A Quick Guide to Finding a COVID Test Abroad

Starting December 2, 2021, the CDC announced plans to require all travelers, regardless of vaccination status, to be tested one day before returning to the US. Thankfully, there is some flexibility built-in regarding the testing requirements: opting for a quicker antigen test or a PCR test.

Finding a Local Test

Prior to departing for your trip, I recommend asking your accommodation, whether a hotel or an Airbnb host, where to get a local COVID test. I would ask for a few options in case one turns out to be drive-thru only, the test takes longer than 24 hours, or any other obstacle you may run into.

Sometimes a simple Google search is difficult and doesn’t give you all of the information (price, appointment availability, the wait time between test and results).

Ultimately, your accommodation should be able to assist in making you an appointment ahead of time and letting you know cost.

Airlines and Airports

Delta, KLM, TAP, British Airways, and United (along with their alliance partners SkyTeam and Star Alliance) have search tools for finding local testing centers.

Some airports even having testing providers within the airports - usually costing around $25 for a rapid test. Research ahead of time if your departing airport offers this amenity and make sure you give yourself PLENTY of time to get your test done while giving yourself time to get through security, too.

Embassies

Check the embassy’s covid page to find a list of clinics in your area!

BYO Test

Finally, you can also bring a self-test with you. These tests need to be supervised by a telehealth professional, and only certain tests are approved.

The CDC currently accepts three major at-home tests for use by inbound passengers: Abbott’s BinaxNow COVID-19 Home Test, Ellume’s COVID-19 Home Test and Qured’s video-supervised rapid antigen test.

To have your test proctored, go to eMed.com/app/start-testing and click on “I want to start testing.” Testing results will be available through Abbott’s NAVICA app in as few as 15 minutes. Be sure you are located somewhere with a strong Wi-Fi connection.

Here’s to hoping we can travel safely!