Essential Tips For Traveling To Bermuda

Essential Tips for Traveling to Bermuda September 1, 2022

Renowned for its pink sand beaches and colorful colonial architecture, Bermuda is an island paradise that lives up to every expectation. Just like any destination, Bermuda has its fair share of hidden surprises … most of which are delightful (like the bright blue grottos and sunken ships), but some of which you’ll want to know about prior to arrival on the island.

So, we’ll break this down into two parts: pre-arrival info, and then some tips for once you’re on the island. To get us started, below you’ll find a useful list of essential tips for traveling to Bermuda and things you should know before visiting this beautiful island.

1. Location

Many visitors planning their trip to Bermuda assume it’s part of the Caribbean. And while the island certainly has the same tropical flare and stunning blue waters as the famous archipelago, it’s actually an isolated island in the North Atlantic Ocean!

Bermuda is closer to the United States east coast than any other landmass, which makes it an easy weekend getaway from NYC and other major cities along the Atlantic coast.

2. Time Zone

The island’s location gives it an odd time zone – (AST), or Atlantic Standard Time. Depending on where you’re coming from, you’ll need to adjust your clocks a few hours, but jet lag won’t be an issue. Bermuda is just one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST) and four hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

3. Best Months to Visit

Because of its position in the Atlantic, Bermuda experiences cooler winters than islands in the Caribbean. The summer months (May through October) have the hottest temps, with highs averaging in the upper 80s. This is also the busiest time of year, so expect lots of crowds and high prices if you visit the island during this time. Note that hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, so keep this in mind when planning your stay.

One of the best tips for Bermuda for those who want to avoid the crowds is to visit in the off-season – which runs from November through April. Winter temps are cool but pleasant, with highs in the upper 60s. April is a great time to visit, as the crowds are sparse, but the weather is gearing up for summer.

4. Entry and Exit Requirements

Bermuda has strict entry requirements for foreign visitors. You’ll need a valid passport and an approved Travel Authorization (TA).

No visas are required, but to complete the TA, you’ll need to be fully vaccinated and show proof of a negative COVID test. You can apply for the Travel Authorization up to 30 days in advance and add your test results as you receive them. If your country of origin requires a negative COVID test for re-entry, a test will automatically be scheduled for you before your departure date.

TAs are required for travelers over 2 years old and costs $40.

5. Language, Currency & Electricity

Bermuda’s official language is Bermudian English (a mix of British, American, and West Indies dialects), so you won’t have any issues communicating with the locals.

The currency in Bermuda is the Bermudian Dollar (BMD), and one BMD is equivalent to one USD. Even though Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, the US dollar is widely accepted (and the British Pound is not). If you have US cash on hand, you can use this to pay, but you will likely get the Bermudian Dollar in change. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in most places (except for Discover cards), though taxis take cash only.

Just like the currency, the electrical outlets in Bermuda are more aligned with its US neighbor than with Britain. Bermuda uses 110 volts, 60Hz AC, the same two-prong plug used in the United States and Canada.

6. What to Pack

Although Bermuda is known for its spectacular beaches, a pair of flip-flops and a few bathing suits won’t cut it for attire on this island. One of the most important tips for Bermuda is to adhere to the unofficial dress code, which leans on the conservative side. Things like crop tops and short shorts are frowned upon while in a restaurant, and walking around in a bathing suit when not at the beach or pool is not accepted. Be sure to pack a suitable sarong or cover-up for warm days. During the day, casual dress is accepted at most establishments, but at night many clubs and restaurants require more formal attire.

Woman in a sundress walking down stairs to a restaurant with outdoor seating

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