In 2023, hotels worldwide faced a significant bed bug epidemic, with Paris being particularly affected. Although the situation has improved, the experience taught us an important lesson. When you check into a hotel, never place your luggage on the bed. Instead, consider putting it in the bathtub.
Placing your suitcase in the bathtub might seem unusual, but it keeps your belongings away from fabric surfaces such as carpets, bedding, and drapes that could harbor bed bugs looking for a free ride.
"Travel is stressful enough with delayed flights and lost luggage, so I do everything I can to avoid adding bed bugs to the mix," says Lydia Mansel, a travel writer and founder of Just Packed. "When I arrive at a hotel, I put my luggage in the bathroom, the entryway, or any spot away from the bed and carpet. This way, my belongings stay clear of areas where bed bugs typically hide, significantly reducing the chances of bringing them home." Mansel also advises leaving a note for housekeeping on top of the suitcase to ensure it remains in place, as luggage racks can also be infested.
There are additional steps to protect your luggage from bed bugs. The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene recommends using a hard-sided suitcase since bed bugs find it harder to cling to rigid materials than fabric. Packing in resealable plastic bags and bringing a small flashlight to inspect your room upon arrival are also good practices.
Once in your room, take time to check small crevices for signs of bed bugs. "Examine beds and box springs by lifting the sheets at the corners and sides. Look for bed bugs and their markings in mattress tufts and seams," the department advises. "Also, inspect pillows and upholstered furniture for signs of bed bugs. If possible, check behind headboards and inside nightstand drawers." For short stays, consider keeping your clothes in your luggage and storing it in the bathroom, which is often one of the cleanest areas due to frequent cleaning.
Daniel Clarke, travel expert and director of Parklink, recommends cleaning storage areas before unpacking. "Having encountered ants and bed bugs on past trips, I now clean hard storage surfaces with antibacterial wipes or use the bathtub, which can be easily washed down. The bathtub is typically one of the cleanest surfaces in the room," Clarke says. "Using the bathtub for luggage storage not only makes efficient use of space in small rooms but also helps keep bugs out of my bags."
In summary, to protect your luggage from bed bugs, always consider storing it in the bathtub when staying at a hotel. This simple precaution can save you from unwanted stowaways and provide peace of mind during your travels.
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