What Travelers Should Know About Bed Bugs In Southern States

This is why we can't have nice things. If you're traveling somewhere for spring break, you'll want to take extra caution and probably not how you'd expect: you need to be careful about bed bugs.

This might seem random but I did see a few reports recently about how there was an outbreak of sorts in southern states at the moment, thanks in big part to the increase in visitors these states get over the winter.

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This includes upticks in states like Texas, Tennessee, Georgia and of course, Florida - one of the most popular if not the most popular spring break travel destination. Philadelphia, New York and Los Angeles are also seeing big upticks.

Now, spring break travelers are asked to be cautious, considering bed bugs can travel and do travel from one place to the next on clothes, luggage and other items, putting even more of a damper on you when you get home.

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How To Avoid Falling Victim To Bed Bugs While Traveling For Spring Break

You may already implement these tips and tricks into your everyday life but if you don't, add these things into your post-vacation routine immediately! Experts suggest inspecting your luggage and clothes after a trip and placing all clothes you brought with you in the dryer on high heat for up to 45 minutes.

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You should also look at a few things when you check in. This includes your hotel mattress, headboards and surrounding furniture. You also should not put your suitcase on the bed - which I think is gross no matter the circumstance!

John-Reynolds

Spring break is already hectic as it is and you definitely don't want to be thinking about bed bugs when you are trying to relax. Just be cautious when you check in and when you get home so you don't have to deal with a gross bed bug ordeal.

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I hope that if you are traveling, you are able to relax. Just make sure to be cautious, especially if you are going anywhere in the southern part of the country.

The Updated 2025 U.S. Government 'Do Not Travel' List

Traveling to unique and exotic places rather than the usual tourist traps can be quite an adventure. However, it's crucial to research your destination thoroughly.

While every trip comes with some risk, requiring you to mind your surroundings and take some precautions, there are some places you should probably avoid because the risks far outweigh the benefits.

The United States government has a helpful website that lists travel advisories that are in place for countries all over the world, ranking the risk from Level 1 through Level 4.

You should NOT travel there if a country is issued a Level 4 advisory. As of November, the countries below are on the 'Do Not Travel' list.

Gallery Credit: David Drew