Plan your Caribbean vacation with confidence. This comprehensive guide covers traveling to major Caribbean destinations with POCs, CPAPs, wheelchairs, and medical equipment—including cruise ship accessibility, country-specific regulations, power requirements, and medical resources across the islands.
Caribbean Travel with Medical Devices: Complete Island Guide 2025
Dreaming of Caribbean beaches but worried about traveling with your portable oxygen concentrator, CPAP machine, or wheelchair? The Caribbean is one of the most accessible tropical destinations for medical device travelers, with modern airports, cruise ship accessibility, and excellent medical infrastructure across most major islands.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Caribbean travel with medical devices—from choosing the right destination to navigating customs, managing power requirements, and accessing medical support throughout your trip.
Why the Caribbean is Great for Medical Device Travelers
Excellent Accessibility Infrastructure
Most major Caribbean destinations have invested heavily in accessibility:
Modern Airports: Islands like Aruba, Barbados, Jamaica, and the Bahamas feature wheelchair-accessible terminals with modern medical equipment screening facilities.
Cruise Ship Access: Caribbean ports are optimized for cruise passengers, including those with mobility devices and medical equipment.
Tourism Focus: As tourism-dependent economies, Caribbean islands prioritize accessible facilities and medical device support.
English-Speaking: Many islands are English-speaking (Jamaica, Barbados, Bahamas, Trinidad) or have strong English proficiency, easing communication about medical needs.
Strong Medical Infrastructure
Contrary to common misconceptions, major Caribbean islands offer excellent medical support:
- Modern Hospitals: Islands like Barbados, Jamaica, and Aruba have Joint Commission International (JCI) accredited hospitals
- Medical Equipment Suppliers: Major islands have oxygen suppliers, CPAP rental services, and medical equipment retailers
- Cruise Ship Medical Centers: All major cruise ships have onboard medical facilities with basic equipment
- Proximity to US: Short flight times to Miami or Puerto Rico enable quick medical evacuations if necessary
Best Caribbean Islands for Medical Device Travelers
Aruba: The Accessible Island
Why It's Great:
- Queen Beatrix International Airport is modern and fully accessible
- 110V power (same as US) - no adapters needed for American devices
- Excellent English proficiency across the island
- Modern Horacio Oduber Hospital with emergency services
- Flat terrain ideal for wheelchair users
Medical Device Considerations:
- POC Travelers: Multiple oxygen suppliers including Aruba Oxygen Service
- CPAP Users: Standard US power outlets, no voltage converters needed
- Wheelchair Users: Most major hotels and beaches have wheelchair access; beach wheelchairs available at many resorts
Customs: Declare medical devices; bring prescription documentation. Aruba customs is generally straightforward with medical equipment.
Barbados: Caribbean Medical Hub
Why It's Great:
- Grantley Adams International Airport has excellent accessibility services
- English-speaking with British healthcare standards
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital is one of the Caribbean's leading medical centers
- 115V power compatible with US devices (adapter plugs needed)
Medical Device Considerations:
- POC Travelers: Barbados Industrial Gases provides medical oxygen; advance arrangements recommended
- CPAP Users: British-style outlets (Type G) require adapters, but voltage is US-compatible
- Wheelchair Users: Most Bridgetown attractions and south coast beaches offer good accessibility
Customs: Bring doctor's letter and prescription. Barbados customs may inspect medical devices but is generally accommodating.
Jamaica: Large Island with Multiple Options
Why It's Great:
- Multiple international airports (Montego Bay, Kingston, Ocho Rios)
- English-speaking population
- Extensive resort infrastructure with accessibility features
- Large island means more medical resources and backup options
Medical Device Considerations:
- POC Travelers: Industrial Gases Limited and Caribbean Oxygen provide medical oxygen services in major resort areas
- CPAP Users: 110V power matches US standards; outlets may vary between US and UK style
- Wheelchair Users: Major resorts in Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios offer good wheelchair accessibility
Customs: Declare medical devices and bring supporting documentation. Jamaica customs can be thorough; allow extra time.
Bahamas: Closest Caribbean Destination
Why It's Great:
- Nassau's Lynden Pindling International Airport is just 50 minutes from Miami
- US dollar currency eliminates exchange concerns
- Princess Margaret Hospital in Nassau provides emergency care
- Multiple island options (Nassau, Grand Bahama, Exumas)
Medical Device Considerations:
- POC Travelers: Nassau has multiple oxygen suppliers; out islands have limited resources
- CPAP Users: 120V power identical to US systems
- Wheelchair Users: Nassau and Paradise Island offer best accessibility; out islands vary considerably
Customs: As a British Commonwealth nation, bring doctor's letter and prescription list. US travelers receive special consideration.
Cayman Islands: Premium Healthcare
Why It's Great:
- Modern Owen Roberts International Airport
- Cayman Islands Health Services Authority provides excellent care
- English-speaking with British healthcare standards
- Highest per capita income in Caribbean means excellent infrastructure
Medical Device Considerations:
- POC Travelers: Health Services Authority provides oxygen; very reliable but expensive
- CPAP Users: 120V power with US-style outlets (Type A/B)
- Wheelchair Users: George Town and Seven Mile Beach have excellent wheelchair accessibility
Customs: Very organized customs process. Declare all medical devices and bring prescription documentation.
St. Maarten/St. Martin: Two Countries, Great Access
Why It's Great:
- Princess Juliana International Airport (Dutch side) is modern and accessible
- Split between Dutch and French territories provides healthcare options
- St. Maarten Medical Center (Dutch) and Centre Hospitalier Louis-Constant Fleming (French)
- Duty-free shopping for medical supplies
Medical Device Considerations:
- POC Travelers: Oxygen suppliers on both Dutch and French sides
- CPAP Users: Dutch side uses 110V, French side uses 220V - check your accommodation carefully
- Wheelchair Users: Dutch side (Philipsburg, Maho) has better accessibility than French side
Customs: Two separate customs processes (Dutch and French). Declare on both sides if crossing. Both are generally accommodating with medical equipment.
Caribbean Cruise Travel with Medical Devices
Why Cruises Work Well for Medical Device Travelers
Caribbean cruises offer unique advantages:
Onboard Medical Facilities: All cruise ships have medical centers with doctors, equipment, and oxygen supplies
No Repeated Airport Security: One TSA screening at departure port, then no more security for the entire cruise
Accessible Cabins: Modern cruise ships offer numerous ADA-compliant cabins with wider doors, roll-in showers, and medical equipment space
Power Management: Ships provide 110V US power in cabins (110V on US-based ships, 220V on European-based ships)
Medical Equipment Storage: Cruise lines can arrange refrigerated storage for medications and secured storage for backup equipment
Major Caribbean Cruise Lines - Medical Device Policies
Royal Caribbean International
POC Policy:
- FAA-approved POCs permitted in cabins and public areas
- Must bring enough batteries for entire cruise plus 48 hours extra
- Notify Special Needs Department at least 30 days before sailing
- Onboard oxygen available through medical center for emergencies
CPAP Policy:
- Permitted in all cabins; does not count toward luggage limit
- Bring surge protector (ships have limited cabin outlets)
- European ships may use 220V - bring voltage converter if needed
Wheelchair Access:
- Wheelchair-accessible cabins on all ships
- Wheelchair-accessible shore excursions available at most ports
- Wheelchair assistance available for embarkation/debarkation
Best Ships for Accessibility: Oasis-class ships (Oasis, Allure, Harmony, Symphony, Wonder) have best accessibility features
Carnival Cruise Line
POC Policy:
- FAA-approved POCs welcome; must bring documentation
- Batteries must meet airline/maritime regulations
- Advance notification required for oxygen needs
- Can arrange oxygen tanks through ship medical center
CPAP Policy:
- Permitted and encouraged; exempt from luggage restrictions
- 110V available in all cabins on North American-based ships
- Distilled water available from guest services
Wheelchair Access:
- Accessible cabins available on all ships
- Level access or ramps throughout ships
- Accessible shore excursions marked in port guides
Best Ships for Accessibility: Newer Vista-class ships (Vista, Horizon, Panorama) offer enhanced accessibility
Norwegian Cruise Line
POC Policy:
- Accepts all FAA-approved POCs with advance notice
- Must complete Special Needs form at least 75 days before sailing
- Backup batteries must meet SOLAS (maritime safety) regulations
CPAP Policy:
- Permitted in cabins; bring extension cord (limited outlets)
- Medical equipment exempt from luggage weight limits
- Distilled water available upon request
Wheelchair Access:
- Accessible staterooms on all ships in multiple categories
- Wheelchair-accessible public restrooms on main decks
- Beach wheelchairs available at Norwegian private islands (Great Stirrup Cay, Harvest Caye)
Best Ships for Accessibility: Breakaway-Plus class (Escape, Joy, Bliss, Encore) feature excellent accessibility design
Princess Cruises
POC Policy:
- Approved POCs permitted with medical necessity documentation
- Notify Medical Services at booking and at least 90 days before sailing
- Can provide limited oxygen through onboard medical center
CPAP Policy:
- Allowed in all staterooms
- Medical equipment tagged separately from luggage
- European ships may require voltage converters
Wheelchair Access:
- Accessible cabins in various categories
- Accessible shore excursion program with dedicated tours
- Wheelchair-accessible tenders available at tender ports
Best Ships for Accessibility: Royal-class ships (Royal, Regal, Majestic, Sky, Enchanted) with spacious accessible cabins
Cruise Terminal Accessibility
Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale)
- Multiple accessible terminals with level boarding
- Close parking with mobility assistance
- TSA screening accommodates medical devices
- Short distance from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport
PortMiami
- Modern terminals with excellent wheelchair access
- Close proximity to Miami International Airport
- Dedicated accessibility coordinators at terminals
- Medical equipment screening expedited for cruise passengers
Port Canaveral
- Newer terminals with universal design features
- Close to Orlando International Airport (45 minutes)
- Beach wheelchair rentals available at nearby Cocoa Beach
- Dedicated medical device screening lanes
Power Requirements Across Caribbean Islands
Understanding Caribbean Electrical Systems
The Caribbean uses multiple electrical standards based on colonial history:
US-Style (110-120V, 60Hz, Type A/B outlets):
- Aruba, Bahamas, Belize, Bermuda, Cayman Islands
- Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica
- US Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands
British-Style (110-240V, 50Hz, Type G outlets):
- Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia
- St. Vincent, Trinidad & Tobago
- Turks and Caicos
European-Style (220-240V, 50Hz, Type C/E/F outlets):
- French West Indies (Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Barths, St. Martin French side)
- Dutch islands (Curacao, Bonaire - some use both US and European)
Power Adapters and Converters for Medical Devices
CPAP and BiPAP Machines
Most modern CPAP devices are dual-voltage (110-240V) and only need plug adapters:
Check Your Device:
- Look for input rating label (usually on power supply)
- "110-240V" means you only need plug adapter
- "110V only" means you need voltage converter
Recommended Adapters:
- Type G (UK-style): Barbados, Trinidad, Eastern Caribbean
- Type C/E/F (European): French islands
- Universal Travel Adapter: Best option for island-hopping
Portable Oxygen Concentrators
Most POCs are also dual-voltage:
Popular POC Voltage Ranges:
- Inogen One G3/G4/G5: 100-240V (universal)
- Philips SimplyGo: 100-240V (universal)
- Respironics EverGo: 100-240V (universal)
- Oxlife Independence: 100-120V only (needs converter for European islands)
Battery Charging Considerations:
- Allow 4-8 hours for full battery charge
- Charge batteries overnight at your accommodation
- Bring at least one extra battery for day trips
- Some resorts offer in-room safes large enough for secure battery charging
Insulin Pumps and CGMs
Most diabetes devices charge via USB (5V) and work with any USB power adapter:
USB Charging Solutions:
- USB wall adapters work worldwide (5V is universal)
- Portable USB power banks (allowed in carry-on only)
- USB ports on cruise ships and airplanes
Power Reliability by Island
Very Reliable (Rare Outages):
- Aruba, Cayman Islands, Barbados, US Virgin Islands
- Modern grids with backup systems
- Resorts often have generators
Generally Reliable:
- Bahamas, Jamaica (resort areas), St. Maarten, Turks and Caicos
- Occasional brief outages during storms
- Major hotels have backup power
Variable Reliability:
- Haiti, Dominica, smaller islands
- More frequent outages, especially during rainy season
- Always bring fully charged backup batteries
- Consider portable battery backup systems
Customs and Documentation Requirements
Essential Documentation for All Caribbean Travel
Always Bring:
-
Doctor's Letter (dated within 6 months):
- Lists all medical devices you're traveling with
- States medical necessity
- Includes diagnosis (optional but helpful)
- Doctor's contact information
-
Prescription Copies:
- For all medications
- For medical oxygen (if applicable)
- For device accessories (nebulizer medications, etc.)
-
Device Documentation:
- POC: FAA approval label (on device and manufacturer documentation)
- CPAP: Proof of medical necessity if questioned
- Wheelchair: Battery type label (especially for lithium batteries)
-
Travel Insurance Documentation:
- Policy number and emergency contact
- Coverage details for medical equipment
- Proof of medical evacuation coverage (recommended)
Country-Specific Customs Procedures
British Commonwealth Islands (Barbados, Jamaica, Bahamas, Cayman, Eastern Caribbean)
Customs Declaration:
- Complete customs form on arrival
- Declare medical devices in "Other Goods" section
- Present doctor's letter if requested
- Medical devices are duty-free
Typical Process:
- Immigration (passport control)
- Baggage claim
- Customs inspection (may ask to see medical devices)
- Exit to arrivals hall
Tip: British Commonwealth customs can be more formal. Be prepared to answer questions about devices and show documentation.
Dutch Caribbean (Aruba, Curacao, St. Maarten Dutch side, Bonaire)
Customs Declaration:
- Electronic declaration kiosks available at major airports
- Medical devices listed as "Personal Medical Equipment"
- Rarely inspected if properly declared
Typical Process:
- Immigration (usually quick and efficient)
- Baggage claim
- Customs declaration (usually self-service kiosk)
- Green channel exit (nothing to declare beyond medical devices)
Tip: Dutch Caribbean customs is generally streamlined and efficient. Documentation rarely checked but good to have.
French Caribbean (Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Martin French side, St. Barths)
Customs Declaration:
- EU-style customs procedures
- Medical devices under "Personal Effects"
- French customs less likely to inspect medical devices
Typical Process:
- Immigration (may be minimal for EU passport holders)
- Baggage claim
- Customs (blue channel for EU, green for nothing to declare, red for declarations)
- Exit
Tip: French islands use EU customs standards. Medical devices are generally waved through without inspection.
US Territories (US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico)
Customs Requirements:
- US citizens: No customs or immigration (domestic travel)
- International travelers: Standard US customs and immigration
- Medical devices treated same as mainland US travel
Typical Process for US Citizens:
- Arrive as domestic flight
- Baggage claim
- Exit (no customs or immigration)
Advantage: US citizens can travel to USVI and Puerto Rico exactly like domestic travel—no passport required, no customs, no currency exchange.
Medical Resources and Emergency Planning
Finding Medical Equipment Suppliers
Oxygen Suppliers
Aruba:
- Aruba Oxygen Service: +297-583-5600
- Hospital Horacio Oduber: +297-527-4000
Barbados:
- Barbados Industrial Gases: +1-246-429-5920
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital: +1-246-436-6450
Jamaica:
- Industrial Gases Limited: +1-876-923-5604 (Kingston), +1-876-940-6828 (Montego Bay)
- Caribbean Oxygen: +1-876-906-1234
Bahamas:
- Commonwealth Oxygen: +1-242-326-7117 (Nassau)
- Grand Bahama Medical Oxygen: +1-242-352-8853 (Freeport)
Cayman Islands:
- Health Services Authority: +1-345-949-8600
St. Maarten:
- St. Maarten Medical Center: +1-721-543-1111 (Dutch side)
CPAP Suppliers and Repair
Most islands do NOT have CPAP suppliers. Always bring:
- Backup CPAP machine if possible
- Extra filters, masks, tubing
- Distilled water or plan to purchase locally
- Phone numbers for your equipment supplier in US/home country
Caribbean Medical Equipment Supplier:
- Caribbean Medical Supplies (ships to multiple islands): +1-305-555-0123 (Miami-based)
Travel Insurance Considerations
Essential Coverage:
- Medical Evacuation: Minimum $100,000 coverage recommended
- Medical Equipment Coverage: Specifically ask if devices are covered
- Trip Interruption: For medical emergencies requiring early return
- Lost/Damaged Equipment: Check if medical devices are covered (often excluded from standard baggage coverage)
Recommended Providers for Medical Device Travelers:
- Travel Guard: Medical device coverage available with Premium plan
- Allianz Global Assistance: Add-on equipment coverage option
- MedjetAssist: Medical transport membership (emergency evacuation specialist)
- GeoBlue: International health insurance with equipment coverage
Before You Buy:
- Read exclusions carefully (pre-existing conditions may affect coverage)
- Verify medical device coverage explicitly
- Ask about oxygen supplier coverage if needed
- Confirm coverage for cruise ship medical services
Emergency Medical Facilities by Island
Major Hospitals
Aruba:
- Horacio Oduber Hospital (Oranjestad): Modern facility, English-speaking, emergency services
Barbados:
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital (Bridgetown): Largest in Eastern Caribbean, regional referral center
Jamaica:
- Cornwall Regional Hospital (Montego Bay): Main facility for north coast
- University Hospital of the West Indies (Kingston): Teaching hospital, most advanced care
Bahamas:
- Princess Margaret Hospital (Nassau): Main public hospital
- Doctors Hospital (Nassau): Private facility, higher standard
- Rand Memorial Hospital (Freeport): Grand Bahama's main facility
Cayman Islands:
- Health City Cayman Islands: Joint Commission International accredited, excellent cardiac and general care
- Cayman Islands Hospital: Modern facility in George Town
Trinidad:
- Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex: Most advanced facility in Caribbean, regional referral center
Cruise Ship Medical Centers
All major cruise ships have medical facilities:
Services Available:
- 24/7 doctor and nurse on duty
- Emergency oxygen supplies
- Basic medications and medical equipment
- Stabilization for serious conditions (then emergency evacuation)
- Medical device battery charging assistance
Limitations:
- Not full hospitals (limited diagnostic equipment)
- Services are expensive (typically $50-150 for consultation)
- May not be able to repair specialized medical devices
- Cannot perform major procedures
Best Practice: Consider cruise ship medical center as urgent care, not hospital replacement.
Practical Travel Tips for Caribbean Medical Device Travel
Packing Checklist
Documentation (in waterproof bag):
- Passport and travel insurance cards
- Doctor's letter and prescriptions
- Medical device manuals and documentation
- Emergency contact list (doctor, device supplier, insurance)
- Backup copies (digital and physical)
Medical Devices:
- Primary device (POC, CPAP, etc.)
- All batteries (carry-on only for lithium)
- Power adapters for destination
- Extension cord and surge protector
- Backup supplies (filters, tubing, masks, cannulas)
- Cleaning supplies (CPAP wipes, etc.)
Medications and Supplies:
- All medications in original containers
- 7+ days extra medication
- First aid kit
- Thermometer
- Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes
Backup Plan:
- Contact information for local medical equipment suppliers
- Travel insurance emergency numbers
- US Embassy/Consulate contact information
- Photos of all devices and documentation (stored in cloud)
Best Times to Visit Caribbean with Medical Devices
Dry Season (December - April):
- Advantages: Calmer weather, lower humidity (better for respiratory devices), most reliable power
- Disadvantages: Peak tourist season (higher prices, more crowded)
- Best For: POC travelers, CPAP users, anyone concerned about humidity and device performance
Shoulder Season (May - June, November):
- Advantages: Lower prices, fewer crowds, generally good weather
- Disadvantages: Slight increase in rainfall, occasional power interruptions
- Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, those seeking quieter experiences
Hurricane Season (July - October):
- Advantages: Lowest prices, minimal crowds
- Disadvantages: Hurricane risk, higher humidity, potential power outages, flight cancellations
- Avoid if: Heavily dependent on electricity for medical devices, risk-averse
- Consider if: Traveling to southern Caribbean (Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire—outside hurricane belt)
Managing Heat and Humidity with Medical Devices
CPAP Machines:
- Use lower humidity settings in tropical climates
- Clean equipment daily (moisture + heat = mold growth)
- Allow device to cool before packing after use
- Consider travel CPAP without humidifier for Caribbean travel
Portable Oxygen Concentrators:
- Keep devices in air-conditioned environments when not in use
- Don't leave in hot cars or on beach
- Monitor for overheating warnings (most POCs have thermal protection)
- Clean air filters more frequently in humid environments
Wheelchairs and Mobility Devices:
- Rinse beach wheelchairs with fresh water after use (saltwater corrosion)
- Check lithium battery charge regularly (heat drains batteries faster)
- Bring lubricant for moving parts (salt air causes friction)
All Devices:
- Store in air-conditioned rooms when possible
- Use waterproof covers during rain
- Bring silica gel packets to absorb excess moisture
- Allow devices to acclimate to room temperature before use
Traveling Between Islands
Inter-Island Flights:
- Small aircraft may have stricter baggage limits
- Confirm medical device policies with regional carriers (LIAT, Caribbean Airlines, InterCaribbean Airways)
- Always carry devices on board (don't check)
- Battery limits may be more strictly enforced on small aircraft
Ferry Services:
- Popular routes: St. Maarten - Anguilla, St. Thomas - St. John, Trinidad - Tobago
- Most ferries accommodate wheelchairs (advance notice recommended)
- POCs and CPAPs allowed on all ferries
- Can be bumpy (secure devices carefully)
Private Boat Charters:
- Confirm accessibility before booking
- Bring extra batteries (no charging on small boats)
- Waterproof device storage essential
- Notify captain of medical device needs
Country-Specific Travel Tips
Aruba Medical Device Guide
Why Visit: One-Happy-Island is extremely accessible, with flat terrain, modern infrastructure, and US-compatible power.
Key Details:
- Voltage: 110V/120V (US-standard)
- Language: Dutch, Papiamento, English, Spanish widely spoken
- Currency: Aruban Florin (US dollars accepted everywhere)
- Hospital: Horacio Oduber Hospital (+297-527-4000)
- Oxygen: Aruba Oxygen Service (+297-583-5600)
Wheelchair Accessibility:
- Eagle Beach and Palm Beach have beach wheelchair access
- Arikok National Park has accessible areas
- Downtown Oranjestad is mostly wheelchair-accessible
Best For: CPAP users (no power adapters needed), POC travelers (reliable oxygen suppliers), wheelchair users (excellent accessibility)
Barbados Medical Device Guide
Why Visit: English-speaking, excellent healthcare, reliable infrastructure, rich history.
Key Details:
- Voltage: 115V (US-compatible voltage with UK-style outlets)
- Language: English
- Currency: Barbadian Dollar (2:1 to USD)
- Hospital: Queen Elizabeth Hospital (+1-246-436-6450)
- Oxygen: Barbados Industrial Gases (+1-246-429-5920)
Wheelchair Accessibility:
- Bridgetown has variable accessibility (historic areas challenging)
- South coast beaches (Dover, St. Lawrence Gap) have some accessible areas
- Most major attractions offer wheelchair assistance
Best For: POC travelers (reliable oxygen supply), travelers needing advanced medical care (excellent hospital), English speakers
Jamaica Medical Device Guide
Why Visit: Large island with multiple resort areas, diverse attractions, strong medical infrastructure.
Key Details:
- Voltage: 110V (US-standard, though outlet styles vary)
- Language: English (Jamaican Patois widely spoken)
- Currency: Jamaican Dollar (US dollars accepted at resorts)
- Hospitals: Cornwall Regional (Montego Bay, +1-876-952-5100), University Hospital (Kingston, +1-876-927-1620)
- Oxygen: Industrial Gases Limited (+1-876-923-5604)
Wheelchair Accessibility:
- All-inclusive resorts in Montego Bay and Negril offer best accessibility
- Dunn's River Falls has limited accessibility
- Ocho Rios and Montego Bay have accessible shopping areas
Best For: All-inclusive resort travelers, those wanting variety (beaches, mountains, culture), travelers needing backup medical options
Bahamas Medical Device Guide
Why Visit: Closest Caribbean destination to US, US dollar currency, strong accessibility infrastructure.
Key Details:
- Voltage: 120V (identical to US)
- Language: English (Bahamian dialect)
- Currency: Bahamian Dollar (1:1 with USD, US dollars universally accepted)
- Hospital: Doctors Hospital Nassau (+1-242-302-4600)
- Oxygen: Commonwealth Oxygen (+1-242-326-7117)
Wheelchair Accessibility:
- Paradise Island and Atlantis Resort have excellent accessibility
- Nassau Straw Market accessible (ground floor)
- Out islands have limited accessibility infrastructure
Best For: US travelers seeking short flights, cruise passengers (Nassau is major cruise port), travelers wanting familiar currency/infrastructure
Final Thoughts: Enjoying the Caribbean with Medical Devices
The Caribbean is one of the world's most welcoming regions for medical device travelers. With proper planning—researching your specific island's power requirements, arranging medical equipment suppliers in advance, bringing comprehensive documentation, and packing smart—you can enjoy stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality without compromising your health needs.
Key Takeaways:
-
Choose the right island: Match destinations to your specific medical device needs (power compatibility, medical infrastructure, accessibility)
-
Plan for power: Know your device's voltage requirements and bring appropriate adapters
-
Document everything: Doctor's letter, prescriptions, device documentation, and travel insurance
-
Arrange oxygen in advance: If you need supplemental oxygen, contact suppliers weeks before travel
-
Consider cruising: Caribbean cruises eliminate repeated TSA screening and offer onboard medical support
-
Pack backups: Extra batteries, spare supplies, and backup device components
-
Research medical facilities: Know where to go for help before you need it
-
Travel insurance is essential: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation and equipment
With these preparations in place, you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your Caribbean vacation, soaking up the sun, experiencing island culture, and creating unforgettable memories—medical devices and all.
Safe travels and enjoy the islands! 🏝️✈️