Can I leave the airport during a long layover?

Yes, but you must clear immigration. Be sure to factor in the time to go through customs and the fact that you will need to re-clear security, which can take 60 minutes during peak times.

Is there a lounge I can pay to access?

Yes, the Club Barbados lounge is available for purchase regardless of airline or class of service, offering showers and better seating.

Navigating Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) for Caribbean Connections

To connect through Barbados, proceed directly to the 'Transit' or 'Connections' checkpoint rather than entering the main arrivals hall. Ensure you have your onward boarding pass printed or digital, and allow at least 90 minutes between flights if you are changing airlines that do not have interline baggage agreements.

Follow the Transit signs. Upon deplaning, ignore the 'Immigration/Arrivals' signs. Look for the 'Transit/Connections' signs. You will go through a dedicated security screening area specifically for transit passengers.
Handle baggage transfers. If you are on a single ticket (interline), your bags will be transferred automatically. If you booked two separate tickets, you must clear immigration, collect your luggage at the carousel, re-check it at the departures hall, and go through standard security.
Verify gate information. Departure screens in the transit area can change quickly. Check the screens immediately upon entering the airside area to locate your boarding gate, as signage can be sparse.
Prepare for secondary screening. Regardless of your previous flight, all transit passengers must pass through a secondary security checkpoint at BGI. Keep your liquids under 100ml and electronics accessible to speed up the process.

Can I leave the airport during a long layover?: Yes, but you must clear immigration. Be sure to factor in the time to go through customs and the fact that you will need to re-clear security, which can take 60 minutes during peak times.
Is there a lounge I can pay to access?: Yes, the Club Barbados lounge is available for purchase regardless of airline or class of service, offering showers and better seating.