When you check into a hotel, it’s tempting to unpack your suitcase immediately and make yourself at home. However, there’s a crucial step you should take first to protect yourself from bed bugs.
Why You Should Keep Your Suitcase in the Bathroom When You First Enter a Hotel Room
Bed bugs are an unfortunate reality in many accommodations, even luxury ones. These tiny pests can hide in mattresses, sofas, carpets, and furniture crevices, making them easy to overlook. If they infest your luggage or clothing, they can cause itching and allergies, not to mention the hassle of dealing with an infestation at home.
Before settling in, carefully inspect the bed, carpet, chairs, and other furnishings for signs of insects. Look for bloodstains, eggs, or actual bugs. If you spot anything suspicious, notify the hotel staff immediately so they can address the issue.
Keeping your suitcase in the bathroom minimizes the risk of bed bugs getting into your belongings. Bathrooms typically have hard, tiled surfaces, whereas bed bugs prefer fabric and crevices to hide and breed. Additionally, the nooks and crannies of bathroom fixtures provide fewer hiding places for bed bugs. To protect your suitcase from moisture, you can use a suitcase cover.
Once you’re satisfied with the room, place your suitcase on a luggage rack or in a closet instead of on the bed. These areas are also less likely to harbor bed bugs, and putting your suitcase on the bed can transfer dirt and dust to the linens.
Other Precautions to Take When Staying in a Hotel
Check all the locks on the doors to ensure they’re functional and can be easily locked and unlocked from both inside and outside the room. The locks should be secure to prevent unauthorized entry. If you have children with you, make sure windows and balcony doors are locked to prevent any accidents.
While it’s rare, hidden cameras are a concern. To check for them, close the curtains, turn off the lights, and use your phone’s flashlight to scan the room for unusual light reflections. Camera lenses and infrared lights will reflect light. You can also record the room with your phone and look for unusual LED lights, which could indicate hidden cameras.
Additionally, inspect the room’s amenities to ensure everything is in working order and clean. This includes testing electronic devices, checking the cleanliness of linens and towels, and ensuring the bathroom is tidy and well-stocked.
Taking these precautions will help ensure a comfortable and stress-free stay in any hotel. Knowing how to identify and prevent bed bugs is an essential part of traveling smart and safely.
