Friday, June 20, 2014 - Blog on a Log
3 Ways to Beat the Bugs this Summer
It seems this summer, after taking its dear, sweet time in coming, has decided to bless us with more than our fair share of buzzing, biting critters. If you want to sleep soundly through the summer months, an ounce of prevention is worth at least a pound of cure - so we've lined up our 3 favourite ways to keep your adventures bug-free this season:
1. DEET: The 4-Letter Word
For convenience, you can't beat a good quality bug spray - the most effective of which contain DEET. Several decades of staff and customer testimonials have us pretty convinced on this one, but if you need more proof Consumer Reports has shown a direct correlation between concentration of DEET and hours of bite protection. The higher the percentage of DEET, the stronger the repellant - we carry a high, 30% concentration for unbeatable wilderness protection.
There's a down side to DEET, though. Since it's a chemical solvent, it can dissolve some plastics, leathers and synthetics, making it a questionable item to keep around your gear. A leaky container can do serious damage to your dry bags or rain jacket--so if you're using a spray with DEET in it, be sure it's packed carefully and don't spray on or around any waterproof or rubber gear.
It's also important to note that there have been some studies suggesting prolonged exposure to DEET can be detrimental to your health. Though there has not been conclusive evidence, always follow the directions when using DEET products and keep away from small children and pets.
2. Going Greener
If you're looking for a spray without DEET's downsides, you've got to check out the new Natrapel spray from Adventure Medical Kits. The 20% Picaridin formula has tested equal or better to DEET products in independent clinical tests, making it one of the first non-DEET options to offer comparable protection.
The big bonus? It's completely safe to use around your rubber and synthetic gear! Though it doesn't have DEET's longstanding history, high test results and a gear-safe formula definitely make this one worth a look, even if you've been let down by natural sprays in the past.
3. The No-Spray Way
There are some completely natural means you can take to lessen your buggy-appeal. Mosquitoes are attracted to scents, so lay off the perfume and body wash. In fact, lay off the shower full stop - you won't smell pretty, but that's kind of the point. In our experience, mosquitoes don't like B.O. anymore than you do.
If you don't have time to work up a four-day musk--or just don't want to face a tent full of the pungent perfume of unwashed adventurer--bug clothing is the most natural and effective way to keep the critters off. These mesh clothes are designed large enough to quickly pull over your regular gear. The mesh allows airflow while stopping troublesome bugs, making it perfect for hot, muggy days where covering yourself top-to-toe seems unbearable.
In situations where bug spray fails, there is simply no way to beat a physical layer of protection between you and the nearest bloodsucker, and bug clothing has been a longstanding favourite in our store with folks who'd rather eschew sprays of any kind. Sure, you might look a little funny, but you'll be the one laughing when you're friends slap themselves raw as you sit around the campfire in perfect comfort!
Whatever method you choose, solid bug protection is one of the most important items in a Canadian's pack. Don't let bugs hold you back this year. Now that summer's arrived, get out and make the most of it...without turning yourself into a meal!
Photo: CC by John Tann on Flickr
A version of this article was first published back in 2010 - but we thought this bug situation this summer merited a revisit and revamp!