Travel Antigen Testing: A Step-By-Step Guide

As the world opened back up post-pandemic, demand for travel has increased. While travel restrictions have been lifted in many places, the COVID-19 virus is still very much present. Testing positive for COVID-19 before a trip can be a stressful experience, but it's important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and others. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to take an antigen test for travel, including when to test, what type of test to use, and what to do if you test positive.

Testing requirements vary by country and vaccination status

Testing requirements and their specifics vary by country and vaccination status. While some countries have eased or dropped their testing requirements for entry, others still require proof of a negative COVID-19 test, proof of vaccination, or even mandatory quarantine upon arrival. It is important to check the requirements of your destination country before travelling.

For example, the United States no longer requires international travellers to provide a negative COVID-19 test before entry, nor do they require passengers to wear masks inflight or at the airport. However, some international destinations that Americans may travel to will still require passengers to wear a mask.

The CDC recommends that unvaccinated travellers flying within the U.S. should get tested one to three days prior to travel. Vaccinated travellers flying domestically do not need to get tested prior to travel.

If you are experiencing symptoms, it is advised to take a COVID-19 antigen test, widely available at drug stores and pharmacies, to check for infection. Testing four days after potential exposure or the onset of symptoms is advised for the best chance of an accurate result. If you experience symptoms but test negative, it is a good idea to test again the following day to ensure the result is still negative. Taking two or three home tests over the course of a couple of days is recommended.

If you have tested positive for COVID-19, it is important to follow the latest CDC guidelines on isolation. If you are no longer having a fever without the use of medication and are feeling better, you can stop isolating as long as you wear a high-quality, well-fitting mask when interacting with others. However, it is advised that you do not fly, as you are likely to infect those sitting near you on the aircraft.

Testing options include airlines, drug stores, and hospitals

When it comes to taking an antigen test for travel, you have several options for where to go, including airlines, drug stores, and hospitals. Many airlines now offer testing, making it easier for travellers to find a test before their journey as several destinations require proof of a negative result before boarding or upon arrival. It's worth noting that some airlines may have specific requirements for the type of test and when it needs to be taken, so be sure to check with your airline beforehand.

If you prefer, you can also schedule a test outside of the options provided by your airline. Drug stores and pharmacies often provide COVID-19 antigen tests, usually at a low cost of around $9.99. This is a convenient and accessible option, especially if you're travelling in a group, as it can help you save money. Remember to check the age requirements for testing if you're travelling with children, as they may be exempt from testing in certain cases.

Urgent care facilities and hospitals are also viable options for COVID-19 testing. Testing at these locations may be free of charge, but it's always good to confirm beforehand. Keep in mind that testing availability and turnaround times for results may vary, so it's essential to schedule your appointment as early as possible, especially if you have upcoming travel plans.

Regardless of where you choose to take your antigen test, it's crucial to be mindful of the specific testing requirements of your destination. Different countries may have varying protocols, and some may not accept certain types of tests, such as antibody testing. Always verify the accepted tests, vaccination requirements, and any mandatory quarantine periods with official government resources or the tourism board of your destination.

Schedule your test as early as possible

When scheduling an antigen test for travel, it is important to plan ahead and schedule your test as early as possible. This is because, although testing options are more widely available than ever before, slots are still limited. By scheduling your test as soon as you have booked your travel plans, you can ensure that you will be able to get tested when you need to.

In addition to limited slots, it is also crucial to consider the timing of your test in relation to your travel plans. Testing too early may result in the test not detecting the virus if you are pre-symptomatic or asymptomatic. On the other hand, testing too late may mean that you do not receive your results in time for your trip. The ideal time to test is around four days after potential exposure or the onset of symptoms, as this will increase the likelihood of an accurate result.

Furthermore, it is important to be aware of the different types of tests available, such as rapid antigen and PCR tests. Different destinations may have specific requirements for the type of test that is accepted, so be sure to check ahead of time to ensure that the test you take will be approved by your destination. This is crucial, as taking an unapproved test may result in you having to take another test or even facing a mandatory quarantine upon arrival at your destination.

By scheduling your antigen test as early as possible, you can not only ensure that you secure a testing slot but also allow for enough time to receive your results and take any necessary actions before your trip. This helps to ensure a smoother travel experience and can provide peace of mind that you are doing your part to protect yourself and others.

Overall, scheduling your antigen test as early as possible is a crucial step in preparing for your travels, especially in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. By planning ahead, you can help increase the likelihood of an accurate test result and ensure that you are complying with any testing requirements or guidelines that may be in place at your destination. This not only benefits you but also contributes to the collective effort to curb the spread of the virus and keep everyone safe. So, whether you are travelling for leisure or business, be sure to make scheduling your antigen test a priority as soon as you start planning your trip.

Confirm the minimum age required to take a test

When it comes to antigen testing for travel, it is important to confirm the minimum age requirements beforehand. This is because the minimum age to take an antigen test can vary depending on the country and the specific regulations in place. In some cases, there may be no minimum age requirement, while in other cases, a parent or guardian may need to administer the test to a minor.

To ensure you meet the necessary requirements, it is recommended to review the guidelines provided by the testing facility or the local health authorities. This information is typically available on their official websites or can be obtained by contacting them directly. It is worth noting that age is not the only factor to consider when determining eligibility for antigen testing. Other factors, such as symptoms, exposure history, and local infection rates, may also play a role in the decision-making process.

In the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, antigen tests are widely available as self-tests that can be purchased over the counter and performed entirely at home. These tests are designed to detect the presence of SARS-CoV-2 viral proteins in a sample collected from an individual's nose or mouth, helping to determine if they are currently infected with the coronavirus. While these tests offer convenience and accessibility, it is crucial to adhere to the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure accurate results.

It is worth noting that the accuracy of antigen tests may vary. They are generally reliable but are less sensitive than molecular diagnostic tests like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. As a result, antigen tests may be more likely to yield false negative results, especially when used on individuals who are asymptomatic or have recently started exhibiting symptoms. To increase the reliability of the test results, it is often recommended to perform sequential or serial testing, where multiple tests are conducted over a period of a few days.

Confirm test type is approved by your destination country

When travelling, it is imperative that you confirm your test type is approved by your destination country. This is because entry requirements vary from country to country, and non-compliance may result in denied boarding or forced quarantine.

For example, China requires nucleic acid tests and serum antibody tests, while the US accepts both antigen and PCR tests. Meanwhile, countries like Canada, the UK, and the UAE have dropped pre-arrival testing requirements altogether for vaccinated travellers.

Additionally, some countries have different requirements for vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers. For instance, Belize requires unvaccinated travellers over the age of 5 to present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival or a negative antigen test taken within 48 hours. On the other hand, vaccinated travellers can enter the country without presenting any test results.

Furthermore, certain countries may specify the type of test and where it is administered. For instance, Singapore requires a PCR test from a government-approved or ISO 15189-accredited testing facility. Meanwhile, the US mandates that the test be administered by a licensed healthcare provider or public health official.

Therefore, it is essential to consult official government sources for your destination country to confirm that your test type is approved and that you meet all other entry requirements.

Frequently asked questions