Bed bugs are nasty little creatures that can be difficult to get rid of. Having them in your own home is bad enough, but coming across bed bugs while traveling can sometimes be worse. When you are traveling, the last thing you want to think about is having to deal with bed bugs.

Tips for Bed Bug Travel Protection

If you’re staying someplace other than home, here are some bed bug travel protection and tips to keep in mind:

• Bathroom first. Before dumping your luggage and going out to see the view, head straight to the bathroom, dragging your luggage with you. Bed bugs are least likely to be found in the bathroom so your luggage will be safe from infestation while you scope out the rest of the place.
• Bed inspection. Pull back the sheets and check all the way around and under the bed for signs of bed bugs. You should also check around the headboard. Signs can include reddish brown or black stains or the little critters themselves.
• Check surrounding areas. Bed bugs are known to be found within 15 feet of the bed so broaden your search to items surrounding the bed. For example, behind picture frames, under the phone, in the drawer of the bedside table, and chairs or couches in the vicinity, etc.
• Keep items off the ground. Even if your room doesn’t appear to have an infestation, a room close by might and bed bugs can move around. Don’t leave your suitcase on the ground and don’t leave clothes lying out either. Items left on the floor make for the perfect bed bug home.
• Ask about prevention. Before checking in, ask the staff about what sort of prevention practices they have in place for bed bugs and what treatments they use in case of an infestation.

After Travel Bed Bug Protection

When you return home, have a protection plan already in place. Wash all of your clothing, even items you didn’t wear, in hot water right when you get home. Bed bugs can’t survive in extreme heat so this will prevent them from taking up residency in your closet and then spreading to the rest of your home. Inspect all your luggage before putting it away and vacuum it out for further protection. If you find that you’ve brought some unwanted guests home, call Maine Bed Bugs and Pest Control at (207) 650-8654.