HibernateNow

in some foreign cities/countries, same-day test costs US$482 or more... this was after consulting with the United States consulate over there.... the very nice lady told me that they had gotten hundreds of calls/emails about this during the last several days. apparently there's no way around it and they had already researched all local testing labs and hospitals on this high cost... I asked her if there's a way around it... the answer was no. (well... flying to a different connecting city where same-day test can be done for as little as US$102.(at a public hospital, turn-around time 2 hours)

here's my question... am I the only one who thinks that the US government should reimburse some of this additional cost? (at least for those US citizens who have departed on their trips prior to the new rules being announced and are returning after next week)

mcgahat

I don't know what countries you are talking about. I have had numerous free or low cost antigen tests in my travels so far. Pretty much anyplace that relies on tourism has been able to accommodate a one day turnaround. I do not think the government should reimburse you because of the new rule.

LWkitty

Bixax has a self-test kit with video proctor that is acceptable for travel purposes. $69 for a 2-pack (or $99 for 3) through Optum Health. 24/7 availability. All you need is an internet connection and smart phone. Take the test kits with you on your trip and use any time the day before you fly home. Easy peasy.

TomMM

Where is "over there"?

FlyingfromDC

I second the BinaxNow testing option, for as long as a reliable Wi-Fi connection is available in this country. Tests can only be purchased in the U.S., so plan ahead.

As for reimbursement, my view is that during the pandemic there are certain exceptional expenses that do and should fall on the traveler. Testing can be a steep cost item especially for families, and then there are also potential quarantine expenses should a test not be negative.

kmzandrew

No, you're not. The govt should cover all these expenses. Honestly, I've wasted so much time going out of my way getting tested, etc, that I personally believe I should not only be reimbursed for the testing, but also for my time wasted running around getting tested, etc. And at the same rate I typically earn, not some $10 an hour bs.

dwugson

The 'gov' covering all your expenses basically means you and your taxes. If you travel for work and you incur such extreme costs for testing then you should be reimbursed by your employer as should your time. If this is for leisure, seek out cheaper alternatives but don't ask the gov ie taxpayer to cough up. Unfortunately this is now a reality but there are reasonable alternatives available.

travelinmanS

If you can’t afford the tests then don’t take the trip. Gov’t should not be covering this fee in any way shape or form. If you want to travel during the pandemic be prepared to have plans change last minute and be prepared to pay up for tests.

I say this as someone who has spent more than $1000 on tests for travel during this pandemic.

m.y

In most developed, and developing countries that heavily rely on tourism, antigen tests are quick, affordable and widely available. If one wants to travel more "exotic" places, the onus is the traveler to make sure they have all the logistics in place. It make no sense for US taxpayers, most of which don't travel internationally even in regular years to be covering costs of leisure adventures for a few.

TravisMT81

I just want to know where you are talking about.

enviroian

Avatar?

TomMM

Maybe La La Land.

smartytravel

Disagree. The government along with unelected officials, has a whim to exert its power and control over people, and requires some tests that cost money.

If they have that whim, why do we need to pay for their games?

I wonder how this still stands legal grounds. This can potentially temporarily bar American citizens from entering their own country.

travelinmanS

That’s what governments do, implement policies that they feel are best for the nation as a whole, not for individual situations. Don’t like it? You can vote them out in the next election.

awayIgo

As an American taxpayer,I am sick and tired of paying for everyone else for everything. You opt to fly, then pay! My budget isn’t generous enough to subsidize your vacations!