Taking precautions when traveling can help keep away bed bugs, illness

By Jazmine Knight

With the summer travel season in full swing, it’s important to remember that traveling can increase the risk of getting sick or ending up with pesky bed bugs.

Nick Chabarria, AAA spokesperson, said travelers don’t have to be as thorough as they were during the pandemic but it doesn’t hurt to practice good hygiene and cleanliness when traveling.

“That may include packing hand sanitizer, wet wipes, for example, if you’re flying on the plane to wipe down your seating area,” Chabarria said. “Of course washing your hands frequently, especially before you eat.”

Chabarria says the most popular summer destinations are the Northwestern states including Washington and Alaska for cruises and beaches in Texas, Florida and Alabama. Regardless of your destination, different illnesses and bed bugs can turn a trip upside down.

When it comes to bed bugs, Chabarria said they’re actually not as prominent as people might think. Travelers might see them in certain cities or areas but they are low risk for most.

However, if you are out and about, be sure to check all furniture carefully.

“It can be helpful to bring a flashlight or use your phone flashlight and a lint roller,” Chabarria said.

The lint roller can be used to pick up any unwanted or noticeable bed bugs. To protect your clothes and luggage, consider packing items in large, resealable plastic bags. That way, if bed bugs are present on your luggage, they won’t have access to your clothes.

If bed bugs are spotted, be sure to talk with a front desk agent or contact the host if it’s an Airbnb. After that, take measures to keep them out of the home.

“Keep your luggage, outside or out in the garage,” he said. “Usually, washing doesn’t necessarily kill the bedbugs, but if you dry your clothes in a high heat setting, that can take care of it as well.”

For garments that can’t go in the dryer, try steam cleaning or dry cleaning. Just be sure to place the item in a plastic bag and let them know the situation so dry cleaning staff can properly prepare.

To prevent colds and illnesses stemming from vacation, it’s important to develop healthy habits early.

“Traveling starts before you even take your trip,” Chabarria said. “Making sure you’re getting plenty of rest, making sure you’re hydrating, especially in the week leading up to your travel.”

Doing so can ensure the immune system is healthy and working to prevent illness when traveling. People should also stock up on any prescription medications they will need so they can bring extra.

“You never know if your flight gets delayed, or you may get stuck somewhere,” he said. “You want to make sure you have your prescription, and you want to make sure to pack those in your carry on bag.”