Besides the nuisance and irritation of itchy insect bites, the biggest concern is the numerous diseases transmitted by mosquito bites, such as malaria, West Nile virus, encephalitis, dengue fever, and many others. Ticks can transmit Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Babesiosis, and other serious diseases. The safest way to avoid illness is to protect yourself with proper clothing and repellant methods. Buzzing, stalking, swarming, and biting things can be super annoying while spending time outdoors. Thankfully, there is a myriad of ways to keep yourself safe and protected.

AVOIDING THE BITEY THINGS:

Insects tend to be attracted to hot, sweaty skin, which is another excellent reason to stay hydrated and allow yourself enough time to rest and cool off. Wearing light-colored, tightly woven clothing with long sleeves and long pants tucked into your socks is the best way to avoid being bitten. There are outdoor clothing manufacturers that make clothing made with fabric that has been already permeated with insect repellent.

Some hikers avoid using chemical insect repellents due to the objectionable odor, potential for skin irritation, and other reasons. However, they are very effective for tick and mosquito-borne disease prevention. Treatment includes using insect repellent such as 35% DEET or picaridin, which have been proven safe for occasional use on the skin.

There are all-natural insect repellents that use essential oils instead of chemicals. Natural treatments work well for many people but typically must be reapplied frequently. See recipes below. (Apply DEET directly to the skin and avoid getting it on synthetic clothing and gear. Permethrin is safe for clothing and gear but should not be applied to the skin directly. Picaridin can be used on human skin or clothing to repel mosquitoes, biting flies, ticks, fleas, and chiggers. Most of these products are found in pump spray bottles, liquids, aerosols, or wipes)

Other tactics for preventing mosquito bites are physically avoiding areas with standing, stagnant water, where mosquitos breed, and taking extra precautions at dawn and dusk when they are the most active. Also, avoid walking through thick vegetation and tall grass, as these are common hiding places for ticks. Be sure to do a thorough “tick search” after a walk or a hike. Tick-borne diseases require the tick to stay attached for 24 hours or more; however, mosquito-borne diseases can be transmitted instantly.

OTHER WAYS TO AVOID BUGS WHILE BACKPACKING:

In addition to not attracting unwanted critters such as mice, raccoons, and bears to your campsite, another great reason to avoid scented body care products is to evade insects. Avoid soaps and other hygiene products that contain fragrances, as bugs are attracted to the odors. Unscented toiletries without chemicals and artificial fragrances are widely available.

Another way to repel flying insects is the smoke from a campfire. If the bitey things are really driving you crazy, throw a little bit of pine in the fire to produce more smoke. Some hikers bring citronella tea lights to scatter around a campsite. Although this is additional weight in your backpack, citronella can be effective at keeping bugs away. Remember to pack these away with other smellables, never leave a campfire or open flames unattended, and pack out any residual trash from spent candles.

Another recommendation is always to keep your tent or shelter door zipped closed at all times. Be especially mindful when entering and exiting through the doorway, and you will help create a bug-free sleeping environment. And as always, keep your campsite as clean and odor-free as possible. Wash your dishes and put all food and trash away as soon as you are finished eating.

As much as critters love the smell of many of the foods we eat, there are some foods they don’t enjoy. Garlic, onion, any type of mint, and citrus are among the foods that can repel unwanted creatures. However, you would need to eat a ridiculous quantity of these foods for it to permeate your skin. Eating onions and garlic frequently may make you more bug-repellent than your friends!

Other scents naturally repel bugs. You can make your own insect repellent with various essential oils. Mix 15 to 20 drops of pure, high-quality essential oil with a carrier oil such as jojoba or almond oil for a DIY roll-on repellent. If you are using a spray bottle, mix half a cup each of water and witch hazel along with a tablespoon of isopropyl rubbing alcohol and 15 to 20 drops of essential oils. The best essential oils to use to repel bitey things are:

  • Geranium
  • Citronella
  • Lemongrass
  • Mint
  • Rosemary
  • Tea Tree
  • Lavender
  • Eucalyptus
  • Cedarwood
  • Sage
  • Catnip

Use whatever method of repelling insects you must; the important thing is to take yourself for a walk. Don’t let the bitey things keep you from the healing and happiness of walking in nature.
A magnificent journey awaits you!
xoxCollin

[excerpt from WildWood Magic: Backpacking as a Sacred Practice]