Bed bugs on the Camino: how to prevent them and what to do

In short: There are often several itchy bites in a row, usually on the arms, legs or back.

Nobody likes the subject, yet almost every pilgrim asks about it. Bed bugs turn up in some albergues. They have nothing to do with poor hygiene, as they travel in backpacks.

How to recognise them

The bites itch and are often in rows. On the mattress you sometimes see tiny black dots or small brown insects. Take a quick look at the seams before you spread out your sleeping bag.

Prevention

Don't put your backpack on the bed. Keep it in a fixed spot instead. Some pilgrims treat their sleeping bag and backpack with a suitable product in advance, so ask at a pharmacy about this.

If it happens

Tell the hospitalero straight away so that the albergue can react. This matters for everyone else. Then wash all your clothes at 60 degrees or more and put them in a hot dryer. Anything that won't go in the machine should stay in an airtight bag for a while.

Stay calm

The bites are annoying, but usually harmless. If there is a lot of swelling, go to a pharmacy. You will find the house rules in our albergue etiquette guide.