What are day 2 and day 8 Covid tests?

Photo of author
Written By Berry Mathew

Many people are looking to rebook the holidays they missed in the past year now that the travel market is starting to open up again. You may worry about having to buy Covid PCR tests in addition to your usual travel costs due to current restrictions, which is where this handy guide comes in. 

While day 2 and 8 Covid tests are a fairly new rule in response to the ongoing pandemic, there’s no need to worry as they’re relatively easy to organise and carry out. 

Why do the tests need to be taken?

According to the Government’s Red, Amber and Green travel lists, regulations may differ between countries and airlines. To be prepared for your trip, it is advisable that you consult the websites of the government and foreign office well before you travel. 

To leave quarantine, you must remain isolated for the full 10 days unless you have had both of your vaccinations at least 14 days before you return to the UK after travelling. 

Red And Amber List Countries

When you return to the UK from a Red list country, you must take both Covid tests and arrange your quarantine hotel package. 

You will not have the option to travel home to isolate as this is considered too much of a risk for others. On your return, you must stay isolated for 10 days. 

If you are returning to the UK from a country on the Amber list, you must take the Covid test. 

Also, make sure that you complete your passenger locator form as well as your day 2 and day 8 travel tests for your return. After arriving, you must spend 10 days at home, or in a fixed location. 

How can I get day 2 and day 8 coronavirus tests? 

A person arriving in England after international travel is required by law to undergo post-travel COVID-19 testing. 

You can pay for an at-home day 2 and day 8 coronavirus test by ordering online from a private medical company such as Medicspot.  The first test is designed for variant surveillance on or before day 2, and the second is designed to check whether you do not have the Coronavirus after day 8.

If you fail to take a test, you could be fined up to £2,000 since the government has made it a mandatory requirement for all travellers to carry out the tests. 

When you receive your tests, you will need to take them by following the instructions laid out and then enter your results online. It is important to self-isolate as advised as you may risk infection of others. 

Read also:- Who is Andy Warhol?

Are day 2 and day 8 tests expensive?

The price of an individual PCR test depends on the provider, but most offer packages at varying prices. There is a range of turnaround times between same-day results and 72-hour processing. You can expect to pay anything between £50 and £250 for day 2 and day 8 testing. 

Is there a way to get the tests for free? 

No, unfortunately, at present you will have to pay for these types of coronavirus tests since travel is still restricted as per the government’s guidelines. If you are planning to travel abroad in the near future, it is important that you factor in the expenses for the tests. 

Read also:- LEI Codes: What They Are, Who Needs One, And How To Get 

Many people are choosing private companies that offer an online service for convenience and flexibility when they need it most. Remember, when travelling abroad to stay as safe as possible and continue to practice the social distancing rules set in place.