The Government Shutdown: A Traveler’s Guide to What You Need to Know
What Happens During a Government Shutdown?
A government shutdown occurs when the U.S. Congress fails to pass a federal budget, forcing non-essential government services to cease. During such times, federal workers are furloughed, and several key services, including those related to travel, are disrupted. The impact on travelers can be immediate and significant, affecting everything from air travel to visits to national parks and museums.
One of the most noticeable effects is the closure of government-funded attractions, like national parks, museums, and monuments. Travelers planning to visit these places may find them closed or offering reduced services. The shutdown also affects airport operations, where longer lines and potential delays are common due to reduced staffing at TSA checkpoints and other security services.
Travelers should stay informed about which services will be operational and prepare for potential changes to their travel plans. Even though many services continue to operate, travelers may face slowdowns in government-run operations, making planning and flexibility essential.
Air Travel: Longer Waits and Flight Delays
A government shutdown can slow down air travel. Federal agencies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), control air traffic and regulate flight safety. During a shutdown, the FAA may operate with fewer staff, leading to delays and cancellations. This can create backlogs across the air traffic system, especially at major airports, as there will be fewer people to manage flight schedules and air traffic control.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) also plays a critical role in airport operations. With reduced TSA staffing, security checks may take longer, causing long lines at checkpoints. Travelers should arrive earlier than usual to account for these delays. For those flying internationally, customs processing may also take longer due to a reduction in U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents.
To minimize disruptions, travelers should regularly check flight statuses and confirm with airlines whether their flights may face delays. If you’re flying internationally, ensure you leave extra time for customs and security. If the airport is particularly busy, be patient and allow yourself ample time to get through security without stress.
Impact on National Parks and Government Attractions
Travelers who planned to visit national parks, museums, or other government-run attractions will find themselves facing closures or limited services during a government shutdown. National parks, operated by the National Park Service (NPS), often close completely during a shutdown. Even if some parks remain open, the absence of park rangers and other staff can make visiting difficult or unsafe.
Similarly, government-funded museums like the Smithsonian Institution may close their doors due to lack of staff. The shutdown can halt operations of iconic landmarks, which could mean canceled tours, closed visitor centers, and limited access to major attractions.
Before heading to national parks or museums, it’s a good idea to check their status online. Consider looking for nearby state-run or private parks and attractions as potential alternatives. You can also explore options like private tours or local cultural institutions that remain open.
How to Prepare for Travel During a Government Shutdown
When traveling during a government shutdown, being proactive is key. To start, make sure to monitor news about the shutdown’s effect on travel services. The impact on federal agencies such as the FAA, TSA, and CBP can create delays or changes in services. Travelers should check the status of their flights and prepare for longer wait times at the airport due to potential understaffing.
If you’re planning international travel, ensure that your passport is up-to-date. Passport processing may face delays, and it may be harder to obtain visas during a shutdown. To avoid issues, apply for passports well in advance, particularly if you are traveling within the next few months. If a shutdown happens close to your travel date, you could experience delays in receiving your passport or visa approval.
Additionally, ensure you plan ahead for any national parks or government-funded attractions you plan to visit. Check their status frequently to confirm whether they will be open or closed during your travel dates. If needed, make adjustments to your itinerary and look for alternatives. If you have bookings at federal-run locations, confirm that your reservations will not be canceled due to the shutdown.
Finally, be prepared for airport delays. Since staffing levels at TSA and other agencies may be reduced, make sure you arrive earlier than usual to get through security and immigration on time. Pack your carry-on in a way that makes it easy for security to inspect, and have your documents ready to avoid delays.
