The only things you want to bring back from your holiday are happy memories and a sun tan. Unfortunately, many people return with more than they bargained for. Unwanted guests such as bed bugs can easily find their way home with you, no matter how far away in the World you have travelled. When allis said and done, bed bugs are pretty contagious. But there are things you can do to prevent holiday bed bugs and avoid bringing them back home with you.

Why holiday bed bugs are such a problem

At this point it, seems as if the worst of the COVID-19 crises might finally be over. Restrictions are basically a thing of the past and people are moving on with their lives. The best thing about all this is the fact that people can now go on holiday. In fact, most people have already gone on holiday or are planning on doing so.

But, what this also means, is that a lot of summer travellers are going to pick up holiday bed bugs. This usually occurs when you stay at a hotel or guest house that is infested with these insects. What happens is that they crawl into your luggage and you end up taking them home.

This isn’t only limited to overseas holidays. Most places in the UK have had bed bugs at some point. So, even if you’re holidaying near to home, you can still pick up holiday bed bugs. Not only that, bed bugs aren’t limited to cheaper accommodation. Even the best hotels are known for being infested with bed bugs.

Avoid a nasty surprise when you return home

You need to firstly be aware of the possibility of holiday bed bugs. You also need to take steps to avoid them getting into your suitcase or backpack. The first step to preventing these pests is checking your room for them when you arrive. To do this you’ll need a torch. When entering your room, do not turn on the light. This will scare the bugs off. Remove all bedding, and then use the torch to check the creases of your mattress. Also check under the mattress and along the frame. You can then check behind the headboard.

In general, keep luggage off the bed and off the floor, for example on a solid (not upholstered) chair. Another effective method is to leave it in the bathroom. Finally, when leaving the room at the end of your stay, pack away your clothing carefully. It’s best to do this in the bathroom. Make sure to thoroughly inspect every item before packing it away. If you’re satisfied that there are no bed bugs, and have closed your luggage securely, it’s probably a good idea to your leave luggage outside the room.

Once you arrive home do not simply unpack straight away. Leave your luggage in the garage for a few days and then repeat the checking process. Place your clothing and any washable items in a hot wash and tumble dryer. Heat tends to kill bed bugs. If you do end up with an infestation of holiday bed bugs in the aftermath of your journey, you will need to get professional London bed bug control to deal with the situation. These insects breed quickly once embedded in your home, and special help is required.