How to prevent ticks and mosquitoes when camping
Your camping holiday is finally here. Maybe you’re off on a two-week adventure or just heading to the beach in your camper or camper van. The main thing is, you’re getting out into nature. Unfortunately, mosquitoes, ticks and the like are thinking the same thing. But not to worry, in this article we’ll give you some hints and tips on how avoid unwanted company.
How to prevent mosquito bites
You can’t escape insects. But you can make it harder for them to pester you. Among other things, by choosing your campsite with care. Avoid especially shady and damp places. If you are travelling in drier regions, choose a site that is as high as possible. Mosquitoes are less prevalent there.
Good to know:
The wind is your friend. Mosquitoes do not like the wind at all. It is different with water. Whether standing or flowing water, larger numbers of these small biters can be found near water. The further away you are from water, the better.
Let there be light... preferably not, actually
It’s really a no-brainer, but nonetheless: mosquitoes, moths and the like love light. So, close all doors and windows before you turn on the light. Mosquitoes are not just attracted by smell and the air you breathe out. They are also attracted to artificial light sources, such as lamps or light bulbs. They are brighter than natural light. And they also radiate a wide spectrum of light wavelengths. That is why some insect traps use this kind of light – to attract and catch mosquitoes.
Help, what helps?
Make sure that you tolerate sprays!
The following have proved to be most successful: sprays, traps, mosquito nets, fly screens and the right clothes. In the UK, natural mosquito sprays are usually sufficient; they often contain aloe vera, citronella and essential oils and are above all skin-friendly (chemical sprays often contain DEET). But be aware: products that don’t use chemicals can still be a problem for you. After all, even if they are good for the environment, they can still cause allergies in some people. Before using them, it is essential that you check which essential oils are used as the base. Furthermore, it cannot be said that chemical-free versions are automatically better as defence against insects. However, there are very effective chemical-free plant-based sprays containing citriodol (from lemon eucalyptus).
Proven for ticks: permethrin on your clothes and equipment. Mosquito nets and fly screens are old favourites that work. The right clothes to protect yourself against mosquitoes and ticks: long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, light-coloured clothes (make it easier to spot ticks). Wearing socks over trousers makes it difficult for them to access your skin.
A useful hint for keeping mosquitoes out of your camper van: a lemon-clove mix. Just take a lemon and a few cloves. Cut the lemons into quarters and insert the cloves into the lemon quarters. Mosquitoes like to avoid the scent of cloves and lemons.
Do-It-Yourself
Sprays not your thing? Then focus on certain smells that repel mosquitoes and ticks. Get lemon balm, basil or tomato plants and put them in small pots. Or cut sage into small pieces and light it in a small saucer.
The smoke keeps the mosquitoes away.
You can also position essential oils, such as citronella or eucalyptus, in small containers in your camper van – or use them as an oil to combat ticks. Some swear by coconut oil to fight off ticks. According to the German newspaper, Süddeutsche Zeitung; garlic, vitamins, mosquito bracelets or insect apps are of little or no use at all.
What to do if you find a tick on you?
As annoying as mosquito bites are, they are not dangerous. By contrast, ticks can transmit diseases, such as Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). If you find a tick on your skin, it is important to remove it immediately in the correct way. Use tick tongs or a tick card to do this. Then disinfect the puncture point! Are there signs of infection or a red ring around the puncture? If so, seek medical attention immediately.
Check armpits, knees and skin creases
Prevention? Mega-important with ticks. Therefore, regularly check your body, especially the back of your knees, armpits, groin, and hairline. Also check your clothes and equipment. Showering is also the best thing to do after being outdoors. And your clothes also need to be washed. Preferably washed at a high temperature. And don’t forget to check your animal companion.
And so, in summary...
You can prevent unpleasant bites and possible diseases. To do so, combine measures, such as wearing appropriate clothing, using insect repellent, and choosing a suitable campsite. Regularly check your body, clothing, and environment, and use special defence methods, such as mosquito nets and permethrin impregnation.
