When thinking of souvenirs to bring back with us from a trip, creepy crawlers aren’t exactly what comes to mind. However, it is surprisingly easy to unknowingly pick up some unwanted hitchhikers. These freeloading pests find their way into our luggage bags and come home with us.
Places like airports and airplanes have many people coming through them who may also have stowaways hitching a ride aboard. And hotels have been known to host not only humans but also guests of the insect variety.
Whether a result of improper cleaning, being brought in by a guest before you, or a combination of the two, there are things you can do to minimize your chances of bringing home pests from your travels. Keep these helpful tips in mind!
Search the Bed Bug Registry
Prior to booking a hotel, Go Freedom Pest Control recommends searching the Bed Bug registry to see if a potential accommodation has a history of infestation. However, keep in mind that just because a hotel is not listed there, doesn’t mean it does not have a pest issue. Plus, bedbugs aren’t the only pests to worry about. What about roaches, fleas, and other types of insects?
Utilize plastic bags
Keep your clothing inside tightly sealed plastic bags when in and outside of your luggage bag. If you’re carrying any food with you, make sure it is also sealed in an air-tight plastic bag. Use easy-to-clean luggage like hardshell suitcases and duffel bags.
Inspect for pests
Upon entering your hotel room, inspect it for signs of pests. Use the flashlight on your phone to check the mattress for black specks that could be bed bugs. Look under the sink, where cockroaches and ants are typically found. Examine corners, closets, drawers, and any other hidden areas closely.
Keep luggage off the floor
Avoid putting your luggage and clothing on the floor and on soft surfaces like sofas, as fleas and bedbugs can live in the fabric. Instead, use the luggage rack or place your bags on top of a table. Furniture like dressers and chairs should also be avoided as they have lots of cracks and areas for bugs to hide in.
If you find pests at your hotel
If you are staying at a hotel and find signs of an insect infestation, change hotels right away and seek a refund. Take photos of the evidence and keep a record of your conversations with management. Lastly, notify the local health department and add any bed bug issues to the Bed Bug Registry.
Related: The U.S. Cities With The Highest Risk Of Bed Bugs, Chicago Ranks Number 1
