Covid-19 Travel Tips

Since 2020 the way we now travel has changed a lot. Things are still very unpredictable. The last year has shown us that life can change dramatically and one thing to bear in mind when you think about travelling now, is that restrictions are fluid and you need to be prepared to adapt your plans as required.

The future of travel will look somewhat different with Covid-19

We think the best thing anyone who is thinking of travelling during the pandemic can do, is to research before you commit to booking a destination. Visit the government websites or official tourist sites for your chosen destination. Each location will have different rules, some may require you to have a negative test or you may need to quarantine on your arrival.

Rules and restrictions are variable all the time across the world, with country’s opening and closing borders as the virus changes. We personally find it all very confusing, so if this blog can help to point you in the right direction or give you something to think about you might not have otherwise, then that is great!

Tips for travelling with Covid-19 test requirements

Many countries have their borders open but require you to have a negative Covid-19 test to travel to that country. Not all tests are the same so you must check the requirements needed for the country you are planning on travelling to.

For countries that allow travel with a negative Covid-19 test, the exact requirements will be on the government website.

There is a lot to consider, some countries require a PCT test within 72 hours of travel and will only accept PCT tests carried out by certain locations and manufacturers. Other countries will accept a rapid test.

CONFUSED?

Here are the differences between the tests:

PCT Testing: This type of test can be done in testing centres, in your car or at home but can take several days to get your test results back. This test can detect the genetic material related to the Covid-19 virus, even if you are not showing any symptoms.

Rapid Testing: This type of test can give you a result in 15 minutes. It can detect the protein specific to Covid-19. It often works better if you are already showing symptoms of Covid-19; they are not always as accurate so a lot of places will not accept this type of test.

Top Tips: To avoid disappointment at the airport, make sure you know before you go which type of test, by which manufacturer and in what timeframe it is needed for the destination you are travelling. Keep a printed copy of the test results. If you get this wrong then the test will not be accepted at the airport.

Choosing which day you fly may also become something to consider, with countries requiring a negative test within 72 hours of flying. This may take a little more planning to make sure you can book a test and get the results back in time. It is worth planning ahead for to save you the stress! You should also be prepared for the possibility that you may receive a positive test result for Covid-19, meaning you can no longer travel.

The Test

We have both had several Covid-19 tests, they are fairly straight forward and nothing to be worried about. The ones we have experienced use a swab to the back of your throat for a few seconds and then up your nose. It made us want to sneeze, our eyes watered and it made us gag. The test was uncomfortable but it did not hurt. You should be prepared that you may be required to do another test on arrival, depending where you are travelling.