Australian journalist Emma Markezic has shared her experiences (and expenses) from when she got stuck in the USA during the lockdown, shedding light on those who are seeking to travel to the Land of the Free.

In her narrative, Ms Markezic said that the costs that she shared were rough estimates as prices from each state differ from one another.

Are you ready to find out how much it truly costs to travel to the United States in 2022?

1. RAT Tests


The journalist said that the term "RAT" is only used in Down Under, along with the terms "locky-D", "rona", and "sanny".

In the USA, the tests are referred to as "at-home tests" and they are usually capped at a pretty standard price of US$23.95 ($AU33.32) for a pack of two.

Ms Markezic said: "Depending on supply issues, you’ll generally find them at every corner pharmacy, your best bets being big guns like Walgreens, CVS and Walmart."

Other places where you can get RAT tests in the USA include online outlets like Amazon and Optum Store.

Additionally, a stash of the tests can be delivered to your hotel upon your arrival.

2. Testing and vaccines


Testing, vaccines, and booster shots are free in all of the states in the US.

"You don’t even have to show ID," the journalist said.

"You can also get rapid and PCR tests are done via drive-through in an Uber, or at most pharmacies as a walk-in."

It should also be noted that the term "testing" does not only mean getting yourself tested for COVID-19, it also includes telehealth consultations for questions and check-ups for symptoms.

While testing was made free for all, some healthcare providers offer paid services for those who are looking to skip queues or are in need of urgent test results. These express PCR tests could cost up to US$375 (AU$516).

3. Masks


All types of masks are available in the USA.

Ms Markezic jokingly said: "You can’t keep a good American who sees an opportunity for quick profit down!"

"For the heavy-duty kind, you absolutely want to stick with brands such as 3M and Kimberly-Clark from reputable stores like Bone Fide Masks and Well Before, both of which you can buy online."

KN95 masks generally don't cost more than US$1.95 (AU$2.09).

However, you should be wary of counterfeit masks as a report from US' Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that about 60 per cent of the KN95 supplies are fake.

"They also have a nifty guide to help you spot a fake here," the journalist quipped, referring to the various guides you can find on the website.

4. Surcharge


Most restaurants and other food and beverage service providers charge COVID surcharge fees on your bills.

The amount is said to be roughly 3 per cent of your bill, which excludes the tip.

"This might feel like the start of a very exxy bill for those not used to tipping in the first place, but (in theory at least) that money is going towards supplies like hand sanitiser, masks, extra cleaning and regular RATs for staff – which for my 3 per cent, definitely feels worth it," she said.

So, there you have it, folks! Aside from the airfare and other expenses, you will incur on your travel, you should also allot some budget for the additional expenses for keeping yourself safe from Covid while travelling in the USA.