U.S. Government Shutdown Now in Effect: What Travelers Need To Know

Updated: October 1, 2025, 10:58am CDT

Edited by:

Jump to Section

Table of Contents

How the Government Shutdown Will Affect Travel
Final Thoughts

We may be compensated when you click on a link, when an application is approved, or when an account is opened from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

The U.S. federal government shutdown has begun after Congress was unable to pass proposed funding bills that would have kept the federal government operational, taking effect October 1, 2025.

This government gridlock has far-reaching implications for travelers, airports, government staff, parks, museums, and more. With the fall travel season underway and the busy holiday season just over the horizon, there is a lot to consider.

Let’s take a look at how travel is expected to be impacted.

How the Government Shutdown Will Affect Travel

As of 12:01 a.m. on October 1, 2025, the U.S. government has 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.

It is reported that the FAA plans to furlough 11,000 employees and that 13,000 current air traffic controllers will be required to continue working without pay until the shutdown is ended.

Since it is likely that air traffic controllers and TSA no-shows will occur (many airports are already understaffed), it would be wise to be prepared for longer lines and potential flight delays.

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

If 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 disruptions and/or closures. National parks will remain open, but facilities within the parks may not be. Monuments and other attractions may close entirely. Check details carefully before heading out to visit these places.

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

Although the government has officially 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 (as a backup plan) 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

The U.S. government shutdown is now in effect. Essential services are still running. Howeer, if you are traveling soon, prepare for delays, remain flexible, and try to remain calm and patient even in the face of delays and disruptions.