How to Prevent Bed Bugs When Traveling and Staying in Hotels
Traveling should be relaxing, not something that brings unwanted pests back home with you. Unfortunately, bed bugs are commonly picked up while traveling, especially in hotels, vacation rentals, and other shared accommodations. These tiny pests hitch rides in luggage, clothing, and personal belongings, making prevention essential for protecting your home.
By following these bed bug prevention tips for travel and hotels, you can greatly reduce the risk of an infestation and enjoy peace of mind wherever your travels take you.
Why Bed Bugs Are a Travel Risk
Bed bugs are expert hitchhikers. They don’t fly or jump, but they crawl into suitcases, backpacks, purses, and clothing. Hotels, motels, Airbnb rentals, cruise ships, and even public transportation can expose travelers to bed bugs, regardless of cleanliness or price point.
Once bed bugs enter your home, they can be difficult and costly to eliminate. That’s why bed bug prevention while traveling is one of the most effective ways to avoid an infestation.
Bed Bug Prevention Tips Before You Travel
A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to bed bug control.
- Choose luggage wisely: Hard-sided luggage is less likely to harbor bed bugs than soft fabric bags.
- Pack sealable bags: Use large zip-top bags or packing cubes for clothing to limit exposure.
- Avoid overpacking: Fewer items mean fewer hiding places for bed bugs.
- Research accommodations: Check recent online reviews for mentions of bed bugs before booking.
These simple steps can significantly lower your risk before you even arrive.
How to Check Hotel Rooms for Bed Bugs
When you arrive at your hotel or rental, always inspect the room before unpacking.
- Keep luggage off the bed—place it in the bathroom or on a luggage rack away from walls.
- Pull back the sheets and inspect mattress seams, box springs, and bed frames.
- Look for signs of bed bugs, including small reddish-brown insects, black spots, shed skins, or tiny blood stains.
- Check nearby furniture, such as headboards, nightstands, and upholstered chairs.
If you see any signs of bed bugs, request a different room immediately, preferably in another area of the building, or change accommodations altogether.
Preventing Bed Bugs During Your Stay
Even if the room looks clean, ongoing precautions matter.
- Use luggage racks and keep bags zipped when not in use
- Store clothing in sealed bags, not drawers
- Avoid placing clothes on the floor or bed
- Keep personal items away from walls and furniture
These habits reduce the chance of bed bugs crawling into your belongings during your stay.
Bed Bug Prevention When Returning Home
Many infestations begin after travel, not during it. Take these steps as soon as you return home:
- Unpack outside or in the garage, if possible
- Wash all clothing immediately in hot water and dry on high heat
- Vacuum suitcases thoroughly, paying close attention to seams and pockets
- Store luggage in sealed containers or bags, away from bedrooms
Heat is one of the most effective ways to kill bed bugs, so high-temperature drying is key.
When to Call a Professional Bed Bug Exterminator
If you suspect bed bugs at any point, during travel or after returning home, don’t wait. Early treatment is critical. A licensed bed bug exterminator can confirm the problem and prevent it from spreading throughout your home. We also offer the following services:
- Ant Control
- Commercial Pest Control
- Flea Exterminator
- Mosquito Control
- Rat Exterminator
- Roach Exterminator
- Spider Pest Control
- Termite Control
- Wasp Removal
Contact Buzz Kill Pest Control
If you’re worried about bed bugs or need professional help, Buzz Kill Pest Control is here for you. Our experienced team provides reliable bed bug inspections and treatments designed to eliminate infestations quickly and safely.
Contact us today to schedule an inspection and protect your home from bed bugs before they become a bigger problem.