GET SET FOR TESTING TIMES

FOREIGN countries may want proof of negative PCR Covid tests on arrival, but how do you arrange one and how much do they cost?

Then there is the British rule — part of the ‘green list’ arrangements — to be tested (with a ‘lateral’ or ‘antigen’ test) before departing home, plus a separate PCR test before day two on your return.

It’s confusing, but how does testing work in practice?

MOST countries will want proof, on arrival, of a negative PCR test taken 72 hours before departure — even if you have proof of being fully vaccinated. Check entry requirements at gov.uk.

THE cost of a PCR test is about £100. At some private clinics it’s nearer £200.

FIND governmentaccredited testing firms on the ‘List of providers: general testing’ page of gov.uk.

BOOTS (£99, boots.com) and Superdrug (£119, superdrug.com) can arrange such tests by appointment.

TUI this week launched holiday packages with all ‘green list’ tests from £60 pp. For countries that no longer need a negative PCR test before you go, it’s from £20 pp (tui.co.uk).

THE Government is considering providing free lateral flow tests for departure abroad and prior to arrival home. Look out for details.

IT IS hoped an internationally-accepted ‘digital health passport’ will be created so fully vaccinated travellers will need no tests at all.

SEE the official ‘traffic light’ rules on ‘Global Travel Taskforce sets out framework to safely reopen international travel’ page at gov.uk.

VISIT ‘Traffic light system: red, amber and green list countries’ at which.co.uk.