Summer is almost here, and many of us are looking forward to relaxing vacations – leaving behind our work and worries for rest and quality time with family and friends. But nothing can ruin a trip faster than an unexpected encounter with bed bugs.
Whether you’re staying at a hotel, Airbnb, VRBO, or another vacation rental, it’s important to take precautions before and during your trip. As pest control professionals, we know that no matter where you choose to lay your head, bed bugs can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. Here’s how to avoid bringing unwanted guests home with you.
Before You Book: Steps to Avoid Bed Bug Infestations
- Read reviews (the right ones!) Look beyond the hotel or rental’s own website where bad reviews can be hidden or filtered. Use independent site that feature unedited guest feedback. For vacation rentals, both Airbnb and VRBO include reviews for the property and host. Need help finding review sites? Check out this article that lists the 5 Best Hotel Review Websites.
- Research the Area. Each year Orkin publishes a list of the 50 worst cities for bed bugs. Take a look to see if your destination made the list – It’s better to be informed than surprised.
- Know the cancellation policy. Before you book, make sure you understand the rental or hotel’s cancellation terms. Look for flexible policies that allow you to leave or get a refund if a pest problem arises.
- Ask for recommendations. Word of mouth is powerful. Ask friends and family if they’ve had good experiences with particular hotels or rentals. A trusted referral is often more valuable than an online review. So, ask around.
- Contact the host or hotel directly. Ask about their pest control procedures. Do they have routine inspections for bed bugs? A responsible host or hotel should be able to reassure you.
- Pack protection: bring Lights Out Bed Bug Spray. Lights Out is an all-natural way to ensure you don’t bring bed bugs home with you. Spray it on your luggage to kill any bed bugs that come in contact with it – for up to 30 days of protection.
When You Arrive: Inspect Before You Unpack
Even with all the right precautions, it’s important to inspect the property once you arrive. Here’s what to do before settling in.
- Leave your luggage in the car or near the door while you check carefully for bed bugs.
- Pull back the sheets and mattress covers and inspect the seams of the mattress and box spring for bed bugs and dark fecal stains.
- Move the mattress away from the headboard or wall and check the area for bed bugs.
- Lift the dust ruffle and check the seams.
- Open dresser drawers and lift couch cushions to check for signs of infestation.
- Inspect every room, not just the bedroom. Bed bugs can hide anywhere!
If you do find signs of bed bugs, contact the host or the front desk immediately. Take photos or videos to document your findings – this will help if you need to request a refund or file a complaint. Once the ordeal is dealt with, and you are settled in a new rental or hotel room, be sure to leave a detailed review to help future travelers.
If everything is clear – relax and enjoy!
If the inspection doesn’t reveal any signs of bed bugs, you can relax and enjoy your stay. If you ever have any questions about bed bugs, give us a call at 844-364-3281.
