How to Get Rid of Flies While Camping
Spending time outdoors is one of the best things a family can do during summer and it is only natural that when camping you want to enjoy it 100%. Trying to do activities and spend quality time while dealing with annoying flies can be a headache and that’s why there are ways to get rid of those pesky bugs.
[recommendations keyword=’how-to-get-rid-of-flies-camping’]
Camping and hiking is one of my favorite activities with my kids, but it can be very problematic with too many flies harassing us. After a few camping experiences, I’ve come up with ways to help us enjoy the outdoors without the flies getting in the way. Here I’ll share my tips on how to get rid of flies and also the best practices to avoid their presence while camping.
Preparation for Fly-Free Camping
The preparation stage will go a long way in guaranteeing an enjoyable camping experience. Before you start collecting your equipment, find out what species of flies are native to your camping destination.
Once you’ve identified the type of fly you will encounter, visit a local hardware store and stock up on fly repellents and traps. Taking the correct fly repellent along will allow you to set up and enjoy your campsite uninterrupted.
Additionally, it is important to reconsider the type of camping activity in order to avoid pests. If you’re planning on camping in a wooded area, be aware that the flies and other insects could invade. And if your camping trip will take place near water, the mosquitoes will be thicker. Knowing these things before you start packing will help you prepare adequately.
Furthermore, having the complete camping equipment can help you deter and keep the flies away. Setting up a camping canopy with netting can protect you as you enjoy the scenery and the outdoors. Being sheltered from the sun and the rain also diminishes the risk of flies.
6 Ways to Keep the Flies Away
Aside from the preliminary preparations, there are some additional measures to ensure a fly-free camping experience.
- Campfire: Setting up a campfire is a great way to deter flies away from your campground. The smoke helps get rid of the flies and when paired with a fly trap, can work great in keeping your campsite fly-free for the duration of your stay.
- Food and Drink: Flies will try to get to your food and drinks, so it is important to practice food safety and always close your food containers. When out and about, carry a canteen or a water bottle to stay hydrated and be sure to keep all food items sealed and out of sight.
- Clothes: Choose light, breathable clothes during camping and refrain from wearing bright colors. This will help you stay comfortable and also decrease the chances of calling flies’ attention to your campsite.
- Test Your Repellent: Before heading out for camping, check your repellent to make sure it is still efficient and be sure to bring it along with you. Your repellent might help you keep you safe during camping.
- Essential Oils: Applying essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, and cinnamon on your skin can make you a far less attractive target to flies. Rubbing some citronella oil on your body and furniture may also help to keep the flies away.
- Bucket Trap: Place a few buckets, then fill it with water and a small amount of vegetable oil. The flies are drawn to the smell of the vegetable oil and when they land on the surface, they can’t escape. This technique also works well with any of your own essential oil mixtures.
Check out the video below to find out more tips for a fly-free camping experience.
Be Natural, Be Fly-Free
By keeping in mind what kind of flies you’ll be facing and preparing some efficient bait traps, you don’t have to worry about the flies ruining your camping experience. Nature has ways to create a balance without depending on commercially-produced repellents, and by using those you can help protect the environment.
Making sure you have an adequate, insect-repellent camping equipment is key for protecting your campsite from flies and other insects. You can also check the campsite beforehand, you’d be surprised what a little bit of effort can do.
Count on the necessary items before camping, have a ready supply of natural insect repellents and you’ll be ready to enjoy a comfortable and fly-free camping session.