Mosquitoes are no joke when it comes to camping. They can ruin a good time real quick! But don’t worry, there are ways to keep them under control.
How to repel mosquitoes while camping and what is the best camping mosquito control?
Mosquitoes are no joke when it comes to camping. They can ruin a good time real quick! But don’t worry, there are ways to keep them under control.
How to repel mosquitoes while camping and what is the best camping mosquito control?
If you think that camping and pesky mosquitoes go hand in hand, think again. You can deal with these insects quickly if you know some tricks.
I tried different solutions so read on to have a nice outdoor trip without little bloodsuckers as they don’t belong to your party.
Best mosquito repellent for camping
Consider my smart tips and insect repellent ideas to enjoy your camping trip mosquito-free.
1. Use a mosquito bug spray
Using traditional bug sprays is one of the most common anti-mosquito methods that you can use on a camping trip. A bug spray contains chemical treatments that insects can’t tolerate so using one will help.
If bug sprays irritate your skin you should avoid them. There are mosquito repellent creams that function just as bug sprays which you can get if you are not a fan of sprays.
2. Use a bug repellent bracelet
If you are irritated by bug repellent spray, then consider a bug repellent bracelet as a way of keeping mosquitoes away from you.
The mosquito repellent bracelets emit treated vapors that repel them so they are one of the best ways to repel insects.
Bracelets are easy to use and can be worn on your wrist or ankle.
Most bug repellent bracelets use citronella oil, which is one of the natural repellents. The oil is absorbed into the bracelet material, and it gives off a scent that keeps the unwanted pests away.
Some bug repellent bracelets also have a built-in light. This can be helpful when you are trying to find your way in the dark.
Hint: You don’t have to wear the bracelet if you don’t feel like it. You can hang it in the tent and it will still protect you.
3. Camping lantern with a mosquito killer
Bug zappers or bug lanterns are devices used for the control of flying insects, especially mosquitoes. How do bug zappers work?
They are usually electric grid traps, which operate when an insect enters the device and is electrocuted.
Bug zappers are a popular tool for camping mosquito control. They can be hung from a tree or post, and work to draw in mosquitoes from all around.
Have a 12-hour protection
If you want scent-free insect protection you can opt for a Thermacell mosquito repellent camping lantern.
The lantern uses a 12-hour fuel cartridge and blue heat-activated repellent mats to stop insects from coming near you.
This bug zapper provides 15 feet zone protection from the bloodsuckers which you can use on the porch or inside the tent. It’s one of the most efficient insect repellents.
4. Get a mosquito repellent device
A mosquito repellent device is an effective insect repellent due to bug repelling properties.
It’s a gadget that emits an odor or Ultrasonic frequencies that are said to keep annoying mosquitoes and other insects away. The gadget is battery-operated.
There is no scientific evidence that these devices work, but some people find them helpful. If you are considering using one of these devices, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
You can choose among DEET-free, portable, durable, compact, and rechargeable devices that you can use inside the tent or at the tent’s porch.
5. Hang a mosquito coil holder
The market offers mosquito coil holders that vary in shapes and sizes. Some are quite simple and others are quite intricate, often resembling small sculptures.
They can be made from a variety of materials such as plastic, metal, or even bamboo.
Mosquito coils work by emitting smoke and are effective mosquito repellent. The smoke is typically generated by a small piece of incense that is lit at the top of the coil.
The coil holder is used to hold the mosquito coil in place, and also to protect the user’s hands from the heat generated by the incense.
W4W mosquito repellent coil
Check the mosquito coil from W4W that will protect the area of 10 feet. The package includes 12 coils and 6 holders. Each coil burns for 5-7 hours to provide long-lasting protection.
With the purchase, you will get their comprehensive e-book guide that has 36 pages of useful tips for mosquito-free living.
Natural mosquito repellent for camping
Natural bug repellents are a great way to keep pesky bugs away while camping. There are many different types of these repellents, including citronella candles, essential oils, and plants.
Here you have three simple, natural ways how to prevent mosquito bites and itchy bumps on your next camping trip.
1. What can you burn to get rid of mosquitos?
These flying bloodsuckers hate the smell of sage and it is one of the best ways to repel mosquitoes while camping. Throw some sage leaves into a campfire and allow the smoke to fill up the area.
Sage has a refreshing smell and it will make the air around you pleasant. This is another reason to burn it in your campfire. The smell of sage will linger on your clothes and skin and act as a natural bug repellent.
2. Mint as a natural bug repellent
Mint is another natural insect repellent that you can opt for to keep mosquitoes away. They hate its smell.
Mint is a plant that is known for its strong scent. This scent is often used to keep biting bugs away, making mint a popular choice for use in bug repellents.
Simply crush up some mint leaves and spread them around your campsite. The smell will naturally repel the mosquitoes, keeping you safe from itchy bites.
You can have the mint growing in a pot or you can chew some mint gum.
The intention is to have the smell of mint around you and all these options will help you accomplish that. You can also choose to brush your teeth with mint toothpaste.
Alternatively, you can put some mint mouthwash in a spray bottle and spray some of it around your campsite.
Peppermint oil for bug bites
Not only does mint work to keep mosquitoes away, but it can also be used to treat insect bites. Simply apply a few drops of mint essential oil directly to the bite to help soothe and relieve the itch.
Hint: Make sure that you are using one of the organic mint essential oils to have positive effects!
Essential oils for mosquito repellent
Essential oils can be of great help to repel insects as they are natural and not harmful. That being said, these oils are perfect for kids (as long they aren’t allergic to them).
Some oils work better than others; for example, lemon eucalyptus oil is a known natural mosquito repellent that you should consider using.
These are essential oils that bugs hate:
- Lemon eucalyptus oil
- Citronella oil
- Rosemary oil
- Eucalyptus oil
- Peppermint oil
- Tea tree oil
- Garlic oil
When using any of these oils, mix them with a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil. Apply the mixture to your skin before going outdoors camping.
Coffee mosquito repellent
Coffee grounds are one of the easiest-to-use bug natural repellents. Mosquitoes don’t like the smell of coffee and they will fly away from it.
You can sprinkle coffee grounds around your campsite or use them in a DIY repellent bug spray. Coffee is a great way to keep mosquitoes away while camping, but it is important to use fresh grounds.
Light a mosquito candle
Mosquitos hate smoke and lighting a candle is a temporary solution that will help you repel them for a while.
The most popular mosquito candle are citronella candles that emit a vapor into the air that repels them. This type of candle isn’t ideal for insect mass repulsion but it will keep your personal area bug-free.
Light a Coleman citronella candle for repelling mosquitoes and have a romantic light on your tent’s porch.
Additional tips for a bug-free camping
I advise you also to take a look at the useful tips that I consider when going summer camping or camping close to swamps that attract bugs.
Destroy their breeding ground
This is a great method that will help you deal with insects at your campsite.
Mosquitos breed in still waters so you should find any stagnant water near your camp and get rid of it or find a better tent pitching location.
If there is a bucket of water that hasn’t been used for a while, get rid of it as it could provide the perfect setting for female mosquitoes to lay mosquito larvae.
Do the same for the pools of water in your campsite, rain gutters, and downspouts.
Avoid perfumes
Scents attract mosquitoes and so does perfume. Not wearing them is, therefore, a great way of making sure that they don’t disturb you. Instead, use unscented deodorants after washing up and keep a low profile.
Shower with the degradable soap that has no smell and wear fresh clothes. If you sweat a lot make sure to opt for a deodorant that is made of natural ingredients and has no smell.
Get a tent with mosquito mesh
Most of the camping tents have mesh, not just to increase ventilation but also to prevent insects and other animals such as spiders from coming inside.
Three season tents
Three-season tents are known to have a lot of mesh on the roof, doors, and windows. This means you can have mesh doors closed for good airflow and to stop bugs from entering.
Check (and repair) your camping tent
If you have an older tent check if it doesn’t have any holes or tears so animals can get in. I suggest that you set it up in the backyard before going outdoors to see if it is bug-proof.
If there is a tear in the fabric repair it to make sure you will have a peaceful night.
Get a screen room tent
There is also a camping tent with a bug net that will let the air in but unable the insects from coming close to you.
A screen tent is perfect for mosquito screen camping and one of the best mosquito tents for camping in the summertime.
Take a look at the Alvantor screen house tent that is highly ventilated and can be used for different occasions.
Look for the no-see-um mesh
No-see-um mesh is a very fine mesh fabric that is used to keep mosquitoes and other small insects out of your tent or sleeping area.
It is available at most camping and outdoor stores and is a great way to keep the bugs away while you’re trying to get some quality rest.
No-see-um mesh is made of very thin, lightweight fabric that is designed to let air through but keeps bugs out.
It is usually available in a variety of colors and can be attached to your tent or sleeping bag with hooks or loops.
One of the best mosquito nets for camping is a Gloryfire camping net that has four reinforced hanging corners specially treated mosquito net. It is a cheap pop-up net for camping that anyone can afford.
However, some tent manufacturers include this type of mesh on their camping tents in the first place so you don’t have to buy a separate no-see-um mesh for your tent to stay protected.
A camping hammock with a mosquito net
Camping hammocks with mosquito netting are mosquito-proof and will allow you to rest without bug attacks.
This outdoor equipment is appropriate to use for an individual who wants to have a mosquito-free camping trip.
Start a campfire
Mosquitoes can be annoying in the evening as well as throughout the day so the best thing to do is to set up a campfire. The fire will keep tiny insects and wild animals away.
A campfire is a perfect way to stay warm, cook a meal and stay protected from blood-sucking insects.
Hint: Do you want more smoke from a campfire to deter mosquitoes? Put some wet wood logs on or wet leaves and little vampires won’t have a chance.
What can you put in your campfire to keep mosquitoes away?
Citronella logs, cedar logs (especially cedar bark), cedar kindling, sage bundles, and citronella firestarters are popular and simple ways to control mosquitoes at a campsite while enjoying over a campfire.
Mosquitoes also dislike the smell of cloves, so try stuffing some cloves into an orange and roasting it over the campfire. Mosquitoes and other pests hate citrus peels so make sure you spread them at your campsite.
How do mosquitos spread diseases?
Getting a disease from a mosquito is the worst-case scenario if one bites you. Mosquito bites aren’t only painful but could be a reason to get you a disease. These little devils fly from one host to another and suck blood.
They can transmit illness from one person to the next. Malaria, yellow fever, and West Nile virus are just some of them.
Avoid the possibility of getting bitten and keep them away from you when you are enjoying the outdoors.
What is the best homemade mosquito repellent?
Make your own mosquito repellent that is easy to do. You can use different ingredients to make your natural bug spray.
Some of the most common ingredients are:
- Eucalyptus oil
- Citronella oil
- Lemon eucalyptus oil
- Peppermint oil
You can also use other ingredients, such as soybean oil, vinegar, or natural witch hazel.
To make your repellent, you will need to mix the ingredients together. You can use a spray bottle or a lotion bottle to put the repellent in.
Use about 30 drops of oil for every 2 ounces of liquid. If you are using a spray bottle, shake it well before each use.
You can apply the repellent to your skin or clothes. It is important to reapply the repellent often, especially if you are sweating or in water.
Mosquitoes can bite through thin clothing, so you may want to use a stronger repellent if you are wearing clothes that are not thick.
How do you keep mosquitoes out of your tent?
To keep your sleeping area pests-free, you can use a variety of methods. Hang a citronella candle or incense nearby.
You can also place a fan nearby to keep the air circulating. Alternatively, you can use a mosquito netting canopy which will protect you from most pests.
When you go to sleep, close all the flaps and doors of your tent. If you are using a screened-in tent, make sure the screens are closed uptight.
You can also use a mosquito repellent spray inside your tent. Be sure to avoid spraying the repellent directly on your exposed skin. Instead, spray it on a cloth and then hang the cloth inside your tent.
What to wear to protect from mosquitoes?
Long sleeves and pants are great to stop them from biting you. They love the heat and when you will be camping at warm temperatures you can expect them to come.
Insect repellent fabrics
Since camping in long sleeves and pants in summer can be torture, you can opt for lightweight, loose-fitting gourmets. Did you know that you have clothes that have insect repellent inside the fabric?
These clothes are treated with the insecticide permethrin. It is a synthetic version of a chemical that is produced naturally by the chrysanthemum flower.
If you want to try them look for the Insect Shield and Burlington brands.
Summary
Mosquitoes are pesky insects that can ruin a camping trip for sure if you go camping without the right protection.
However, there are ways to protect yourself from these pesky critters.
By using some of the tips and tricks I’ve shared in this post, you can enjoy your time outdoors while keeping the mosquitoes at bay.
Have you tried any of my methods for camping mosquito control? What worked best for you?
