Bed bugs are a common problem in the United States, with 97% of pest control professionals treating for them in 2018 according to the National Pest Management Association. This makes it crucial to be vigilant when staying in hotels and traveling.

To check for bed bugs in a hotel room, bring along a flashlight and thoroughly inspect the bedding, including the mattress seams and crevices, box springs, headboards as well as nearby furniture like nightstands, curtains and picture frames. Look out for small brownish-red stains (which could indicate blood spots), shed skins or live bed bugs themselves.

Another method is using interception devices like ClimbUp interceptors under each leg of your bed that catch any climbing bed bugs trying to reach you during the night. Packing light-colored luggage can also help easily spot any hitchhiking pests on dark fabrics.

If you do find evidence of bed bugs during your inspection, immediately notify hotel management so they can take appropriate action before renting out that room again. If possible, request a different room far away from the infested one.

While replacing your mattress may not always be necessary if there are no signs of an infestation at home (as proper cleaning techniques can rid them from other areas without throwing out furniture), some people opt to do so after experiencing an infestation while traveling.

By being proactive about checking for bed bugs while on vacation or business trips, you can prevent bringing these unwanted guests back home with you.