Miscellaneous

These items didn't fit into any of the categories, but can come in handy, so I wanted to make sure I shared them with you. First is a good travel umbrella. No one wants to be stuck inside on vacation because you don't have an umbrella. A rain jacket wouldn't hurt either, but I'll have to make a different post for clothing recommendations. 

This one isn't always necessary, but I know it was helpful for me to have on my last trip to Belize. I had a rental car, so I was able to explore and make stops where I liked. I did stop at a waterfall, and it was handy to have my towel with me. I highly recommend getting a microfiber one as they are smaller and lighter to travel with (and dry out faster). 

Now I'm all for saving the turtles, but man I hate a paper straw. They make portable straws you can bring now, and I would highly recommend getting one if you're going on a cruise or traveling somewhere in the Caribbean. Also helpful for these type of trips are towel bands. You slip it over your chair and towel to keep your towel from blowing away. I used to us towel clips, but the bands are lighter and easier to pack. 

Why travel gets affected in a shutdown

Government shutdowns force many federal agencies to suspend non-essential operations and furlough employees whose work is not categorized as “essential.” Some essential workers must continue working, often without immediate pay, which can strain operations over time. Because many travel-related operations are at least partly federal (airport security, air traffic control, national parks), travelers are likely to see knock-on effects even though flights and services will not automatically halt.

Key areas likely to be affected:

Airports, TSA, and air travel

Flights will continue since airlines are independently funded. TSA agents are considered essential and will remain on duty, but since they’re working without immediate pay, staffing shortages could happen if employees stop showing up. That means longer lines at security checkpoints. Air traffic controllers also remain on the job, though hiring and training are put on hold, and infrastructure projects may be delayed. If staffing becomes strained, delays and cancellations may pile up. Safety inspections and certifications may also slow down.

National parks, monuments, and public lands

Many national parks and monuments are federally managed, so visitor centers, guided tours, restrooms, and some road access may close or run with minimal staff. Trails and open-air spaces might still be accessible, but with little oversight or emergency response available. A few parks may stay open with state or local support, but popular sites like the Grand Canyon are at risk of partial closure.

International travel, visa, and passport services

Passport and visa services are typically funded through application fees, so they often continue. U.S. embassies and consulates abroad also keep operating, at least for essential functions like visa issuance and emergency services. However, slower communication and administrative delays are possible.

Other modes: trains, cruises, ports

Amtrak is expected to continue operating, as are cruise lines. Customs and Border Protection officers will keep working at ports of entry, but longer wait times at borders are possible if staffing levels take a hit.

How severe the disruption will be depends on duration

In a short shutdown, many of the worst effects may be avoided. But if the shutdown drags on, staffing shortages and strained resources could create a snowball effect. In the past, long shutdowns led to TSA absenteeism, airport terminal closures, and even grounded flights when air traffic control staff shortages became critical.

Tips & advice for travelers

1. Build in extra buffer time at airports.

2. Stay flexible with flight itineraries and avoid tight layovers.

3. Sign up for airline and airport alerts to track delays or schedule changes.

4. Check the status of national parks or monuments before visiting.

5. Carry all documentation, including passports and visas, in case of processing slowdowns.

6. Expect longer wait times at customs and immigration checkpoints.

7. Have backup funds and flexible bookings in case you need to pivot plans.

8. Review your travel insurance to see what’s covered for delays or cancellations.

9. Keep an eye on the news for real-time updates as the situation develops.

Bottom line

A U.S. government shutdown doesn’t stop travel, but it does make it messier. The longer it lasts, the more disruptive it becomes, especially at airports and national parks. Travelers should stay patient, add extra time into their schedules, and prepare for possible delays.

Make Digital Backups of Everything

Take photos of your passport, ID, and credit cards before you leave. Store them securely in the cloud or email them to yourself. If your wallet or bag goes missing, you’ll have all the info you need without going full panic mode.

Secure Your Home

Grab a digital plug or an old school timer to set at least one lamp to go on and off when you're gone. Leave your outside light on as well. When your home is dark for days at a time, anyone casing the area will notice. Also, have someone grab your mail. That's another sign crazy people are looking for. 

Register with STEP

Definitely do this if you're traveling internationally. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) connects you with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in case of emergencies. Free peace of mind, and you’ll get safety alerts while abroad.

Get Travel Insurance

You never know when something can happen. Travel insurance makes those moments suck a lot less. Boring? Yes. Essential? Also yes. Insurance can cover medical emergencies, cancellations, and even lost luggage.

Use Crossbody or Anti-Theft Bags

Pickpockets love backpacks and open totes. Instead, invest in a crossbody bag with zippers or an anti-theft backpack. 

Keep Cash and Cards Separate

Never put all your money and cards in one place. Use a money belt, your hotel safe, or stash some emergency cash in a random spot (yes, even your sock works). That way, if something goes missing, you’re not stranded.

Use Hotel Business Cards

Grab a business card from your hotel’s front desk before heading out. If you get lost or your phone dies, you can hand it to a taxi driver and get home without playing charades in a foreign language.

Don’t Flaunt Your Tech

Walking around with the latest iPhone out is like waving a neon “steal me” sign. Keep gadgets out of sight unless you’re actually using them. And no, that airport charging station isn’t safe either—bring your own power bank.

Choose the Right Ride

Only use licensed taxis or rideshares you can verify in the app. Double-check the driver’s name, photo, and plate number before hopping in. And always sit in the backseat—it’s safer and gives you space if things get weird.

Secure Your Hotel Room

Travel locks, door wedges, and double-checking those flimsy hotel latches are small steps that make a big difference. Also, don’t answer the door unless you’re 100% sure it’s staff. If you didn’t order room service, don’t let it in.

Travel Essentials (aka “Don’t Leave Home Without These”)

• Passport, ID & Boarding Passes → If you forget these, you’re not traveling.

• Wallet with cards + some local cash → Because gelato vendors in Rome don’t take Apple Pay (trust me).

• Travel documents → Hotel confirmations, itineraries, bribes to the universe.

• A pen → For customs forms and for looking mysterious while journaling on the plane.

• Change of clothes → Your luggage might be in Paris while you’re stuck in Newark. Don’t be caught in yesterday’s socks.

• Chargers + power bank → Because your phone dying at 20% boarding panic is not the drama you need.

Comfort Items (because economy seats are not made for humans)

• Lightweight sweater or scarf → Planes = freezers in the sky.

• Neck pillow or travel blanket → Yes, you’ll look ridiculous. No, you won’t care when you’re drooling peacefully.

• Headphones + entertainment → Movies, books, podcasts... or ignoring the chatty stranger in 14B.

• Snacks + refillable water bottle → Pro tip: bring snacks that won’t melt faster than your patience at TSA.

Health & Hygiene (aka “Keep It Fresh”)

• Medications → In original containers, because customs does not appreciate mystery pills.

• Hand sanitizer & wipes → Airplanes are basically flying germ buffets.

• Mini toiletries → Toothbrush, toothpaste, lip balm, moisturizer. Stay dewy, not crusty.

• Face mask → Optional, but handy when airports feel like a mosh pit.