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Positive Test before departure

What's RS policy if we test positive before we depart the US for a tour?

Posted by
11027 posts

RS Policy ( as of May 27 )

Will I need a negative COVID-19 test prior to joining a tour?

For our tours starting May 20, 2022, and later, we're requiring pre-tour testing with a rapid self-test. Each tour member will need to show proof of a negative self-test taken on the first day of the tour, whether or not a test is required for entry into your arrival country.
What if I've recently had COVID and test positive with my pre-tour test?
If you've had COVID between 14 - 90 days prior to the start of your tour, you may obtain a letter of recovery signed by your doctor that documents your illness and recovery. Bring this letter with you on tour and if your pre-tour test is positive show it to your guide. A COVID recovery letter will also allow you to fly back to the US if your pre-flight COVID test is positive.

https://www.ricksteves.com/tours/coronavirus-faq

Posted by
37 posts

Allow me to restate my question.
If you test positive the day before departure and you and your travel partner are unable to fly /join the tour does RS allow a credit for a future tour or do you have to rely on Travel Insurance?

Posted by
11 posts

This was my husband’s and my experience with the refund policy.

We had flown to London six days before our Best of South England tour was to start. On our fourth day in London, my husband did a self test rapid antigen test and was positive. His symptoms were fatigue and a tight chest. We contacted RS Tours immediately and during their working hours they explained how the complete refund would work.
No hassle at all even though our tour was to begin in two days. We did get an official test done in England but they did not request a copy of it.

So we had a different stay in England than originally planned but once my husband’s symptoms subsided we were able to do walks and enjoy London.

Posted by
8252 posts

Once, again. RS tours is the best source of information on this topic.
The logical assumption is that if they give a pro-rated refund for days missed on the tour, they would also give a refund for a tour you could not attend due to a positive covid test.

Your best choice on all of these questions is to contact them directly.