We just found your channel. Your info is very important to people. People think this testing stuff is easy and no problem. As you found, it is not. We were in Merida, Mexico, last month. They made the testing so easy. The lab came to our hotel, at 10 AM. They printed, dropped off, and emailed our results to us by 4 PM. Only at check-in are the test results checked. Easy, peasy, compared to you guys. Sorry, it was haphazard with the labs in Iceland. Anyway, enjoying your vlogs. I am a retired airline employee. My partner will not even consider flying standby. We really enjoy your fresh perspective. Keep up the good work!
Thanks so much! We have had pretty good luck with Covid tests before, but this time was a little different. And we hear you about Standby, it can be really difficult. You have to really go with the flow!
For other travelers, there is a COVID test center right next to the airport. Near the Lotus Car Rental location. They do 15min rapid antigen tests. Super fast and similar price point.
@@TheAwkwardTourists The same location you used offered the rapid antigen test. Why did you not opt for that option? If I recall, it was even 1000kr less.
I’m glad you shared this because it’s definitely the “not-glamorous” part of travel that IS reality for so many! I’m glad you made it through and that it didn’t ruin your Iceland experience!
Gotta roll with the punches, It wasn't a huge deal because we were flying standby- If we had confirmed seats it would have been a little different story
So sorry you're having issues with testing. Although I must admit--being stuck in Iceland (I live in Texas) sounds AMAZING to me! (I went to Iceland in 2017 and its my favorite country I've visited!)
Thanks for sharing. It really helps to learn from the experience of others. I can imagine how frustrated you must have been. On the bright side, as you said, you didn’t have to worry about losing your flight which would be an additional huge stressor for those of us having to travel with booked flights. Looking forward to seeing Italy with you 🙂
Thanks for Following along! We have learned with this type of travel you really have to go with the flow, This instance was just a little more complicated than usual
Loving the content! Binged the Iceland videos! Before kids I had the same reaction to crying babies on the plane. Now that I know what it's like to be on the other side, it definitely helped when fellow passengers are compassionate. I will never forget this lady who walked by as I was trying my best to console my 1 year old and she just told me "You're doing a great job, mama". Okay, going to binge the Italy videos now!
Thanks for the support! We definitely sympathize with the parents of babies on planes. They are having a much harder time than we are. Just thought it was funny after all the complications we had
Loved all the videos. You are both so optimistic and engaging. We did the ring road 4 years ago and are headed to Westfjords this September. Can't wait. Hope Covid testing has relaxed by then.
Thank you guys. We’ve been traveling the ring road and watching your videos at the same time. Thanks for sharing such quality content. It has helped my wife and I to not have the same issues!
I was there in early June and my first test results on arrival was only 6 hours and the test before leaving was about 8. We did ours in Selfoss. Sorry to hear the troubles.
As much as I’m itching to book international travel, this is why I’m waiting. And rapid tests can have a false-positive issue which would trap you for even longer. When will the test requirement be lifted for vaccinated travelers??? CDC has basically unnasked and opened the country completely. The test to return policy makes no sense in light of that.
It seems like things are changing pretty quickly. I believe that currently, if you are vaccinated, you do not need to take a test to enter Iceland, but you still need one to come back to the USA, Hopefully they will lift that requirement soon
@@TheAwkwardTourists It's kinda ironic given that 66% of icelanders are fully vaccinated, but 48% of us Americans are. Iceland should be asking US for covid tests lol
That is why I fly to Iceland anymore did for 15 years from Seattle to Munich Iceland air still owes me 800 dollars from last year good luck to me. I tried to get my money back or a voucher. I fly on September 1 but to London and Seattle.
If it's any consolation, I was in Iceland last month with three travel companions. We got our Covid test three days before returning to the U.S. We were eating lunch at the famous hot dog stand in Reykjavik when one of our travel companions got a call telling her she had tested positive for Covid. She got a second test that same day-also positive. The rest of us tested negative (all four of us were fully vaccinated), but she had to stay an additional 8 days in Reykjavik at great expense. So, while it sucks to go through what you did because the testing center screwed up (I would have been very upset), at least you tested negative.
Yikes that's stressful! Yeah it was a bit annoying for us but it wasn't really that big of a deal, just some hassle. Plus we got a video of of it haha!
We had that problem at the beginning; we got our results really late, so we wasted our whole first day in Iceland. Luckily when we left the rapid test was available.
Glad you enjoyed it! Sometimes things don't go according to plan. It wasn't a huge deal for us as we fly standby, but It could have been a lot worse in other circumstances
This has been a great series, and has encouraged me to consider buying tickets for August, on Icelandair, in the next couple of days, though this latest installment is a bit harrowing!
+1 we are going to Iceland in 2 weeks and just learned from your video about the requirement of taking the COVID test for the return flight to USA. We are researching the test site info and adjust the itinerary. 🙏🙏
There is a test center nearby the airport if they have still appointments open and you are early enough at the airport you can do one before your flight there just ask the airport staff (had the same test situation haha but mine fortunately came in the last second)
I actually have same problem when I arrived to Iceland, I didn't got my test results even after 24 hours which waste my entire first day in the hotel. glad finally it works out :)
You should have done a rapid test. It cost us 4,000 ISK ($32). We got the results back in 30 minutes. The only place you can do Rapid Tests is at the Reykjavik site. It's address is Sudurlandsbraut 34, 108 Reykjavik, off Route 1, the Ring Road. Super easy.
We are going in October. How far out can you get your covid test before you fly back to the states and is testing available outside of reykjavik? We won't get back to reykavik until the day we fly out!
At the time that we traveled the test had to be less than 72 hours before your flight lands back in the USA, I'm sure there are other testing sites outside Reykjavik, but probably not as many. Check the website travel.covid.is before your trip. Things might change again before October
wow so sorry you guys got stuck but glad you were able to make it back safely! I ended up using the Abbott self test kits which the US accepts and just doing them in my hotel room the night before flying back into the US. They're expensive but worth the peace of mind because it only takes 15 min to get results back.
I wish that was an option when we were there, but unfortunately they rolled out the rapid test option just after we left. Oh well, It all worked out in the end
Very helpful info as I'll be in Iceland in August. I'll be in Reykjavik for 2.5 days at the tail end of my trip so I think I should be good w/ gettting my results back in time, but it's all very stressful it seems.
It was for us, but I think you will have enough time now. I have heard that they are offering rapid tests that results come back within and hour now. That option wasn't available to us when we were there.
I just got back from Iceland on Wednesday, They actually also provide Rapid test which is cheaper (4000 ISK I think), the result came out within an hour in email and CDC recognize it. May be you can try this one if you have time at airport.
Wow, ~$150 isn’t bad at all for a hotel next to the airport especially in Iceland!! I would think $300+… I pay more than ~$250 in Atlanta, Georgia, USA for an airport hotel every time I fly abroad 🥴 greetings from Iceland btw 🇮🇸
While most countries won't let you in without a neg. covid, Iceland won't even let you out w/o a neg. test. I commend them for this as it shows they are not only serious about keeping numbers down internally, they are also serious about not allowing infection to spread to other countries. The more I find out about Iceland the more I love. I see a very smart and considerate people.
I’m happy your channel is growing, I’m hoping I get the same results haha. I’m flying to Spain 🇪🇸 on July 24 and I’m excited to spend 3 weeks in Europe. I’m excited to see the Italy 🇮🇹 series soon. I’ll be in Rome August 2nd.
We had a similar problem in Iceland when we arrived. Our entry tests came back negative but then we got an email telling us to quarantine. We didn’t know which message was right and which was wrong. Turns out it was a technical error and all was good.
Crazy. Kelly had an issue similar to this on the way in. They checked her Vaccine card, and she got her negative covid results upon arrival, but they told her she needed to come back in for a second test 5 days later..... We weren't sure what to do either and we happened to be in the city anyways so we ended up geting the second test just to be safe. Seems like Iceland is having some trouble with the process
The testing site at Keflavik airport says just 15 minutes could get result by Rapid Test which is accepted by US CDC order, why it became so complicated here ?
I’m going to Iceland too.is this test only for going back to USA or entering to Iceland also?Do I need to get test results to bring at the airport before my traveling to Iceland?
Hi there, I am planning on traveling to Iceland May 3rd - May 11th from the U.S. I know that you guys didn’t get yours back In time but how hard/ difficult was it to stay Covid free over your travels? I graduate May 14th from college and debating this trip incase of the possible positive result. What are your thoughts?
We have traveled a ton during Covid and it has not been a problem, taken tons of test and never came back positive (knock on wood - haha). Especially in Iceland, Things are so spread out, If you get out and travel the ring road you shouldn't encounter that many people,and if you do, you can always wear a mask around them. I think you will be good. Book that trip!
Do you have to make an appointment to get a test in Reykjavik? How do you find testing locations? Also, where do you find the latest official requirements for reentry into the US?
I was just there last week and I took my test 48 hours before my departure back to Boston !! I believed the test should of been ready within 5 to 6 hours from the clinic. So I’m not sure why you didn’t get it in less then 24 hours.
Yeah, we still aren't sure what happened to the first test, Kelly's came through fine, but Kevin's never came. The second test we both had the results back in about 6 hours....
Hey Henry, we're about to go through Boston too. On your return trip, were your results checked at the Iceland airport or at Logan or both? We are trying to figure out the timing necessary and get the test done as far out as possible. And would you mind sharing which clinic you used in Iceland that had such a fast turnaround?
It was checked at the Iceland Airport ! For the PCR test registered at travel.covid.is !! This site is designed for tourist on information dealing with COVID testing for the visitor. This site also has testing before you board a flight back from Reykjavik to your next destination. You need to registered approximately two days before your flight and the cost is 50 Euro !! Let me know if you have any more questions !! My email : henryloo@att.net
Many thx for sharing this information. I’m going to Iceland in 2 weeks. Could you please provide me the testing cite info - address, phone, walk-in or appointment needed? I searched online, various info and not too clear. Thank you for your help in advance 🙏
Hey Vivian, since i just came back from a week of out trip to Iceland last week I thought I would answer your question with some detailed information about COVID-19 tests required 72 hrs prior to your check in for return flight to USA. First of all, like Kelly and Kevin explained in their responses, there are multiple COVID testing sites available in Iceland. We were tested in Reykjavik just like most US travelers returning home. You would have to make an appointment on their website (www.COVID.is) and will receive a bar code by email which they would scan on the texting site to verify your appointment. The cost for COVID-19 test is about $55 per person and you will be able to pay for it with major credit cards online. (They also provide a rapid test on the same site as well which is available at a cheaper rate.) ***Please note that, as opposed to what they claim that the test results will be back within 24 hrs after the testing, your COVID-19 test results MAY NOT come back within 24 hrs which can affect your travel plan tremendously in some cases like Kevin experienced so it is important to get tested as early as possible prior to your departure out of Iceland but within that 72 hrs required by CDC guideline (We got tested Saturday afternoon for our Tuesday morning flight back to New York and we all received our results back on the same or next day of our tests) so make sure you don’t make an appointment too close to your return flight to US. It is also warned on their website now as more and more travelers complain about not being able to get the results back in time. COVID testing center in Reykjavík When: Screening is between 8:30 and 11:45 and 13:00 and 16:00, Monday to Friday and between 09:00 and 15:00 on weekends and holidays. Please come on the alotted day and time. Where: Sudurlandsbraut 34, 108 Reykjavik, ground floor. Please park your car and walk in to take the test. Note: Please bring a mask to the testing, to use in line. Website: www.heilsugaeslan.is You will receive your COVID-19 test results back by email as the certificate attached. You will have to provide the information to your airline upon checking in for your flight at the airport and that’s pretty much about it. Hope this information will help future travelers to this beautiful country and have a wonderful time in Iceland!
Hello ! thanks for sharing. I am thinking of going to Iceland in March but with the new restrictions of taking the codid test 24 hours before entering the US. ..I don't know what to do to find one over there. Do you know where I can take the antigen test in Reykjavik and get the results quickly? .. Thank you very much !!
I'm pretty sure that you can take a rapid test right in the airport now. This video was filmed in May 2021 so I think that they are much better and quicker with the results now
Thanks for the very useful information, I will visit Iceland in September, I would like to ask how many days in advanced that you can book PCR test on travel.covid.is? I will stay in Reykjavik for two days and flight on 5:00pm third day, it is enough time to get results? Thanks!
We have heard that they are now offering rapid tests, so you should be able to book your test a few days in advance and get the results in about an half an hour
@@TheAwkwardTourists That is great news, I will pay attention on this, One more question, how they send results? via email? thanks again, hope see more travel video from you!
@@liliberry8 Suðurlandsbraut 34, 108 Reykjavík, Iceland i just googled covid test iceland and this site was most convenient and booked with my number and email for the next day and had no issues
I went to New Orleans and had a flight cancelled due to snow in Boston. I spent an extra $600 to get a hotel and another flight home. This was horrible! I can't imagine being in another Country.
Cancelled flights are the worst! Sorry you had to go through that! Luckily we were flying standby so we were able to get on the flight the next day without too big of a problem.
They have an odd system.. when we landed my hubby got the result several hours before me.. when we took it before flying back I got it a couple hours before him. By the way, we took it at 10am, the result came in the same day at 4pm
Technical question- in the 2nd test I noticed hubby had like a blood tube. Was that a non PCR test to enter to the US? Great content, btw. I'll visit Braud to get those cinammon rolls🤩
It sucks that you guys were stuck. This testing before flying to the US was also my concern, and it was something that I felt that the US CDC should reevaluate again, especially for fully vaccinated people. We are going to iceland as well, but we had to shave off a day just so we can get back earlier to do this test, which is a huge inconvenience in my opinion.
You are lucky to have been stuck in Iceland. Nothing good going on in the USA. Since you're only connecting in JFK, I guess it isn't so bad .... Good choice to go to Italy! That's where I want to retire to.
That's great that you got it back quickly. In Iceland, during the time that we were there, It was supposed to take no more than 24 hours, but that was not the case for us this time!
@@TheAwkwardTourists From the vid, I got the impression that you changed the timing of when you planned to leave Iceland to go to Italy. Sorry if that was misunderstood. Back in March, I decided to add 3 extra days to my July trip just in case my PCR test didn't come back early enough. ugh. I've learned a lot from your Iceland series, thank you! It'll be my first time there and my 45th country. Let's hope my heli ride over the volcano won't cancel due to high winds!
It's not really a problem though, is it? It's just another opportunity for you to make a video. If anything it's probably good news. Most people would not be happy to be stranded but these RUclipsr types are straight away thinking about how they can make it into a video. Everything I'm saying is true, so sorry.
We just found your channel. Your info is very important to people. People think this testing stuff is easy and no problem. As you found, it is not. We were in Merida, Mexico, last month. They made the testing so easy. The lab came to our hotel, at 10 AM. They printed, dropped off, and emailed our results to us by 4 PM. Only at check-in are the test results checked. Easy, peasy, compared to you guys. Sorry, it was haphazard with the labs in Iceland. Anyway, enjoying your vlogs. I am a retired airline employee. My partner will not even consider flying standby. We really enjoy your fresh perspective. Keep up the good work!
Thanks so much! We have had pretty good luck with Covid tests before, but this time was a little different. And we hear you about Standby, it can be really difficult. You have to really go with the flow!
For other travelers, there is a COVID test center right next to the airport. Near the Lotus Car Rental location. They do 15min rapid antigen tests. Super fast and similar price point.
Don't make the same mistake we did!
@Yuliya Rae Aðalgata, 60, Keflavík, IS, 230
@@TheAwkwardTourists The same location you used offered the rapid antigen test. Why did you not opt for that option? If I recall, it was even 1000kr less.
Is antigen test allowed??
@@apoorvamotupalli3314 depends on what country you’re returning to. They all have different rules.
I’m glad you shared this because it’s definitely the “not-glamorous” part of travel that IS reality for so many! I’m glad you made it through and that it didn’t ruin your Iceland experience!
Gotta roll with the punches, It wasn't a huge deal because we were flying standby- If we had confirmed seats it would have been a little different story
So sorry you're having issues with testing. Although I must admit--being stuck in Iceland (I live in Texas) sounds AMAZING to me! (I went to Iceland in 2017 and its my favorite country I've visited!)
We loved our time there, There are worse places to have to stay an extra night!
You've clarified so much through your videos---thank you from all the tourists who come behind you!
You are very Welcome. Thanks for the support!
Thanks for sharing. It really helps to learn from the experience of others. I can imagine how frustrated you must have been. On the bright side, as you said, you didn’t have to worry about losing your flight which would be an additional huge stressor for those of us having to travel with booked flights. Looking forward to seeing Italy with you 🙂
Thanks for Following along! We have learned with this type of travel you really have to go with the flow, This instance was just a little more complicated than usual
Loving the content! Binged the Iceland videos! Before kids I had the same reaction to crying babies on the plane. Now that I know what it's like to be on the other side, it definitely helped when fellow passengers are compassionate. I will never forget this lady who walked by as I was trying my best to console my 1 year old and she just told me "You're doing a great job, mama". Okay, going to binge the Italy videos now!
Thanks for the support! We definitely sympathize with the parents of babies on planes. They are having a much harder time than we are. Just thought it was funny after all the complications we had
Your eyes were priceless with the noise on the plane:-) Way to make it through all that travel drama. Hope you have a blast in Italy
When a baby is crying on a plane, no one is having a good time. Haha
you guys are going to make it big, this channel has all the things the big youtube travel vloggers have! plus amazing drone shots :)
You're too kind!! This means so much to us!!
Loved all the videos. You are both so optimistic and engaging. We did the ring road 4 years ago and are headed to Westfjords this September. Can't wait. Hope Covid testing has relaxed by then.
Thanks for watching! Hope you have a great trip
Thank you guys. We’ve been traveling the ring road and watching your videos at the same time. Thanks for sharing such quality content. It has helped my wife and I to not have the same issues!
Awesome! Hopefully you can gain some inspiration and avoid some of our mistakes!
I was there in early June and my first test results on arrival was only 6 hours and the test before leaving was about 8. We did ours in Selfoss. Sorry to hear the troubles.
Thanks, I think we just had an unlucky experience with one of them on the way out... It happens
I’m going to Iceland in September. I’ll be watching this video & looking for updates!
Awesome! You'll have a great time
@@TheAwkwardTourists I did. I got my return test done early. The testing moved quickly & I got my results by 3 that same afternoon.
They started offering antigen rapid test in Mid June
We heard about that, Unfortunately this was filmed Mid May, and that wasn't an option for us at the time.
Wow you 2 are going to Italy! That is awesome. Cant wait.
We just posted our first Italy video!
As much as I’m itching to book international travel, this is why I’m waiting. And rapid tests can have a false-positive issue which would trap you for even longer. When will the test requirement be lifted for vaccinated travelers??? CDC has basically unnasked and opened the country completely. The test to return policy makes no sense in light of that.
It seems like things are changing pretty quickly. I believe that currently, if you are vaccinated, you do not need to take a test to enter Iceland, but you still need one to come back to the USA, Hopefully they will lift that requirement soon
@@TheAwkwardTourists It's kinda ironic given that 66% of icelanders are fully vaccinated, but 48% of us Americans are. Iceland should be asking US for covid tests lol
That is why I fly to Iceland anymore did for 15 years from Seattle to Munich Iceland air still owes me 800 dollars from last year good luck to me. I tried to get my money back or a voucher. I fly on September 1 but to London and Seattle.
If it's any consolation, I was in Iceland last month with three travel companions. We got our Covid test three days before returning to the U.S. We were eating lunch at the famous hot dog stand in Reykjavik when one of our travel companions got a call telling her she had tested positive for Covid. She got a second test that same day-also positive. The rest of us tested negative (all four of us were fully vaccinated), but she had to stay an additional 8 days in Reykjavik at great expense. So, while it sucks to go through what you did because the testing center screwed up (I would have been very upset), at least you tested negative.
Yikes that's stressful! Yeah it was a bit annoying for us but it wasn't really that big of a deal, just some hassle. Plus we got a video of of it haha!
We had that problem at the beginning; we got our results really late, so we wasted our whole first day in Iceland. Luckily when we left the rapid test was available.
Bummer. We didn't have the rapid test option when we were there, but that would have been a whole different story if we were able to get those.
I assume that you came back to USA? I didn’t know that rapid test is acceptable to return to the states. 🙏
This was so interesting to watch - shows the real side of travel, thanks for sharing x
Glad you enjoyed it! Sometimes things don't go according to plan. It wasn't a huge deal for us as we fly standby, but It could have been a lot worse in other circumstances
This has been a great series, and has encouraged me to consider buying tickets for August, on Icelandair, in the next couple of days, though this latest installment is a bit harrowing!
I'm sure you will be fine. I think our situation was just an unlucky turn of events
Thanks for the info! We are going to Iceland in August and this information is very helpful!
Thanks for watching! You'll have a great time
+1 we are going to Iceland in 2 weeks and just learned from your video about the requirement of taking the COVID test for the return flight to USA. We are researching the test site info and adjust the itinerary. 🙏🙏
There is a test center nearby the airport if they have still appointments open and you are early enough at the airport you can do one before your flight there just ask the airport staff (had the same test situation haha but mine fortunately came in the last second)
We didn't know about that testing site. Good to know!
I actually have same problem when I arrived to Iceland, I didn't got my test results even after 24 hours which waste my entire first day in the hotel. glad finally it works out :)
If you’re fully vaxxed, do you still have to test at the airport?
@@kbf6434 I did mine coz I went there before July 1st, but I heard they don’t require test at airport anymore after July 1st
@@zx3657206 Thanks!!! Makes planning my first day easier since I'm fully vaxxed. :)
@@kbf6434 you are welcome 🤗
@@kbf6434 yes
You should have done a rapid test. It cost us 4,000 ISK ($32). We got the results back in 30 minutes. The only place you can do Rapid Tests is at the Reykjavik site. It's address is Sudurlandsbraut 34, 108 Reykjavik, off Route 1, the Ring Road. Super easy.
Thank you.
This option wasn't available to us at the time, but we definitely recommend it if you can get it now!
So the antigen test is also allowed?
Thanks for the info! Unfortunately when we went, this was the only option. A rapid test would have been nice!
Thanks for the info we are going July the 24 -4th so this is handy info to have
We are going in October. How far out can you get your covid test before you fly back to the states and is testing available outside of reykjavik? We won't get back to reykavik until the day we fly out!
At the time that we traveled the test had to be less than 72 hours before your flight lands back in the USA, I'm sure there are other testing sites outside Reykjavik, but probably not as many. Check the website travel.covid.is before your trip. Things might change again before October
wow so sorry you guys got stuck but glad you were able to make it back safely! I ended up using the Abbott self test kits which the US accepts and just doing them in my hotel room the night before flying back into the US. They're expensive but worth the peace of mind because it only takes 15 min to get results back.
I wish that was an option when we were there, but unfortunately they rolled out the rapid test option just after we left. Oh well, It all worked out in the end
Very helpful info as I'll be in Iceland in August. I'll be in Reykjavik for 2.5 days at the tail end of my trip so I think I should be good w/ gettting my results back in time, but it's all very stressful it seems.
It was for us, but I think you will have enough time now. I have heard that they are offering rapid tests that results come back within and hour now. That option wasn't available to us when we were there.
Здравствуйте
I just got back from Iceland on Wednesday, They actually also provide Rapid test which is cheaper (4000 ISK I think), the result came out within an hour in email and CDC recognize it. May be you can try this one if you have time at airport.
Came here to say this.
Hi is rapid test allowed instead of pcr??
This video was filmed in mid-May
@@apoorvamotupalli3314 yes, you can choose , and actually Rapid test is good enough for come back US
@@zx3657206 Thanks
Wow, ~$150 isn’t bad at all for a hotel next to the airport especially in Iceland!! I would think $300+… I pay more than ~$250 in Atlanta, Georgia, USA for an airport hotel every time I fly abroad 🥴 greetings from Iceland btw 🇮🇸
I think prices were lower because travel was down from Covid. But yeah, not too bad for Iceland!
While most countries won't let you in without a neg. covid, Iceland won't even let you out w/o a neg. test. I commend them for this as it shows they are not only serious about keeping numbers down internally, they are also serious about not allowing infection to spread to other countries. The more I find out about Iceland the more I love. I see a very smart and considerate people.
We loved the people in Iceland, Such friendly people
I’m happy your channel is growing, I’m hoping I get the same results haha. I’m flying to Spain 🇪🇸 on July 24 and I’m excited to spend 3 weeks in Europe. I’m excited to see the Italy 🇮🇹 series soon. I’ll be in Rome August 2nd.
Thanks Anthony! It's been tough putting out two videos a week, but it really pays off.Have a blast in Europe, and thanks for the support as always!
@@TheAwkwardTourists no worries I totally understand and I’m here to support anything you need let me know
Does the CDC require a PCR test or a Rapid AG Test? Going to Iceland in a couple days flying out of Dulles. Thanks!
Check travel.covid.is That site has all the acceptable types of test for traveling to/from Iceland
We had a similar problem in Iceland when we arrived. Our entry tests came back negative but then we got an email telling us to quarantine. We didn’t know which message was right and which was wrong. Turns out it was a technical error and all was good.
Crazy. Kelly had an issue similar to this on the way in. They checked her Vaccine card, and she got her negative covid results upon arrival, but they told her she needed to come back in for a second test 5 days later..... We weren't sure what to do either and we happened to be in the city anyways so we ended up geting the second test just to be safe. Seems like Iceland is having some trouble with the process
What about doing the half hour rapid test? Are those acceptable to return to the US? I see they do this at the airport and in Reykjavik.
Those weren't available at the time, unfortunately
So sorry kids
The testing site at Keflavik airport says just 15 minutes could get result by Rapid Test which is accepted by US CDC order, why it became so complicated here ?
Because this was filmed in May and they didn't have the rapid test then.
I’m going to Iceland too.is this test only for going back to USA or entering to Iceland also?Do I need to get test results to bring at the airport before my traveling to Iceland?
This Video is only about traveling back to USA from Iceland. We made a video about Flying into Iceland if you want to check that out too
It changes quickly, check covid.is! And travel when vaccinated!
Hi there, I am planning on traveling to Iceland May 3rd - May 11th from the U.S. I know that you guys didn’t get yours back In time but how hard/ difficult was it to stay Covid free over your travels? I graduate May 14th from college and debating this trip incase of the possible positive result.
What are your thoughts?
We have traveled a ton during Covid and it has not been a problem, taken tons of test and never came back positive (knock on wood - haha). Especially in Iceland, Things are so spread out, If you get out and travel the ring road you shouldn't encounter that many people,and if you do, you can always wear a mask around them. I think you will be good. Book that trip!
Do you have to make an appointment to get a test in Reykjavik? How do you find testing locations?
Also, where do you find the latest official requirements for reentry into the US?
Yes you need an appointment, You can find all the information you need on the website travel.covid.is
And cant wait til you go to Jordan. That will be incredible.
We still have plans for Jordan, but it might be a little later this year/ next year
@@TheAwkwardTourists I for real want to see this 💙
I was just there last week and I took my test 48 hours before my departure back to Boston !! I believed the test should of been ready within 5 to 6 hours from the clinic. So I’m not sure why you didn’t get it in less then 24 hours.
Yeah, we still aren't sure what happened to the first test, Kelly's came through fine, but Kevin's never came. The second test we both had the results back in about 6 hours....
@@TheAwkwardTourists Wish you two safe travel ! Take care and all the best 👍
Hey Henry, we're about to go through Boston too. On your return trip, were your results checked at the Iceland airport or at Logan or both? We are trying to figure out the timing necessary and get the test done as far out as possible. And would you mind sharing which clinic you used in Iceland that had such a fast turnaround?
It was checked at the Iceland Airport ! For the PCR test registered at travel.covid.is !! This site is designed for tourist on information dealing with COVID testing for the visitor. This site also has testing before you board a flight back from Reykjavik to your next destination. You need to registered approximately two days before your flight and the cost is 50 Euro !! Let me know if you have any more questions !! My email : henryloo@att.net
Test will be ready within 4 to 6 hours in text and email. Good luck and have a great time in Iceland.
Many thx for sharing this information. I’m going to Iceland in 2 weeks. Could you please provide me the testing cite info - address, phone, walk-in or appointment needed? I searched online, various info and not too clear. Thank you for your help in advance 🙏
Hey Vivian, since i just came back from a week of out trip to Iceland last week I thought I would answer your question with some detailed information about COVID-19 tests required 72 hrs prior to your check in for return flight to USA.
First of all, like Kelly and Kevin explained in their responses, there are multiple COVID testing sites available in Iceland. We were tested in Reykjavik just like most US travelers returning home. You would have to make an appointment on their website (www.COVID.is) and will receive a bar code by email which they would scan on the texting site to verify your appointment. The cost for COVID-19 test is about $55 per person and you will be able to pay for it with major credit cards online. (They also provide a rapid test on the same site as well which is available at a cheaper rate.)
***Please note that, as opposed to what they claim that the test results will be back within 24 hrs after the testing, your COVID-19 test results MAY NOT come back within 24 hrs which can affect your travel plan tremendously in some cases like Kevin experienced so it is important to get tested as early as possible prior to your departure out of Iceland but within that 72 hrs required by CDC guideline (We got tested Saturday afternoon for our Tuesday morning flight back to New York and we all received our results back on the same or next day of our tests) so make sure you don’t make an appointment too close to your return flight to US. It is also warned on their website now as more and more travelers complain about not being able to get the results back in time.
COVID testing center in Reykjavík
When: Screening is between 8:30 and 11:45 and 13:00 and 16:00, Monday to Friday and between 09:00 and 15:00 on weekends and holidays. Please come on the alotted day and time.
Where: Sudurlandsbraut 34, 108 Reykjavik, ground floor. Please park your car and walk in to take the test.
Note: Please bring a mask to the testing, to use in line.
Website: www.heilsugaeslan.is
You will receive your COVID-19 test results back by email as the certificate attached. You will have to provide the information to your airline upon checking in for your flight at the airport and that’s pretty much about it.
Hope this information will help future travelers to this beautiful country and have a wonderful time in Iceland!
I'm curious, are you guys vaccinated? If you get vaccinated, do you still have to get a COVID test?
Yes we are vaccinated, and yes as of right now everyone needs a negative test to re-enter the US
@@TheAwkwardTourists Silly, there is hardly Covid in Iceland!
Thank you for the video
You're welcome
Hello ! thanks for sharing. I am thinking of going to Iceland in March but with the new restrictions of taking the codid test 24 hours before entering the US. ..I don't know what to do to find one over there. Do you know where I can take the antigen test in Reykjavik and get the results quickly? .. Thank you very much !!
I'm pretty sure that you can take a rapid test right in the airport now. This video was filmed in May 2021 so I think that they are much better and quicker with the results now
Thanks for the very useful information, I will visit Iceland in September, I would like to ask how many days in advanced that you can
book PCR test on travel.covid.is? I will stay in Reykjavik for two days and flight on 5:00pm third day, it is enough time to get results? Thanks!
We have heard that they are now offering rapid tests, so you should be able to book your test a few days in advance and get the results in about an half an hour
@@TheAwkwardTourists That is great news, I will pay attention on this, One more question, how they send results? via email? thanks again, hope see more travel video from you!
we did rapid in reykjavik and it came in 30 minutes! also was only like 30 USD
Can you share the details of that location?
@@liliberry8 Suðurlandsbraut 34, 108 Reykjavík, Iceland i just googled covid test iceland and this site was most convenient and booked with my number and email for the next day and had no issues
@@alfredcguo walk in or appointment required? 🙏🙏
@@vivianking8692 appt
@@alfredcguo and this rapid test was enough to be able to fly back to the USA?
Do you need to get tested on your way home even if your vaccinated?
As of right now, yes
Love y’all’s videos !!!
Thanks so much!
One more question. Are COVID test results on email acceptable to board flights to the US? It seems so from the video, just wanted to make sure.
Yes, To my knowledge that is acceptable
@@TheAwkwardTourists thanks!
Very informative video. One question though - are covid testing centers in iceland open 24/7?
The one that we went to was not open 24 hours
@@TheAwkwardTourists Thanks for replying! Hope you are enjoying your trip in Italy.
Honestly, these covid tests guys! Crazyyyy good that you at least have some flexibility with regards to the flights!
Yeah, It would have been a whole different story if we were booked on a flight and had to pay for another/reschedule
I went to New Orleans and had a flight cancelled due to snow in Boston. I spent an extra $600 to get a hotel and another flight home. This was horrible! I can't imagine being in another Country.
Cancelled flights are the worst! Sorry you had to go through that! Luckily we were flying standby so we were able to get on the flight the next day without too big of a problem.
great channel.
Thank you
You can do an antigen test which comes back in 30 min.
Hopefully that info will be good for someone in the future! When we filmed this, we didn't see that option
Within europe as far as i know PCR covid test is the only test accepted to board a flight
Holy smokes! That sucks. I'm sorry. Right now they're saying it takes 15-20 min to get results.
Yeah, we weren't so lucky back them, but I hear its a lot easier now
They have an odd system.. when we landed my hubby got the result several hours before me.. when we took it before flying back I got it a couple hours before him.
By the way, we took it at 10am, the result came in the same day at 4pm
That was the case with Kelly's results, she got hers back in about 6 hours, and Kevin never got his....
Technical question- in the 2nd test I noticed hubby had like a blood tube. Was that a non PCR test to enter to the US? Great content, btw. I'll visit Braud to get those cinammon rolls🤩
Yes, that was the PCR test for the US
I'm a bit confused... Why did you fly all the way back to NY to fly again back to Europe if you had to be in Italy?
Two reasons, because of the Covid restrictions at the time and it worked out better with my employee travel benefits
It sucks that you guys were stuck. This testing before flying to the US was also my concern, and it was something that I felt that the US CDC should reevaluate again, especially for fully vaccinated people. We are going to iceland as well, but we had to shave off a day just so we can get back earlier to do this test, which is a huge inconvenience in my opinion.
I think they offer rapid test options now (that wasn't the case when we were there) so you might be able to get your results a lot faster
Sounds like a pretty stressful end to the trip but at least you made it!
Yeah, It was more exhausting than anything else, but it's all good!
@@TheAwkwardTourists Yeah totally get that. I loved your videos though. Iceland is incredible. Can't wait to go back!
Wow. That was a covid test nightmare. Such a headache. Not good.
It's all good, It was more tiring and mentally exhausting than anything else
Iceland to jfk back to Milan? Direct is probably 4 - 5 hours?
More like 6. But as they travel standby the direct route isn't always possible
Yeah, We would have to fly through London with our standby benefits, and that was looking complicated with Covid tests at the time of filming.
@@TheAwkwardTourists standby is great when it works out, horrible when it doesn’t.
Where did u do the test was it at the main office in Rekivick???
We went to the testing center at Suðurlandsbraut 34
The title of this video should have been the Story of Travel Saga.
Should have just stayed at the Ja Ja ding dong Bar!!!!
Could you get the COVID test in Vik instead of Reykjavik?
I'm not sure, Check www.travel.covid.is They have a list of testing sites
You are lucky to have been stuck in Iceland. Nothing good going on in the USA. Since you're only connecting in JFK, I guess it isn't so bad .... Good choice to go to Italy! That's where I want to retire to.
I got a COVID test for my Parents and I here in Israel and it took 13 hours to get the results
That's great that you got it back quickly. In Iceland, during the time that we were there, It was supposed to take no more than 24 hours, but that was not the case for us this time!
this makes me so nervous for my trip to Iceland in October
Things will be quite different in October. This was in mid-May and needs PCR tests. At this point antigen is now accepted
I'm supposed to go in October too but I might reschedule for next year.
As this moment there is no test required when you are vaccinated
That covid test is really cheap. In cancun they charge around 150€
Wow, That seems a little steep
That stinks, but I love y'alls attitudes!
Gotta stay postive!
For those suggesting rapid tests - just keep in mind they have more false positives than the PCR test.
It has to do with what the US govt will accept upon entry back to the US
Lesson learned: don't change your plans last minute on a whim in the time of Covid. Yikes!
Well, to be fair our problem wasn't because of our change. We would have needed tests either way
@@TheAwkwardTourists From the vid, I got the impression that you changed the timing of when you planned to leave Iceland to go to Italy. Sorry if that was misunderstood. Back in March, I decided to add 3 extra days to my July trip just in case my PCR test didn't come back early enough. ugh. I've learned a lot from your Iceland series, thank you! It'll be my first time there and my 45th country. Let's hope my heli ride over the volcano won't cancel due to high winds!
Standby travel usually requires last minute plan changes.
Many lessons in this one, birth control at 15:04 lol
A screaming baby on a plane was the last thing we needed after that day!
@@TheAwkwardTourists That's what I thought too. Enjoy
Im going on the 27th, hopefully that doesnt happen to me 😬lol
I'm sure you will be fine, our case was just a fluke from what I am told
It's not really a problem though, is it? It's just another opportunity for you to make a video. If anything it's probably good news. Most people would not be happy to be stranded but these RUclipsr types are straight away thinking about how they can make it into a video. Everything I'm saying is true, so sorry.
Why are you sorry? You said we made a video about what was going on with our travels. True. As travel vloggers, it's quite literally our job.
Man I really hope this stuff isn't still such a hassle by September 😬 and those tests are expeeeensive.
Yeah, we had to pay twice too! We got money back for one of them, but we also had to get hotel for another night
@@TheAwkwardTourists That's so frustrating!! But I hope you two are in Italy now, enjoying it there! :)