A Government Shutdown Is Looming. What Does It Mean for Travelers?

Updated: September 23, 2025, 4:43pm CDT

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How a Government Shutdown Could Affect Travel
Final Thoughts

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Surprising nobody, Congress is deadlocked and staring down the prospect of a government shutdown if it cannot agree on the terms of proposed funding bills that would keep the federal government operational.

If the gridlock continues and a bill doesn’t pass, the government will shut down once current funding expires on September 30, 2025.

With the fall travel season underway and the busy holiday season just over the horizon, there’s potential that a shutdown could affect travelers nationwide.

While there’s still time to avoid this outcome, let’s consider the potential ramifications if it does happen.

How a Government Shutdown Could Affect Travel

If Congress can’t agree on a funding bill, the government will not be funded and will “shut down.” This means that nonessential federal functions will stop, and several agencies will furlough staff or shut down altogether. However, “essential” activities, such as air traffic control, will continue functioning, though not necessarily without disruption.

If the government were to shut down on September 30, it doesn’t mean that travel will grind to a halt, as air traffic controllers and (at least a portion of) TSA officers will still report to work. However, there is potential for disruption.

If, for example, the TSA is short-staffed, it could lead to longer lines — perhaps significantly so — if some checkpoints at busy airports are closed. Further, air traffic controllers and support staff will work without pay, which could lead to no-shows or other issues. This would complicate air traffic across the country and could lead to delays or cancellations.

DCA Main Terminal Past Security — Air travel could face disruption if the government shuts down. Image Credit: James Larounis

If the government shuts down and you have a trip planned to anywhere under federal control, such as the national parks or federally operated attractions and monuments (think the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.), you may face disruption or closures. National parks will remain open, but facilities within the parks may not be. Monuments and other attractions may close entirely.

Passport and visa services should proceed, but could face delays if offices find themselves short-staffed.

In the event the government does shut down, you shouldn’t need to worry about canceling plans. However, you will want to account for delays and disruptions in your travel days.

Plan to arrive at airports earlier than you usually would and look out for communications from your airline regarding the situation. Be aware of your airline’s change and cancellation policy, and maybe even book a refundable ticket if that works with your budget.

If you are traveling to visit federally operated sites, you may want to consider changing your itinerary to exclude those places. And, most importantly, you’ll need to pack your patience and realize you may need to stay flexible if things go haywire.

Hot Tip:

Typically, government shutdowns aren’t considered “covered reasons” in the travel insurance policies offered by many credit cards or by policies you can purchase individually. However, check your card or policy’s specific terms and conditions to confirm whether this is the case.

Final Thoughts

There’s still time to avoid a government shutdown, but it wouldn’t be a surprise if it did happen. As such, anyone traveling in the next few weeks (and even months) should be aware of the situation, prepare for delays, remain flexible, and try to remain calm and patient even in the face of delays and disruptions.