While you may have your bedbug control tactics in place at home, going on vacation presents a new set of challenges against these creepy crawlers. Bedbugs, contrary to popular belief, are not a sanitary issue at the hotel or motel; instead, they are tracked in by other guests. While there’s not much you can do to filter out bedbug-ridden properties before you book, there are steps that you can take to avoid nasty bites and bringing them back home with you. 

How to Have a Bedbug-Free Vacation

1. Inspect the Room

Bedbugs are tricky to spot, but they are visible upon close inspection. After you’ve checked into your room, take some time to look closely at any upholstered surface, like the bed, chairs, and carpet. If you see tiny, moving spots, it’s likely that the room is infested. In this case, don’t bother settling in — ask the property to switch you over to a new room so that you can avoid painful bites.

2. Unpack Wisely

If you like to unpack your clothes after checking into a hotel, it’s important that you be wary of where you put your items. Don’t lay any of your clothes out on the bed or couch in the room; these places are most likely to house bugs. If you unpack, do so in the closet or bathroom.

3. Deep Clean Before Heading Home

While bites are certainly enough to give you the willies, your main concern should be avoiding bringing the bugs back home with you. Bedbugs can easily stow away in your suitcase or on the clothes you’re wearing when you check out. Before you re-enter your home, consider bringing your vacation items to a laundromat or give them to the hotel dry cleaning service.

When you’ve got bedbugs on your hands, there is no time to waste — call an exterminator immediately. Homeowners in Bolivar, MO, look to Collins Exterminating to inspect and treat their space for pests. With 57 years in the industry, they are well-versed in the behavioral patterns of these critters as well as spiders, wasps, termites, and ants. To get a free, no-obligation estimate, visit their website or call (417) 326-2124.