Gear: Baggage kills pests that might hide inside

Bedbugs and lice can surreptitiously infiltrate luggage and clothing before or after a trip. Now comes luggage that functions as an execution chamber for stowaway bugs by heating them to death.

ThermalStrike Heated Luggage has a lightweight polycarbonate blend outer shell, and inside -- hidden behind the lining – ultra-thin infrared heating panels. Just zip up the bag, plug the included electrical cord into the bag’s built-in socket, plug the other end into a wall socket, and slide the timer unit on the cord to two, four or eight hours.

The bag’s internal heat will reach up to a bug-lethal 140 degrees. Integrated sensors automatically turn off the unit when time’s up.

A blue light on the timer unit shows electricity is flowing; a green light alongside the bag’s input socket shows the heating panels are on the job.

An empty bag can be de-bugged in two hours, but the company recommends a full eight-hour cycle for clothes.

The luggage also provides spacious storage and internal zippered compartments, four spinner wheels, reinforced corner guards, and sturdy telescoping pull handles.

Note: Do not subject chocolate, medications, cosmetics and electronics to the heat.

ThermalStrike Heated Luggage is $199 for 20-inch wheeled carry on; $249 for 24-inch wheeled upright; $399 for matched pair.

Info: ThermalStrike Heated Luggage

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