While seeing the globe and traveling might be wonderful, if you’re not cautious, you could bring back a lot of unwelcome guests. In the past, fleabag hotels and other dubious lodgings were home to bed bugs.
However, recently they have started to appear in luxurious resorts, 5-star hotel rooms, and other unexpected locations.
Because they are hard to get rid of, bed bugs provide a unique pest management challenge. If you find any of these hitchhikers in your luggage, you could have to spend the next several months attempting to get them to go.
Prevention Is the Best Defense
The greatest defense is always a solid offensive since getting rid of bed bugs may be a real task. The simplest approach to prevent issues, later on, is to stop those little hitchhikers from riding home with you.
Never assume that a hotel where you are staying doesn’t have a bed insect issue. These little critters might conceal themselves in plain sight regardless of the hotel’s cost or who owns the business. Even if the hotel owners may not be aware of them, you should stay away from them altogether.
Tips for Avoiding Bed Bugs
Bed bugs may make an unwanted appearance as a trip keepsake. Here are some suggestions to stop them from riding home with you.
Before Reserving, Research
Do your homework about the area before making a reservation for lodging. Check online reviews and testimonials for information on bed insect infestations.
The cleanliness and pest control practices of hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals may be learned via websites and online review platforms devoted to tourism.
Pack Safety Equipment
Pack some protective clothing to reduce the possibility of carrying bed bugs back with you. Bring a large plastic garbage bag or a suitcase liner designed to prevent bedbugs.
You should also bring bed bug spray to get rid of them, their eggs and their larvae (which can easily go unnoticed.) A good spray is EPA-approved, works quickly and will leave no residue.
These may serve as a line of defense between your baggage and possible pests. Additionally, bringing a lamp might help you check your lodging once you get there for any indications of bed bugs.
Inspect Your Accommodation
Once you get to your selected lodging, carefully check the room before settling down. Start by looking for any indications of bed bugs in the mattress, box springs, and headboard.
Be looking for living bugs, exoskeletons that have shed, black patches (fecal stains), or small white eggs. Check behind picture frames and in the creases and recesses of upholstered furniture.
Keep Your Luggage Elevated
Keep your baggage upright throughout your stay to reduce the chance of bed bugs. Use luggage racks or hard surfaces like tile floors instead of placing your baggage on carpeted areas or upholstered furniture.
Bed bugs are less likely to enter your possessions because they are less inclined to climb metal or plastic surfaces.
Launder Your Clothes
Wash your clothing as soon as you get home, even if you didn’t see any indications of bed bugs while you were away.
In the dryer, use hot water and a high heat setting to destroy any possible bed bugs or eggs. If cleaning is not feasible immediately, store your clothing in a plastic bag until you can wash it.
Examine And Clean Your Luggage
After unpacking, thoroughly examine your belongings for bed bugs. Pay particular attention to gaps, seams, and pockets where they could hide.
Remove any possible hitchhikers by vacuuming your suitcase’s interior and outside. Secure the vacuum bag in a plastic bag before discarding it to prevent escapees.
Monitor for Signs of Infestation
Continue looking for indications of a bed bug infestation at your house in the weeks after your trip. Watch for bug bites on your body, blood stains on your linens, or the presence of living insects. If you think there could be an infestation, contact a reputable pest treatment business immediately.
Conclusion
Before making a reservation, do extensive research online, pack protective gear, check your room upon arrival, keep your luggage elevated, wash your clothes as soon as possible, clean your belongings after unpacking, and watch for pest activity in your home.
Adopting these precautions may reduce your risk of contacting these bothersome creatures and guarantee a trip free of bed bugs.
