How to Avoid Bedbugs While Traveling

Bedbugs are tiny insects that can infest accommodations of any level, from hostels to expensive hotels. They feed on human blood and leave uncomfortable bites that can last for weeks. Bedbugs must be introduced into a new place, and generally ride on luggage or used furniture. When you're traveling, avoid bedbugs by examining your accommodation carefully and taking care with luggage and clothing.

1 Read online reviews. Before you book or pay for a room, check out reviews of your hostel or hotel. Bedbugs can spread easily and are hard to get rid of, so if a review within the last two months mentions them, cancel your reservation. Most travelers will not take the time or effort to post false reviews about bedbugs, so it pays to take them seriously. Sites like TripAdvisor and HostelBookers are good places to start.

2 Know the signs of bedbugs. If you recognize the signs that indicate the presence of bedbugs, you'll be more likely to avoid the bugs. The most common indication, besides the live bedbug, is fecal matter. It appears as brown or black spots; they are difficult to clean. Other signs include blood spots, discarded bedbug skins, a sweet almond smell, and white bedbug eggs.

3 Check the room before agreeing to pay. When you arrive at your hotel or hostel, ask to see the room before you check in. Use a flashlight and plastic gloves, and search the areas on and around the bed, advises the integrated pest management program at Cornell University. Check the headboard first, and look at the sheets, walls and pillows for any signs of bedbugs. Also look around the mattress piping, bedside tables and box spring. If you see any signs of bedbugs, ask to be moved to a different room or switch hotels.

4 Keep belongings away from the bed and walls. Bedbugs travel on clothing and luggage, so if you suspect the presence of bedbugs, keep your possessions far from the hotel or hostel furniture. Do not place bags and clothing on the bed, or use closets and drawers to store clothing. Try to keep your bags on a luggage rack that is not attached to a wall; this reduces the chance that bedbugs will crawl into your clothing and suitcases.

5 Use bug-safe packing methods. Although it is not a foolproof method, you can use airtight plastic bags to protect your clothing and other items from bug infiltration. Many outdoors stores sell large zip-top bags intended for kayaking, which you can use to pack clothes and other items. Also consider using a product like PackTite, which encloses your suitcase and kills bedbugs with heat.