Could a government shutdown halt your travel plans?

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Many Nebraskans have plans to travel this holiday season.

But with another government shutdown possibly looming, could there be delays in travel?

Some experts fear that Transportation Security Administration officers may call out sick, protest or take on a separate job, as they will not be paid during a shutdown.

If that is the case, travelers could experience longer wait times through security among other delays.

But your problem might not be getting onto a plane, but what plans you have once you step off it.

While TSA and air traffic control workers are considered essential, other government entities, like national parks, might be closed.

“Where travelers might be impacted would be if they’re going to the national parks or government buildings and things like that are nonessential,” said Paul Glenn, CEO of Lincoln-based Executive Travel.

That means that destinations like the Grand Canyon may have limitations on what travelers can experience.

Glenn said it’s best to have a plan B ready, just in case.

“In your hotel reservations, you may have to cancel so far in advance in order to be able to not be charged for one night or the whole stay,” he said. “So if you’re ahead of the game, you can make those adjustments.”

Travelers should also consider purchasing travel insurance or changing plans now before it’s too late.