We have been living in a state of flux for the past two years, unsure if we were coming or going.

One of the biggest challenges has been staying up to date with the ever-changing Covid rules. Recently, the rules changed again.

Coming almost two years after the initial Covid lockdown measurers were first imposed across the UK, the government recently announced that all remaining Covid travel restrictions have been lifted for passengers entering the UK.

The government has said the change had been deliberately timed before the Easter holidays but added that they have drawn up contingency plans to respond to any future Covid variants.

Here is a complete breakdown of everything you need to know:

Am I allowed to travel?

There are currently no legal restrictions on outbound international travel, and while the red list still exists, there are no countries currently on it. However, not every country is open to UK travellers.

In response to the rising Covid infection rate across the UK, a number of countries have banned travellers from the UK or are imposing quarantine upon them - even those who are fully vaccinated.

Before booking a holiday, you must check the latest UK Foreign Office travel advice for your destination.

Are Passenger Locator Forms still required?

As of Friday 18th March, Passenger Locator Forms are no longer required upon re-entering the country.

Do I need a test on my return to the UK?

The government have recently scrapped the requirement for all unvaccinated arrivals to receive Covid tests.

Will I need to wear a face-covering on the plane?

It is no longer necessary to wear face masks on airplanes, private or otherwise, although it is still "strongly recommended" to do so, out of consideration for the boarding crew. 

In England, there is no legal requirement to wear a face-covering within airports, although the government do suggest you wear a face-covering in crowded and enclosed spaces. In Wales and Scotland, you must wear face masks at airports.

What countries are open for travel?

UK travellers have plenty of options to choose from, some of which require very little to enter. The US, for example, asks only for one Covid test taken at least one day before travel for the fully vaccinated. If you are struggling to think of where to go for your holidays, we have compiled a list of some popular places to visit, which are currently open to people in the UK and require very little to enter.

Are private jet passengers exempt from Covid restrictions?

While private flights are safer and minimise the risk of contracting any infectious diseases, private jet passengers are not exempt from Covid travel restrictions. 

Passengers are still expected to wear face masks when boarding and departing the plane and are encouraged to wear them on board the plane out of consideration to the boarding crew. Similarly, they are required to wear face masks when roaming the airport and follow the restrictions of the destination country.

What should I be aware of before travelling?

It is important to be aware that things can change quickly, so it is essential to be prepared for any last-minute changes.

Robust travel insurance that is suitable for your needs is a sensible idea. If you are forced to cancel, postpone, or otherwise curtail your vacation because of Covid, having insurance can assist in recovering any lost cost.

It is also your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct documentation needed to enter the destination country. This may include:

• Proof of a negative Covid-19 test.

• Documentation providing details of travel 30 days before departure.

• Health declaration forms.

• Arrangement of Covid-19 test upon arrival.

• Arrangements of quarantine requirements upon arrival.

Again, much of this information can be found on the UK Foreign Office travel advice.

Enjoy your holidays!

Now you know the rules; all you need to do is choose somewhere to go.

If you would like us to look into your travel arrangements for 2022, click below to get in touch with one of our experts.