Planning to travel abroad this winter? Necessary PCR tests will make it pricey

As restrictions ease and Canadians consider travelling abroad, experts warn that winter getaways may cost more than ever thanks to mandatory COVID-19 tests, not to mention the rising cost of car rentals and airfare.

Despite the easing of international restrictions and rising vaccination rates, those ready to travel abroad are now faced with organizing a myriad of documents and tests in order to board a plane or cross the U.S. land border, adding unconsidered cost to what may already be a pricey trip.

Here are some added – and sometimes hidden – costs to consider before booking your next getaway:

Requirements to provide a negative COVID-19 rapid antigen test are the newest – and most costly – travel caveat. And, depending on where you’re travelling to, you and the family members you’re travelling with may be required to shell out for these tests on either end of your journey.

For example, some popular winter destinations, such as Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Cuba have no pre-arrival test requirement for vaccinated Canadian travellers. These tests will not be required at the U.S. land border either.