How to help prevent bed bugs in your luggage when traveling

Tips for keeping your luggage bed bug-free.

Select hard-cased luggage over softer varieties. Not only will it help protect your stuff, the hard material makes it more difficult for bed bugs to attach.

Pack your belongings in resealable bags or packing cubes. It'll help you stay organized and keep bed bugs off of your clothes in the event that they find their way into your luggage.

After you've inspected the luggage rack for bed bugs, pull it away from the wall and keep your luggage stored there. If you're only staying a few days, try to avoid unpacking and spreading your items around the room. This will reduce the likelihood of the items picking up bed bugs.

When you return from your trip, unpack somewhere other than your bedroom. If possible, select a well-lit location with lightly colored surfaces so that you can easily spot any hitchhikers. Put all clothes into the washing machine and wash them in hot water. Once the suitcase is empty, check it for signs of bed bugs, particularly the seams, pockets, and straps.

As an added precaution, you can vacuum out the bag.