Bed bugs while travelling can be real distress. They are small, hard-to-see insects that can hitch a ride home with you in your luggage. Bringing bed bugs home can be difficult to get rid of, causing a lot of discomfort. Although there is a little risk that you will bring bed bugs with you on your trip, it is nevertheless necessary to take some easy precautions as infestations spread over the globe.
Simple ways to protect yourself against bed bugs
Bed bugs bite humans to feed on their blood. The bites can be itchy and uncomfortable when you are trying to sleep, and they can sometimes cause allergic reactions. An infestation of bed bugs can quickly take over a house or flat. If you have a bed bug infestation, getting rid of it can be challenging and expensive.
Here are some simple ways if you’re wondering how to prevent bed bugs while travelling.
First, inspect your hotel room before you unpack. Carrying a small bright torch would be helpful to look for signs of bed bugs, such as dark spots or stains on the mattress or any other furniture. Don’t put your luggage on the bed when you reach your hotel room since bed bugs can climb onto your bags and infest your clothing. Instead, put your luggage on a hard, elevated surface, like a luggage rack, away from the bed.
Pull the sheets at the corners and sides and inspect the mattresses and box springs. Examine the tufts and edges of your mattress for signs of bed bugs. Look for bed bug indicators in pillows and upholstered furniture quickly. If possible, examine inside the nightstand drawers and behind the headboards.
Bed bugs are tiny, reddish-brown insects resembling the size of an apple seed. It’s better to use hard-cased baggage because it is tougher for bed bugs to attach to rigid materials than fabric. Packing your clothes in re-sealable plastic bags will also help to keep the bed bugs out of your clothes. Avoid spraying insect repellents on your clothing or bags. They may present health risks and are ineffective against bed bugs.
Typically, bed bugs are more likely to be found in areas where a lot of people come and go. So, avoid staying in hostels or places with a lot of foot traffic. Choose a hotel that has a good reputation for bed bug prevention. You can also ask the staff about bed bug policies when you make your reservations. Even if the hotel has never had bed bugs, a sufficient bed bug prevention and control programme should involve routine inspections and access to a reputable pest control provider.
Make sure that your travel insurance plan covers bed insect infestations. If it does, you might be able to claim for expenses associated with doctor visits and medication. When you return home, wash your items in a high-heat setting.
Conclusion
Bed bugs can be a nuisance and even a health hazard. Take all necessary precautions to avoid bringing these pests home with you. It’s crucial to take action immediately to get rid of bed bugs if you do bring them home. You can either get assistance from a pest control business or adhere to your travel insurance policy guidelines.