There’s not much getting around it — bugs always have been, and most likely always will be, a part of the outdoor experience. Fortunately, man learned long ago how to mix certain concoctions that would make them stay away, and for good reason. Because you just can’t tell which mosquito is the one that will infect you with Lyme’s Disease, West Nile Virus, and other bacterial infections, precaution is your most powerful weapon. With camping season just around the corner, make sure your gear includes appropriate insect repellent for your location, and stop them before they even get a chance to start!
1. For the Body
If you know you’re going to be in an area with prolific insects, just make application of insect repellent part of your morning and evening routine. Bug bites can make a person absolutely miserable, especially if they have a more intense reaction to the bites. You know they’re going to be there, so be ready to repel them. Try this line from Natrapel, a company that makes DEET-free insect repellent in a pump spray, continuous spray, and wipes to repel insects like black flies, chiggers, fleas, horse flies, ticks, and mosquitoes. It uses a 20 percent Picaridin formula, a substance that has been proven to be more effective, but with less of the irritation associated with DEET. It is also safe for use on your gear, as it will not dissolve synthetic substances. The test subjects of these claims? The Australian Army. We don’t know about you, but we are inclined to trust those guys when it comes to bugs. Having a supply of Natrapel on hand for any outdoor adventure just seems like the right thing to do!
2. For the Camp
If you want to extend your offense wider than your own personal salvation, there are some great products out there that can really set a perimeter. Try these mosquito sticks from Coghlan’s that look like candles on a stick, basically. You plant the stick in the ground and light the candle, giving you 3-4 hours of blessed reprieve from those cursed mosquitoes. You get 5 in each package — choose wisely! If you were one of those kids who loved the “snake” firecracker, you’ll probably do well with Coghlan’s mosquito coils. Simply put a coil on its included metal stand, light it, and then you enjoy 8 hours of a mosquito-free night under the stars. Ten coils = 80 hours without the little vampires crashing your camp. Worth its weight in gold.
3. All the Way
If you are drenched in insect repellent and have every coil lit and still aren’t feeling secure, it’s time to bring out the ultimate repellent: mosquito netting. If you have a hammock, there are specific nets that are designed for your needs; if you use a tent, you can get a single or double size for denying entry to any flying nuisances. For day hikes and a particularly impervious look, you could even get a head net that simply slips over your hat to keep your every activity free from those flying monsters, day or night.
4. Failing All Else
If you still discover bites after these valiant efforts to discourage them, don’t worry, because you really tried your best. Just have the after-care for insect bites on hand, and you may find that you’re still better off than not being prepared at all. For your typical mosquito bite or even a bee sting, try the After-Bite Itch Eraser. Apply to bites just like you’re using a pen, and within minutes the pain and swelling will be reduced. For more severe bites, including those from fire ants, wasps, and jellyfish stings, bring out their Xtra formula, made from baking soda, ammonia, and tea tree oil to help neutralize the wound and promote faster healing. When all else fails, just pick up the pieces.
Featured Image from Rob Pumphrey/Unsplash
