#United States #Tips #St. Petersburg #travel insurance #government shutdown

How to Navigate Holiday Travel Disruptions

As the longest government shutdown in U.S. history concluded on November 12, 2025, many Americans are gearing up for their holiday travels. However, experts from Squaremouth, a leading travel insurance comparison site, caution that the effects of the 43-day shutdown may linger, affecting holiday travel plans across the nation.

Anticipating the Aftermath of the Shutdown

Despite the government reopening, agencies including TSA, FAA, and passport services need time to ramp up operations and reach full staffing levels. Chrissy Valdez, Senior Director of Operations at Squaremouth, emphasized that travelers should expect longer wait times, potential flight delays, and many other disruptions as the busy holiday season is underway.

To ensure a smoother travel experience, here are practical tips for navigating these ongoing disruptions.

1. Arrival Strategy: Get Ahead of the Crowds

Timing is vital when traveling, especially during peak seasons. Aim to arrive at the airport 2–3 hours early for domestic flights and 3–4 hours for international ones. This extra time allows for longer-than-usual lines as agencies restaff after the shutdown. Keep your flight status updated through your airline’s app and opt for alerts to avoid missing essential information about delays or gate changes. A proactive approach can greatly reduce pre-flight stress.

2. Smart Packing: Keep Essentials Accessible

Being organized can significantly reduce hassle during security checks. Follow the TSA's guidelines closely, ensuring your electronics and liquids are easily accessible in your carry-on. Don't forget to bring toiletries, chargers, an extra outfit, and medications in your carry-on bag. Consider using tracking devices like AirTags and take photos of your luggage to assist in case of loss or delay in deliveries.

3. Prepare for Potential Delays

Book early morning flights whenever possible, as these are usually less affected by cascading delays. Make sure you have your airline’s app installed for quick notifications, and keep an electronic boarding pass handy to expedite the rebooking process if necessary. Be mindful of potential wait times for TSA checkpoints, and review social media channels of airports to stay informed as many provide updates on current conditions.

4. Safeguard Your Travel Plans

Given the ongoing uncertainty, it is wise to invest in a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes coverage for trip delays, interruptions, missed connections, baggage delays, and loss. Selecting the right coverage can provide peace of mind and assist in recovering potential losses as you navigate through travel disruptions.

5. Brace for Longer Wait Times

As staffing begins to return to normal, longer wait times for TSA security and passport control are expected. Even with travel insurance, be aware that simply missing your flight due to excessive queues will not be covered, so plan your airport journey with ample time.

Take Control of Your Travel Experience

Valdez emphasizes that with some straightforward steps, travelers can regain a sense of control over their plans. Arriving early, monitoring flight statuses, and confirming your travel insurance could make a significant difference in ensuring a successful holiday journey. Keep in mind that while this shutdown has ended, future interruptions remain a possibility, and staying informed can empower you in uncertain times. For further details regarding travel insurance during potential government shutdown scenarios, refer to additional resources provided by Squaremouth.

About Squaremouth

Squaremouth is a trusted travel insurance comparison platform that empowers over four million customers to search, compare, and make informed decisions quickly. With a commitment to transparency and customer service, Squaremouth has built a strong reputation in the travel insurance industry that spans two decades.

In conclusion, as you embark on your holiday travels, remember that preparedness is key. With the right planning and mindset, your trip can be enjoyable even amidst lingering disruptions from the recent government shutdown.