What to know about covid-19 testing for travel​

And the test must be able to produce approved documentation to share with airline and customs officials. The CDC-approved travel reentry tests available online include Abbott’s BinaxNOW Ag

Card Home Test ($70 for a two-pack), which will give you results within 15 minutes. The Qured Video Supervised Rapid Test ($45) is similar, with two tests included: The first is done under

video supervision; the second, taken without supervision 24-36 hours later, is meant to confirm the result. For frequent travelers, Cue Health has introduced its own testing device with a

membership service. It's $474 for a device plus three tests, or a monthly service beginning at $50. To return to the U.S. after international travel, you'd need the Cue+

Complete membership, which is $90 per month. WHAT IF YOU JUST WANT PEACE OF MIND THAT YOU DON'T HAVE COVID-19 BEFORE TRAVELING TO VISIT FAMILY AND FRIENDS WITHIN THE U.S.? In that

case, you can use over-the-counter tests from drugstores. But there have been severe shortages for these quick-and-easy tests, which offer results in less than 15 minutes, as omicron’s

spread has led to a surge in demand. While many countries have over-the-counter tests available for purchase once you get there, it might be a good idea to bring a few test kits with you (if

you can find any). They can provide peace of mind if you are exhibiting symptoms, and save you time searching pharmacies for test kits (or a potentially expensive trip to a clinic at your

destination). Again, these over-the-counter tests will not be enough to gain approval for return to the U.S., unless they have the certified telehealth component included. WHAT HAPPENS IF

YOU FAIL YOUR RETURN COVID-19 TEST? Regulations for travelers receiving a positive test vary widely by country. Even if you're asymptomatic, you will typically be required to quarantine

— either at a government-mandated location or one of your choosing — for at least a week, with a negative test required to exit quarantine. A few countries take care of the cost of

quarantine food and lodging, many others do not, and costs can quickly accumulate. This is the time when you should consider purchasing travel insurance — and choose COVID-19-specific

options on your policy. Read the fine print carefully. Given the recent rapid spread of the omicron variant, it certainly would be wise to look into relevant travel insurance options for any

international trip.  A FEW MORE TIPS · STAY ON TOP OF CDC GUIDANCE. Before traveling, be sure to confirm the latest requirements on the CDC website, and with your airline. You don’t want to

be denied access to your return flight with an unapproved test or missing paperwork. · CHECK YOUR DESTINATION’S TESTING REQUIREMENTS. Other countries’ testing and vaccination rules vary

widely, but many require visitors to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test within three days (some within 24 hours) of travel with approved PCR or antigen tests.   _Editor's note:

This article was originally published on December 21, 2021. It's been updated to reflect new information._