Bedbugs: How to Avoid Them While Traveling (And What to Do If You Get Them)

Bedbugs are small,  parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and other animals. They are a common problem in hotels and other accommodations around the world,  and travelers can easily bring them home with them.

How To Avoid Bedbugs While Traveling

There are a few things that travelers can do to reduce their risk of getting bedbugs:

* **Inspect your room for signs of bedbugs before settling in.** Look for live bugs, shed skins,  or dark stains on the mattress, headboard,  and other furniture.

* **Avoid bringing luggage into bed.** Bedbugs are attracted to body heat and carbon dioxide,  so it's best to keep your luggage on a luggage rack or in the bathroom.

* **Store your clothes in sealed plastic bags.** This will help to prevent bedbugs from attaching to your clothing.

* **Wash your clothes in hot water and dry them on high heat after you return home.** This will kill any bedbugs or eggs that may have attached to your clothing.

If you think you may have gotten bedbugs, contact the hotel or accommodation immediately. They may be able to provide you with a new room or take other steps to help you get rid of the bedbugs.

Here are some additional tips for travelers:

* **Choose hotels and accommodations with a good reputation.** Read online reviews to see if other travelers have reported bedbugs.

* **Be especially careful in high-risk areas.** Bedbugs are more common in urban areas and in hotels and accommodations that are frequented by many people.

* **Be aware of the signs of bedbugs.** Bedbug bites are often itchy and may appear in clusters. Bedbugs may also leave behind dark stains on bedding and furniture.

If you find bedbugs in your hotel room,  don't panic. Just take the following steps:

* **Notify the hotel staff immediately.** They should be able to provide you with a new room or take other steps to help you get rid of the bedbugs.

* **Wash all of your clothes and bedding in hot water and dry them on high heat.** This will kill any bedbugs or eggs that may have attached to your belongings.

* **Inspect your luggage carefully before bringing it home.** If you find any bedbugs, dispose of them immediately.

Once you are home,  be sure to inspect your home for bedbugs. If you find any,  contact a pest control professional for help.

Bedbugs are a pain,  but they're not the end of the world. By following the tips above,  you can reduce your risk of getting bedbugs while traveling and get rid of them quickly if you do get them.