Navigating Travel During a Government Shutdown: Tips for a Smooth Trip

When the federal government shuts down due to a lapse in funding, can mean longer airport lines, reduced services at national parks, and flight delays and cancellations.

The good news: Most travel continues during a shutdown and with a little planning and flexibility, help ensure smoother travels.

What a government shutdown means for airports and security lines

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoints, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) air traffic control, and US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) all remain operational (as of this writing), but you may experience longer wait times.

The impact also can affect air traffic. According to an FAA spokesperson, staffing shortages sometimes force the agency to reduce the flow of incoming flights at certain airports to keep operations safe.

To minimize potential disruptions when flying, take these extra precautions when flying:

• Arrive at the airport 30 to 60 minutes earlier than usual to account for longer lines and slower processing times at security checkpoints.
• Check your FAA flight status before leaving home, and stay informed via airline apps/alerts.
  
• Pack patience, keeping in mind that TSA officers and other airport staff are doing their best to continue safe and efficient operations.

Navigating passports and visas during a government shutdown

Most passport and visa services remain operational during the current shutdown, but travelers may face delays or limited appointment availability due to reduced staffing at passport agencies and consulates.

Heed these tips to help ensure your passport arrives on time despite shutdown-related slowdowns:

• Apply several weeks earlier than usual since processing may take longer due to reduced staffing.
• Request expedited processing when deadlines are tight.
• Have a backup plan for complex cases or last-minute travel.
• Confirm your appointments, as some passport agencies may adjust schedules or operating hours during a government shutdown.
• Monitor the State Department’s website for updates on processing times and operating hours.
• Allow extra time for mailed renewals, which can be affected by postal delays.

Exploring national parks amid a government shutdown

The National Park Service (NPS) has furloughed more than 9,000 employees to date—which amounts to more than 60 percent of its staff.

While the official NPS Contingency Plan issued in response to the government shutdown dictates that most outdoor national park areas—including roads, lookouts, open-air memorials, and trails—will remain open, what happens to individual parks depends largely on whether they collect entrance fees.

Parks that collect fees use these funds to maintain basic services, such as restroom maintenance, trash collection, and road maintenance. Parks that don’t collect fees typically won’t offer permits, programs, trash collection, or restroom services. All parks will rely on a smaller essential workforce to perform critical tasks such as law enforcement and emergency response.

Before visiting a national park during the shutdown, take the following measures:

• Check your park's status by visiting its website.
• Pack your own supplies, as food, water, and other necessities may not be available if visitor centers, stores, or concessions are closed.
• Be prepared for a self-sufficient outdoor experience in the event that restrooms, trash services, and ranger assistance are limited.
• Consider state parks as an alternative, as they operate independently of the federal government and are less likely to be affected by a federal shutdown.

Government shutdown impacts on services and attractions

Private businesses operating independently of federal facilities aren't directly affected. This includes the following:

• Airlines
• Hotels outside national parks
• Attractions on non-federal land
• State parks and state museums (as they don't rely on federal funding)

What may close or offer reduced services:

• Federal museums
• Private businesses operating within national parks (such as park lodges, restaurants, and tour operators)
• Any operation that requires a federal permit or oversight

How to safeguard your trip during a government shutdown

Consider these simple and effective ways to safeguard your vacation plans:

• Choose flexible tickets that allow free changes or cancellations.
• Bring carry-on bags only to avoid potential baggage delays if staffing shortages slow checked-bag handling. 
• Build in plenty of buffer time between flights, connections, or before important events in case of delays.
• Monitor official government websites such as State.gov (for passport and consular updates) and TSA.gov (for airport security information). 
• Consider travel insurance that covers delays, cancellations, or interruptions caused by circumstances outside your control.
• Stay informed through your airline or travel app, which may update schedules faster than federal sites during disruptions.

Most importantly, be patient with TSA agents, park rangers, and other travel service providers—as a positive attitude goes a long way. While a government shutdown can create confusion, it doesn’t have to derail your travel plans. With the right preparation and mindset, you can still enjoy smooth travels.