Why I'm still traveling with COVID-19 tests
After two years, the COVID-19 testing requirement for travel to the U.S. has finally been dropped, which means there's one less hurdle for international travelers. However, if you're like me, you still have several unused eMed proctored tests. Is it time to stash them in the back of the closet?
That's not what I'm doing. Here's why:
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There's still a risk of getting COVID-19
One of the most obvious reasons I still travel with COVID-19 tests is because the pandemic is far from over. In the U.S., we're still averaging around 100,000 cases per day.
Travelers need to be prepared, which is why I'm thinking ahead. I certainly hope to never catch COVID-19 on a trip, but it could happen. Smart travelers need to be ready for that very real possibility. If I test positive, I will want to test myself regularly until I'm once again testing negative. Because of that, I need to carry at least three or four COVID-19 tests.
When I travel, I take at least one eMed proctored test and my NHS Trace & Test box, which was given to me for free during my last trip to London. The NHS box is portable, at about six inches long, and it includes about half a dozen tests.
Related: Updated: A country-by-country guide to coronavirus reopenings
Some countries still ask for negative COVID-19 test results
As you know, each country has specific COVID-19 requirements. COVID-19 testing requirements still remain in place throughout the world, particularly for unvaccinated travelers. Even if you plan to travel to a country that doesn't have a COVID-19 testing requirement, your plans could change. With a proctored test on hand, you have additional flexibility to travel as you please.
You definitely don't want to find yourself in a situation where you can't board a plane because you don't have a negative COVID-19 test result on hand.
Related: 5 things I learned after testing positive for COVID-19 abroad
The requirement could come back at any point
Perhaps the most obvious reason to travel with a COVID-19 proctored test is that the testing requirement could come back at any time without significant advance notice — even though it might be unlikely. And there's a chance that if the testing requirement returns, there would be a shortage of COVID-19 proctored tests.
As a result, when my fellow U.S.-bound travelers scurry to get tested, I'll be ready to go.
Related: Do I need a COVID-19 test for my cruise? Your pre- and post-cruise testing questions answered
Bottom line
Just because COVID-19 testing is no longer required for travelers bound for the U.S., that doesn't mean you shouldn't pack a few COVID-19 tests. I wouldn't go out and buy new proctored tests today. However, if you still have some unused tests, there's no harm in throwing one into your backpack before you leave for the airport.
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The Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex is a stacked card with a rewards rate that will help you earn bonus points on everyday and business-related purchases. You'll earn 15 elite night credits each calendar year, and receive automatic Gold elite status. Finally, the free night award certificate with a redemption level of 35,000 points or less can get you hundreds of dollars in potential value each year.Pros
- 6x points on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program
- 4x points at restaurants worldwide, U.S. gas stations, wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and U.S. shipping
- 2x points on all other eligible purchases
- Earn a free-night award each card renewal month (up to 35,000 points)
- Receive 15 elite night credits to jump-start status
- Transfer Marriott points to 40+ airlines
Cons
- Airline points transfer ratios are poor
- Must spend $60,000 in a year for second free-night award
- Limited Time Offer: Earn 100,000 Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points after spending $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Card Membership. Offer expires 11/2/22.
- 6x points at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program.
- 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping.
- 2x points on all other eligible purchases.
- Receive a 7% discount off standard rates for reservations of standard guest rooms at hotels that participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program when you book directly. Terms and Conditions Apply.
- Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Plus, earn an additional Free Night Award after you spend $60K in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
- Enjoy Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status with your Card.
- Terms apply.
- See Rates & Fees