How to Prevent Bed Bugs When Traveling

Choose reputable hotels with good reviews to reduce the risk of bed bugs. Avoid hotels with frequent complaints.

Traveling can be an exciting experience, but it also presents the risk of encountering bed bugs. These pests are notorious for hitching rides on luggage, clothing, and personal belongings, leading to infestations at home after returning from a trip. Taking proactive steps to prevent bed bugs when traveling can help avoid the inconvenience and discomfort of dealing with these pests. Understanding the best practices for prevention and knowing when to consult bed bug experts for professional bed bug eradication can make all the difference.

Choosing the Right Accommodation

Selecting a reputable hotel or lodging can reduce the risk of encountering bed bugs. Researching reviews and ratings online can provide insights into the cleanliness and pest control measures of potential accommodations. Hotels that frequently receive complaints about bed bugs should be avoided. Opting for well-maintained establishments with positive reviews increases the likelihood of a bed bug-free stay.

Inspecting the Room Upon Arrival

Before settling into a hotel room, a thorough inspection is essential. Bed bugs are small and hide in various places, so checking key areas is crucial. Start with the bed, examining the mattress seams, headboard, and bed frame for any signs of bed bugs, like dark spots or shedded skin. The presence of tiny white eggs can also indicate an infestation. In addition to the bed, inspect upholstered furniture, curtains, and the edges of the carpet. If any signs of bed bugs are found, ask for a different room or think about changing hotels.

Keeping Luggage Safe

One of the most effective ways to prevent bed bugs from hitching a ride home is to keep luggage safe. Using a luggage rack to elevate suitcases off the floor and away from the bed can help. Keeping luggage zipped and closed when not in use further reduces the risk. Some travelers prefer to store their luggage in the bathroom, as bed bugs aren't as likely to infest these areas due to the lack of hiding places.

Packing Smart

Packing in a way that minimizes the risk of bringing bed bugs home is another effective strategy. Using hard-sided suitcases instead of fabric ones can make it more difficult for bed bugs to penetrate. Packing clothing in sealable plastic bags or vacuum-sealed bags provides an additional layer of protection. These bags can be utilized to separate dirty and clean clothes, reducing the chances of contamination.

Laundry Precautions

After returning home from a trip, immediately laundering clothing can help eliminate any potential bed bugs. Washing all clothes in hot water and drying them on the highest heat setting is recommended, as high temperatures can kill bed bugs and their eggs. Even clothing that was not worn should be washed, as bed bugs can hide in folded or packed items. Taking these precautions reduces the likelihood of an infestation.

Vacuuming Luggage

Vacuuming luggage thoroughly after a trip can help remove any bed bugs that may have snagged a ride. Using a vacuum with a crevice tool allows for detailed cleaning of seams, zippers, and pockets. After vacuuming, the vacuum bag or contents should be sealed away in a plastic bag and disposed of outside the home to prevent any bed bugs from escaping.

Seeking Professional Help

Despite taking precautions, bed bugs can sometimes find their way into homes. If there are signs of an infestation, contacting bed bug experts for professional bed bug eradication is crucial. Professional pest control businesses have the knowledge, expertise, and tools needed to eliminate bed bugs effectively. They can conduct thorough inspections, identify the spread of the infestation, and apply specific treatments to kill the pests.

Preventing Future Infestations

Regular home inspections and maintaining a clean environment are important to prevent future infestations. Being vigilant about bed bug prevention when traveling and upon returning home can help keep these pests at bay. Additionally, educating family members and fellow travelers about bed bug prevention strategies can further reduce the risk.

Bed Bugs Arizona offers a free, in-home bed bug inspection and a one-year warranty on all bed bug services. No obligation. We specialize in apartment communities. Our fast, certified technicians provide the Pro-Treat Plus method of bed bug removal to Phoenix and surrounding cities in a 100-mile plus radius including Flagstaff, Globe, and Casa Grande. Veteran and senior discounts. Call now at (623) 294-9609.