Could the shutdown affect your travel plans?

Some travelers are worried that the federal government shutdown could dampen their vacation plans. The pinch may not be felt at the airports this time, but there is a chance you may have to adjust your travel to-do list, especially if your plans include Washington, DC, where federally owned institutions such as the Smithsonian museums and zoo are now shuttered. Here’s a look at what you should plan for and how to best deal with the changes:

National Park Service

Parks, monuments and museums run by the National Park Service will close their doors until the budget issue is resolved.  The National Park Service website is even currently shut down.

According to the Department of Interior (www.doi.gov):

• All park entrances are closed and secured.
• Visitor centers and other facilities are closed.
• Education programs and special events are canceled.
• Permits for special events are rescinded.
• Guests staying in hotels and campgrounds will be given 48 hours to leave.
• While the national parks are closed, roads that serve as thruways will remain open.
• If you have a reservation at a park hotel, contact customer service via your online travel agent, or the hotel directly.

FederalPassport Offices

While federal passport processing centers will remain open, some federal office buildings will close, so travelers should contact their local passport office directly to find out if it remains open and hours of operation.

The good news is that currently no shutdowns are planned for airports, customs/border facilities, air traffic control centers, US embassies and consulates around the world.

For more information on how government shutdowns may affect your travel plans, visit www.doi.gov.

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