What are the current UK travel restrictions?

In line with the new guidance, from 4am on 7 January, double jabbed travellers and under 18s will no longer have to present a negative coronavirus test result (PCR or lateral flow) upon arrival in England. Free NHS lateral flow tests are not valid for this purpose.

From the same date and time, those groups will also no longer have to self-isolate while awaiting the results of their “day two” test taken after arrival.

None of the current travel rules will change for unvaccinated travellers aged 18 and over – they are still required to present a negative pre-departure test, quarantine for 10 days upon arrival, and take a PCR test on days two and eight of self-isolation.

For the moment the vast majority of countries present no great barriers to travel and there are currently no countries or territories on the red list for travel to England.

As many countries have different requirements, the UK government advises checking foreign travel advice for all countries you will visit or travel through, including rules on social distancing, mask wearing, vaccine passports and quarantining.

You must also arrange any Covid-19 tests you will need to enter the countries that you intend to travel to ahead of your trip.

“The price of Covid tests required for travel can vary hugely, from about £35 to £200+, so factor these costs into your holiday budget,” shares Oli Townsend of MoneySavingExpert. “As we’ve seen recently, the rules can change quickly, and you could end up needing tests you weren’t expecting. It’s crucial to also check the rules and tests required for the destination you’re travelling to.”

“As well as the price, check test provider reviews and results turnaround time. You often pay more for faster results, so there’s a trade-off between cost and the time you may need to self-isolate. For day-two PCR tests for example, home testing kits are generally cheapest, but results may take longer as you need to send or drop off your sample which will add time. Taking your test at an airport clinic is safest for speed as you can get tested immediately on arrival, but this tends to be the priciest option.”

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