Looking to travel internationally? Choose your destination wisely. More than 90% of countries in the world will not allow U.S. citizens. This is due to the rising spread of Covid-19 among Americans as the country tops 4.6 million cases, and a whopping 58,194 new cases (as of August 2). For now, these are the only 15 countries in the world allowing American tourists during Covid-19.
First, before we get to the list, we should indicate we are only listing countries that will let American tourists through *without* a 14-day quarantine. It makes absolutely no sense to vacation somewhere you will have to stay in your hotel for 14 days, especially after spending thousands of dollars on flights, hotels, attractions, etc. For instance, Ireland is one of the countries that will allow American visitors with a 14-day quarantine, so it will not appear on this list.
Before you make any travel plans, remember that travel restrictions change daily based on coronavirus activity, including surges, deaths, and lockdowns. Some places that see a rise in spikes, like Melbourne, Australia, which is now in lockdown again, will not be a place you will want to travel to, especially since you will have to quarantine, but you’ll also risk getting coronavirus as it surges there.
Also, remember that some airlines require a health exam before taking the flight, like United, which offers a “ready to fly” checklist. If you fail to meet all 4 requirements, you will not be able to fly.
Some countries on our list, like Turkey, will make arriving travelers take thermal and health tests.
Lastly, every country allowing American tourists during Covid-19 *requires* travelers provide proof of a negative Covid-19 test. If you DO NOT have this, you will be stuck at the border. Obviously, you will have to take the test a few days before the trip, and also receive your results to cross the border, but make sure you have this. This proof of negative Covid-19 is almost as important as your passport.
Should you travel internationally right now? While we miss travel, and far-flung journeys are great for mental health, we recommend you sit this one out until further notice. Due to the constant change in rules and regulations, a destination you pick could easily ban Americans the week before you fly, and you’ll be at a loss.
Some airlines have been disappointing passengers with their failure to promote safety. Not all airlines announce whether flight crew has tested positive for Covid-19, and U.S. airports do not require face masks on passengers through TSA. Airlines have been misleading passengers about safety, including American and United, so be sure you you know the risks before flying.
Yelapa Beach in Mexico.That said, if you do plan on traveling, know these are the only 15 countries allowing American tourists and visitors during Covid-19, as of August 2, 2020. Plan accordingly, and remember to always practice safety for both you and those around you.
The 15 countries allowing American tourists during Covid-19 (as of August 2, 2020)
Antigua and Barbuda in the Caribbean.
Aruba in the Caribbean (residents coming from states where Covid-19 is surging, like California, Florida and Texas, must absolutely show proof of negative Covid-19 test, according to the website.
Bermuda in the Caribbean (must provide two tests. One must be 5 days before departing for Bermuda; one test upon arrival).
Croatia in Europe.
French Polynesia in the Pacific (travelers must provide two negative tests, one 72-hours before your flight and one 4 days after arrival).
Jamaica in the Caribbean.
Maldives.
Mexico (note: Covid-19 cases and deaths are spiking here).
St. Barthes in the Caribbean.
St. Lucia in the Caribbean.
Serbia in Eastern Europe.
Tanzania in Africa
Turkey in Eastern Europe.
Turks and Caicos in Caribbean (in addition to a negative Covid-19 test, travelers must show proof of medical insurance).
United Arab Emirates in the Middle East.
What country would you visit as an American tourist during Covid-19? Let us know in the comments below.
More stories
9 airline predictions based on aftermath of 9/11 and Great Recession (2008)
7 positive predictions for travel after coronavirus pandemic
Airlines are still flying planes with no passengers during the coronavirus pandemic. Here’s why.
These are the only 3 officials who can greenlight travel after the pandemic
How 11 major hotel chains have responded to the coronavirus pandemic.
Travelbinger is proud to be a publisher with Google News.
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Please do! I’m a one-man team for this website, so any help is sincerely appreciated.
Travelbinger is now on YouTube! Subscribe here for exclusive travel tips and advice from founder Jimmy Im. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Jimmy Im has traveled to 113 countries, stayed in over 600 hotels and has flown a million airmiles. He lives in New York City.