A potential government shutdown in the U.S. could start as early as this weekend.

Although lawmakers reached a bipartisan agreement on Tuesday to keep the government operational until at least mid-March, President-elect Donald Trump later dismissed the plan, calling for an increase in the debt ceiling. This has introduced new challenges as the deadline looms on Friday night.

The positive aspect is that if a shutdown occurs, it is expected to have minimal impact on your travel plans. You should still be able to reach your holiday destinations without issues.

While a prolonged shutdown could lead to more significant effects on travelers, it would take time for these to manifest. Here’s what past experiences and government documents suggest will likely happen.

Will a government shutdown impact my flight or cruise?

In short, it shouldn’t.

Funding for agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may be put on hold. However, the personnel you encounter at airports and seaports, as well as the air traffic controllers who manage your flights, are considered essential workers and will continue working, albeit without pay.

Any impacts on these agencies are more related to hiring and training processes. Critical functions such as inspections and air traffic control will proceed as usual.

Consular services, both within the U.S. and abroad, will also function normally “if there are sufficient fees” to support them, as stated by the latest guidance from the State Department. This includes services like issuing passports and visas, as well as assisting U.S. citizens who are overseas.

There could be potential economic impacts, though. A government shutdown could cost the travel sector as much as $140 million daily, according to estimates from the U.S. Travel Association.

Who are the essential workers in the travel sector?

Essential workers are those who ensure smooth operations in the travel sector. Air traffic controllers, safety inspectors, TSA officers, and customs personnel are typically deemed essential and will likely remain on duty during any government shutdown.

What have past shutdowns meant for travel?

Historically, government shutdowns have had minimal effects on travel. For instance, during the 2019 shutdown, it took about two weeks without pay before FAA controllers and TSA agents started missing work, leading to longer lines at security checkpoints and flight delays. Eventually, Congress passed funding legislation, restoring order.

That same year, some national parks closed completely, while others remained open but lacked staff, leading to deteriorating conditions such as overflowing trash and restrooms.

However, past government shutdowns have typically not affected cruises. Industry expert Stewart Chiron, known as The Cruise Guy, noted, “Cruise passengers should carry extra patience as there might be some delays and inconveniences due to staffing issues, but cruise vacations generally proceed without major problems,” he shared with YSL News last year.