Often, these tests are marketed to busy travelers in a hurry who don’t want to wait for results or risk not getting them in time for travel.
Rapid PCR tests are expensive for a very simple reason: Demand.
But they can cost you hundreds of dollars. These tests are still the most reliable for detecting active COVID-19 infections.
To cope with travel demand, some testing facilities have introduced “rapid PCR tests,” where you can receive your results after just 30 minutes. You’re also likely familiar with rapid antigen tests, which check for proteins on the surface of the virus to see if you’re currently infected with COVID-19.īut if you’re having trouble finding either test or can’t wait days for results, there’s another option. Why rapid PCR tests are so expensive (Photo by Chris Dong/The Points Guy)įirst, you’re probably familiar with a regular PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test, considered the “gold standard” of COVID-19 testing. Here’s why you’ll likely pay a small fortune for one – and how you can save money on your next test.įor more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter. Unfortunately, that probably won’t work if you’re trying to get a test for travel, as many international destinations require tests to be taken within a specific time frame before departure.įortunately, there are rapid PCR tests, which promise the accuracy of a PCR test with the turnaround time of a rapid antigen test. Some locations are reporting turnaround times between five and seven days. In New York City, where I live, it’s not uncommon to see blocks-long lines for COVID-19 testing.Įven if you can get a test, be prepared for a wait. If you tried to get a COVID-19 test in recent weeks, there’s a good chance you didn’t have much luck.Ī surge driven by the omicron variant has testing facilities and hospitals strained.
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