How to Keep Bugs Away While Camping: 11 Top Tips
If you’re planning a camping trip, bugs can be a major annoyance. From mosquitoes to midges and wasps, these pesky insects can quickly ruin your outdoor adventure.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to keep bugs away while camping. Here are 10 top tips to help you avoid insect bites and enjoy a bug-free camping trip.
1. Choose the Right Campsite
The first step to keeping bugs away while camping is to choose your campsite wisely. When choosing a campsite:
- Avoid camping near standing water and dense vegetation, as this is where mosquitoes and other insects tend to breed.
- Try to camp in areas with a breeze, as this can help keep bugs away.
2. Wear Protective Clothing
One of the most effective ways to keep bugs away while camping is to wear protective clothing.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and tuck your pants into your socks to keep mosquitoes, ticks and other bugs from crawling up your legs.
- Wear a hat with a bug net to keep mosquitoes and other flying insects away from your face.
- Purchase clothing that has been treated with insect repellent to provide extra protection.
3. Use Bug Repellent
One of the easiest ways to keep bugs away while camping is to use bug repellent. There are many types of bug repellent available, from sprays to lotions to wipes.
Look for products that contain DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus, which are all effective at repelling mosquitoes and other biting insects. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label and reapply as directed.
4. Make Your Own Insect Repellent
If you prefer to use natural insect repellents, there are many DIY options available. Essential oils like lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus can be mixed with water and applied to your skin or clothing to repel bugs.
You can also make a DIY bug spray using witch hazel, apple cider vinegar, and essential oils.
5. Keep Your Campsite Clean
Bugs are attracted to food and garbage, so keeping your campsite clean is essential for keeping bugs away.
Be sure to store food in sealed containers and dispose of trash in designated bins. Clean up spills and crumbs immediately, and consider using a camp stove instead of an open fire to cook your meals.
6. Use Citronella Candles
Citronella candles and torches can help keep bugs away by emitting a scent that mosquitoes and other flying insects don’t like.
Be sure to place them around your campsite, especially near areas where you will be spending time, such as your tent or picnic table.
7. Avoid Wearing Perfumes or Fragrances
Mosquitoes are attracted to floral and fruity scents, so avoid wearing perfumes or fragrances while camping. This can help keep bugs away and prevent mosquito bites.
8. Use Mosquito Nets
If you’re camping in an area with a lot of mosquitoes, consider using a mosquito net over your sleeping area. This can be especially helpful if you’re camping in a hammock or sleeping under the stars.
Read also about 13 Essential Campsite Safety Tips.
9. Avoid Peak Mosquito Hours
Mosquitoes tend to be most active at dawn and dusk, so try to avoid spending time outdoors during these peak mosquito hours. Instead, plan your activities for the middle of the day when mosquitoes are less active.
10. Use a Fan
Using a fan can help keep bugs away by creating a breeze that mosquitoes and other flying insects don’t like. Consider bringing a portable fan with you on your camping trip to help keep bugs away from your campsite.
11. Invest in Bug-Proof Gear
If you’re serious about keeping bugs away while camping, consider investing in bug-proof gear. Look for tents and sleeping bags with bug nets, and consider using a bug-proof canopy over your picnic table.
Final Word
In conclusion, keeping bugs away while camping is possible with the right strategies and preparation.
By choosing your campsite wisely, using bug repellent and natural remedies, covering up, keeping your campsite clean, and investing in bug-proof gear, you can enjoy a bug-free camping trip and make the most of your time in nature.
