Summer travel season is here, and while you're busy packing for fun in the sun, there's one uninvited guest you definitely don't want tagging along: bed bugs. These sneaky pests are experts at hitchhiking from hotels, rentals, and even public transportation—all the way back to your Boise home. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to lower your chances of picking up bed bugs during your summer getaway.

Worried you might already have bed bugs at home? Don’t wait. Contact us now or call us at (208) 795-3298 for fast help from our trusted Boise team.

Why Summer Travel Increases Your Bed Bug Risk

More travel means more opportunities for bed bugs to spread. Hotels, Airbnb rentals, buses, trains, and airports are all hotspots for these tiny hitchhikers. Boise residents who travel during the summer are especially at risk of accidentally bringing them home.

Smart Packing: Your First Line of Defense

Taking a few precautions before you leave can go a long way in preventing bed bugs from joining your trip. These packing tips create a barrier that makes it much harder for bed bugs to tag along.

Use hard-sided luggage. Bed bugs love fabric—hard-shell suitcases give them fewer places to hide.
Pack clothes in sealable plastic bags. This creates a barrier and keeps pests out.
Bring a flashlight. Handy for inspecting sleeping areas when you arrive.

By preparing smartly from the start, you significantly reduce the chance of an unwanted infestation at the end of your vacation.

Hotel & Rental Room Bed Bug Checks

Before you unpack, do a quick check of your accommodations:

Inspect the mattress and box spring. Look for small rust-colored stains or live bugs around seams and corners.
Check upholstered furniture and curtains. Bed bugs don’t only live in beds.
Keep your luggage off the floor and bed. Use a luggage rack or store it in the bathroom—there are fewer fabric surfaces there.

Returning Home: Bed Bug Prevention Steps

When you return home, take a few minutes to clean and inspect your belongings. These small actions can save you from a major bed bug problem later on.

Unpack outside or in the garage. Avoid bringing bags straight into your bedroom.
Wash all clothes in hot water. Even unworn clothes. Dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
Vacuum luggage thoroughly. Pay attention to seams and pockets.
Inspect your suitcase before storing. Consider storing it in a sealed plastic bag until your next trip.

What If You Think Bed Bugs Made It Home?

Don’t panic—but act quickly. Early detection and action can make a big difference. While DIY treatments rarely solve the issue completely, professional help can guide you in the right direction.

Visit our bed bug control service page to learn how Pestcom Pest Management can assist Boise homeowners with bed bug inspections and treatment plans tailored to your situation.

Need Bed Bug Help in Boise?

Whether you're planning a vacation or already back home and suspicious of unwanted guests, Pestcom Pest Management is here to help. Reach out through our online contact form or call us today at (208) 795-3298 to get peace of mind and practical support from Boise’s trusted pest professionals.