COVID19 Tests Required Upon Entry into USA

There have been some new updates when it comes to entering the USA! As of January 26, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) latest requirement that all U.S. bound air travelers test negative for coronavirus within 72 hours of departure.  One more item to add on your list of things to keep up with while abroad. Don’t worry! Many destinations are ready! Some of them have already required travelers to arrive COVID free.  They even have resources for you to test upon arrival. They are ready to test us before we leave accommodate us upon positive results. Here are a few tips to make sure you are traveling stress free and can get tested before coming back to the USA.

1. Stay at an all inclusive hotel/resort! Please know this is all I prefer to book anyway!  As a busy person in every day life, I don’t want to worry and stress over food, drinks, activities, and now a COVID test! Many of these resorts have complimentary testing!  You get to schedule it at check-in! When you arrive, you check in with a nurse, fill out questionnaire, test, leave. It’s honestly a 5 minute process when done efficiently. Not all offer it so make sure you research if they do or have access or private company close by that offers testing. Be prepared to have added costs for offsite clinics.

2. Purchase the extended stay plan! EVERYONE I book travel for has insurance! This pandemic has taught me to just be safe no matter what! Hotels are now offering an extended stay plan for people that test positive!  They start as low as kids under 12 stay free if they are positive and adults are $20/person and can go as high as $40/person/per initial stay day total.  Meaning of you have to quarantine for 14 days, but your trip was only for 4 days, you’re paying $40 times 4 days. During your quarantine you will have room and board.  There are some countries that offer this additional stay for free.

3. Check with individual airline’s boarding requirements/flight changes/credits for flights. Anything can happen!  Make sure the test you take is the one the airlines allow you to use to board the plane.  A lot of tests overseas are the rapid tests that do not include the PCR Nasal swab.  Which test is accepted? Flights often change or are cancelled so make sure you keep a watchful eye. Travel restrictions are updated and more countries are restricting US residents. Review the airline’s refund/credit policy. Some offer 100% refunds or credits towards a different flight. Make sure you watch to see if the credit expires.

Remember to do research before travel out of the USA. Look to see if you airline provide assistance with delays/cancellations. Also check requirements to board once coming back to the USA. Which test is required for re-entry and will your hotel or resort provide you with the COVID-19 test needed to get back home? 

Now is the time to book travel through travel consultants amid today's COVID-19 restrictions and requirements as they can provide helpful answers and address any concerns regarding testing and quarantine. Reach out to your travel consultant to help you navigate through these changing times with less stress.