Getting there: Am I at higher risk of catching COVID on an airplane?
Air travel in the COVID era is fairly safe, since most commercial aircraft are equipped with HEPA filters to clean the air. This basically means that instead of being at risk from every individual on the plane, your risk is limited to the people seated immediately around you, and to those you’re in close contact with. That said, passing through crowded terminals and waiting on security lines puts you at risk, so it’s best to minimize your time in the airport and avoid layovers if possible, according to the CDC. It’s also a good idea to wear an N95 or other high-quality mask and bring hand sanitizer or wipes for the plane (in case they aren’t provided by the airline).
Do I need to be vaccinated or take a COVID test to fly domestically?
For the latest guidance on travel requirements, please visit the CDC website.
Am I required to get a COVID test to fly back to the U.S. from abroad?
For the latest guidance on travel requirements, please visit the CDC website.
Am I at higher risk of catching COVID on a train or bus?
The CDC recommends avoiding long-distance bus or train trips if possible, since they involve close proximity to other people and have worse air circulation than on a plane.
How can I stay safe on a holiday road trip?
If you’re planning a multi-day road trip to your final destination, the CDC recommends staying in a home or vacation rental (think Airbnb) with people from your household only—or with fully vaccinated people. Staying in a hotel or with unvaccinated people would be less safe. If you do need to stay in a hotel, avoid common areas (e.g., the communal dining area of a B&B.)
If I need to get a COVID test, what are my options?
If you need a COVID-19 test, you can order a home collection kit online for ages 2+, pick one up at a store near you, visit a drive-thru, or contact your doctor or local hospital. Antigen (or “rapid”) self-tests that can be done at home or elsewhere and return results quickly (typically around 15 minutes), may be an option in some circumstances. But keep in mind that a PCR test is more accurate than an antigen test.
For information on a faster, new test option you can consider if you are asymptomatic and have not been exposed to COVID-19, click here.
As you start to finalize your travel plans, our travel checklist is also a great source of information; you can download it once and refer to it often!