173 thoughts on “Hawaii Vacations Saved? | Guaranteed Test Results Within 36-Hours”
Michelle W
This is so helpful. It addressed as all the concerns I have so far about our impending trip.
The new rules came up after we had booked a Tuesday departure trip, so Say test via Zoom proctor..with hopefully Saturday UPS air drop off and not sure if they work on Sunday.
We can’t afford ally eh change fees from bump tickets a day.
Truly, these are first world problems….I have food, water, shelter…we will be ok.
Due to Hawaii’s recent policy of a negative covid test prior to boarding the flight I will have to cancel my 14 day vacation being planned since January. The trusted testing partner has informed me they cannot guarantee my results on time. I realize this pandemic could not be predicted but I am unable, through no fault of my own, to jump through all the hoops required.
Hawaii is making our month vacation to Maui so stressful and unpredictable with these constant changes. We are trying to follow the rules but we have no control if the test gets delayed on the way to the lab or lab gets backed up. Why not give rapid test at airport before boarding plane and all this uncertainty would be gone. Isn’t that what United is doing?
Sorry you are feeling stress about your upcoming vacation! Hawaii implemented the safe travels program to allow to come to the islands without a the safer 14 day quarantine option during a pandemic! Though since you say you are coming for a month, you can do the 14 day quarantine and not lose out on your vacation completely… just a thought! If the stress is too much take I’d advise taking advantage of the great change and cancelation policies offered in the travel industry right now. If you are able to handle the stress of traveling during a pandemic, please be a responsible visitor to the islands and wear a mask and take Maui’s free post test travel if you do the testing option to help ensure the islands remain as safe as possible!
Aloha,
Re: when do you get the QR code…
After you upload your covid test results AND complete the health questionnaire 24 hours prior to departure. Ours arrived in a matter of minutes of completion.
Mahalo for all the info. Sorry to hear so many are having troubles. Seems like a fluid scenario that keeps updating/changing like Kauai weather.
Rhis came in too late. The test results through sponsored agencies could not confirm timeline for results so we canceled our trip to Oahu and Maui for 6 – 17 Dec.
I am sitting here right now waiting to hear if my daughter’s test results arrive in time! She has had two flights canceled, finally got a United flight. I haven’t seen her since March. She had a CVS test Saturday. No results yet! She’ll go to the airport tomorrow, but due to the last minute rule change (AGAIN) won’t board if they don’t arrive. $135 down the drain and a heartbroken mother.
She quarantined 2 weeks at home so her Dad and I would be safe.
I’m crying.
Heck yes! More likely go holoholo (travel) on Hawaiian Air. We got 140K Alaska Air miles we cannot use now cuz 1) not flying and2) no more Maui-Sacramento nonstops. But Hawaiian Air doe, so when we do fly, that’s who we be flying with.
The HOT MESS continues! This is great news….if you are flying Hawaiian Airlines. But Delta, United, American, Alaska and Southwest also service the islands. We are on Southwest….so what’s our option? WE are simply on a “wait and see” mode. We won’t confirm our final reservations until about 30 days out. It’s sad we can’t use our NAAT tests that we get for free right here in Atlanta….so we will be looking into the other options like Walgreens.
I’ve wondered how people could test 72 hours per the guidelines, and then arrive and have to do an arrival test, and test positive. Until I learned just yesterday… Test Is Really A False Sense Of Security! You can test negative and still be in an incubation period, and test positive a few days later. So the risk is still to test 72 hours out, and then on arrival maybe test positive and have your entire vacation thrown into the middle of a tornado. Hawaii (Kona specifically) is not an idea place to try and have groceries delivered, let alone be locked up in your condo for 14 days.
So we wait………
As a side note, I just checked CVS Health and they have a statement right on their website they cannot guarantee to meet deadlines like what is accepted by Hawaii and recommend you find another test provider.
We especially appreciate these almost daily updates as we near our flight this Friday, Nov 27, for the first time using Alaska Airlines (due to direct flights to/from Lihue). We are pending our live/video’s Covid tests tomorrow (Tuesday/Nov 24) via Costco (using Azova) – hoping that UPS overnight to their lab in GA will still enable us to have results by Friday morning – hoping the Thanksgiving holiday/Thursday will not prevent having results before our flight.
We are cancelling our December trip. We are coming from the east coast (NC). We can’t find a place in our area that is a partner with Hawaii’s board of health. Not everyone leaves from the west coast. We live in a resort area/beach and successfully dealt with an influx of visitors after we reopened. Hawaii will ruin its economy if it doesn’t find a way to accept valid tests and start getting tourist dollars.
No Walgreens where you can test? Or CVS Health? I found two Walgreens here that I have to see how their process works. Confirm they will get results back in time for uploading. I’m in Atlanta, and feel your frustrations as well.
THOMA… Just because Walgreen’s and/or CVS exist in an area does not mean they will test. We have a quizillion Walgreen’s in our metro area of 850,000+ but only 3 are testing!
Thoma and Amy, so sorry that the safe travels program is proving to be difficult for you!
Friendly reminder, we are in a pandemic right now and testing for non- medical is considered non priority for many labs regardless what they say which is why many people are having trouble getting results back in a timely fashion.
Yes Hawaii needs the tourism dollars but we also need our Ohana’s safe and healthy. The state needs to be better about finding solutions to support the economy regardless of the pandemic or not!
Walgreens (at least in CA) is free but I have read lots of comments that their turn time is 3-5 days, no expediting for Hawaii either. CVS has a “Hawaii Travel” option when scheduling test appointments but their turn times are the same (and for $$$).
We’re in Texas…CVS can’t guarantee results in 72 hours and Walgreens doesn’t the PCR test not the NAAT. Baylor Scott & White will do the test but is not a “trusted partner”… I’m at a loss
Wanted to share my positive experience.I have been tested 2 times using walgreens approved testing in SC and recieved my results in 36 hrs both times before my trip to Lihue. I also got tested today, returned Saturday from Lihue just to be safe. All free of charge.
Interesting tidbit… Per Safe Travels Team, there is no “discrimination” regarding in what state you take your test. So since we anyway have to go to Phoenix the day before we fly, we may just try to go a day even earlier and get Rapid Results tested in Phoenix since NM is apparently Hawaii’s stepchild population!
The problem rests with the State mandated 72 hour test. Scheduling within these limits places the onus completely on the travelers. This rule creates a nightmare for all testers and travelers. The back scheduling is unrealistic and the State should rethink their position on that very stringent requirement.
It will be interesting to read updates later this week and next. Feel bad for those traveling this week, absolutely no warning of this new policy/change. This new policy really makes no sense. Hawaii is now saying “if our trusted partners can’t get you results in 48 hrs, then you must have Covid.” Not sure how/why the Gov thinks this is a solution.
On the mainland right now for family emergency.. To be honest, if I didn’t live in Hawai’i I’d certainly avoid going. This latest change seems like throwing pasta at the wall to see if it sticks. A lot of people will only read headlines and not the details. I’m legitimately concerned for my tourism-dependent job; will I be returning to unemployment?
After reading this article, I feel obligated to leave a comment. I’m a resident living on Maui, I flew back late October and went to worksite labs (booked from the Hawaiian web site) the morning of my flight from S.F. I paid to have a expedited test, which was a guarantee in 12 hours. With a layover on Oahu, I arrived 13 hours later to Maui. I did not recieve my negative test until the 4th day, after several emails and calls without a responce. I was refunded my $150. Worksite lab guarantee? I did get my $$ back, I would of preferred my test results as promised. Good luck!
We must have lucked out with Walgreen’s drive thru test. Appt at 1:00 results in an hour emailed and uploaded. Insurance covered. See you Wednesday Aloha!
It’s not a game changer at all for those who don’t live in or within easy driving distance of the testing cities. As far as other airlines following Hawaiian’s lead, that doesn’t work either if they only offer it in a hub city. We travel to Hawaii regularly (except this year, of course) from the middle of the country, so of course we have to go through a hub. I would think the overwhelming majority of even Hawaiian’s passengers have to take connecting flights to get there.
I used the Hawaiian Airlines test partner, Worksite Labs, for my pre-travel C19 test in early November on the basis of the 36 hour results. 24 hours after the test, I received an email saying the results would be delayed. Results finally arrived by email about 61 hours after testing, at 1:30 am on the day of my departing flight. Then I noticed the testing date, as reported on the test results, somehow got post-dated to a date in December. Worksite Labs, though, was responsive to my email pleading for urgent assistance. Received a reissued test result with the corrected date prior to boarding at the airport. Uploaded it onto the Safe Travels website. Got my exemption upon arrival and all went well.
I am a resident of the Big Isld, flying to Maui on Mokulele in Dec to see my children & grdchild that I haven’t seen since Feb. I know I must have pre-travel tests both coming & going; HOWEVER, even though I got very good fares– less than $100 RT, I now have to come up with $300 for testing!!! Considering that many HI kama’aina are still attempting to make rent, food, etc., it would be wonderful if the state/counties would step-up and either lower the testing costs for locals or waive it altogether.
Also, would you please address the dilemma for those who do NOT have a smart phone or Ipad as to how we are to navigate arpt checks as well as all the other steps required? Thank you.
Last week there were free tests available on the Big Island for residents. Others have commented however that those are not eligible for travel. You might want to contact Civil Defense at 808-935-0031 to inquire.
Maybe others who don’t have a smart phone can comment.
Susie, I was in the Big Island for 3wks from the mainland, prior to going to Maui ( with the new rule in effect starting 11/4 for Covid-19 negative test results prior to inter island travel, we were able to go to Maui without quarantining tests in hand). The Big Island on their radio stations has several announcements daily form the Civil Defense service advising of where free testing will occur in the Island (Kona and Hilo). As BOH mentioned, call them and ask as well if their testing is good for inter island travel. We received our test thru Clinical Labs of Hawaii. We went to Aloha Kona Urgent Care in Kailua Kona for testing (try to avoid lunch time as there was a long line that fizzled after lunch!) 808-365-2297. 75-5995 Kuakini Hwy in that small shopping center. They took our insurance so we didn’t pay anything additional. Results were loaded within 24hrs. Very efficient.
Hope this helps. I’ll also add info on experience going thru the checks in Dallas and then Hawaii. Efficient, peace of mind for all involved and didn’t take too long. Just ensure you have your negative test loaded on their page and take a printed version just in case. We were there 2 days after the quarantine lifted on 10/17. We had an excellent time. We will be back 12/20. Hoping the process is as efficient this time around.
Thank you BOH for all of the information. And to all, follow all steps to the T and it will go well. Hawaii needs you :-).
We are supposed to leave sat 11-28 from upstate ny the only testing option we have is walgreens…which has no appointments available for the next four days. Looks like we will have to cancel our vacation. There needs to be more testing sites in other areas than just on the west coast.
I’m in Ohio so we chose vault health. We took the zoom call yesterday to do the live testing and dropped it off at UPS right after. I’ve heard good results with vault, but now we wait! I had already purchased the tests by the time the announcement was made, so I’ll pack like normal and hope I don’t have to cancel anything last minute
David B
But, be sure that those free Big Island tests are from a “trusted partner” or they wont be accepted.
My daughter and I used Vault and they were vigilant on getting our test results fast. Our flight was on a Wednesday and UPS is closed on Sunday. We did our tests on Monday mid morning and received our results on Tuesday afternoon. The tests were a bit pricey, but worth it for the expedient service.
We are considering postponing our trip we have scheduled for dec.4. We ordered 4 covid tests from vault(through hawaiian airlines website.) The name was wrong on one test and I have been leaving messages and emails daily with vault on how to fix this problem. Also needed to change an email address. No response at all from vault! Then Hawaii changed timing on test results. Vault also changed their schedule for getting tests to ups from last air pick up to by 10a.m. As much as we love kauai, not sure if we can jump through all the necessary hoops! Thanks for keep us up on the latest news!
What I saw on the Vault website just today was the notation that you had to get your sample to UPS by the last of their “air pickup” time. In fact, they provide the way for you to find out what that is for every UPS location in your state. You just have to go deep enough into the Vault website.
In some states, Vault Health will not test if you are covered by Medicare/Medicaid. (We thought they didn’t test in NM at all but it is only if you are covered by Medicare or Medicaid that they won’t test!)
CVS is now posting a disclaimer that they cannot guarantee meeting travel related time frames.
Quest Diagnostics is no longer a Trusted Partner.
In many states, Walgreens does not offer Rapid Results Testing at all.
Costco/Azova is getting a very bad rap for not getting tests to a patient on time, etc. AND they do not offer the required Zoom call on Saturdays or Sundays! (Great choice of vendors, Costco and State of Hawaii!)
And so it goes… Check the DETAILS before you decide to utilize a particular vendor!
And BOH, I agree… if worst came to worst, I’d be OK with having to quarantine for a day or even two until my negative test results came in but to punish me for a week……NO
I’m beginning to feel like the stepchild Hawaii doesn’t want! I’ve actually got a call into Vault to get more info on the exception. If I ever hear back, I’ll definitely post.
Barbara, my husband is on Medicare and you can test via Vault but, you will have to pay for testing out of pocket. I ordered 2 tests and have them both for our testing soon. Not sure this will help or not.
My suggestion is do not put more than one test in your Vault return envelope. I am hearing cases of lost tests and invalid tests (personal experience). Order Vault over a week ahead of time. Thank you BOH
Thank you for your information. I was thinking and looking at the business days before my flight on December 3rd and ordered my Vault test on Friday. They shipped today (November 23rd) and I should have it in time for my Monday… test to send back. Going to double down and still try for the CVS test but getting the reservation is beyond difficult…I have to log in at 12:01am this Saturday to get an appointment for Monday the 30th!
We are scheduled to arrive on November 30 on American Airlines using their “Let’s Get Checked “ partner. Praying results come in time for arrival.
How well has this company been in delivering results on time?
Can we just stay inside the airport when we arrive and not go to baggage claim until we get our results and upload the results to the state website?
Thanks
My cousin did that test on Wednesday evening for a Saturday morning flight. He got the results after he had boarded his connecting flight to DFW. He was getting nervous, to say the least! Mahalo!
Under the original safe travels program that might have been on option for your family but per Hawaii’s safe travels program “ Starting on 11/24/20, travelers who have not yet received their test results prior to departure for Hawaii, will go into quarantine with no ability to come out of quarantine. Post-Arrival uploads of test results will Not be allowed”
If you are concerned about not getting the results prior results to your outbound flight, I’d encourage you to take advantage of the flexible change and cancelation policies that airlines have now and move your travels to a time where travel is easier again whether that be during the pandemic or not!
Best of luck to you and your family! And if you do come be sure to wear your mask and please consider participating in the post travel testing program!
This seems like good news, but I am still a bit confused – Worksite Labs and US BioTek are not on the hawaii covid 19 website as approved partners. Does this mean if your airline sends you to a lab they have partnered with, it is an acceptable test? I have read on the hawaiicovid website they will only accept tests from their partners.
Concur it is confusing. But the airlines themselves are listed as partners for providing the tests. If in doubt please call the state’s helpline at 1-855-599-0888.
I had the same Concern but a chat with the official Hawaii travel program told me that the airlines are partnered with Hawaii so anything they list on their sites, like US Biotek and Worksite WILL be recognized by the state.
Aloha!
Big thanks to Hawaiian Air for articulating and responding to this new change. Please note Alaska air is offering Carbon tests with a same day or next day guaranteed turnaround as well. Info can be found on their webpage under covid info. As always big Mahalo to boh🌺
This is all good news with the exception of we were scheduled to leave out of Sacramento international airport. We took our test this morning at our Kaiser location and were told it would take 3 to 4 days to get the results back. The four days is outside of our 72 hours. We will have to cancel our trip now. Not only losing our much anticipated and needed getaway but a financial hit as well.
Have you seen this Declaration just posted on another travel site. Is it a bunch of hot air or is there a real chance that it could lead to violence against tourist?
I also understand that these same people are going to bring their grievances to this Wednesday’s Kauai council meeting.
Is it okay to bring your chest results to the airport because we’re flying out of San Diego to Hawaii can we show Hawaiian airlines that we did get tested and we did get negative results
You need to follow the procedures for the State of Hawaii. This has nothing to do with Hawaiian Airlines. Test with 72 hours of departure. Upload results to the SafeTravels website, and also have results available on your phone or printed.
This is great news for Hawaiian Airlines travelers. I just returned yesterday from a 10 day trip to Maui. We flew Southwest. I took my test on a Tuesday morning as I had a Thursday evening flight. I took my test through CVS and had to drive 1.5 hrs away to find a location that had an opening as they were mostly all booked. The drive through CVS test was fine and efficient. Well, I arrived on Thursday evening and still no test results. Make sure you download your QR code from the State of Hawaii site ahead of time. You will need this when you are in line for processing. Since I didn’t have my test results, I had to show the processor my confirmed Covid test which I did on that Tuesday through the MyCharts app that CVS uses. I was fine to leave but I could not pick up my rental car due to not having the test results which was obviously wasn’t what I was expecting. I had to take a taxi to the resort. When I checked into the resort, I was issued a one time entry wristband. I had to order food through Instacart as there isn’t much doordash or other dining delivery that I could find. Luckily I had a full kitchen in my place. I didn’t get my results until Sunday morning so I stayed in my condo for Fri and Saturday. Had to take another taxi back to the airport to pick up my rental car after spending $180 on taxi fares. I do have a large lanai at the condo so I wasn’t all that impacted and was staying for 10 days. I could only imagine if you had a family and were staying for a week and two days were spent indoors? I would only fly to Hawaii if you can get for sure results in the time frame.
Other than that experience the island was different but good. I have family on Maui and I think they have been conditioned by their governor and others to absolutely fear Covid. I am not saying it is not serious, but if you are a healthy person and take the smart precautions it is a good place to visit. Downtown Lahaina was probably 60% open with a lot of shops boarded up.
There are several commenters on this blog that are definitely in the “very scared” category, but that’s not a true indication of the population as a whole. We’ve spent time in five US states during the last couple of months. The wife half of a couple across the street from us on Kauai is still scared of us, and we’ve been back on island nearly 3 weeks. On the other hand, we’ve run into many other neighbors, friends and acquaintances since day one of our arrival who were not at all scared of us. It’s all over the spectrum – and not just Hawaii.
IMO, there is a correlation between those that want more authoritarian government in general, scared people who want government to control others to keep them “SAFE” at all costs, versus those who view government/media cynically, not scared people who want government to leave them alone. Most people are somewhere in between. This is nothing new, but the COVID panic has magnified these differences. You can see it in the comments on this blog.
We had a happy hour dinner at a sports-bar restaurant in Kapa`a last night (Raider-Chiefs game on). One of the employees (a young kid) wore his mask diligently. The others? Not at all (chin strap, under nose, that sort of thing). And of course, none of the customers had them on, since they are not required to once seated. Was mix of locals and tourists. This is a self-selecting group of “not scared”, since “scared” people would never spend time in that place.
This is no different than what we’ve observed in other states.
Careful with that. I recall it was completing the health questionnaire within 24 hours of flying that got us the QR code emails from the ST web site. Recall that the (in)famous Utah family who were turned away on Maui had their QR codes, but did not have accepted test results because their testing outfit was not on the HI approved “trust partner” list.
Just having a QR code is not enough. The QR code just links or trip information. Just like the QR codes that restaurants use to link their menus. When we went through intake at LIH back on Nov 5, our processor started with the QR code email, but then needed to see the contents of our “trip” status, which included the negative results statement.
We had to cancel our trip to Hawaii yesterday because there was no way to drive 200 miles round trip from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles testing area on Wed. and be sure of getting results back in time for Sat. morning flight with Thanksgiving on Thursday. We understand the concerns about protecting the citizens of Hawaii. Unfortunately we were also passengers on board the Norwegian ‘Jewel’ when COVID hit in March so we’re no strangers to ruined vacations. We’re scheduled to return to Hawaii in January and hope testing criteria are improved by then.
I am grateful to you for all the timely information. Still, it seems that the state of Hawaii should be providing this in a “user friendly” mode. Guidelines, restrictions, and processes are convoluted and confusing, as well as in constant flux. Just getting from one island to another can be a headache. As a resident who has been island-confined since March, I was looking forward to my family from the Bay Area visiting me for the holidays. With all the confusion and new quarantine, it does not seem worth it to take the chance on a late test result. Looks like we will be waiting for a vaccine before we can be reunited. Still, I know I am lucky to be in paradise and believe that most folks here are cautious and aware.
Thanks. We concur with you that it isn’t “user friendly” at this point. We can only hope that improves. It has been just over a month since this started, and it is a crazy time everywhere.
This is certainly good news for us LAX travelers. The question is will Hawaiian and the other airlines stop fliers from boarding without a completed/documented negative test?
The airlines can choose to deny boarding but since the 14 day quarantine is still on option for incoming travelers people can get on planes without negative testing and thus I don’t see airlines enforcing that.
Honestly, if we didn’t already have tickets and reservations, the answer to that question would be a resounding NO. As March approaches, the date of our reservations, we’ll have to take a look at how the vaccine, and testing programs are going, and make the decision to cancel again, or chance it. We miss seeing our family, and having all of our kids together in the Islands, but I’m not seeing an end to the constant changes in policy by Hawaii’s governor and mayors. It takes time to work out the “kinks” in any plan, but the constant changes make that impossible.
Thank you BOH for keeping us up to date. We are very happy to see Portland on the list of places that Hawaiian Airlines has added for testing sites, as that is our point of departure.
Thank you for all your comments over the last four years! We’ll remain optimistic but obviously, we remain in the midst of this globally, and no one can say how it will all play out. Traveling right now is challenging.
Aloha-Unfortunately this doesn’t help those that are flying on other airlines. So no more inclined. Hopefully Alaska will have this in place by the time we are scheduled to fly next spring.
While that is true, as goes Hawaiian Airlines, so goes the state. If this goes well as planned, you will see it expand to other airlines. They all have so much at stake here.
BOH I welcome all the news regarding airline travel but can BOH keep us fully updated on hotel and restaruants that are opening with both outdoor and indoor seating. Until we can experience the full enjoyment of the island cusine, Mai Tai’s at the Mai Tai Beach Bar Royal Hawaiian and key hotels open and fully servicing our needs, there is no reason to consider a Hawaiian vacation. From what I am hearing Waikiki is nearly a ghost town, very few hotels open, most dining facilities closed or extremely limited that its not worth the time to leave the mainland. Please keep us abreats of these updates and not simply the airlines who really dont care once they have landed.
Thanks. We’ve previously mentioned https://foodagogo.org/, which maintains a list of restaurants open for dine-in, take-out, and other options. As for hotels, it is probably best to just check with whatever options you are considering.
This is so helpful. It addressed as all the concerns I have so far about our impending trip.
The new rules came up after we had booked a Tuesday departure trip, so Say test via Zoom proctor..with hopefully Saturday UPS air drop off and not sure if they work on Sunday.
We can’t afford ally eh change fees from bump tickets a day.
Truly, these are first world problems….I have food, water, shelter…we will be ok.
Hi Michelle.
That’s a great attitude. Thanks for sharing.
Aloha.
Due to Hawaii’s recent policy of a negative covid test prior to boarding the flight I will have to cancel my 14 day vacation being planned since January. The trusted testing partner has informed me they cannot guarantee my results on time. I realize this pandemic could not be predicted but I am unable, through no fault of my own, to jump through all the hoops required.
Us too! Same! We had to cancel. The approved testing partners can’t get it back to us in time.
Hawaii is making our month vacation to Maui so stressful and unpredictable with these constant changes. We are trying to follow the rules but we have no control if the test gets delayed on the way to the lab or lab gets backed up. Why not give rapid test at airport before boarding plane and all this uncertainty would be gone. Isn’t that what United is doing?
Mary,
Sorry you are feeling stress about your upcoming vacation! Hawaii implemented the safe travels program to allow to come to the islands without a the safer 14 day quarantine option during a pandemic! Though since you say you are coming for a month, you can do the 14 day quarantine and not lose out on your vacation completely… just a thought! If the stress is too much take I’d advise taking advantage of the great change and cancelation policies offered in the travel industry right now. If you are able to handle the stress of traveling during a pandemic, please be a responsible visitor to the islands and wear a mask and take Maui’s free post test travel if you do the testing option to help ensure the islands remain as safe as possible!
Aloha,
Re: when do you get the QR code…
After you upload your covid test results AND complete the health questionnaire 24 hours prior to departure. Ours arrived in a matter of minutes of completion.
Mahalo for all the info. Sorry to hear so many are having troubles. Seems like a fluid scenario that keeps updating/changing like Kauai weather.
Rhis came in too late. The test results through sponsored agencies could not confirm timeline for results so we canceled our trip to Oahu and Maui for 6 – 17 Dec.
I am sitting here right now waiting to hear if my daughter’s test results arrive in time! She has had two flights canceled, finally got a United flight. I haven’t seen her since March. She had a CVS test Saturday. No results yet! She’ll go to the airport tomorrow, but due to the last minute rule change (AGAIN) won’t board if they don’t arrive. $135 down the drain and a heartbroken mother.
She quarantined 2 weeks at home so her Dad and I would be safe.
I’m crying.
Heck yes! More likely go holoholo (travel) on Hawaiian Air. We got 140K Alaska Air miles we cannot use now cuz 1) not flying and2) no more Maui-Sacramento nonstops. But Hawaiian Air doe, so when we do fly, that’s who we be flying with.
The HOT MESS continues! This is great news….if you are flying Hawaiian Airlines. But Delta, United, American, Alaska and Southwest also service the islands. We are on Southwest….so what’s our option? WE are simply on a “wait and see” mode. We won’t confirm our final reservations until about 30 days out. It’s sad we can’t use our NAAT tests that we get for free right here in Atlanta….so we will be looking into the other options like Walgreens.
I’ve wondered how people could test 72 hours per the guidelines, and then arrive and have to do an arrival test, and test positive. Until I learned just yesterday… Test Is Really A False Sense Of Security! You can test negative and still be in an incubation period, and test positive a few days later. So the risk is still to test 72 hours out, and then on arrival maybe test positive and have your entire vacation thrown into the middle of a tornado. Hawaii (Kona specifically) is not an idea place to try and have groceries delivered, let alone be locked up in your condo for 14 days.
So we wait………
As a side note, I just checked CVS Health and they have a statement right on their website they cannot guarantee to meet deadlines like what is accepted by Hawaii and recommend you find another test provider.
We especially appreciate these almost daily updates as we near our flight this Friday, Nov 27, for the first time using Alaska Airlines (due to direct flights to/from Lihue). We are pending our live/video’s Covid tests tomorrow (Tuesday/Nov 24) via Costco (using Azova) – hoping that UPS overnight to their lab in GA will still enable us to have results by Friday morning – hoping the Thanksgiving holiday/Thursday will not prevent having results before our flight.
Hi Dan.
Thanks. Please let us know how it goes.
Aloha.
We are cancelling our December trip. We are coming from the east coast (NC). We can’t find a place in our area that is a partner with Hawaii’s board of health. Not everyone leaves from the west coast. We live in a resort area/beach and successfully dealt with an influx of visitors after we reopened. Hawaii will ruin its economy if it doesn’t find a way to accept valid tests and start getting tourist dollars.
No Walgreens where you can test? Or CVS Health? I found two Walgreens here that I have to see how their process works. Confirm they will get results back in time for uploading. I’m in Atlanta, and feel your frustrations as well.
THOMA… Just because Walgreen’s and/or CVS exist in an area does not mean they will test. We have a quizillion Walgreen’s in our metro area of 850,000+ but only 3 are testing!
Thoma and Amy, so sorry that the safe travels program is proving to be difficult for you!
Friendly reminder, we are in a pandemic right now and testing for non- medical is considered non priority for many labs regardless what they say which is why many people are having trouble getting results back in a timely fashion.
Yes Hawaii needs the tourism dollars but we also need our Ohana’s safe and healthy. The state needs to be better about finding solutions to support the economy regardless of the pandemic or not!
Walgreens (at least in CA) is free but I have read lots of comments that their turn time is 3-5 days, no expediting for Hawaii either. CVS has a “Hawaii Travel” option when scheduling test appointments but their turn times are the same (and for $$$).
We’re in Texas…CVS can’t guarantee results in 72 hours and Walgreens doesn’t the PCR test not the NAAT. Baylor Scott & White will do the test but is not a “trusted partner”… I’m at a loss
Wanted to share my positive experience.I have been tested 2 times using walgreens approved testing in SC and recieved my results in 36 hrs both times before my trip to Lihue. I also got tested today, returned Saturday from Lihue just to be safe. All free of charge.
Interesting tidbit… Per Safe Travels Team, there is no “discrimination” regarding in what state you take your test. So since we anyway have to go to Phoenix the day before we fly, we may just try to go a day even earlier and get Rapid Results tested in Phoenix since NM is apparently Hawaii’s stepchild population!
flying American airlines you can get the in home kit from letsgetchecked
The problem rests with the State mandated 72 hour test. Scheduling within these limits places the onus completely on the travelers. This rule creates a nightmare for all testers and travelers. The back scheduling is unrealistic and the State should rethink their position on that very stringent requirement.
Ken C (returning resident)
It will be interesting to read updates later this week and next. Feel bad for those traveling this week, absolutely no warning of this new policy/change. This new policy really makes no sense. Hawaii is now saying “if our trusted partners can’t get you results in 48 hrs, then you must have Covid.” Not sure how/why the Gov thinks this is a solution.
Glad to see Hawaiian stepping up to make travel a little less stressful. I wonder how many people cancelled their trips though…
We cancelled ours! So stressful to have a vacation
On the mainland right now for family emergency.. To be honest, if I didn’t live in Hawai’i I’d certainly avoid going. This latest change seems like throwing pasta at the wall to see if it sticks. A lot of people will only read headlines and not the details. I’m legitimately concerned for my tourism-dependent job; will I be returning to unemployment?
After reading this article, I feel obligated to leave a comment. I’m a resident living on Maui, I flew back late October and went to worksite labs (booked from the Hawaiian web site) the morning of my flight from S.F. I paid to have a expedited test, which was a guarantee in 12 hours. With a layover on Oahu, I arrived 13 hours later to Maui. I did not recieve my negative test until the 4th day, after several emails and calls without a responce. I was refunded my $150. Worksite lab guarantee? I did get my $$ back, I would of preferred my test results as promised. Good luck!
We must have lucked out with Walgreen’s drive thru test. Appt at 1:00 results in an hour emailed and uploaded. Insurance covered. See you Wednesday Aloha!
Hi Gary.
Glad that worked out. Have a great time and thank you for all of your comments over the past few years.
Aloha.
It’s not a game changer at all for those who don’t live in or within easy driving distance of the testing cities. As far as other airlines following Hawaiian’s lead, that doesn’t work either if they only offer it in a hub city. We travel to Hawaii regularly (except this year, of course) from the middle of the country, so of course we have to go through a hub. I would think the overwhelming majority of even Hawaiian’s passengers have to take connecting flights to get there.
I used the Hawaiian Airlines test partner, Worksite Labs, for my pre-travel C19 test in early November on the basis of the 36 hour results. 24 hours after the test, I received an email saying the results would be delayed. Results finally arrived by email about 61 hours after testing, at 1:30 am on the day of my departing flight. Then I noticed the testing date, as reported on the test results, somehow got post-dated to a date in December. Worksite Labs, though, was responsive to my email pleading for urgent assistance. Received a reissued test result with the corrected date prior to boarding at the airport. Uploaded it onto the Safe Travels website. Got my exemption upon arrival and all went well.
I am a resident of the Big Isld, flying to Maui on Mokulele in Dec to see my children & grdchild that I haven’t seen since Feb. I know I must have pre-travel tests both coming & going; HOWEVER, even though I got very good fares– less than $100 RT, I now have to come up with $300 for testing!!! Considering that many HI kama’aina are still attempting to make rent, food, etc., it would be wonderful if the state/counties would step-up and either lower the testing costs for locals or waive it altogether.
Also, would you please address the dilemma for those who do NOT have a smart phone or Ipad as to how we are to navigate arpt checks as well as all the other steps required? Thank you.
Hi Susie.
Last week there were free tests available on the Big Island for residents. Others have commented however that those are not eligible for travel. You might want to contact Civil Defense at 808-935-0031 to inquire.
Maybe others who don’t have a smart phone can comment.
Aloha.
Susie, I was in the Big Island for 3wks from the mainland, prior to going to Maui ( with the new rule in effect starting 11/4 for Covid-19 negative test results prior to inter island travel, we were able to go to Maui without quarantining tests in hand). The Big Island on their radio stations has several announcements daily form the Civil Defense service advising of where free testing will occur in the Island (Kona and Hilo). As BOH mentioned, call them and ask as well if their testing is good for inter island travel. We received our test thru Clinical Labs of Hawaii. We went to Aloha Kona Urgent Care in Kailua Kona for testing (try to avoid lunch time as there was a long line that fizzled after lunch!) 808-365-2297. 75-5995 Kuakini Hwy in that small shopping center. They took our insurance so we didn’t pay anything additional. Results were loaded within 24hrs. Very efficient.
Hope this helps. I’ll also add info on experience going thru the checks in Dallas and then Hawaii. Efficient, peace of mind for all involved and didn’t take too long. Just ensure you have your negative test loaded on their page and take a printed version just in case. We were there 2 days after the quarantine lifted on 10/17. We had an excellent time. We will be back 12/20. Hoping the process is as efficient this time around.
Thank you BOH for all of the information. And to all, follow all steps to the T and it will go well. Hawaii needs you :-).
Hi Julieta.
Thank you! Very helpful information.
Aloha.
We are supposed to leave sat 11-28 from upstate ny the only testing option we have is walgreens…which has no appointments available for the next four days. Looks like we will have to cancel our vacation. There needs to be more testing sites in other areas than just on the west coast.
I’m in Ohio so we chose vault health. We took the zoom call yesterday to do the live testing and dropped it off at UPS right after. I’ve heard good results with vault, but now we wait! I had already purchased the tests by the time the announcement was made, so I’ll pack like normal and hope I don’t have to cancel anything last minute
But, be sure that those free Big Island tests are from a “trusted partner” or they wont be accepted.
Hi David.
Thanks so much for that correction! Yes that is true and seriously the state may not accept their own tests.
Aloha
These free tests can not be used for interi-island travel
Aloha,
Any idea on when testing will be available in Phoenix?
Mahalo
Hi Denise.
We are not aware of any plans. But the Vault tests are available nationwide.
Aloha.
My daughter and I used Vault and they were vigilant on getting our test results fast. Our flight was on a Wednesday and UPS is closed on Sunday. We did our tests on Monday mid morning and received our results on Tuesday afternoon. The tests were a bit pricey, but worth it for the expedient service.
We are considering postponing our trip we have scheduled for dec.4. We ordered 4 covid tests from vault(through hawaiian airlines website.) The name was wrong on one test and I have been leaving messages and emails daily with vault on how to fix this problem. Also needed to change an email address. No response at all from vault! Then Hawaii changed timing on test results. Vault also changed their schedule for getting tests to ups from last air pick up to by 10a.m. As much as we love kauai, not sure if we can jump through all the necessary hoops! Thanks for keep us up on the latest news!
Hi Brenda.
Let us know how it ends up. Others have reported problems reaching Vault, but less so in terms of the actual test timing.
Aloha.
What I saw on the Vault website just today was the notation that you had to get your sample to UPS by the last of their “air pickup” time. In fact, they provide the way for you to find out what that is for every UPS location in your state. You just have to go deep enough into the Vault website.
In some states, Vault Health will not test if you are covered by Medicare/Medicaid. (We thought they didn’t test in NM at all but it is only if you are covered by Medicare or Medicaid that they won’t test!)
CVS is now posting a disclaimer that they cannot guarantee meeting travel related time frames.
Quest Diagnostics is no longer a Trusted Partner.
In many states, Walgreens does not offer Rapid Results Testing at all.
Costco/Azova is getting a very bad rap for not getting tests to a patient on time, etc. AND they do not offer the required Zoom call on Saturdays or Sundays! (Great choice of vendors, Costco and State of Hawaii!)
And so it goes… Check the DETAILS before you decide to utilize a particular vendor!
And BOH, I agree… if worst came to worst, I’d be OK with having to quarantine for a day or even two until my negative test results came in but to punish me for a week……NO
Hi Barbara.
Thanks. Some brighter light today at least, albeit not for New Mexico.
Aloha.
I’m beginning to feel like the stepchild Hawaii doesn’t want! I’ve actually got a call into Vault to get more info on the exception. If I ever hear back, I’ll definitely post.
Hi Barbara.
We want you. 😊
Aloha.
Barbara, my husband is on Medicare and you can test via Vault but, you will have to pay for testing out of pocket. I ordered 2 tests and have them both for our testing soon. Not sure this will help or not.
My suggestion is do not put more than one test in your Vault return envelope. I am hearing cases of lost tests and invalid tests (personal experience). Order Vault over a week ahead of time. Thank you BOH
Hi Joan.
Thanks. Good suggestion.
Aloha.
Thank you for your information. I was thinking and looking at the business days before my flight on December 3rd and ordered my Vault test on Friday. They shipped today (November 23rd) and I should have it in time for my Monday… test to send back. Going to double down and still try for the CVS test but getting the reservation is beyond difficult…I have to log in at 12:01am this Saturday to get an appointment for Monday the 30th!
We are scheduled to arrive on November 30 on American Airlines using their “Let’s Get Checked “ partner. Praying results come in time for arrival.
How well has this company been in delivering results on time?
Can we just stay inside the airport when we arrive and not go to baggage claim until we get our results and upload the results to the state website?
Thanks
Hi Ron.
Two good questions. Let’s see if others can help as we don’t have the answers. Other commentators have reported waiting at the airport.
Aloha.
My cousin did that test on Wednesday evening for a Saturday morning flight. He got the results after he had boarded his connecting flight to DFW. He was getting nervous, to say the least! Mahalo!
Hi Ed.
Thanks for the update.
Aloha.
Hi Ron,
Under the original safe travels program that might have been on option for your family but per Hawaii’s safe travels program “ Starting on 11/24/20, travelers who have not yet received their test results prior to departure for Hawaii, will go into quarantine with no ability to come out of quarantine. Post-Arrival uploads of test results will Not be allowed”
If you are concerned about not getting the results prior results to your outbound flight, I’d encourage you to take advantage of the flexible change and cancelation policies that airlines have now and move your travels to a time where travel is easier again whether that be during the pandemic or not!
Best of luck to you and your family! And if you do come be sure to wear your mask and please consider participating in the post travel testing program!
WOW!!
Mahalo guys for breaking the news so quickly! You just answered prayers for so many people.
Things amidst COVID-19 are horrible everywhere and this concession by Hawaiian airlines is a light in the darkness.
We’re all in this together. As humans trying to get by in a pandemic, life’s hard enough.
We need more caring, loving, kindness in our world.
Blessings and Aloha to all.
Hi Pam.
Thanks. Guaranteed timely results is a great solution to this new rule change that starts tomorrow.
Aloha.
This seems like good news, but I am still a bit confused – Worksite Labs and US BioTek are not on the hawaii covid 19 website as approved partners. Does this mean if your airline sends you to a lab they have partnered with, it is an acceptable test? I have read on the hawaiicovid website they will only accept tests from their partners.
Hi Pam.
Concur it is confusing. But the airlines themselves are listed as partners for providing the tests. If in doubt please call the state’s helpline at 1-855-599-0888.
Aloha.
I had the same Concern but a chat with the official Hawaii travel program told me that the airlines are partnered with Hawaii so anything they list on their sites, like US Biotek and Worksite WILL be recognized by the state.
Aloha!
Big thanks to Hawaiian Air for articulating and responding to this new change. Please note Alaska air is offering Carbon tests with a same day or next day guaranteed turnaround as well. Info can be found on their webpage under covid info. As always big Mahalo to boh🌺
Hi Mel.
Thanks for the update on Alaska Air.
Aloha.
This is all good news with the exception of we were scheduled to leave out of Sacramento international airport. We took our test this morning at our Kaiser location and were told it would take 3 to 4 days to get the results back. The four days is outside of our 72 hours. We will have to cancel our trip now. Not only losing our much anticipated and needed getaway but a financial hit as well.
I am in Sacramento as well and took at Kaiser Roseville this morning. Partners should be able to guarantee results. Super frustrating!
Aloha BOH
Have you seen this Declaration just posted on another travel site. Is it a bunch of hot air or is there a real chance that it could lead to violence against tourist?
I also understand that these same people are going to bring their grievances to this Wednesday’s Kauai council meeting.
tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g29218-i304-k13435900-We_The_People_Of_Kaua_i-Kauai_Hawaii.html.
“I also understand that these same people are going to bring their grievances to this Wednesday’s Kauai council meeting.”
In other words, just another run-of-the-mill county council meeting …
Is it okay to bring your chest results to the airport because we’re flying out of San Diego to Hawaii can we show Hawaiian airlines that we did get tested and we did get negative results
Hi Donna.
You need to follow the procedures for the State of Hawaii. This has nothing to do with Hawaiian Airlines. Test with 72 hours of departure. Upload results to the SafeTravels website, and also have results available on your phone or printed.
Aloha.
You can still depart to Hawaii without negative test in hand but will be subjected to a 14-day quarantine.
Two trips to an airport to have guaranteed results within 36 is a small price to pay to travel during a pandemic.
Travelers from the east coast need more options! There are no approved labs except Vault.
Thank you for keeping us up to date.
Hi Linda.
Thanks. We hear you!
Aloha.
Linda D… And in some states Vault won’t test if you are covered by Medicare or Medicaid!
This is great news for Hawaiian Airlines travelers. I just returned yesterday from a 10 day trip to Maui. We flew Southwest. I took my test on a Tuesday morning as I had a Thursday evening flight. I took my test through CVS and had to drive 1.5 hrs away to find a location that had an opening as they were mostly all booked. The drive through CVS test was fine and efficient. Well, I arrived on Thursday evening and still no test results. Make sure you download your QR code from the State of Hawaii site ahead of time. You will need this when you are in line for processing. Since I didn’t have my test results, I had to show the processor my confirmed Covid test which I did on that Tuesday through the MyCharts app that CVS uses. I was fine to leave but I could not pick up my rental car due to not having the test results which was obviously wasn’t what I was expecting. I had to take a taxi to the resort. When I checked into the resort, I was issued a one time entry wristband. I had to order food through Instacart as there isn’t much doordash or other dining delivery that I could find. Luckily I had a full kitchen in my place. I didn’t get my results until Sunday morning so I stayed in my condo for Fri and Saturday. Had to take another taxi back to the airport to pick up my rental car after spending $180 on taxi fares. I do have a large lanai at the condo so I wasn’t all that impacted and was staying for 10 days. I could only imagine if you had a family and were staying for a week and two days were spent indoors? I would only fly to Hawaii if you can get for sure results in the time frame.
Other than that experience the island was different but good. I have family on Maui and I think they have been conditioned by their governor and others to absolutely fear Covid. I am not saying it is not serious, but if you are a healthy person and take the smart precautions it is a good place to visit. Downtown Lahaina was probably 60% open with a lot of shops boarded up.
There are several commenters on this blog that are definitely in the “very scared” category, but that’s not a true indication of the population as a whole. We’ve spent time in five US states during the last couple of months. The wife half of a couple across the street from us on Kauai is still scared of us, and we’ve been back on island nearly 3 weeks. On the other hand, we’ve run into many other neighbors, friends and acquaintances since day one of our arrival who were not at all scared of us. It’s all over the spectrum – and not just Hawaii.
IMO, there is a correlation between those that want more authoritarian government in general, scared people who want government to control others to keep them “SAFE” at all costs, versus those who view government/media cynically, not scared people who want government to leave them alone. Most people are somewhere in between. This is nothing new, but the COVID panic has magnified these differences. You can see it in the comments on this blog.
We had a happy hour dinner at a sports-bar restaurant in Kapa`a last night (Raider-Chiefs game on). One of the employees (a young kid) wore his mask diligently. The others? Not at all (chin strap, under nose, that sort of thing). And of course, none of the customers had them on, since they are not required to once seated. Was mix of locals and tourists. This is a self-selecting group of “not scared”, since “scared” people would never spend time in that place.
This is no different than what we’ve observed in other states.
When you mention the State of Hawaii are you referring to Safe Travels? When do you receive the QR code? After testing or? Mahalo
Hi Rebecca.
You’ll receive the QR code after your test and test questionnaire are successfully uploaded to the Safe Travels website.
Aloha
Careful with that. I recall it was completing the health questionnaire within 24 hours of flying that got us the QR code emails from the ST web site. Recall that the (in)famous Utah family who were turned away on Maui had their QR codes, but did not have accepted test results because their testing outfit was not on the HI approved “trust partner” list.
Just having a QR code is not enough. The QR code just links or trip information. Just like the QR codes that restaurants use to link their menus. When we went through intake at LIH back on Nov 5, our processor started with the QR code email, but then needed to see the contents of our “trip” status, which included the negative results statement.
Hi David.
Thank you for that. Just updated our comment.
Aloha.
We had to cancel our trip to Hawaii yesterday because there was no way to drive 200 miles round trip from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles testing area on Wed. and be sure of getting results back in time for Sat. morning flight with Thanksgiving on Thursday. We understand the concerns about protecting the citizens of Hawaii. Unfortunately we were also passengers on board the Norwegian ‘Jewel’ when COVID hit in March so we’re no strangers to ruined vacations. We’re scheduled to return to Hawaii in January and hope testing criteria are improved by then.
I am grateful to you for all the timely information. Still, it seems that the state of Hawaii should be providing this in a “user friendly” mode. Guidelines, restrictions, and processes are convoluted and confusing, as well as in constant flux. Just getting from one island to another can be a headache. As a resident who has been island-confined since March, I was looking forward to my family from the Bay Area visiting me for the holidays. With all the confusion and new quarantine, it does not seem worth it to take the chance on a late test result. Looks like we will be waiting for a vaccine before we can be reunited. Still, I know I am lucky to be in paradise and believe that most folks here are cautious and aware.
Hi Marcia.
Thanks. We concur with you that it isn’t “user friendly” at this point. We can only hope that improves. It has been just over a month since this started, and it is a crazy time everywhere.
Aloha.
This is certainly good news for us LAX travelers. The question is will Hawaiian and the other airlines stop fliers from boarding without a completed/documented negative test?
Thanks for your very valid question!
The airlines can choose to deny boarding but since the 14 day quarantine is still on option for incoming travelers people can get on planes without negative testing and thus I don’t see airlines enforcing that.
Honestly, if we didn’t already have tickets and reservations, the answer to that question would be a resounding NO. As March approaches, the date of our reservations, we’ll have to take a look at how the vaccine, and testing programs are going, and make the decision to cancel again, or chance it. We miss seeing our family, and having all of our kids together in the Islands, but I’m not seeing an end to the constant changes in policy by Hawaii’s governor and mayors. It takes time to work out the “kinks” in any plan, but the constant changes make that impossible.
Thank you BOH for keeping us up to date. We are very happy to see Portland on the list of places that Hawaiian Airlines has added for testing sites, as that is our point of departure.
Hi Lee.
Thank you for all your comments over the last four years! We’ll remain optimistic but obviously, we remain in the midst of this globally, and no one can say how it will all play out. Traveling right now is challenging.
Aloha.
Any info on cost?
Hi Bill.
That makes 50 comments. Thanks. Yes, we updated with costs, which are from $90 to $105.
Aloha.
Hmm
36 hours good. So , to take the test requires two trips to the airport.
You can’t depart without the neg test in hand.
Aloha-Unfortunately this doesn’t help those that are flying on other airlines. So no more inclined. Hopefully Alaska will have this in place by the time we are scheduled to fly next spring.
Mahalo!
Hi Jon.
While that is true, as goes Hawaiian Airlines, so goes the state. If this goes well as planned, you will see it expand to other airlines. They all have so much at stake here.
BOH I welcome all the news regarding airline travel but can BOH keep us fully updated on hotel and restaruants that are opening with both outdoor and indoor seating. Until we can experience the full enjoyment of the island cusine, Mai Tai’s at the Mai Tai Beach Bar Royal Hawaiian and key hotels open and fully servicing our needs, there is no reason to consider a Hawaiian vacation. From what I am hearing Waikiki is nearly a ghost town, very few hotels open, most dining facilities closed or extremely limited that its not worth the time to leave the mainland. Please keep us abreats of these updates and not simply the airlines who really dont care once they have landed.
Hi Geoff.
Thanks. We’ve previously mentioned https://foodagogo.org/, which maintains a list of restaurants open for dine-in, take-out, and other options. As for hotels, it is probably best to just check with whatever options you are considering.
Aloha.