Brit holidaymakers returning to UK can now pay £33 for DIY Covid tests – with results in 20 minutes
BRITS can now administer their own Covid tests before travelling to the UK and get the results in 20 minutes.
The rapid tests are being sold by British Airways for £33, and who sends them out to passengers before they head out of the UK on their trip.
The passenger can then pack the kit into their suitcase and take it within the required 72 hours before their return to the UK.
It means that Brits don't have to go to the hassle of finding a test provider in the foreign country they have travelled to.
While the tests are currently only being provided via British Airways and holidays are banned during lockdown, but trips abroad could be back on the cards by end of May, with the government due to make a decision by April 12.
Other airlines will be likely to follow suit with the cheaper DIY Covid kits if the scheme proves a success at BA.
The current travel restrictions require Brits to have a negative coronavirus test before arrival when travelling into the country from anywhere.
The rapid test kits, from Government-approved COVID-19 testing provider, Qured, can be ordered to any UK address.
To take the test, passengers will have a video call with a professional health advisor, who explains how to do the throat and nose swap.
Results are then given within 20 minutes, and travellers can download a Fit to fly certificate if the test is negative.
British Airways’ CEO Sean Doyle, said: “As we look forward and prepare for a safe return to travel, we remain focused on finding and offering the most convenient and affordable testing options for our customers.
“Our teams were pleased to discover Qured, a unique new option which removes uncertainty and unnecessary expense for customers who may be concerned about sourcing a pre-departure test while away from home.”
Qured’s CEO Alex Templeton, said: “Our accessible rapid testing service takes the hassle out of finding a test abroad."
Brits must have at least three negative Covid tests when returning to the UK - one taken before arrival, and two taken during the mandatory 10-day quarantine period.
Costing £210 for two tests, they must be taken on day two and day eight of the quarantine period.
Arrivals from one of 33 countries deemed high risk by the government must pay to stay 10 days at a quarantine hotel, costing £1,750 per person.
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Holidays abroad are not yet allowed to go ahead, however.
While domestic holidays are resuming from April 12, with some travel restrictions still in place, an official date for foreign holidays is yet to be given.
The government's Global Taskforce is expected to give an official date on April 12, and isn't expected to be any earlier than June 21.