On September 23rd, 2020, Hawaii’s Governor Ige announced a program which would allow travelers who have proof of a valid negative COVID-19 administered no more than 72 hours prior to the start of their trip to bypass the current 14-day quarantine starting from October 15th, 2020. (source)
Pre-travel testing program summary
- The pre-travel testing program will begin on October 15th, 2020
- Out-of-state travelers must get a COVID-19 test from a testing location approved by the Hawai‘i State Department of Health.
- Travelers must provide a negative test result upon arrival into Hawaii.
- The test and results must be completed no more than 72 hours prior to their trip.
- No testing will provided upon arrival at the airport.
- Travelers who cannot provide the proper test results will be subject to a 14-day quarantine. Details of which can be found here.
Where to get COVID-19 testing
The most important thing to do before traveling to Hawaii is to complete your COVID-19 test. This will need to be done no more than 72 hours prior to your flight.
You will need to take a Hawaii State approved COVID-19 test.
This means a test to determine the presence of active COVID-19 infection that has been approved for use under these rules by the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH). Currently approved is the processing by laboratories that are licensed or certified by Clinical Laboratories Improvement Amendments (CLIA) of specimens for nucleic acid amplification testing approved or authorized by the United States Food and Drug Administration, pursuant to an Emergency Use Authorization or other authorization for COVID-19 testing.
You will want to check with your state or city’s health department to see how testing is being handled.
Some examples for these health department websites include pages for California, Texas, and New York City.
Certain private companies such as CVS are also offering on-site rapid result testing. Call or look online to check for availability.
Pre-travel testing vs 14-day quarantine
The main difference between qualifying for the pre-travel testing program and the quarantine which is currently in effect is that pre-travel testing will allow you enjoy Hawaii without the mandated 14-day quarantine.
Travelers are still allowed to opt for the 14-day quarantine if they do not get tested prior to their flight, but as a reminder, no testing will be allowed once you begin your quarantine.
Although you will not have to quarantine, you are still required to observe social distancing and wear a mask while on island.
Hawaii has been able to maintain some of the lowest numbers of COVID-19 in the United States. To continue this trend, it is vital that both residents and visitors maintain social distancing and wear a mask in public areas including the stores, restaurants, beaches, etc.
What you should know before you fly
- Do not travel if you are sick: Your temperature will be taken at the airport, and if you have a fever, you will not be allowed through the TSA security checkpoint. If you are sick, please rebook and plan accordingly. After landing you will have your temperature taken once again. Anyone with a high temperature will receive a medical assessment by paramedics stationed at the airport.
- Bring your face mask: All airlines flying into Hawaii require that guests wear masks during boarding, the duration of the flight, and while disembarking except for when drinking and eating. If you forget your mask, airlines will provide one for a nominal fee or at no cost to you.
- Get to the airport early: In addition to the usual TSA screening, you will also need to take part in a health screening as well. To be safe, arrive at least 2.5 hours prior to your departure.
- Sign up for the Safe Travels Online Program: This digital program collects required health and travel information, and is critical to protecting the health of our residents and visitors alike. The link to this online program can be found here.
Packing tips
- Travelers are now allowed to bring up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer in your carry-on luggage.
- In-flight beverage and food services are being greatly reduced on all airlines. Bring an empty reusable water bottle to fill up prior to boarding. You should also bring snacks and food.
- Pillows and blankets have been removed from most flights. Please check with your airlines, but be prepared to bring your own should you require them.
- Keep an extra mask on hand should you misplace one.
Plan your Hawaii activities in advance
Tours and activities are reopening in Hawaii every day. To make the most of your Hawaii vacation, be sure to book in advance!
Take a look at our list of available tours here.
If you have any questions, feel free to email us at support@veltra.com at anytime, or call us at (808) 690-9990 Monday through Friday from 9:00AM to 5:00PM.
