A comprehensive guide covering everything from navigating the airport to post-travel unpacking at home.

A bed bug infestation in Paris, just nine months before the Olympic Games, has led to concerns among tourists about how to deal with and prevent these troublesome insects. To shed light on this issue, Travel + Leisure consulted with experts to provide guidance on what to be aware of and how to respond if bed bugs become a problem.

Firstly, it’s important not to panic. Bed bugs can be a nuisance and challenging to eliminate, but they are generally not harmful. Eric Braun, a board-certified entomologist and technical services manager for Terminix, reassured that bed bugs are not known to transmit any diseases.

He explained, “It’s the ‘ick’ factor, right? They are often found in areas where you’re sleeping, where you feel the most protected and the most vulnerable so their presence has more of a psychological impact than a health-related one.”

Braun’s main concern isn’t getting bitten but rather unknowingly bringing bed bugs home and causing an infestation. This article provides a range of preventative tips for travelers, from packing and navigating the airport to checking into hotels and more.

• Choose the Right Luggage: Bed bugs typically gravitate toward shadowy crevices and gaps for concealment. Although they can potentially crawl onto any surface, they are less inclined to adhere to the exterior of hard-shell luggage in contrast to fabric suitcases, as suggested by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
• Airport Strategies: Opt for hard, smooth plastic chairs at the airport rather than dark nooks or comfortable plush chairs, as these secluded areas are more likely to harbor bed bugs. Braun recommended inspecting your seating area thoroughly and choosing locations with fewer potential hiding spots for the insects.
• Unpack Wisely: When arriving at a hotel, store your suitcase in the bathroom, avoid using luggage racks, and keep your belongings stowed away neatly. Storing your clothes in the closet is a recommended practice as it deters bed bugs from crawling into your garments.
• Protective Measures: Consider placing your suitcase in a protective cover or plastic trash bag during your trip to prevent bed bugs from taking up residence in your luggage.
• Post-Trip Protocol: If you suspect bed bug exposure, unpack your clothing directly into the dryer, not the washer. High heat in the dryer will kill the bugs at all life stages, whereas washing alone may not eliminate them. Subsequently, thoroughly examine your luggage, and, in the event of any suspicion of bed bugs, consider professional treatment if needed.

By following these precautions, travelers can reduce the risk of encountering bed bugs during their journeys and take appropriate steps if an issue arises.