A Traveler’s Guide: 10 Ways to Prevent Bed Bugs During Trips in Canada

Travelling within Canada is something many of us look forward to — whether it’s a weekend in Montréal, a family trip to Banff, a business conference in Toronto, or a cross-country train ride from coast to coast. Canada is widely known for being clean, safe, and orderly, but just like anywhere in the world, bed bugs can occasionally appear in places where there’s high travel turnover, lots of luggage movement, or busy Airbnb-style accommodations.

The good news? Preventing bed bugs while travelling in Canada is easy when you follow a few simple habits. This guide is written in a practical, friendly way — the way Canadians naturally talk about travel — and will help you feel more confident and comfortable wherever your trip takes you.

1. Check Hotel Reviews Before Booking

Before you confirm any hotel or rental in Canada, take a quick look at recent guest reviews. Pay attention to comments on cleanliness, maintenance, and overall experience. Many travellers also look for mentions of “updated rooms,” “renovated spaces,” or “good housekeeping,” which are always good signs.

For added peace of mind, some people refer to trusted Canadian experts like the best pest control providers who offer educational content and prevention awareness in major cities.

2. Choose Reputable Hotels and Trusted Canadian Chains

Canadian hotel chains and top-rated independents generally maintain strong hygiene and inspection routines. Choosing reputable accommodations — especially in busy cities like Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, or Halifax — reduces the chance of running into issues. Even boutique Canadian lodges and small-town inns usually take pride in cleanliness.

3. Inspect Your Room the Moment You Arrive

A quick inspection takes just a few minutes and can prevent major problems later. Check:

• Mattress seams and corners

• The headboard and bed frame

• Nightstands

• Upholstered chairs or couches

• Carpet edges near the bed

Most Canadian hotels respond quickly and politely if you request another room. Asking for one on a different floor is a smart step if something seems off.

4. Keep Your Luggage Off the Floor

One of the most effective prevention habits is keeping your luggage elevated. Use:

• The luggage rack

• A hard surface table

• Bathroom tiles

Avoid placing your bags directly on the carpet or bed. This is standard practice for many seasoned Canadian travellers.

5. Store Clothing in Sealed Bags

If you’re travelling through multiple cities or staying in several hotels, this tip is especially helpful. Packing cubes, compression bags, and large Ziploc-style bags keep your clothing protected and organized. They also keep laundry separate and prevent anything from hitching a ride.

Many travellers also use digital packing lists or travel organization tools created by agencies like the best company for digital services, which help maintain structure during long, multi-stop trips across Canada.

6. Avoid Placing Bags on Public Transit Seats

Transit systems in Canada — such as the TTC, SkyTrain, OC Transpo, STM, and GO Transit — are generally clean, but upholstered seats can rarely transfer pests. Keep your backpack on your lap or place it on the floor rather than on cushioned seats. This habit is especially useful during busy travel seasons.

7. Use a Hard-Shell Suitcase When Possible

Hard-shell luggage is very popular among Canadian travellers, especially during winter months. It’s durable, weather-resistant, and less likely to pick up pests. If you frequently travel between provinces or cities, investing in a hard-shell suitcase is worthwhile.

8. Heat-Treat Your Clothes When You Get Home

Canadian travellers commonly toss vacation clothes straight into the wash. After your trip, wash everything on hot and dry it on high heat for at least 20–30 minutes. Heat is the most reliable method to eliminate potential pests or eggs.

If you’re ever unsure or want professional help, you can contact trusted specialists such as the best bed bug treatment providers available across Canada.

9. Vacuum and Wipe Down Your Suitcase

Once you unpack, vacuum your suitcase, focusing on:

• Zippers

• Seams

• Pockets

• Wheel areas

Some Canadians leave their suitcase in the garage or laundry room for a day or two before storing it away, especially after long trips.

10. Monitor Your Space for a Few Days

After returning home, give your bedroom a quick visual check for a week or so. Most likely everything will be perfectly fine, but early awareness always helps. Canadians are generally quite proactive about home care, and this simple step adds peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Canada is one of the safest and most enjoyable countries to explore — from its vast landscapes to vibrant cities. With these simple, practical habits, you can travel confidently knowing you’ve taken the right steps to protect your belongings and enjoy your trip without stress.