As millions gear up for winter travel in and out of the UK, it's not just souvenirs that could be making the journey back home.

Recent reports have highlighted a burgeoning bedbug epidemic, with infestations having surged by 62%. Google searches for 'how to check for bedbugs' have shot up, seeing a whopping increase of over 500% in the last 30 days, as infestations typically spike during the peak travel and festive season in winter.

Fortunately, a mattress expert has compiled a guide on how to spot early signs of a bedbuginvasion and shared easy steps to help curb the spread of these blood-thirsty critters while globetrotting this winter. Mattress specialist Sharon Robson from Mattress Online is dishing out her expert advice on keeping bedbugs at bay this winter. Sharon explains: "Bedbugs thrive in areas where lots of people are coming and going, they also favour warm and humid conditions, which means there's a higher chance of returning from warmer climates with bed bugs. From hotels, hostels, and holiday rentals to public transport, it's crucial to know how to spot a potential infestation to prevent bringing any unwanted souvenirs back from your trip."

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Invest in hard-shell suitcases

Sharon's top tip is a simple one: invest in hard-shell suitcases. She cautions that soft-sided luggage offers numerous hidden nesting spots for bedbugs, potentially heightening your risk of unknowingly carting them back from your travels, reports the Express. Bedbugs have a preference for rough or porous surfaces, making hard-shell luggage with its sleek, solid surfaces a challenging environment for them. This type of luggage is not only more difficult for bedbugs to latch onto, but it's also simpler to inspect and disinfect, making it a worthwhile investment if you're worried about these unwanted visitors.

Elevate your luggage (literally)

Upon reaching your accommodation, it's recommended to raise your luggage above carpets and away from walls. Hold off on unpacking your suitcase on the bed until you've had the chance to check for signs of bedbugs. Make use of metal luggage racks or position your case on a solid surface such as a table or desk.

Early warning signs to look out for

There are several tell-tale warning signs that your hotel room might be infested with bedbugs, so before you settle in, give your room a quick inspection. Stay vigilant for sweet, musty smells, which could suggest a large infestation. Also keep an eye out for black or rust-coloured stains on bedding and mattresses. Finally, watch out for empty, brown shells or flat, oval brown shapes, which could be the bugs themselves.

Try the credit card trick

For a more comprehensive inspection, try the credit card trick. Bedbugs often hide in narrow spaces like mattress seams, labels, and tufts. A credit card can be a handy tool for inspecting tight spots like mattress piping, bedframe corners, and any crevices. Simply press the card gently and scrape along the seams to check for bugs and eggs.

Wash and dry clothes on high heat as soon as you come back

If you're still concerned about potential exposure to bedbugs during your travels, the first thing to do when you get home is to wash all your clothes in hot water. Position your luggage on a hard surface such as a bathroom or laundry room floor and unpack directly into the washing machine. Wash your clothes on a hot cycle and dry them on high heat for 30-60 minutes to kill any live bugs or eggs.