How Travel Increases Your Risk For Bed Bugs

The holiday season is traditionally one of the most popular times to travel, and people are more eager than ever to spread their wings this winter. After two years of lockdowns and restrictions, an astounding 47% of Americans plan on traveling for the holidays, predominately by plane. Unfortunately, the more people choose to travel, the easier it is for bedbugs to hitch a ride and take over additional real estate. Whether you’re visiting family or chasing the warm weather, taking proper precautions against the tiny bloodsuckers is essential. After all, no one wants to end the holiday season with a bunch of unwanted pests. Bringing home an unwanted hijacker can quickly turn the holiday cheer into a nightmare.

Does Traveling Increase Your Risk For Bed Bugs?

Though most bed bug cases are reported in homes, traveling has an undeniable connection. Evidence shows frequent travelers are among the most at-risk groups. For example, the NPMA’s 2018 Bugs Without Borders survey found that 68% of bed bug victims recently stayed in hotels or motels. As such, there is very little doubt that the more people travel, the easier it is for bed bugs to claim new territory. That said, you don’t need to renounce traveling altogether. Practicing proactive avoidance strategies goes a long way in stopping their rampage.

How To Avoid Bringing Home Bed Bugs While Traveling

Avoidance starts before you even leave for vacation. Pack lightly when possible and store clothing items in clear plastic bags. You may also want to bring extra bags for when they get dirty. Though there is some debate about what suitcase is best for traveling in general, the consensus is that light-colored, hard-shelled cases are optimal for detecting and repelling bed bugs. When arriving at your destination, you should check the room for bed bug indicators. Only then can you relax and get comfortable. However, remember that unpacking clothing into drawers is nothing but bait. The safest place to store your luggage is in the bathtub, as bed bugs struggle to climb up smooth surfaces. The bathroom counter is a close second, followed by a solid wood or metal luggage rack. Never place your suitcase on the bed or fabric seating.

When it comes to keeping away bed bugs, the diligence can’t stop once you make it home, no matter how much you want to put up your feet in front of the hearth. First things first, you must decontaminate your luggage. Experts suggest leaving suitcases out in the sun in the summer, but unfortunately, the winter chill renders that method ineffective. Freezing your luggage is also effective; however, it requires a minimum of 23°F for at least five days. If you travel regularly, you may want to invest in a heating unit to decontaminate suitcases and other items you can’t throw in the wash.

Checking A Hotel Room For Bed Bugs

According to travel experts, the best way to examine a room for bed bugs is with the lights off. As nocturnal bloodsuckers, they are much more likely to come out and hunt for food in the dark. So, using a flashlight, check the usual spots where bed bugs like to hide. Some typical hiding places include behind the headboard, around exposed edges and seams, under mattress tags, and in box springs. Though they typically stick within eight feet of where people sleep, hungry bugs can travel over 100 feet in one night if they need to. Also, remember that they can infest housekeeping carts and travel through tiny cracks or wall sockets. Along with the bugs, be on the lookout for eggs and fecal spots that indicate their presence.

Pest Control Solutions In Belford, New Jersey

Though the precautions we have outlined certainly lower your risk of picking up bed bugs while traveling, there are no guarantees. Bed bugs can be sneaky, and sometimes people get unlucky. Moreover, once a solitary bug passes the defenses, they increase. Females can lay up to five-hundred eggs in their lifetime at a rate of five per day. 

If you find yourself with a full-blown infestation, you’ll have no choice but to call in the big dogs. Elite Pest Control offers premium extermination services in Belford, NJ. Our trained professionals are experts in keeping a pest-free home, and we’ll have your back so you can travel without worry over the holidays. Contact us today for more information about our bed bug extermination services. You’ll be in good hands with the top-rated pest control service in the area.