Millions of people across the UK are setting off for Christmas. Whether you're heading overseas, or visiting family in the UK, there is one thing you need to be aware of.

Bed bugs can lurk anywhere, and if you bring them back into your home it will swiftly become a nightmare. Bed bugs are hard to get rid of once they're in your home and often need expensive pest treatment. The best way to protect yourself is to stop an infestation before it starts.

To do this, the experts at Thermopest have shared their top tips for keeping your home bed bug free.

The first thing you need to do when you get to your destination is thoroughly inspect it.

James Rhoades from Thermopest said: "Don't place your luggage on the bed as soon as you arrive.

"First, inspect the mattress by pulling back the sheets and checking the seams and corners for dark spots. Also check the headboard and any upholstered furniture for signs of activity."

If you suspect any bed bugs, request a new room immediately and ask for one as far away from the affected area as possible.

James said that luggage is one of the easiest ways to bring bed bugs back to your home. He recommends keeping your bags away from soft surfaces.

He said: "Store it on a metal rack, bed bugs struggle to climb smooth surfaces. Avoid placing bags on the floor or bed where they might be hiding.

"Bed bugs find it harder to get onto hard surfaces, so opt for hard-case luggage rather than a fabric one.

"If possible, keep your luggage closed or zipped up at all times, or use large plastic bags to seal your luggage throughout your stay."

Bed bugs also tend to hide in clothing, so protecting your outfits is crucial too.

James said: "Bed bugs tend to gravitate towards the scent of humans, so keep your worn/dirty clothes in a separate plastic bag until you can wash them.

"Don't leave your clothes out, especially if you suspect bed bugs, try keeping them in vacuum-sealed bags during your trip to prevent them from getting in."

Once you arrive home, triple check your luggage for signs of bed bugs so you don't cause an infestation in your home.

James said: "Unpack everything, directly into the washing machine and run a hot wash.

"Inspect your suitcase inside and out, especially pockets, seams and linings, for dark spots, shed skins or live bugs. Frequent travellers should make this part of their routine to catch infestations early."