As millions prepare to travel in and out of the UK this winter, souvenirs aren't the only things travellers could be bringing back.

Recent news reports reveal a bedbug epidemic is underway, with infestations having risen by 62%. Google searches for 'how to check for bedbugs' have skyrocketed, seeing a surge of over 500% in the last 30 days, as infestations typically increase during the peak travel and festive season in winter.

Luckily, a mattress expert has put together a guide on how to check for early signs of a bedbug infestation and shared simple steps to help prevent the spread of these blood-sucking insects while travelling this winter.

Mattress specialist Sharon Robson from Mattress Online is sharing 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."

Sharon's top tip is a straightforward one: invest in hard-shell suitcases. She warns that soft-sided luggage provides numerous hidden nesting spots for bedbugs, potentially increasing your risk of unknowingly bringing them back from your travels.

Bedbugs tend to latch onto rough or porous surfaces, making hard-shell luggage with its smooth, solid surfaces a difficult terrain for them. Not only is this type of luggage harder for bedbugs to cling to, but it's also easier to inspect and disinfect, making it a worthy investment if you're concerned about these unwelcome guests.

Upon arrival at your accommodation, it's advisable to elevate your luggage above carpets and away from walls. Resist the urge to unpack your suitcase on the bed until you've had the opportunity to check for signs of bedbugs. Utilise metal luggage racks or place your case on a hard surface such as a table or desk.

There are a few tell-tale warning signs that your hotel room may be harbouring bedbugs, so before you start getting comfy, give your room a quick check.

Be alert for sweet, musty odours, which could indicate a large infestation. Also look out for black or rust-coloured stains on bedding and mattresses. Lastly, keep a keen eye out for empty, brown shells or flat, oval brown shapes, which could be the bugs themselves.

For a more thorough inspection, employ the credit card trick. Bedbugs often hide in tight spaces like mattress seams, labels, and tufts.

A credit card serves as a useful tool for probing these tight spots like mattress piping, bedframe corners, and any cracks. Gently press the card and scrape along creases to check for bugs and eggs.

If you're still worried about potential exposure to bedbugs during your travels, the first step upon returning home should be to wash all your clothes in hot water. Place your luggage on a hard surface such as a bathroom or laundry room floor and unpack directly into the washing machine.

Clean your garments on a hot wash cycle and dry them on high heat for 30-60 minutes to exterminate any live bugs or eggs.