What Tourists Need to Know About Bedbugs in Las Vegas Hotels: A Las Vegas trip is usually enjoyable. Tourists from all over the world come to visit the casinos, shows, and iconic hotels on the Strip. That was not the case, though, for a few recent tourists—one that came with bedbugs. Three travelers have sued two famous Las Vegas hotels for reportedly having bedbugs in their rooms.

This is a wake-up call for every traveler. Here’s what happened, what it means for your next trip, and how you can protect yourself from bedbugs when staying in hotels.

Bedbugs in Las Vegas Hotels: Tourists Sue Over Bedbug Bites

Courtney and Stephen Gully from Illinois and Briana McKenzie from Washington state filed a suit against the Luxor Hotel. Teresa Bruce from California filed against Treasure Island Hotel. These are two well-known resorts on the Las Vegas Strip.

The guests complained of being bitten by bedbugs during their stay and experiencing pain, itching, and allergic reactions. In one case, Courtney Gully was rushed to the hospital in an ambulance after her reaction became severe. After hotel staff confirmed that there were bedbugs in her room, the Luxor refunded a part of her stay and gave her some additional compensation.

In Bruce’s case, the hotel moved her to a different room—but it also had bedbugs in it. She was told to visit the pharmacy on the ground floor for some cream, but nothing else was done. All three women reported needing additional medical treatment after they returned home. Each lawsuit asks for over $30,000 in costs.

Why Bedbugs Are a Big Deal

Bedbugs in Las Vegas Hotels: Bedbugs are tiny blood-feeding bugs that bite during the night when people are sleeping. They commonly inhabit cracks, crevices, seams of mattresses, and furniture. While they do not spread disease, their bites can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, and emotional distress. Bedbugs are also hard to get rid of, and their infestation can quickly get out of control if not dealt with properly.

Hotels are meant to be clean, secure establishments. A bedbug infestation can ruin a vacation and harm a hotel’s image. That’s why these incidents are making headlines—they show how a small thing like an insect can turn into a huge problem for both hotel owners and customers.

How to Check Your Hotel Room for Bedbugs

If you’re in a hotel, Bedbugs in Las Vegas Hotels or otherwise, it’s not a bad idea to check your room for bedbugs before you settle in. Here are some simple steps you can take:

• Check the bed first. Pull back the sheets and look at the seams in the mattress and box spring. Use a flashlight if necessary.

• Look for signs. You might see tiny dark spots (bedbug feces), cast-off small skins, or the bugs themselves.

• Inspect furniture. Bedbugs prefer to hide in nightstands, couches, chairs, and headboards.

• Don’t put luggage on the bed. Use luggage racks, and keep your suitcase zipped when not in use.

• The best time to detect bedbugs is at night, but an inspection during the day can still be useful.

What to Do If You Find Bedbugs

If you see any signs of bedbugs:

• Take photos or videos as proof.

• Alert hotel staff immediately.

• Request a different room that is located far from the original room—or consider changing hotels.

• Ask for a refund or compensation if needed.

When you return home, it’s a good habit to inspect luggage and clothing once more. Wash all clothing in hot water and vacuum your suitcase thoroughly. If possible, put luggage in a hot vehicle for a few hours because heat will destroy bedbugs and eggs.

How Hotels Can Improve

Bedbugs in Las Vegas Hotels: Hotels must take bedbug complaints seriously. Legal issues can be prevented and guests protected by providing clean rooms, making regular inspections, and taking quick action on complaints. When a guest complains of bedbugs, the hotel must:

• Offer a thorough inspection and professional extermination.

• Move the guest to a clean, bedbug-free room.

• Cover related medical treatment if needed.

• Increase cleanliness and staff training.

Bedbugs in Las Vegas Hotels: Final Thoughts

Travel is meant to be a pleasure, yet unwanted critters like bedbugs have a way of turning a dream holiday into a nightmare. The lawsuits against Las Vegas hotels are a reminder that even luxury resorts are not necessarily bedbug-free.

Bedbugs in Las Vegas Hotels: As a traveler, taking a few minutes to check your room for bedbugs can save you agony, anxiety, and doctor bills. Furthermore, if a problem ever does occur, know your rights and speak up. Safe, clean lodging should always be a part of your travel experience—no matter where you go.