Bug Repellants

The Camper’s Guide to Outsmarting Bugs, Wasps, Mosquitoes and Insects

Camping should be immersive and not invasive. However, with insects, mosquitoes, wasps and ticks, it can turn a peaceful trip to a battle zone.

From Thermacell to bug sprays and insect repellants, here’s how you can keep the buzz away and enjoy your trip the way it was meant to be, itch-free and uninterrupted.

Know what you are dealing with:

BUGS

WHERE

RISKS

Mosquitoes

Lakes, wetlands, dawn/dusk, warm environments

Bites, disease

Wasps & Hornets

Near food, garbage, sweet drinks

Stings, allergic reactions

Ticks

Tall grass, forests

Lyme disease

Sand Flies or No-See-Ums

Near water in woods, humid forests

Persistent bites

Set up protective zones with Thermacell

Thermacell creates an invisible, scent-free, up to 20-foot zone of protection using heat-activated repellent. It is DEET-free, people and pet-friendly, and lasts for hours. It also works silently in the background with zero disturbance to fun.

It’s best used when it outdoors especially in the areas such as:

  • Camp kitchens
  • Picnic area
  • Tent entrances
  • Fireside hangouts

Bug Sprays that Work

On the move? This is where spray comes in. Hiking, portaging, or gathering firewood puts you directly in the path of bugs. A good spray keeps you covered from black flies, biting midges, deer flies, stable flies, ticks, mosquitoes and chiggers.

It’s also important to choose the right bug spray that suits your needs.

Spray your ankles, cuffs, hat brims, wrists and anywhere bugs might sneak in. For ticks, don’t forget your socks and waistband.

Tip: Treat hiking clothes with permethrin spray before the trip. It can stay effective for up to 6 washes.

Set Your Camp for Success

Where and how you pitch your tent makes a big difference.

It’s best used when it outdoors especially in the areas such as:

  • Mosquito bite: Calamine or antihistamine cream will help and avoid scratching as it can only get worse.
  • Tick bites: Remove with tweezers. Monitor for symptoms.
  • Wasp stings: Cold compress, and antihistamine. If it’s allergic, carry an EpiPen.

✓ DO

✕ DON'T

Set up your tent in a sunny spot and away from stagnant or standing water

Camp right next to ponds, marshes, or dense brush

Keep tent zippers always shut

Leave your tent flap open even for a minute

Store food and garbage in sealed bins

Keep snacks inside your tent

Skip scented lotions and perfumes

Little extras that make the difference

  • Mosquito head nets offer full protection when the bugs are relentless.
  • Light-coloured clothing makes you less attractive to mosquitoes.
  • Avoid floral scents in shampoos or lotions as bugs love them.