What to Check for Bed Bugs Before Staying in a Hotel This Summer

June 18, 2026

Summer is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. Whether you're heading out for a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or a business trip, the last thing you want to bring home is an unwanted souvenir: bed bugs.

Bed bugs are expert hitchhikers that can easily travel from hotels and vacation rentals into your luggage, clothing, and personal belongings. Taking a few minutes to inspect your room upon arrival can help protect you and your family from an infestation.

Start with the Bed

Before unpacking your luggage, inspect the mattress and box spring. Pull back the sheets and look closely at the seams, corners, and mattress tags. Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that often hide in tight crevices during the day.

Signs of bed bugs may include:

• Live or dead bed bugs
• Tiny dark spots that resemble ink stains
• Small blood stains on sheets or mattresses
• Pale yellow shed skins
• Check the Headboard and Bed Frame

Bed bugs commonly hide behind headboards and within cracks in bed frames. Use your phone's flashlight to inspect these areas for any signs of activity.

Inspect Nearby Furniture

Don't limit your search to the bed. Bed bugs can hide in upholstered chairs, couches, nightstands, and luggage racks. Check seams, cushions, and joints where insects may be concealed.

Keep Luggage Off the Floor

While inspecting the room, place your luggage in the bathroom or on a hard surface away from upholstered furniture and beds. Bathrooms are generally less attractive hiding places for bed bugs and can provide a safer temporary storage area.

Examine Curtains and Carpeting

In more severe infestations, bed bugs may spread beyond sleeping areas. Quickly inspect curtains, carpet edges, and baseboards for signs of insects or dark spotting.

Be Cautious When Unpacking

Even if you don't find evidence of bed bugs, it's wise to keep clothing in sealed bags and avoid placing personal items directly on beds or upholstered furniture.

After Returning Home

When your trip is over, inspect your luggage before bringing it inside. Wash and dry clothing on high heat whenever possible, as heat is one of the most effective ways to kill bed bugs and their eggs.

Protect Your Home This Summer

A few minutes of inspection can save you from the stress, expense, and discomfort of a bed bug infestation. If you suspect bed bugs have made their way into your home, professional treatment is often the fastest and most effective solution.

Contact Secured Environments Pest and Wildlife Services today to schedule a bed bug inspection or learn more about protecting your home from pests this summer.

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