya Lingerie and Garage Clothing. In 2021, Brower landed a super cool and exciting digital cover opportunity with Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam .

“I remember when I first booked SI [Swimsuit], I just started crying, and then I called my mom. Because I really wasn’t expecting it at all. And then I had three weeks to get ready before I headed off to the Bahamas. It’s been a surreal experience, one that I am grateful for,” Brower, who turns 28 next month, recalled . “You know, I’ve wanted to be a part of the Sports Illustrated family for so many years now. Ever since I started modeling, I looked up to the women in the pages of the magazine and I just wanted to be a part of it. It’s so empowering to see women who represent such a vast majority of people. And I hope that other women and young ladies that look at the pages can be inspired by these incredible women. ’Cause honestly they’re all spectacular and have an amazing story. I think Sports Illustrated does such a wonderful job at showing diversity … it’s empowering. … Boys grow up with action figures. I grew up with Sports Illustrated.”

Below are some of our favorite photos from her SI Swimsuit debut in the Bahamas.

ANANYA PANCHAL

• Best overall
• Best for cruises
• Best for reputation
• Best for preexisting conditions
• Best for digital nomads
• Best low-cost
• Best for road trips
• How we reviewed travel insurance companies

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Travel Insurance in June 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Traveling is an adventure, a leap into the unknown, a story waiting to unfold. But every story needs a safety net, and that's where travel insurance comes in. In this guide to the best travel insurance, we'll embark on a journey to help you better understand travel insurance and uncover the benefits that make it an indispensable companion for any traveler.

Our Picks for the Best Travel Insurance Companies

Best overall: nationwide travel insurance.

• Runner-Up: AXA Assistance USA
• Best for Cruises: Travel Guard
• Best Reputation:  C&F Travel Insured
• Best for Pre-existing Conditions:   Tin Leg Travel Insurance
• Best for Digital Nomads:   WorldTrips Travel Insurance
• Best Low-Cost Option:   Trawick International Travel Insurance

Best for Road Trips: Travelex Travel Insurance

How we rate travel insurance »

Compare the Best Travel Insurance Companies

The best travel insurance companies offer comprehensive coverage options for a wide range of people and needs. For this guide, we looked at coverage options, customizability, and the best companies for specific situations, such as pre-existing conditions.

Here are Business Insider's picks for the best travel insurance companies in 2024. 

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three cruise-specific plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual travel insurance plans available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong trip cancellation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR insurance not available with every single plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is lower than what some competitors offer

Nationwide Travel Insurance offers many of the standard benefits you might see with a travel insurance policy. This can include things like trip cancellation coverage, so you can recover pre-paid costs or trip interruption in the event your vacation is interrupted by an unexpected event. There's also baggage delay coverage and medical coverage.

• Cancel for any reason coverage available

Nationwide Travel Insurance is of the largest players in the travel insurance space, offering nearly endless options for any customer on the travel spectrum, including annual travel insurance plans which can offer frequent travelers the flexibility to "set it and forget it" on their travel insurance coverage.

Nationwide Essential also offers some of the most affordable policies in the market compared to similar plans from competitors, which makes it a great pick for just about anyone. Buyers can discuss bundling options as Nationwide also sells homeowners, auto, pet, and other insurance products. Its travel insurance quoting is just as easy as it has been with other Nationwide insurance products.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best Travel Insurance Runner-Up: AXA Assistance USA

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical evacuation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1,500 per person coverage for missed connections on cruises and tours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Covers loss of ski, sports and golf equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage ceilings per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage only available for most expensive Platinum plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR coverage ceiling only reaches $50,000 maximum despite going up to 75%

AXA Assistance USA keeps travel insurance simple with gold, silver, and platinum plans. Emergency medical and CFAR are a couple of the options you can expect. Read on to learn more about AXA.

• Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans available
• Trip interruption coverage of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000

AXA Assistance USA  offers consumers a great option for no-stress travel insurance: low-priced plans, generous coverage limits on key categories including primary insurance on lost luggage, and up to 150% reimbursement for qualifying trip cancellations.

While add-ons are limited and rental car coverage is not included by default on cheaper plans, AXA is a perfect fit for travelers who don't plan to drive (or who already hold a travel credit card with rental car coverage), and don't need any additional bells and whistles.

Read our AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance review here.

Best for Cruises: AIG Travel Guard

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the cost, for all three plan levels
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR covers up to 75% of total trip costs (maximum of $112,500 on some plans) 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Medical coverage of up to $500,000 and evacuation of up to $1,000,000 per person
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes COVID coverage 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Above average baggage loss and delay benefits
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Premiums may run slightly higher than competitors

Travel Guard is a well-established and highly rated name in the travel insurance industry. It offers three main coverage options to choose from, and in general its policies have above-average coverage for baggage loss and baggage delays, plus high medical evaluation coverage limits.

• Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Preexisting medical conditions exclusions waiver must be purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment
• Annual travel insurance plan and Pack N' Go plan (for last-minute trips) available

Travel Guard is well-known insurance provider, and a great fit for travelers who want to ensure that they can get their money back in the event of canceled or interrupted travel plans.

While the company's policies can be pricey compared to its competitors, the high medical and evacuation limits make AIG a solid choice for older travelers who value peace of mind and simplicity over highly customizable plans that may be bolstered with medical upgrades.

Read our AIG Travel Guard review here.

Best for Reputation: C&F Travel Insured

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers 2 major plans including CFAR coverage on the more expensive option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancellation for job loss included as a covered reason for trip cancellation/interruption (does not require CFAR coverage to qualify)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Frequent traveler reward included in both policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million in medical evacuation coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is only $100,000
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews on claims processing indicate ongoing issues
• C&F's Travel Insured policies allow travelers customize travel insurance to fit their specific needs. Frequent travelers may benefit from purchasing an annual travel insurance plan, then adding on CFAR coverage for any portions of travel that may incur greater risk.

While every travel insurance company has negative reviews about its claims process, C&F Travel Insured 's claims process has a consistent stream of positive reviews. One customer wrote that C&F processed a claim within 48 hours. Additionally, C&F regularly responds to customer reviews within one business week, making reviews a consistent way to reach the company.

Additionally, in C&F's fine print, it mentions that any claims that take more than 30 days to pay out will begin to accrue interest at 9% APY.

C&F's reputation isn't the only thing to speak highly of. It offers an array of add-ons uncommon in the travel insurance industry, such as Interruption for Any Reason insurance and CFAR coverage for annual plans. C&F also offers discounts for children on its Protector Edge plan and free coverage on its Protector plan.  

Read our C&F Travel Insured review here. 

Best for Pre-Existing Conditions: Tin Leg Travel Insurance

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Policy coverage includes most pre-existing health conditions
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical and evacuation amounts for peace of mind
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. COVID coverage included by default on all insurance plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers a wide range of plans for various budgets and travel needs
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some plans offer CFAR, “cancel for work reasons,” financial default, and unemployment coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited add-on coverage options
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage loss and delay coverage is low compared to competitors

Tin Leg travel insurance offers eight travel insurance plans to meet the unique needs of travelers.

• Tin Leg was founded in 2014 by the travel insurance industry experts at Squaremouth. Designed to meet the most common needs of travelers, these policies offer comprehensive Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption benefits, and a range of Emergency Medical and Medical Evacuation limits.

Tin Leg Travel Insurance is a great fit for travelers with medical issues in particular. Seven of Tin Leg's eight travel plans include coverage for pre-existing conditions as long as you purchase your policy within 15 days of your initial trip payment.

Thanks to coverage for pre-existing medical conditions as well as for potential COVID-19 infection while traveling, this company offers some of the best financial investment options for travelers who are or will be exposed to higher health risks and issues.

Read our Tin Leg Travel Insurance review here.

Best for Digital Nomads: WorldTrips Travel Insurance

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable base plans that can be customized with add-ons including rental car, pet care, hunting and fishing, and vacation rental coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Insurance plans available for international student travelers
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage benefit that kicks in after just five hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Pre-existing conditions waiver can be purchased within 21 days of initial trip payment
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Lower medical, evacuation and accidental death limits
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited, secondary baggage loss coverage although baggage protection can be upgraded at a low cost
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc.

WorldTrips has been a reputable travel insurance provider for more than 20 years. Unsurprisingly, it boasts an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and positive reviews from thousands of customers.

• Travel medical insurance (Premium, Group, Annual, and International Student options)
• Trip cancellation insurance
• Trip protection insurance

WorldTrips Travel Insurance has affordable premiums, highly customizable add-ons, and generous coverage for core categories of travel insurance. All this makes it a great option for digital nomads, students studying abroad and backpackers.

However, travelers should keep in mind that plans are not particularly flexible, and coverage amounts are limited unless you plan ahead to pay for the areas and amounts that you need.

Read our WorldTrips Travel Insurance review here.

Best for Affordability: Trawick International Travel Insurance

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Useful for adventurous travelers headed to higher-risk destinations
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable plans with varying levels of coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 10-day free look option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage loss replacement policy
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage kicks in after just six hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some policies allow a CFAR add-on
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million medical evacuation coverage limit
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage and trip delay coverages don’t kick in until after the 12-hour mark
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. International student policies available for temporary stints abroad
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Complaints about claims not being paid or involving an intermediary to resolve claims

Trawick International travel insurance offers plans customized to diverse travelers' needs. We look at coverage options, claims processing, pricing, and other important factors for savvy travelers.

• Travel medical insurance
• Trip protection and cancellation
• International student insurance
• Visitor medical insurance (for traveling to the US)

Trawick International Travel Insurance is another insurance provider with robust medical travel insurance  that can help higher-risk and anxious travelers find peace of mind while on the road. This company offers one of the most generous medical evacuation policies in the market, although travelers will need to remember to add on rental car coverage if they need it.

Read our Trawick Travel Insurance review here.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Options to cover sports equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Option to increase medical coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can cancel up to 48 hours before travel when CFAR option is purchased
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable coverage for budget-conscious travelers
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Optional "adventure sports" bundle available for riskier activities
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only two insurance plans to choose from
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage maximum is low at up to $50,000 per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Pricier than some competitors with lower coverage ceilings
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Some competitors offer higher medical emergency coverage

Travelex travel insurance is one of the largest travel insurance providers in the US providing domestic and international coverage options. It offers a basic, select, and America option. Read on to learn more.

• Optional CFAR insurance available with the Travel Select plan
• Trip delay insurance starting at $500 with the Travel Basic plan
• Emergency medical and dental coverage starting at $15,000

Travelex Travel Insurance  offers three plans:

• Travel Basic
• Travel Select
• Travel America

The Travelex America plan is meant for trips limited to the U.S., but it has the highest coverage limits in many areas compared to its other programs. If you're flying somewhere, the lost baggage limits are higher. Its natural strengths shine for road trippers, though. Travelex America adds coverage for roadside service and rental car coverage for unexpected accidents. It also covers pets should you be involved in an accident while on the road.

While your standard auto insurance does extend to car rentals within the U.S. for a limited time, any accident would affect future rates. Travelex would eliminate the risk of reporting to your auto insurance provider for minor incidents within its purview.

Read our Travelex Travel Insurance review here.

Introduction to Travel Insurance

Why travel insurance is a must-have.

The unpredictable nature of traveling – from flight cancellations to medical emergencies – can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. Travel insurance acts as a personal safeguard, ensuring that unexpected events don't drain your wallet or ruin your trip.

Understanding Different Types of Travel Insurance

Not all travel insurance policies are created equal. From single-trip travel insurance policies to annual travel insurance plans , from minimal coverage to comprehensive protection, understanding the spectrum of options is your first step in finding the right fit for your journey.

Key Features to Look for in Travel Insurance Coverage

Travel insurance for medical emergencies.

Imagine falling ill in a foreign country; daunting, right? A robust travel insurance plan ensures you don't have to worry about how much emergency medical care while traveling will cost, even in the most remote corners of the globe. This coverage will often come in tandem with emergency medical evacuation coverage.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Benefits

Life is full of surprises, some less pleasant than others. Trip cancellation and interruption coverage ensures that you're not left out of pocket if unforeseen circumstances force you to cancel or cut your trip short. You may also look for cancel for any reason and interruption for any reason options, which will reimburse you for a percentage of your nonrefundable fees, but expands the covered reasons you can cancel a trip. You can find our guide on the best CFAR travel insurance companies here.

Coverage for Personal Belongings and Baggage Loss

Losing your belongings is more than an inconvenience; it's losing a piece of your world. Insurance that covers personal belongings and baggage loss ensures that you're compensated for your loss, helping you to rebound and continue your adventure.

Support and Assistance Services

In times of trouble, having a lifeline can make all the difference. Look for insurance that offers 24/7 support and assistance services, giving you peace of mind that help is just a phone call away. Also, check websites that field customer reviews like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau, and InsureMyTrip , to see how well a company responds to customer requests.

Choosing the Best Travel Insurance

Reputation and reliability of the travel insurance provider.

A provider's reputation is not just about being well-known; it's about reliability, customer satisfaction, and the ability to deliver on promises. Researching and choosing a reputable provider is a cornerstone in ensuring your safety and satisfaction.

Understanding the Policy's Fine Print

The devil is in the details, and understanding the fine print of what your travel insurance policy covers is crucial. Be aware of coverage limits, exclusions, and the process for filing a claim to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

In the age of information, customer reviews and feedback are goldmines of insight. Learn from the experiences of others to gauge the reliability and customer service of the insurance provider you're considering. While the ratings are important, you should also look at whether or not a company responds to customer complaints.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Travel Insurance

Knowing your policy inside out.

Familiarize yourself with every aspect of your policy – what it covers, what it doesn't, how to file a claim, and who to contact in an emergency. Being informed means being prepared. 

Steps to Take When a Problem Arises

If you face an issue during your travels, knowing the immediate steps to take can make all the difference. Keep important contacts and your policy details handy, and remember, your insurance provider is there to assist you.

How to Pick the Best Travel Insurance Company for You

There isn't a one-size-fits-all policy that works perfectly for every traveler. Young, healthy solo travelers can opt for much cheaper plans that offer bare-bones coverage, while families juggling complex itineraries will do best by investing in a robust policy that can help defray any costs associated with lost baggage, delayed transportation or other trip-impeding obstacles.

That being said, you can't go wrong with a travel insurance provider that boasts a reputable history and offers a wide range of customizable plans. In some cases, you may be comparing plans that are only a few dollars' apart from each other. In such situations, you should generally opt for the insurance company that offers the strongest customer service. It's also worth considering whether or not the travel insurance provider has been reviewed by other travelers with similar itineraries to your own. 

An insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth is one of the best tools for searching travel insurance policies. Once you input the specifics of your travel itinerary, you'll be able to see hundreds of search results to compare the ones that catch your eye. If the options are too overwhelming, use the filters to the left of your search page to eliminate as many irrelevant plans as possible.

How We Reviewed the Best Travel Insurance Companies

To come up with our list of the best travel insurance companies, we evaluated each insurer based on the following factors:

Guide Methodology: What We Considered

Policy Types

Travel insurance is essential, but often underused partly because people aren't getting what they want. Business Insider's 2023 travel study showed 10.65% of travelers surveyed bought cancel for any reason insurance. Cost may be a factor, but in many cases, the coverage is more affordable than you might think. Regardless, companies must offer a diverse range of coverage options. We award five stars to companies offering all standard coverages and additional options like pet and sports equipment protection.

Our 2023 travel study indicated the majority of purchases were made through the travel provider (ex: flight protection insurance when you're purchasing your airline tickets). While these may be sufficient for some customers, we look for companies offering a more comprehensive range of services.

According to the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, the average cost of travel insurance will be between 4% and 8% of total travel expenses. Anything beyond that price point should include additional benefits beyond the standard inclusions, such as CFAR protection or upgraded medical coverage. Anything below that 4% threshold may leave you lacking important or sufficient coverage in an emergency.

Convenience and Flexibility

Whether you're an infrequent traveler or a suitcase warrior, a good travel insurance company should have you covered. In many cases, you might not even have to talk to a person in order to purchase your policy.

Many people think of travel insurance in context with specific trips, but most of these top contenders sell both single-trip and multi-trip policies, also known as annual travel insurance. Some companies also offer plans specifically designed for cruisers, students abroad, and business travelers. (Read our guide to the best cruise travel insurance companies for more details.) Finally, all of these providers offer multiple options for getting the specific areas and amounts of coverage that you want.

Claims Handling

Most travelers never have a large claim. Premiums are low, and it provides peace of mind for the just in case situations. So they leave reviews based on their reduced stress levels. But what happens if you lose your luggage or have to stay a few extra days due to an unexpected accident? Will your insurance carrier cover your claim without all the hassle? We check real customer reviews to sort this out for you.

Ease of Use and Support

When purchasing, during your trip, and throughout the claims process, you may need extra support. Does the company have a 24/7 help line? Does it have an online or mobile system allowing you to self-manage? Essentially, what are the options when you need help? We look at the big picture to evaluate the average customer experience with each company.

You can read our full insurance rating methodology for even more details.

Best Travel Insurance FAQs

There isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for every traveler. Determine the benefits that are most important to you, like baggage delay coverage, medical coverage, and trip delay coverage, then look for a company with solid customer ratings, especially when it comes to processing claims.

Travel insurance will pay out if you experience a covered event, such as a travel delay or delayed or lost baggage. If you're looking to get travel insurance for a specific reason, such as needing to potentially cancel your trip due to work reasons, make sure your policy will cover you in that situation before purchasing it. You should also check customer reviews to see other travelers' claims experiences, as it varies wildly from company to company.

The average cost of travel insurance is 4% to 8% of your total trip cost, so it could vary widely depending on where you're traveling and the length of your trip. Your age, the number of people in your group, and other factors can also influence how much you'll pay.

Most comprehensive travel insurance policies include travel medical coverage that can come in handy if an emergency occurs and you need medical evacuation. Some travel insurance plans offer more specialized coverage for travelers with pre-existing conditions , so shop around if medical coverage is a top priority for you. 

$100,000 should be a sufficient medical coverage limit for travel insurance. If you're planning on doing extreme sports or anything particularly risky on your trip, you may want to increase your coverage level. A high medical coverage limit is especially useful when you're purchasing cruise travel insurance, since medical evacuations are more involved at sea.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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Preclearance

Learn About Preclearance

Sites and contact information, preclearance expansion.

Preclearance operates at 15 locations worldwide

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance is the strategic stationing of CBP personnel at designated foreign airports to inspect travelers prior to boarding U.S.-bound flights. With Preclearance, travelers then bypass CBP and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) inspections upon U.S. arrival and proceed directly to their connecting flight or destination.

Today, CBP has more than 600 officers and agriculture specialists stationed at 15 Preclearance locations in 6 countries: Dublin and Shannon in Ireland; Aruba; Bermuda; Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates; Nassau in the Bahamas; and Calgary, Toronto, Edmonton, Halifax, Montreal, Ottawa, Vancouver, Victoria, and Winnipeg in Canada.

In 2019, CBP personnel stationed abroad precleared 22 million travelers, representing over 16 percent of all commercial air travelers to the United States.

Preclearance Videos

History of preclearance, media assets.

Transcript: https://www.cbp.gov/video/opa/ preclearance/preclearance-history.srt  

Preclearance Benefits

Transcript: https://www.cbp.gov/video/opa/ preclearance/benefits.srt  

Preclearance Experience

Transcript: https://www.cbp.gov/video/opa/ preclearance/preclearance-curb-to-curb.srt  

The History of Preclearance

The preclearance experience, the benefits of preclearance.

In operation since 1952, Preclearance has proven benefits for all major stakeholders in the air travel industry. Click below to learn about the specific benefits for each group.

Traveler Benefits

• No Security or Waiting Upon U.S. Arrival - Skip CBP and TSA inspection lines upon arrival in the U.S and proceed directly to a connecting flight or final destination.
• Easier Domestic Connections - Accept tighter connection windows at U.S. airports and be less likely to miss a domestic connection.

Airline Benefits

• Cost Savings - Access less expensive U.S. domestic gates and more flexible arrival times at airports in the U.S.
• Increase U.S. Market Access - Establish new routes to desirable U.S. destinations that meet growing traveler demand.

Airport Benefits

• New U.S. Destinations - Enable new direct routes to 160+ U.S. airports regardless of whether they have a CBP port of entry. Gain an advantage over competitors for the U.S.-bound traveler market.
• Terminal of the Future - Bring innovative technologies like facial recognition biometrics that expedite passenger processing, and help meet the demand of rising passenger volume to the U.S.

Government Benefits

• Enhance Security – Bolster the safety and security of all travelers while facilitating efficient trade and travel.
• Greater Collaboration - Increase collaboration and coordination between the U.S. and host governments through daily interaction with local law enforcement partners and other government authorities.

Preclearance Sites and Contact Information

Preclearance field operations.

22001 Loudoun County Parkway Mail Stop 1330 Ashburn, VA 20598-1330

Questions & Customer Service

For general CBP inquiries, please call the CBP INFO Center Monday-Friday, between 9:00 a.m. and 4 p.m. Eastern Time. General Inquiries: 1-877-CBP(227)-5511 International Callers: (202) 325-8000 TDD: https://www.fcc.gov/trs/

Preclearance Site Locations

Click below to find contact information for any of the 15 Preclearance sites worldwide.

Please use your International Direct Dialing Number in place of the '+' for the country you are calling from. For example, if you are calling from the U.S., use 011; France, use 00; Australia, 0011.

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• Solo Travel

10 Affordable Solo Vacations Around the World

These are the top destinations for solo travelers on a budget.

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Solo travel affords one the unique opportunity to explore at their own pace while stepping out of their comfort zone, making it one of the most rewarding and thrilling experiences. With that in mind, it’s no wonder why solo travel has become increasingly popular. But don’t just take it from us. “Kayak’s data is showing that solo travel in the U.S. continues to be a trend with a steady increase in hotel searches for one person vs. last year and vs. pre-pandemic levels (2019),” said Cara Johnson, Kayak’s consumer travel trends expert.

To determine the best affordable destinations for solo travelers, we tapped the pros over at Kayak to compile a list. From there, we narrowed down our top picks based on expert insight and research. As you peruse the list below, you’ll come across a few Caribbean destinations, as well as several cities throughout North, South, and Central America. Europe isn’t entirely out of reach either, though you’ll have to keep scrolling to see which city made the cut.

No matter where you plan on traveling solo to, Fora co-founder, T+L A-List advisor, and frequent solo traveler Henley Vazquez recommends planning “a few activities in advance so you don't feel overwhelmed with an abundance of unscheduled free time.” On the flip side, she says, "Don’t over-plan! You want to leave room for spontaneity.” She also advises saving a few locations on your phone ahead of time. That way, she says, “If you ever lose Wi-Fi or service, you know how to navigate.”

Denver, Colorado

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Average cost: $523 for flight + hotel

From scenic hiking opportunities to craft brews galore, it’s safe to say the Mile High City offers something fun for everyone. Additionally, according to Vazquez, “Denver has a great airport which makes it easy to access from almost anywhere else in the country.” Solo travelers can take their pick of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking. “While normally it's not recommended to hike off into a national park solo, Denver has loads of fantastic trails and an active hiking population, so you'll never be alone on the trail (in a good way),” she tells T+L. Art enthusiasts, meanwhile, need not miss Meow Wolf , a walk-through interactive art exhibit, which, per Vazquez, offers “a totally immersive, mind-bending experience.” Pro tip: Stretch your dollar even further by purchasing the Denver CityPass , which saves you up to 43 percent on admission to top attractions like the Downtown Aquarium and Denver Museum of Nature & Science , among others.

Calgary, Canada

Average cost: $655 for flight + hotel

Known as the gateway to the Canadian Rockies, Calgary is Alberta’s largest city — and it truly offers something for everyone. Experience a taste of Calgary’s signature cowboy culture by planning your trip around the Calgary Stampede , a world-class rodeo show, music and arts festival, and carnival that takes place each summer. However, that’s not to say the urban oasis isn’t worth visiting at other times of year. The bustling downtown area is home to plenty of restaurants and coffee shops, such as Monogram Coffee Co. and Rosso Coffee Roasters , arts and entertainment (such as The Palace Theater for live music and theatrical performances at One Yellow Rabbit ), and local shops, including the Alberta Boot Company , where travelers can snag a pair of handcrafted Western boots. Lastly, it’s worth noting that Calgary boasts North America’s largest urban pathway and bikeway network , making it easy for travelers to explore the various neighborhoods, parks, public art installations , and more via bike (read: no rental car required!).

Mexico City, Mexico

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

Average cost: $660 for flight + hotel

“Part of the joy of visiting Mexico City is wandering around beautiful neighborhoods like Polanco and Roma and experiencing the local architecture and culture,” says Vazquez before adding, “You can set your own pace and wander blissfully on your own.” Mexico’s vibrant capital city is also world-renowned for its food scene and is home to several highly esteemed restaurants like Contramar and Meroma . Plus, “Finding a seat at the bar is easy if you're dining for one — you could even create your own personal food crawl!” The travel pro also recommends joining a Context Travel tour to visit the Frida Khalo house, telling T+L that “their small group tours are affordable and their guides are great.” Free attractions, including the Bosque de Chapultepec and the Palacio Nacional , also abound.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Average cost: $678 for flight + hotel

San Juan, Puerto Rico has already been named among the most affordable spots for a beach vacation , with affordable flights and hotel options to suit every type of traveler. Best of all: You don’t need a passport to visit. Solo travelers can spend their days by the beach or exploring San Juan’s majestic Old Town, where the cobblestone streets are dotted with colorful buildings, shops, restaurants, and bars, (don’t miss La Factoria for craft cocktails!). Snap photos along the Instagram-famous  “Umbrella Street" (official name: Calle de la Fortaleza) before heading to the historic Castillo San Felipe del Morro fortress, complete with sweeping ocean views. While Old San Juan makes a great home base for exploring, Condado is another excellent option for beach lovers thanks to its oceanfront locale.

Panama City, Panama

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Average cost: $730 for flight + hotel

“ Panama City offers a similar experience to visiting Mexico City, only it's a good bit smaller and less intimidating as a solo traveler,” says Vazquez. Plus, “It's relatively easy (and cheap!) to get to, and once you're there, it's easy to navigate the different neighborhoods.” She’s also quick to call out the “incredible” food and “amazing” history — and recommends all solo travelers pay a visit to the Panama Canal. While mornings are best spent sightseeing — can’t-miss attractions include the Biomuseo , the Panama Canal Museum , and the 573-acre, flora- and fauna-filled Metropolitan Natural Park   — afternoons and evenings are for bar-hopping around Casco Viejo, the city’s oldest and smallest quarter that just so happens to be teeming with nightlife. Last but not least, “The city also offers easy access to nature, so you can add on a few days for a fun outdoor adventure.”

Willemstad, Curaçao

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Average cost: $985 for flight + hotel

Pristine beaches, colorful architecture, a fascinating history, incredible diving, and a thriving arts and culture scene: Find all this and more on the Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao. The capital city of Willemstad boasts some seriously stunning architecture done up in pastel hues, and it also serves as the gateway to beautiful beaches, including Blue Bay, which just so happens to be a beloved diving site. The isle is also home to the 1732 Mikvé-Israel-Emanuel Synagogue , the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Americas. Visitors can embark on a self-guided street art tour of the city, which is teeming with colorful murals. A meal and a cocktail at Cast Away Beach Bar Restaurant at Playa Kalki is also a must. Plus, Curaçao is considered one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly Caribbean vacation destinations .

Nassau, The Bahamas

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Average cost: $998 for flight + hotel

Like San Juan, the Bahamian capital city of Nassau was also named among the best-value warm-weather vacation destinations thanks to its abundance of affordable flight options. Plus, it’s just a quick one- to three-hour flight from most East Coast cities, making for an ideal long weekend getaway. While nearby Paradise Island is home to some pricey hotels and attractions, it is possible to explore Nassau on a budget. For one, travelers can take their pick of pristine (and free!) stretches of sand, including the 2.5-mile-long Cable Beach and the mile-long Junkanoo Beach , which is within walking distance of the city’s famous Straw Market . Additionally, on a recent trip, I partook in a slew of low-cost activities, including a visit to the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas and a tour of John Watling's Distillery . The Queen's Staircase is located within the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex, which dates back to the late 18th century. After trekking the 60-plus steps, head to the Fish Fry (Arawak Cay), which is lined with colorful local eateries offering local delicacies like conch fritters and sky juice cocktails (coconut water, gin, and condensed milk served over ice) for a fraction of the price you’d find in local resorts.

Santiago, Chile

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Average cost: $1,049 for flight + hotel

With the value of the Chilean peso currently so low , there’s never been a better time for budget-conscious solo travelers to consider a trip to Chile’s capital city. “Santiago is beautiful and has access to all the incredible nature Chile has to offer, including Patagonia and wine country,” says Vazquez. However, that’s not to say you need to leave the city to enjoy some of the country’s best vinos — simply snag a seat at wine bars like Bocanáriz and Barrica 94 between sightseeing tours. And, speaking of the latter, don’t miss sites like La Chascona , the former home of famed Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, and the Gabriela Mistral Cultural Centre . Also, Vazquez explains, “What's great about traveling to Chile is most of the lodges include group activities and tours, so even if you’re solo, you're still connecting with other travelers each day.” She especially recommends Tierra Atacama , which just announced a $12 million refresh, and the Explora Lodge , which offers “a rich history of sustainability, originally owned by North Face founder Douglas Tompkins.”

Reykjavik, Iceland

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Average cost: $1,053 for flight + hotel

The Icelandic capital is known for being one of the safest cities thanks to its friendly locals and low crime rates, making it a solid choice for adventure-seeking and nature-loving solo travelers. Fly there via Icelandair or PLAY , both of which offer low-cost flight options from many U.S. cities. Upon landing, hit the ground running and get exploring: Start at The National Gallery of Iceland , the famous Hallgrímskirkja church, or the National Museum of Iceland before refueling with a meal at OTO (which serves up Italian and Asian fusion) or a cup of coffee at Kaffitar or Reykjavik Röst . Also, consider renting a car or partaking in a tour to explore nearby sites like Mount Esja or the Fagradalsfjall volcano — both of which are within an hour’s drive of the city — as well as Gullfoss Falls, which is a bit further away (about an hour and 45 minutes by car) and well worth the trek. Meanwhile, Sky Lagoon is an easy 15-minute drive from the city and attracts wellness-seekers from all over with its geothermal baths.

George Town, Cayman Islands

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Average cost: $1,204 for flight + hotel

“ Sometimes, all you need is a solo beach vacation , and this is the perfect place,” Vazquez says of George Town, the capital of the Cayman Islands. “You can be on the beach reading a book within 30 minutes of landing!” Located on Grand Cayman — known for its beautiful beaches and top-notch diving — this bustling port city offers an abundance of activities that run the gamut from distillery tours to pickleball. Alternatively, sun-seekers can head straight to the stunning Seven Mile Beach, while history buffs and art enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cayman Islands National Museum and The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands , respectively. Consider visiting in the summer or early fall, which coincides with the island’s low season. The result? Cheaper flights, lower rates on lodging, and fewer crowds.

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