Summer is the perfect time to take a break, hit the road, and enjoy a well-deserved vacation. Whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or somewhere in between, it’s important to make sure your relaxing getaway doesn’t come with an unwanted souvenir: bed bugs.
These tiny pests are notorious for turning up in hotels, motels, and vacation rentals across the country—including luxury accommodations. According to pest control professionals, bed bugs are a recurring issue in lodging facilities nationwide. Though they don’t transmit diseases, their bites can cause itchy, red welts—and their ability to hitch a ride in your luggage can make them a real nuisance long after your trip is over.
To protect yourself and your home, here’s a practical checklist for avoiding bed bugs during and after your travels.
🧳 At the Hotel: Bed Bug Prevention Tips
Before settling in, take a few moments to inspect the room:
- Check the Mattress & Box Spring: Pull back the bed sheets and look around the seams and edges of the mattress and box spring. Look for tiny dark spots, skins, or any signs of pests.
- Inspect Furniture & Headboards: Look behind the headboard, inside drawers, and around upholstered furniture. Bed bugs love tight crevices and soft surfaces.
- Keep Luggage Elevated & Protected: Avoid placing your bags on the bed or carpet. Use the hotel’s metal luggage rack, or place your suitcase on a tile floor. For added protection, keep your suitcase inside a plastic trash bag during your stay.
🏠 When You Return Home
Taking precautions when you get back is just as important as being cautious while away:
- Inspect Before You Enter: Before bringing your bags inside, give them a quick inspection in your car or garage.
- Wash Everything Right Away: Launder all clothing—even the items you didn’t wear—using warm or hot water settings to kill any hidden bugs or eggs.
- Clean Your Luggage: Vacuum your suitcase thoroughly before storing it. If you have a garment steamer, consider steaming the inside and outside of your bag for extra protection.
🛑 Think You Brought Bed Bugs Back?
If you suspect you may have picked up some unwanted passengers during your trip, don’t wait. Bed bugs are extremely difficult to eliminate without professional help. That’s where A-One Exterminators comes in.
We offer free inspections and proven treatment solutions to ensure your home stays pest-free. Our experienced technicians are trained to locate and eliminate bed bugs quickly, so you can return to living comfortably without worry.
Travel with peace of mind. Call A-One Exterminators today to schedule your free home inspection and stay ahead of the bugs this summer.
