How to Check for Bed Bugs when Traveling

Bed bugs can be a major nuisance and are infamously known for feasting on humans at night. Bed bug bites are itchy and uncomfortable, and in some cases, can even cause allergic reactions that warrant a visit to the doctor. Bed bugs don’t discriminate and will take up residence anywhere they can find a food source, known as a host.

While it may seem like bed bugs appear out of nowhere, the truth is that bed bugs are notorious for hitchhiking from one location to another, including from hotels to homes. All it takes is one pregnant bed bug to start a full-blown infestation, but if you are diligent about checking for bed bugs when you travel, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of bringing bed bugs back as a souvenir. Today we’ll discuss how to check for bed bugs in a hotel, as well as what to do if you find signs of an infestation during your stay.

Bed bugs are roughly the size of an apple seed and are excellent at hiding, making them particularly challenging to identify. However, if you know what to look for and where bed bugs hide, you can reduce your risk of bringing bed bugs home. As you conduct your search, place your bag on a bellhop or the luggage rack (these are typically available at the front desk or in your room.) You may want to use a flashlight or magnifying glass during your inspection as bed bugs can be difficult to detect with the naked eye.

In most hotel rooms, bed bugs have a few favored hiding spots. Some of the most common places you’ll spot bed bugs or evidence of bed bugs include:

• On or around the bed. Bed bugs can hide in even the smallest spots, so you’ll want to check the bed frame, headboard, linens, box spring, mattress seams, and mattress. Make sure you don’t forget to check underneath the bed as well. In the case of severe infestations, bed bugs may take over nightstands, too.
• Room furnishings, especially upholstered furniture. If your room has a couch or sofa, you’ll want to look in between and underneath the cushions. In some cases, bed bugs may hide in nightstands or dressers.
• Other small, dark crevices. While bed bugs prefer to hide close to where humans spend most of their time, they will find other places to live if needed. Bed bugs are known to hide in electrical outlets, behind loose wallpaper and picture frames, and on curtains.

The best way to avoid bringing bed bugs back home with you is to pay careful attention to your sleeping areas before you unpack and settle in. While the most obvious sign of bed bugs is seeing actual live bed bugs, there are other things you can look for when inspecting your hotel room. Since bed bugs are nocturnal, these other signs are crucial to identify an infestation before you go to bed or unpack your luggage. Here are a few telltale signs of a bed bug infestation in your hotel room:

After you’ve checked your room and have deemed it free of bed bugs, you can start unpacking your bags. Throughout your stay, remain aware of the common signs of bed bugs listed above, and take other preventative measures, like placing worn clothing in sealed plastic bags until you get home and keeping as much of your belongings off the floor as possible. Continue checking luggage and pay close attention to your room throughout your stay to ensure that you didn’t miss them on the first look.

Even if you perform the most thorough checks when traveling, it’s still possible for bed bugs to hitch a ride back home. Here are a couple of steps you should always take following your trip to ensure your belongings are bed bug-free:

While these steps can’t always prevent a bed bug infestation, you can reduce your risk if you are cautious and follow this protocol when you travel. After your trip, keep a close eye out for the same signs of bed bugs you looked for when traveling.

Learn More about Early Signs of Bed Bugs