Bed bug infestations are on the rise, and they’re more than a nuisance. But, with necessity being the mother of invention, there are a few gadgets out there that can help get rid of bed bugs and avoid bringing home unwanted hitchhikers.
A company called ThermalStrike makes luggage that’s equipped with infrared technology. It heats up the interior of your bag to 140 degrees—enough to kill bed bugs that may be lurking in your clothes or in the suitcase itself.
Just don’t pack any expensive chocolates in that case.
BugZip makes heavy-duty vinyl covers that completely wrap your belongings—you just unzip them to get to your clothes while you’re on the road.
SecureTravel makes liners for garment bags, to give clothes an extra layer of protection.
But don’t get taken in by so-called bed bug sprays and repellents. They don’t work. In fact, the FTC has filed deceptive advertising charges against companies that make those products.
Your best bet is to be diligent and inspect your hotel room thoroughly. When you get home, throw everything into the washing machine on hot, and then into the dryer for at least 20 minutes.
For more information, visit the Hotels & Accommodations archives.
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