COVID-19 is top of mind for most travelers, and some airlines may even require proof of a negative test or vaccination prior to flying. Additionally, once you get to your final destination, you may need to stake a test, so rather than dealing with the hassle of trying to track down one when you land, you may want to just take one along with you.
The good news is that you can take unused COVID-19 test kits with you in both your carry-on and checked luggage. However, if you have any test kits that are used and contain diagnostic samples, they need to be in your checked bag.
Here’s all you need to know about traveling with a COVID-19 test kit.
Key Takeaways
- You can bring unused COVID-19 test kits with you in both your carry-on and checked luggage, but used test kits containing diagnostic samples should be in your checked bag.
- It’s recommended that you take a COVID-19 test prior to traveling to ensure you’re safe to travel, and carry a copy of your negative test as you may be asked to show it in various circumstances.
- Airlines may have additional restrictions in place, so it’s important to check with them before traveling.
- If you are carrying active samples, you must connect directly with your airline, as they may have additional restrictions in place.
- Wearing a mask while traveling is necessary, and carrying several with you to use as needed is best practice.
Carry-on Luggage
You can carry unused COVID-19 tests with you in your carry-on luggage. This is because they do not contain any dangerous or hazardous materials. In addition, many airport security officers are allowing oversized sanitary items to pass through, including up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer and wipes. Check with your airport prior to traveling to ensure these rules apply.
Otherwise, any liquids you bring should adhere to the 3-1-1 rule, which states you can bring 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) of liquid per travel-sized container. All of your liquid items must fit in a one-quart-sized bag, and only one bag is allowed per person.
Checked Luggage
If you have any used COVID-19 tests, these must be packed in your checked luggage. Anything containing any type of diagnostic samples, including but not limited to nasal swabs and vials of sputum, is not allowed in your carry-on luggage.
These items are classified as a UN3373 Category B Infectious Substance, and as such, they need to be packed, handled, and identified with care during the travel process. If you are traveling with active samples, please connect directly with your airline, as they may have additional restrictions in place.
Testing Before You Go
It is recommended that you take a COVID-19 test prior to traveling to ensure you are safe to travel. You should test 1-3 days before traveling and 1-3 days after traveling. If your test is positive, you should not travel and immediately isolate yourself to help stop the spread.
As a best practice, please carry a copy of your negative COVID-19 test as you may be asked to show it in various circumstances. Additionally, you may need to wear a mask while traveling, so it’s best to carry several with you to use as needed. If your flight is longer than four hours, you may need to change your mask several times during a consecutive flight to best protect your health and safety.
So, Can I Bring A Covid Test On A Plane?
Yes, you can bring unopened, sealed covid tests on a plane with you to help with your testing. These must be packed in a checked bag and appropriately labeled if you have any active samples. Testing is recommended prior to and after traveling, though some activities may require proof of a negative test.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I bring new COVID-19 test kits in my carry-on luggage?
Yes, you can bring unused COVID-19 test kits in your carry-on luggage.
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Can I bring used COVID-19 test kits on a plane?
Yes, you can bring used COVID-19 test kits on a plane, but they must be packed in your checked luggage.
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What are the regulations for carrying liquids in my carry-on luggage?
Liquids you bring should adhere to the 3-1-1 rule, which states you can get 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) of liquid per travel-sized container. All liquid items must fit in a one-quart-sized bag, and only one bag is allowed per person.
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Can I bring a COVID-19 test kit with active samples on a plane?
If you are traveling with active samples, please connect directly with your airline, as they may have additional restrictions.
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Is it recommended to take a COVID-19 test before traveling?
Yes, it’s recommended to take a COVID-19 test prior to traveling to ensure you’re safe to travel and to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
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Should I wear a mask while traveling on a plane?
Yes, it’s recommended to wear a mask while traveling on a plane, and carrying several with you to use as needed is best practice.
