Avoid Bed Bugs While Traveling

If there’s one thing every traveler dreads, it’s bed bugs. These pests may be small, but they’re frustratingly difficult to get rid of once you have them in your home. Unfortunately, it’s all too easy to pick up these unwanted travelers when you’re on the road. Here are some tips that will help you avoid inadvertently bringing bed bugs home with you.

Know what to look for.

While everybody knows that bed bugs should be avoided, not everybody knows what they look like or what evidence they leave behind. Telltale signs of the pests include brown-red stains, droppings that are black and dot-sized, and yellowish discarded shells. The bed bugs themselves are about the size and shape of an apple seed, but you often won’t see the actual bugs, as they are nocturnal and avoid light.

Always inspect hotel beds.

If you’re staying in a hotel, motel, or hostel, always check the bed for signs of bed bugs before sitting on it or placing your travel bags or clothing on it. Be sure that you inspect the mattress, the headboard, the sheets, the covers, and the pillows. If you see anything suspicious, don’t risk it! Instead, tell the staff of the hotel that you want a different room.

Keep your luggage safe.

Even if you don’t come into contact with bed bugs yourself, the pests can hitch a lift on your luggage. Never put down your suitcases until you’re sure you are in a bug-free zone. Here’s a tip: Bed bugs are less likely to be found in the bathroom, so keep your bags there while you do a quick room inspection.For the past 35 years, Essential Pest Control has been providing dependable pest control services to residents of Southern Arizona. If you are in need of bed bug removal in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, or another nearby areas, it’s time to get in touch with our pest control experts. You can reach us today by calling (520) 908-6251.