TRAVEL FROM THE UK TO FLORIDA

After my recent vacation in the UK, I thought I might share my experience of travel from the UK to Florida.  The travel ban into the US will be lifted very soon, (YAY!) so it is wise to be prepared. There are various hoops to be jumped through before flight travel anywhere will be permitted.  These rules include:-

  • Being double (or triple) vaccinated against Covid-19
  • Providing proof of a negative Lateral Flow Test (LFT)/antigen test, taken within 48 hours of your UK flight departure
  • Submitting an LFT test two days after arrival in Florida
  • Providing a further LFT test, taken within 48 hours of your return flight to UK
  • Submitting an LFT test on day 2 of arrival back into the UK

When you travel you MUST bring proof of your vaccinations, printed proof of your negative LFT test and your Passenger Locator Form.  (I believe this is only required when travelling to the UK).  You WILL be required to provide these documents before being allowed to fly.  However, the whole process isn’t as daunting as it sounds.

Obtaining a Lateral Flow Test in the UK

There are various ways in which you can obtain a Lateral Flow Test (LFT) in the UK.  You can visit a local pharmacy or testing centre, you can do a self test at home or the simplest and easiest method of doing this, prior to travel, is to do it at your departure airport.  Most airports have drive-through and walk-in testing.  I flew from London Heathrow and booked my Fit to Fly test the morning of travel, allowing extra time before my flight to receive the test.  Once I registered at the desk, I was finished within moments.  The test results should be received directly to your email within 30-60 minutes of testing.  However, I did have to chase them up and they printed my results out for me.

Gatwick Airport has drive up or walk in testing at their North Terminal, but there are other options.  Check out which option is best for you here.  Manchester Airport has a similar service.  I won’t list all UK airports, but I’m sure they all have similar facilities.  However, checking online or calling ahead to be certain is advisable.  Upon your return you can also obtain a Covid test at Orlando International Airport.  Results come back within about 30 minutes.

** Remember, travel rules change all the time, so be sure to check the current guidelines with your airline ahead of your vacation date **

We cannot wait for UK travellers to return to Florida!  We look forward to welcoming you back to The Sunshine State.  If you don’t already have accommodation booked, please take a look at our selection of Orlando rental homes.  Covid-19 sanitization rules are still in operation for you and your family’s safety.

Safe Travels.  Orlando is waiting for you.