Since COVID testing has become a new norm in our society, we thought it would be helpful to list off the places where you can purchase a COVID test online.

Of course, you can also schedule a test in your area at your local pharmacy or testing center that your local / state government has setup. Some of these testing events are free and others will be charged to your insurance.

Most pharmacies are getting tests results back to you in 48 hours, but you can also look for rapid response PCR testing. Personally, I did a rapid response PCR test at a CVS in my area and got the results within an hour. Zero cost to me as well, due to county funding.

However, it’s probably handy to keep some at-home COVID tests on hand if you are attending a big event like a wedding or simply want to know if you should be isolating from family if you are sick. The most popular (and low-cost) one is the BinaxNow COVID-19 Antigen Self Test. It comes with 2 tests per pack, so roughly $10 per test at the best pricing thus far.

Where do I get one?

Here’s all the places you can snag this test online (be aware that these jump in and out of stock constantly due to high demand):

• Amazon: LINK – Currently sold out. (We will update when Amazon has a new URL)
• Walmart: LINK – $19.88 – (Requires $35 order for free shipping)
• Sam’s Club: LINK – $19.88 – (Requires Sam’s Club membership)
• CVS: LINK – $23.99 – (Has inventory checker for local stores)
• Walgreens: LINK – $23.99 – (Has inventory checker for local stores)
• Rite-Aid: LINK – Price Varies – (Has inventory checker for local stores)
• Abbott Store: LINK – $23.99 – Currently Sold out.

In addition, the Abbott Store has an inventory checker for retailers in your local area here -> LINK.

Flying Back into the U.S.?

If you are traveling back into the U.S. from another country, Abbott also makes a version of this test that you take in front of a camera on your smartphone / tablet / laptop / etc… While it’s basically the same test at the at-home one, it comes wrapped in a special sleeve and requires monitoring to prove you are COVID free.

eMed sells a pack of 6 for $150 + overnight Fedex shipping costs; helpful if you are traveling with a big family. I’ve personally taken this test to return into the United States and it was very simple. The customer service monitor will guide you through the process, verify you took the test correctly and eMed emails an official document that you can submit to gain access back to the country. You have to go through eMed for verification.

The other option is a bit more expensive, but ideal for people that only need 1 test. Ellume sells a similar test for $35 – $40, but you also have to pay an additional $15 for the video monitoring to get back into the country. You can order it via Amazon, Target, and other retailers here -> LINK.

Here’s where to buy at-home COVID-19 tests.

In a recent update to the coronavirus risk categories list as it related to virus transmission during holiday events, the Center for Disease Control has added in-person shopping around Black Friday to Thanksgiving’s high risk category.

Specifically, the CDC added “Going shopping in crowded stores just before, on, or after Thanksgiving” along with other high risk activities like attending crowded parades, participating in (or watching) crowded races, and attending large, indoor gatherings with family / friends.

Alternatively, the CDC recommends shopping online instead of going to a retail, brick & mortar location. In years past, online Black Friday sales typically kick off around 7 p.m. PT on the Wednesday preceding Thanksgiving. If you are diligent about shopping early, you can snag many deals before Thanksgiving even starts, leaving you to focus on eating as much turkey as humanly possible.

It’s also possible that you could finish off your holiday shopping in mid-October during Amazon Prime Day. Amazon will offer significant discounts on Oct 13 and 14. In addition, both Target and Walmart will be holding competing sales. It’s also likely retailer like Best Buy will get into the mix.

Retailers will also be spreading out sales throughout early November, attempting to snag the dollars of consumers who prefer to stay home this year and avoid stores completely.

It’s possible that retailers will come up with some form of voucher system for doorbusters this year, in an attempt to limit the number of people waiting at the door when the stores open. Of course, retailers could also just shift a larger portion of doorbuster inventory into the online space as well.

Most retailers have been quiet about Black Friday plans thus far, beyond announcing that retail locations will be closed on Thanksgiving this year. Expect to see press releases on how stores will be handling in-person visitors on Black Friday by the end of October.

CDC adds in-store, Black Friday shopping to high risk list for Thanksgiving