How to locate a COVID-19 test while traveling internationally

COVID-19 testing has become an essential part of travel during the pandemic, especially with the emergence of the new omicron variant.

Beyond securing a predeparture COVID-19 test in the U.S., travelers may also require access to testing facilities depending on their destination. At a minimum, all travelers need to present proof of a negative test taken no more than one day prior to returning to the U.S.

Unfortunately, obtaining a test while abroad can be just as difficult — if not more so — than finding one at home. Here are several places where you can get a COVID-19 test during your next international trip.

Accommodation facilities like hotels or hostels

Hyatt Cap Cana (Image credit: Summer Hull/Dinogo)

Your hotel (or hostel, if that’s your preference) should be your primary resource for a COVID-19 test when preparing to travel back to the U.S. During the pandemic, a hotel providing complimentary COVID-19 testing is just as valuable as a free upgrade or meal voucher. Numerous hotels worldwide offer free (or discounted) COVID-19 testing for guests returning to the U.S. or for those checking in.

Here are some examples of current hotel COVID-19 testing programs available globally:

• Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport: The Test, Rest and Fly package includes an overnight stay, breakfast, and one PCR test with results in 24 to 36 hours, starting at $295.
• Sofitel London Heathrow and London Gatwick: These hotels offer a Test and Rest program, which includes a room and a PCR test, with results available overnight.
• The Baha Mar hotel complex in the Bahamas provides a complimentary rapid antigen test upon arrival and departure.
• Marriott Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort: On-site COVID-19 antigen tests are available for $50 per guest, or a PCR test for $125.
• Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana: Offers one complimentary antigen test per guest per stay, with additional antigen tests costing $25 each. The resort also provides one complimentary PCR test for stays of seven nights or more, or $79 for shorter stays.
• Park Hyatt Dubai: PCR tests are priced at $54 per person with a 24-hour turnaround, while express PCR tests cost $95 per person (with a six to ten-hour turnaround).

During a trip to Mauritius in November, the Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa and JW Marriott Mauritius offered complimentary COVID-19 testing upon arrival. Travelers must test negative to freely explore the island.

However, arranging a test to return to the U.S. became complicated. As I mentioned earlier this month, my resort did offer COVID-19 tests for guests – but only PCR tests with a 36-hour turnaround. That timeframe didn’t work for me since I was flying back to the U.S. later that night.

Before checking into your hotel, make sure to ask about the specific types of coronavirus tests your resort or hostel offers and the time it takes to receive your results. Additionally, confirm that you'll get an official copy of your test results, which is necessary for traveling to the U.S.

It's also wise to research whether there’s a testing shortage at your destination, as this could make obtaining a test in time for your travel more difficult.

Hospitals or urgent care facilities

(Image credit: Westend61 / Getty Images)

When it became evident that I couldn't obtain a COVID-19 test for travel at my resort in Mauritius, I had to quickly devise an alternative plan.

During my drive to the resort, I spotted a hospital and inquired with the staff about getting a COVID-19 test there. They informed me about a backlog in testing and limited supplies, but the hospital was willing to assist me after making a call regarding my situation. Nonetheless, this should be considered a backup option rather than your primary choice.

If you intend to get tested at a local hospital, it's advisable to make a reservation a few days in advance to alleviate any unnecessary stress. Be sure to bring identification documents such as your passport and travel itinerary. Lastly, double (and triple) check the cost of your test before arriving and confirm whether your travel insurance covers it. Otherwise, you might face an unexpected charge when it's time to settle your bill.

Bring an at-home COVID-19 test

(Image credit: Ben McCanna/Portland Press Herald via Getty Images)

If your travel destination is experiencing a shortage of COVID-19 tests, consider purchasing a couple of at-home test kits prior to your trip. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control now permits proctored tests for reentry into the U.S. However, non-proctored tests can still be useful for assessing your test status.

There are various at-home testing options available at different price points that meet the requirements for traveling to the U.S. Just be sure to order them ahead of time so you can bring your tests along when you leave home:

• Abbott's BinaxNOW COVID-19 Home Test: This test is CDC-approved for travel to the U.S. (Note: There's another Abbott rapid test available at drugstores, but it isn't proctored and can't be used for travel.) Cost: $150 for a six-pack from eMed or $69.99 for a two-pack from Optum.
• Amazon's COVID-19 Test Collection Kit DTC: This test has been granted emergency use authorization by the FDA. Cost: $39.99
• Ellume COVID-19 Home Test: Currently available only in local pharmacies. (Be aware that Ellume recalled over 2 million tests in October due to "higher-than-acceptable false-positive rates," so ensure your test isn't affected.) Cost: $38.99 plus a $20 fee for an online video observation to take a proctored test virtually.
• Cue Health: This membership option promises results in 20 minutes and can detect the new variant. Cue Health offers two choices for travelers: the Cue+ Essential membership starting at $49.99 (with a pricier option at $89.99 per month), or a one-time purchase with packs of three or ten tests starting at $225.