As UK summer travel peaks with the school holidays, Rentokil Pest Control is warning the public to be vigilant when staying in hotels, B&Bs or rented accommodation, as bed bug cases appear to be on the rise.
The latest data from Rentokil Pest Control shows confirmed bed bug activity in the UK increased by an average of 44% year-on-year between 2023 and 2025, highlighting the growing challenge posed by one of the world’s most notorious hitchhiking pests ahead of the 2026 main holiday season.
Despite their association with poor hygiene, bed bugs can be found in any type of accommodation, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Bed bugs can be present even in very clean accommodation as they typically move from location to location on people or luggage, making it vital that all travellers know what to look out for.
Paul Blackhurst, head of Technical Academy at Rentokil Pest Control, said: “Bed bugs are incredibly cryptic by nature, meaning they’re experts at staying hidden and avoiding detection. They’re often described as silent assassins, emerging under cover of darkness, moving quickly, feeding at night, and hiding in the smallest cracks and crevices near where people sleep. By the time people realise they’re there, an infestation may already be well established.
“Their ability to remain hidden for long periods is what makes them such a challenging pest to manage. That’s why early detection is so important. Knowing what signs to look for when you arrive at your accommodation, and taking a few simple precautions with your luggage, can help prevent bed bugs from being brought home and reduce the risk of an infestation taking hold.”
On returning home, Rentokil Pest Control said travellers should take precautions by washing all clothing, including unworn items, on a high heat setting (60°C). It’s also important to check suitcases and holdalls (paying particular attention to their seams) carefully before storing them.
