Whether visiting family, hiking to a bowl game, or taking a break from the winter weather, there are a few ways COVID-19 can impact your travel.

1. You may need a COVID-19 test before you leave.

Some destinations require a COVID-19 test prior to arrival, and different destinations require different types of testing. It is your responsibility to know what type of test is required for your goal. If you fly, your airline is a good source for this information.

The Utah Department of Health has partnered with NOMI Health (Test Utah) to offer two locations with lanes for travel testing:

  • Salt Lake City – Cannon Health Building (288 North 1460 West)
  • St. George – Dixie Technical College (610 S. Tech Ridge Drive)

Traveler testing at both of these locations is free for Utah residents with proof of residence (government-issued ID, utility bill, credit card statement, tax bill, etc.). Non-Utah residents will be charged a $179 fee for rapid PCR testing (credit card only); However, rapid PCR and antigen tests are provided free of charge. You must also provide proof of travel such as a boarding pass or other travel documents and proof of your Utah residency to receive the free rapid PCR test.

Some destinations may also require testing to be taken at specific testing locations, or may contain QR codes linked to results and CLIA information. At this time, the two state testing sites are traveling not QR codes or CLIA information included.

You can also get tested by others COVID-19 testing locations or at private testing companies. Just make sure you get the type of test that will be accepted at your destination.

Learn more about travel testing here:

2. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from COVID-19.

Travel increases the risk of exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19. Make sure you are fully vaccinated before travelling. If you are already fully vaccinated, the CDC recommends getting a booster shot before you travel.

If you are not fully vaccinated and plan to travel, take precautions to protect yourself and others: wear a mask, keep your distance, wash your hands frequently and try to avoid things other people touch. Bring hand sanitizer and disposable wipes in case you don’t have soap and water to wash your hands.

The CDC also provides a travel listing Recommendations based on how much COVID-19 is spreading in a country https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/map-and-travel-notices.html.

If you are traveling internationally by air, you must take a COVID-19 test to return to the United States or provide proof of recovery from COVID-19 within the past 90 days, even if you are fully vaccinated. Take the test at least one day before your return flight. You must show your negative test result upon boarding.

More information on Tests for passengers flying to the United States: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/testing-international-air-travelers.html.

The CDC recommends you Get tested upon return from international travel. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/international-travel-during-covid19.html#anchor_1634925927097.

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