What happens on Spring Break stays on Spring Break—unless some bed bugs find their way into a traveler’s suitcase. As Spring Breakers get excited for their trips, Gregory Pest Solutions reminds travelers to take precautions against bringing bed bugs back home with them.

“Bed bugs can lurk in the highest quality hotels and on the transportation travelers take before the vacation really starts, such as on a bus, train or airplane.” said Courtney Powell, Marketing specialist of Gregory. “It’s crucial for travelers to be aware of how to properly inspect for and prevent transporting bed bugs back home. A few simple steps can help people can enjoy their vacations without suffering the aftermath of coming into contact with these relentless pests.”

We Recommend Travelers Follow These Bed Bug Prevention Tips:

  • At hotels, thoroughly inspect the entire room before unpacking, including behind the headboard and in furniture. Pull back the bed sheets and check the mattress seams for pepper-like stains that may be evidence of bed bug activity.
  • Set your luggage away from walls and never place it on the bed. Use a large plastic trash bag or a protective cover to store suitcases during your hotel stay.
  • Immediately notify management of any signs of bed bugs and ask for a new room. Ensure the new room is not adjacent to and/or directly above/below the original room. Bed bugs can easily hitchhike via housekeeping carts, luggage and even through wall sockets.
  • If staying at a residence, inform the homeowner immediately of a suspected bed bug problem.
    Upon returning home, inspect and vacuum your suitcases thoroughly before bringing them into the house. Consider using a garment hand steamer to steam your luggage, which will kill any bed bugs.
  • Dry all fabric items (even those that have not been worn) in a hot dryer for at least 30 minutes to ensure that any bed bugs that may have made it that far are not placed into your drawers/closet.
    If you suspect an infestation, contact a licensed pest control professional immediately.