What is one way bed bugs can be transported unassisted by humans?

Bed bugs are known for their ability to cling to or hide in various items, making them highly mobile without requiring direct human intervention. One of the primary means by which they are transported unassisted is through furniture that is being moved. When people relocate or transport items such as couches, chairs, or mattresses, bed bugs can easily migrate from one location to another by residing in the seams, creases, or hidden areas of the furniture. This method does not depend on human handling of the bugs directly but rather takes advantage of how they can discreetly inhabit objects that are commonly moved.

While other options provide some potential for transport, they are not as consistent or significant contributors to the spread of bed bugs. For instance, vehicle engines or pet fur can theoretically harbor bed bugs, but these are less common scenarios compared to the straightforward transport via furniture. Moreover, wind currents are highly unlikely to carry bed bugs far, as they are not naturally equipped to navigate through air like lighter parasites might. Therefore, moving furniture represents the most notable and practical way bed bugs can travel without direct human transport.