Vacation is a favorite time in any person’s life. Most often you think of all the fun things you’ll be doing and where you will be going. While all of this is common there is one other thing you should consider which isn’t so great and that is bed bugs. If you are travelling, chances are you are staying in rented places, and that means high traffic. Let’s see what you need to know about bed bugs and traveling!
Observe Your Surroundings
Bed bugs don’t discriminate in what type of accommodations you have. They can potentially be present in high end hotels as well as cheaper ones. One thing you will notice if there is a serious infestation is the smell. The room will have a scent that’s sweet and has a musty odor to it. You would then check the sheets to see if there are any brown or red spots indicating bed bug activity. You would also want to inspect the mattress edges for any signs of eggs, shells, or live bed bugs.
Preventative Steps You Can Take
When and if possible, keep your bags and other belongings away from others. Also avoid placing your bags and belongings on the bed in the hotel. Also bring small plastic bags to store things such as shoes and clothes in to provide an extra layer of protection. If possible, inspect the hotel luggage racks to ensure they have no signs of infestation and use those to keep your luggage safe. Keep these racks away from the walls and bedding and prior to putting any luggage in personal areas such as your home or vehicle inspect them for signs of bed bugs.
Other Possible Infestation Areas
Understand that while hotels and other accommodations can be a primary issue with bed bugs it is not the only spot you should be concerned with. Bed bugs can also thrive on buses, planes, and in rental vehicles. Try and avoid sitting next to other people whenever possible and inspect your luggage and personal belongings for signs of infestation prior to bringing them home.
Prior to going on your trip if you can purchase light colored luggage, it will make it easier to spot these pests! If you can get a hard-shelled bag, it will make it even more difficult for bed bugs to infest your clothing.
More Preventative Measures
If you were looking for other preventative measures to take you can always pack a bright LED flashlight. This will make it easier for you to spot the bed bugs, and their signs such as the stains on the sheets mentioned earlier. If you have the option when flying to keep your luggage with you this is also a great preventative measure! If you suspect, you picked up bed bugs don’t bring your luggage into the house!
Take any clothing and wash it and dry it on high heat as bed bugs die in higher temperatures. For your luggage you can potentially use a hand steamer on it to help eradicate any unwanted guests. Now you know what to look for, preventative measures, and treating your luggage when arriving home! All that’s left to do is be vigilant and enjoy your travels!
