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UK Pre-departure Testing: Information For Travellers

If you’re planning a trip during the current COVID-19 outbreak, you should prepare for the unexpected. The outbreak has made travelling around the world more difficult than ever. You should always bring your vaccine passport to show that you’ve received the vaccine. Depending on the destination, you may need to get a pre-departure test. In addition to vaccinations, you should pack extra identification, a face mask and hand sanitiser is also a must. The UK government has implemented a robust pre-departure testing regime. It has taken up the call of the travel industry for a UK pre-departure test to ensure the safety of the traveller, whereas up until recently travellers were also required to undergo post-arrival testing or go into self-isolation. Despite the delays and inconvenience, the government aims to make air travel easier and cheaper for those who are fully vaccinated. This is especially important as the UK has just introduced relaxation on its covid restrictions and laws.

flight attendant wearing a mask

What Does UK Pre-departure Testing Involve?

The new rules are being imposed on travellers without a covid vaccination certificate. The UK is requiring these tests for anyone who is over the age of 12 and is staying in the country for more than 72 hours. The tests must be completed within 72 to 48 hours before departure, depending on the test they decide to take. If a traveller has positive test results, they will need to amend their journey.

The UK Pre-departure testing is the procedure of screening passengers before they board the plane to the UK. Passengers can choose to take an antigen or a PCR test for this purpose. The details on the test specifications can be found on the official governmental website.

The purpose of pre-departure testing is to reduce the number of people who might bring the infection into the UK. This will also allow passengers to travel without having to worry about getting infected. Although there are some limitations to the new policy, many airlines have already implemented it.

pre-departure testing

Planning is Key

If you’re travelling during the Covid virus outbreak you should take extra precautions to ensure your safety. This includes checking the health of your family and your own. It’s also a good idea to avoid indoor spaces, including museums and public restrooms. Research the health risks associated with your destination and the types of travel you plan to undertake. By being prepared, you can avoid the risk of becoming ill from Covid-19. Make sure you have the latest information about where you can go and what you’ll need to do. You can also plan your itinerary to avoid places where the virus is widespread. The best way to avoid getting sick is to avoid such areas during Covid-19.  Especially when travelling with older adults, it’s important to avoid indoor spaces.

Plan your travel time carefully. The United Kingdom has four seasons and the climate is slightly cooler toward the North, but you should not expect a drastic change in temperatures. For example, the country’s climate can be very cold and wet during winter throughout the island. Summer is a bit different as it can get absolutely roasting in the south, so make sure you know where you’re going and when, and plan everything according to the weather.