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California relaxing travel restrictions, but still discouraging visitors

April 02, 2021
2 min read
San Francisco December 2020. (Photo by Clint Henderson:The Points Guy) copy 2
California relaxing travel restrictions, but still discouraging visitors
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California is easing some of its restrictions on travel during the coronavirus pandemic. The Golden State has eliminated its advisory that Californians shouldn't travel more than 120 miles from their homes.

Still, the state is advising against "nonessential" travel in general. California said residents should still avoid travel out of the state entirely, "Avoiding travel reduces the risk of virus transmission, including by reducing the risk that new sources of infection and, potentially, new virus strains will be introduced to California."

The state is also strongly discouraging visitors to California from out of state and requesting that any out-of-state visitors get tested three to five days after arrival and stay home and self-quarantine for a full seven days after travel even if COVID-19 tests come back negative. The state also says this is "regardless of vaccination status." The state says if you don't get tested, you should stay home and self-quarantine for 10 days.

Related: State-by-state guide to coronavirus reopening

In addition, the state has also issued the following guidance:

  • All travelers arriving in or returning to California from other states or countries should follow CDC travel guidance.
  • All travelers should get tested with a viral test one to three days before travel.
  • All travelers who test positive or develop symptoms of COVID-19 should isolate and follow public health recommendations.
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For all things California, take a look at our Golden State hub.

Keep in mind, if you are still thinking of visiting California, there are quarantines and restrictions still in place in many counties. While most of those restrictions are not being enforced, California is still discouraging travel -- even for the vaccinated.

Featured image by San Francisco December 2020. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)
Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.