You’ll Need to Take the COVID Test to Travel. But, Where?

As we know, more and more people get their vaccinations; therefore, the desire to travel grows stronger, fueled largely by the reducing infections of coronavirus. Undoubtedly, the world is getting back to normal.

If you’re preparing for travel, don’t forget that you need documentation of a negative coronavirus test.

Tests aren’t in short supply anymore. But some places still won’t test you if you don’t have symptoms. There are lots of locations you can get tested for coronavirus before traveling.

State or local governments govern some community testing sites. Meanwhile, private companies manage others, and some may be a partnership between the two.

To find community testing sites near you, check your local department of health website, or you can ask Google.

You may have to pay for a test at a community testing center as tests are usually for people who have symptoms. However, some testing sites may give free tests.

Most urgent care centers have both PCR and rapid antigen coronavirus tests. You can check the website of local urgent care centers to find out if testing is available. Moreover, most cities have multiple.

Some Airports and Hotels Offer COVID-19 Tests for Guests

Furthermore, most large pharmacy chains offer coronavirus testing for travel, but you’ll probably have to pay out of pocket. Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid all have coronavirus tests available for travel. The exact cost you incur may differ, but out-of-pocket costs for coronavirus tests generally waver between $100 and $150.

Additionally, Kroger and Walmart pharmacies also offer testing in some states. The same rule applies: The test is free if you have symptoms, but you have to pay if you have another reason.

Some travel destinations offer COVID-19 tests for guests, as well as airports. Cost depends on several factors, including what entity exactly provides the test, whether they bill health insurance, and whether people showing symptoms are prioritized.

However, some airports might not offer rapid tests, which suggests you shouldn’t wait until the day of your flight to get your test.

In general, it’s a good idea to take your coronavirus test so that you get results within three days of travel. This suggests you can take a rapid antigen test 24 to 72 hours before traveling, or you can take a PCR test four to six days before travel. PCR tests usually need 24 to 72 hours to process.