If you’ve ever enjoyed a summer evening around the campfire, then you know how quickly bugs can aggravate you and ruin your experience.
The return of summer camping unfortunately also means the return of mosquitos, and the loss of tranquil, bugless winter camping.
This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your night outdoors, though!
It simply means taking some extra steps to keep yourself and your campsite safe from bothersome pests.
Let’s go over some ways to help fight bugs while camping this summer.
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1.) Choose Your Campsite Wisely
Where you set up camp matters more than you might think.
Avoid pitching your tent in spots near standing water, especially when dispersed camping in national forests or off-trail.
Water, thick brush, or tall grass can be a source for ticks and other bugs.
Instead, try to stay in more open areas, as the breeze can help keep bugs from landing. A well-chosen campsite helps cut down on bug problems before you even start to involve other gear or resources.
2.) Use Bug Repellent
Insect repellent is your main line of defense against mosquitos and other biting bugs.
If you can stand the smell of it (some people can’t), bug spray can be an effective way to keep bugs away.
Spray repellent on all exposed parts of your body, including arms, legs, neck, and face.
Bugs will bite any part of you that you leave uncovered, so make sure you don’t miss any spots.
3.) Keep Your Campsite Clean
Food and trash that is left out can attract more than just raccoons and bears. It can also be an invite for bugs.
Always keep your food stored in containers with lids and dispose of trash properly.
Clean up immediately after meals so insects don’t even get the chance to come around searching.
A clean campsite is a happy campsite for many reasons!
4.) Get a Mesh Screen
Sometimes the best screen against bugs is a literal screen.
Your tent will naturally have some kind of mesh or barrier from bugs, but it can also be a good idea when camping in traditional campgrounds to invest in a screened-in canopy for your hang out area.
Some canopies are large enough to cover a picnic table area or fully enclose a one or two-person tent, giving you one more layer of protection from mosquitos.
Head nets can be used in areas where mosquito presence is extremely high.
5.) Try Other Remedies
Citronella tiki torches do more than just bring a tropical island vibe to your campsite.
They can actually create a barrier around your site that bugs will avoid.
They are perfect for small areas and can combo with campfire smoke to deter bugs.
6.) Wear the Correct Clothing
Sometimes the simplest solution is the best solution.
Wearing long sleeves and long pants can limit the amount of exposed skin you have available for mosquitos to bite.
In the summer, there may be times where you need to give up the comfort of your short sleeve for the sake of not scratching bug bites all night.
7.) Time Your Activities Properly
Bugs are usually worse in the morning and the evening, so it might benefit you to plan your hikes or activities for the middle of the day.
The temperature may be hotter but at least you won’t be getting bit.
Avoid sitting near water in the evenings especially, as this is where insects tend to congregate.
8.) Always Check for Ticks
Remember to check your body daily for any ticks you may have picked up on your adventures.
You’ll want to inspect your entire body, while paying extra attention to your legs, waistline, arms, and head.
Ticks are sneaky little buggers and can attach themselves to you without you ever noticing.
If you find a tick, remove it with tweezers as quickly as possible, as they can carry diseases.
Final Thoughts on Bugs
Bugs can be annoying, but you don’t have to let them ruin your camping trips this summer.
With the right precautions and the proper gear, you can stay comfortable even in the peak of bug season.
The fewer the bites, the more you will enjoy the outdoors, and a little precaution goes a long way.
Thanks for reading!
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