With Christmas serving as a peak travel time, it’s perhaps unsurprising that this is also one of the peak times for bed bug infestations. Whether it’s busy hotels, packed trains, crowded airports, or overnight stays with friends and family, every year, it’s inevitable that some will return home with these uninvited guests.

James Rhoades, pest expert at ThermoPest, says: “There’s a common misconception that summer is peak season for bed bugs, but Christmas consistently brings one of the biggest spikes in travel, which leads to a noticeable rise in infestations. Any festive period involving large-scale travel across the UK tends to increase the risk.”

Alongside travel, bed bug infestations are common in the winter months due to the usage of central heating, as these pests thrive in warm conditions.

James added: “During colder months, heating is on for longer, which speeds up their reproduction cycle. That, combined with increased travel, creates a perfect storm for infestations. Even dormant bugs can become active again when warmth returns.”

To avoid bed bugs following you home, James suggests conducting a quick inspection as soon as you arrive at your destination, whether it’s an upmarket luxury hotel or a budget-friendly B&B.

He said: “Pull back the bedding and check the mattress edges, especially seams and corners, for black dots, blood spots, or shed skins.

“Check the headboard, bedside tables, and fabric furniture too. Bed bugs often hide in screw holes, stitching, and joints.”

Sharing further advice, James recommends keeping your luggage off the floor, using a rack if available, or placing it on a hard surface like a table if not.

He said: “Packing clothes in sealed bags adds extra protection, though this can seem like a faff.”

If you’re worried after you return from your trip, you can wash your clothes at 60°C, which will kill both the bugs and their eggs. 

Non-washable items should be sealed in an airtight bag and placed in the freezer for a few days, as these sub-zero temperatures will kill any eggs or larvae.

“If you return from Christmas travel and spot bites, black specks on bedding, or other signs, act quickly,” James finishes.

“Wash your clothes on a hot cycle, vacuum around beds and skirting boards, and inspect mattress seams. Always empty your vacuum outdoors; eggs can survive inside the chamber.”