Being stuck in another country due to a positive COVID-19 test result may be terrifying. But here’s what you should do in case that happens. 

Many of us made our peace with an endless array of hygienic measures, mask mandates, pre-travel testing, and vaccinations to reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19. However, variants such as the Delta and Omicron are constantly causing rounds of global anxiety and travel restrictions. 

In the latest travel news, two countries―England and Israel―have ditched pre-arrival tests for travelers. This is in line with the recent adoption of more flexible COVID-19 guidelines as the travel industry slowly opens up again. 

While that is good news for many travelers, let’s not forget that the world is still navigating through this pandemic. In fact, the top concern among frequent flyers nowadays is not about where they will go and how to get there but about what they should do when they test positive for COVID-19 while away from home. 

If you’re ready to travel, but you’re worried about getting sick with the virus, here’s a list of things you should take note of: 

• Pack your own COVID-19 test kits. You’ll need them for every location where you’ll be required to show a negative test result. 
• Download the COVID-19 testing app on your smartphone before you travel. Check your test kit to know which app to use. 
• Bring a powerbank for your smartphone. Running out of battery is not an option, especially nowadays when you need to pull up various online documents as part of the travel guidelines. 
• Know your quarantine requirements and options before leaving the country. Consider booking accommodation with easy access to nearby restaurants, medical services, etc. 
• Know how to contact a healthcare provider if you need medical treatment. Remember that riding in public transit is a big no-no when you’re sick with the coronavirus. 
• Ask if your health insurance will cover treatment where you’re traveling. If not, purchase a travel insurance plan with sufficient coverage. 
• Study the quarantine laws at your destination. Breaking these laws and protocols could lead to hefty fines and, in some instances, imprisonment. 

Meanwhile, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recently released a set of guidelines for both US citizens and non-US citizens traveling to and from America. 

For US citizens: 

• Make sure you are up-to-date with your COVID-19 vaccines before traveling internationally. 
• Check your destination’s situation and travel requirements before traveling. 
• You must show a negative COVID-19 test result or recovery documentation before boarding a flight to the US.
• Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth is required. 
• Plan ahead of your travel schedule. 

For non-US citizens: 

• Make sure you are up-to-date with your COVID-19 vaccines before traveling internationally. 
• You must be fully vaccinated with the primary series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to travel to the US by plane. 
• You must show a negative COVID-19 test result or recovery documentation when you travel to the US by air. 
• Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth is required. 
• Prepare to present your proof of vaccination and other documentations such as visa, passport, etc., upon arrival to or departure from the US. 

Additionally, the US CDC has released guidelines prohibiting both US citizens and non-US citizens to traveling if they: 

• Are sick. 
• Tested positive for COVID-19. 
• Are waiting for the results of a COVID-19 test. 
• Had close contact with a person who tested positive for the virus. They will be required to quarantine for a full 10 days after the day of their last exposure. If they need to travel during days 6 through 10 after their last exposure, they need to get tested at least 5 days after their last close contact with a COVID-19 positive person. 

All passengers to the US will be required to provide their contact information for contact tracing. Aside from that, those who are not yet vaccinated will be required to stay home and self-quarantine for 5 days after arrival. 

If, for instance, you test positive for COVID-19 or develop symptoms upon arrival to your destination, immediately isolate yourself to prevent spreading the virus. Stay inside your accommodation and stay in touch with your doctor. Avoid public transportation at all costs. 

On the other hand, if you’ve just recovered from your COVID-19 infection within the past 90 days―regardless of your vaccination status, you don’t need to get tested 3 to 5 days after travel. You also don’t need to self-quarantine. If you develop symptoms of the virus, immediately isolate yourself and consult your healthcare provider for testing recommendations. 

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True enough, contracting the COVID-19 virus is stressful, especially when you’ve got it outside of your home country. With no family member or friend to take care of you in a foreign land, you’re left to fend for yourself no matter how weak or sick you feel. 

That’s why preparation and vigilance of the changing rules and guidelines for travel is key to helping you manage last-minute logistics more easily and effectively. 

The good news? 

US domestic airfares are relatively cheap nowadays compared to the same period in the previous years. International flights are also cheaper than normal. In fact, Scott’s Cheap Flights states that now is the time to book summer travel because airfare rates are more affordable. You just need to be more careful to avoid contracting the virus. 

Also, remember that airlines are waiving change fees for all fares above basic economy. This means you can pencil in your summer travel plans now and stay flexible as your travel dates come closer. If you’re looking for any silver lining to this global pandemic, this might be it.