Best COVID-19 Test for International Travel (Abbott BinaxNOW guide)

Though the world is starting to open back up to international travel, COVID-19 seems like it’s here to stay. And unfortunately that means ever-evolving testing requirements and procedures. Recently I used the Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19 test to return to the United States from Mexico. The Abbott BinaxNOW tests allows you to take the test at home in about 20 minutes, are CDC approved and meet a variety of international travel requirements. This is the best COVID-19 test on the market for international travel, especially travel back to the United States. Here’s everything you need to know about the Abbott BinaxNOW at-home test:

What is the Abbott BinaxNOW test?

The Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19 test is a rapid antigen test that is CDC approved for reentry into the United States. The testing kits are mailed directly to your door. To take the test, you must register your testing kit online and the test must be administered with a virtual proctor guiding you through the process. In total, the test takes about 20 minutes to complete.

Where can I buy Abbott BinaxNOW testing kits?

There are two types of Abbott BinaxNOW testing kits. You must purchase the Abbott testing kit that includes access to the Navica App and the packaging clearly states to not open until instructed to do so.

I purchased a package of 6 Abbott BinaxNOW testing kits from eMed.com for $150. The tests have expiration dates, so be sure to look at the length of viability.

What is Abbott BinaxNOW test approved for?

The most popular use of the Abbott BinaxNOW test is travel back into the United States. With the recently changed guidelines for all travelers to take a test one day prior to arrival to the United States, these tests are the best option to ensure you receive your results in time to board your flight.

Abbott BinaxNOW are self-administered, rapid antigen tests. Some countries (an ever-evolving list) approve these tests for entry. Be sure to check with the country’s guidelines and approved tests a week prior to your departure to ensure you are taking the correct test.

What is the testing process like?

From my experience returning home from Mexico, the testing process is incredibly easy and straightforward. To start, you must register your tests and answer a couple basic questions prior to starting the test with a proctor. You follow the instructions on the screen and listen to the proctor’s instructions, after you finish you wait for the test results and share them with the proctor on the screen when they return. You receive your certificate within 30 minutes of test completion via email.

I’d recommend bringing an extra testing kit just in case your results are inconclusive or you make a mistake and the proctor needs to invalidate your results. This is not likely to happen but worth bringing a spare kit just in case.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Log-In to Navica

You can log-in to Navica through the phone app or desktop version. (I took the test through the eMed “Start Testing” link.) Once you log-in to Navica you’ll be asked some basic demographic and health questions. Navica will then check your computer or phone and ensure your technology is working appropriately.

2. Start your testing process with a Navica testing proctor

When you start your testing process, your proctor will ask for a valid photo ID to verify your identity. Once completed, you’ll start the testing process. Navica makes it easy by including a step-by-step photo guide throughout the entire testing process. After checking your identity, your proctor will as you to open your testing kit and scan the QR code on your testing card. You’ll need to be sure you take the test somewhere that you can place all your testing materials and you taking the test in view of your camera. (We didn’t have a desk in our hotel room and just utilized a pillow on the bed. It worked fine!)

3. Take your COVID test

You’ll be instructed when it’s time to open your testing kit. Do not open your testing kit until you are instructed to do so. The actual testing process takes less than a minute. It’s very important you follow your proctor’s instructions exactly or your test could be voided. The entire testing process, including swabbing your nose and placing it in the testing kit takes about a minute.

4. Wait for your results

Once you finish your test, your proctor will leave the session. Before leaving, the proctor will set a timer for 15 minutes for your test to receive results. You can now get up and walk around – you just have to be back at your device before the timer runs out. When your timer is complete, a new proctor will join your session to verify your results.

6. Receive emailed results

Once your proctor confirms your testing results, you’ll receive an email confirmation about 30 minutes after your testing session in complete. The results arrive to your inbox in a password protected PDF. Your results can be downloaded from your confirmation email.

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