The rules for international travel now include a single red list with simplified travel measures for the ‘rest of the world’ and testing requirements for returning to the UK have been removed. We've answered some of your most pressing questions and concerns below as well as explaining entry requirements, flexibility and peace of mind you can expect from Carrier.
And if we haven’t answered your questions below, then please do contact us and we’ll see how we can help.
WHAT ARE THE RULES FOR TRAVEL?
The traffic light system no longer applies in favour of a single red list and simplified measures for ‘rest of the world’. It’s not just our own protocols you have to stay on top of before booking a holiday, each destination has its own entry requirements too with most still requiring proof of a negative Covid test prior to arrival – it can be confusing especially if you don’t have expert advice, this is where we come in, we’ll take care of all of this on your behalf.
Red List: Travel is not recommended to destinations on the red list and more than likely specified by the FCDO as non-essential travel for UK residents. Returning travellers, including those who are fully vaccinated, must currently pay for a mandatory 10 day quarantine in a managed hotel including pre-departure test and two PCR tests.
Rest of the World: Travel is permitted as long as the FCDO advises it is safe for all UK residents to travel to their chosen destination. It’s worth noting, a pre-departure test may still be required depending on individual destination entry requirements and protocols, but we will advise you of this at time of enquiry and booking.
TESTING REQUIREMENTS
Since 11th February, vaccinated travellers arriving back into the UK, no longer have to take any COVID-19 tests when they return. The fully vaccinated rules also apply to children aged 17 and under.
Those not fully vaccinated will be required to take a negative pre-departure antigen (lateral flow) test taken within 72 hours before the return flight departure to the UK with a completed Passenger Locator Form (children under 18 years who are unvaccinated do not have to take this test to return home). A PCR test on or before day 2 of returning home is also required. No self-isolation is required unless a positive result is received. These tests must be booked prior to departure from the UK.
For Scotland, Wales and Northern Island the rules are as per England.
What are the rules for unvaccinated children?
Unvaccinated children are treated as vaccinated adults and do not have to take a return home test.
What if I need to transit/get a flight connection via a destination on the red list in order to reach my holiday destination which is categorised as ‘Rest of the World’?T
Travellers who are in transit due to flight connections will follow the protocols associated to their chosen destination rather than the country of transit.
WHAT FLEXIBILITY DO I HAVE IF THINGS CHANGE?
Under what circumstances would I be offered a refund?
Rest assured, if we are no longer able to provide the holiday you have booked, a full refund will be offered within 14 days. Carrier will always provide refunds if the following situations were to happen before your departure date:
- The destination booked is assigned to the Red List
- The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against travel to your destination
- The FCDO permits travel, but the destination has restrictions on entry to all UK residents
- The destination's borders being closed to all travellers
- The UK nation in which you live has another lockdown which prohibits overseas travel
- The destination enforcing significant mandatory quarantine restrictions for all arrivals
It is a requirement of booking with Carrier that you have adequate travel insurance cover for the full value of your holiday, particularly to cover the eventuality of testing positive for Covid-19 as in some cases the best option may be an insurance claim.
What if the destination requires proof of vaccination?
We're on hand to advise on any requirements at the time of your enquiry. An NHS Covid Pass can be obtained via the NHS app (not the NHS Covid app) and is accepted by the UK and many other countries. Should you not wish to use the app, a paper copy can be obtained by dialling 119. We will make you aware of the specific requirements of those destinations which do not accept the NHS app or paper version, as well as any specific destination approaches to unvaccinated children.
Are booster jabs required?
Some countries now insist on booster jabs and the NHS app has been updated so it also shows booster jabs. We will advise you at the time of enquiry and booking if your chosen destination requires proof of booster jabs.
What if the destination requires all UK residents to quarantine on arrival?
This would be considered a significant impact on the enjoyment of your holiday; we would make you aware of the change and offer flexibility to amend, postpone or refund your booking.
What if I test positive for COVID-19, or have been instructed to self-isolate by the UK test and trace system and cannot travel?
You can amend or postpone without any amendment fees at any point up to an agreed date. Beyond this date, Carrier endeavour to facilitate amendments and postponements whilst making every effort to minimise any potential cost increases or losses on your behalf. It is a requirement of booking with Carrier that you have adequate travel insurance cover for the full value of your holiday, particularly to cover the eventuality of testing positive for Covid-19 as in some cases the best option may be an insurance claim.
If you haven't already arranged cover for your trip, you can find out more here or feel free to contact specialist insurance broker Campbell Irvine on 020 7938 1734 for a quote.
What if I no longer wish to travel (e.g. due to mask wearing protocols in the destination), but travel to the destination is permitted?
We will always facilitate any changes or amendments to postpone or cancel your trip, no questions asked. Carrier’s cancellation terms and booking conditions will apply and the right to a refund is not guaranteed if non-refundable costs have been incurred. Our ‘Travel made to order’ booking conditions mean you have the freedom to change your mind and you’ll have maximum flexibility to cancel or amend – we'll make you fully aware of your tailored terms before you commit to booking.
What if my holiday arrangements change (e.g. a hotel facility is closed due to COVID-19, there’s a flight schedule change, or a hotel move to a sister property) and I no longer wish to travel?
We will always do our utmost to offer viable alternatives (i.e. in-room spa treatments provided instead, a flight within 12 hours, a hotel of same standard), however you will have ultimate flexibility to amend or cancel if you'd prefer.
How can I stay informed on the most up-to-date entry and health requirements applicable to the destination I’m travelling to?
It is our responsibility as a tour operator to advise you on entry requirements. Our specialist teams are keeping abreast of the fast-changing safety protocols throughout our programme and will make them clear to you at quote stage, as well as follow-up with you personally with updated information if new protocols are introduced after your booking.
What if the destination places restrictions on unvaccinated travellers only?
Some destinations remain open to unvaccinated travellers, but of course, could introduce restrictions at any time. In your bespoke Travel Made to Order booking conditions negotiated by Carrier on your behalf, we will provide maximum flexibility to amend, postpone or cancel up to an agreed date. Beyond this date, we will always endeavour to facilitate changes or amendments but Carrier’s cancellation terms and standard booking conditions will apply. It is also worth noting, travel insurance is highly unlikely to provide cover for this scenario.
How do I arrange tests pre-departure, in destination and on return?
The availability and pricing of tests in the UK and overseas is evolving and constantly improving. Carrier will advise on testing requirements before you travel and can share information on authorised private providers. While in destination, our trusted hotels and partners can help organise testing for travellers who are not fully vaccinated before their return home, although we recommend you pre-purchase from one of our recommended UK suppliers.
What if I test positive for COVID-19 while on holiday? Or what if I’m instructed to quarantine by overseas authorities in resort?
We advise that you ensure your insurance policy includes medical cover for the virus, including quarantine cover, medical expenses and any additional accommodation or travel costs. Carrier is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Campbell Irvine Ltd which provides bespoke travel insurance cover. You can contact them for a quote on 020 7938 1734 and find out more here.
While I am there, what if the destination is assigned Red? What if the hotel I am staying at or the destination goes into lockdown? And what if the FCDO introduces advice against travel to the destination?
To date during the pandemic, the FCDO has not required immediate repatriation, therefore allowing travellers to complete their trip as booked. If, however, your holiday cannot continue or you are keen to come back early, we’re on hand to facilitate a speedy return home if that’s what you require. You will have access to our 24/7 emergency contact line.
What changes can I expect to see on my journey and at the destination? What will the experience be like when I get there?
Over the past 18 months, we’ve seen our hotels, airline partners and service providers take the time to rethink their health and safety practices and make impressive steps to navigate the constraints of coronavirus. The renewed focus on a low-touch approach and an amplified emphasis on privacy and space, has meant there are some welcome new services and innovations that will enhance your experience rather than hinder it.
Our aim is to make sure you are pleased with the level of care being taken when travelling with us. We’re committed to sharing the specific safety protocols and standards you can expect on your trip and always on hand to make further additional requests for your comfort if needed.
Please note: Fully vaccinated travellers are considered to have both vaccines for at least 14 days prior to departure from the UK under the UK vaccination programme approved by the Medicine and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA), find out more here.
Our latest update and what it means for you.
Plus, our maximum flexibility for amendments and cancellations for new and existing bookings.