How to Avoid Mosquito Bites While Camping
Every camper knows that one of the most common nuisances when spending time in the great outdoors is mosquitoes. They buzz around, leaving behind their itchy and irritating bites. Mosquito bites are not only a nuisance, they can also be dangerous as they can carry diseases and cause allergic reactions in some people. As a father of three kids and an experienced camper, I want to share some of my tips on how to prevent mosquito bites while camping.
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Choose Your Campsite Carefully
Mosquitoes like warm, wet, and humid environments. When deciding on a campsite, try to avoid low-lying areas that might be damp. Mosquitoes are often attracted to still water, so if you can, camp away from swamps, marshes, ponds, and other areas where water might accumulate.
Treat Your Clothes
If you’re worried that mosquitoes might bite you, treating your clothes is a good way to keep them away. There are two ways to do this: DEET and Permethrin. DEET is a chemical compound that has been proven to be effective for over 70 years and is available in many forms, such as sprays, wipes, and creams. Permethrin is a more recent innovation and has been known to be even more effective than DEET in keeping mosquitoes away. Both of these products can be purchased at camping gear stores and should be applied to any clothes that you plan to wear during your camping trip.
Wear Protective Clothing
Another way to prevent mosquito bites is to wear protective clothing. Long-sleeved shirts and pants can help protect your skin from bites and should be worn whenever possible. Hats, socks, and scarves can also be used to protect exposed skin. If you do choose to wear shorts and t-shirts, make sure you apply a mosquito repellent as well.
Set Up a Mosquito Net
A mosquito net is a great way to keep mosquitoes away from your sleeping space. They come in many shapes and sizes, so you should be able to find one that will fit your camping tent easily. Place the netting over the tent as soon as you set up camp and make sure it is tightly fitted so that no mosquitoes can get in.
Other Tips & Tricks
- Avoid wearing bright or dark colors as these attract mosquitoes more than lighter colors.
- Order an ultrasonic pest repeller to keep the mosquitoes away without harmful chemicals.
- Avoid using scented products and perfumes. Fragrances attract mosquitoes.
- Make sure to cover any open food containers when outside as mosquitoes are attracted to food.
How to Treat Mosquito Bites
If you or someone in your group has been bitten by a mosquito, there are a few steps you can take to relieve the itching and swelling. Applying an ice pack or a cold compress can help reduce swelling and cool the affected area. Hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion can help relieve the itching and are available at most drugstore. If you have severe itching or irritation you can take an antihistamine, such as Benadryl or Claritin.
Stay Protected and Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Nobody likes to get bitten by mosquitoes while camping, but knowing how to prevent bites can help keep the experience enjoyable for everyone. With the right steps, you can enjoy your camping trip without the worry of pesky mosquito bites. So pack your repellents, wear the right clothing and don’t forget the mosquito net!