Nothing ruins a peaceful night under the stars like the constant buzz of mosquitoes or waking up to a tent full of uninvited creepy crawlies.
Sure, bug spray is always a solid option, but we’ve been hearing that our readers want more chemical-free and non-toxic options.
If that’s you, you’re in luck! There are plenty of other tricks to keep your camping tent a bug-free sanctuary without the use of chemicals or toxins.
Read on for some tried-and-true ways to keep the bugs at bay!
Choose the Most Bug repellent Camping Spot
Before you even pitch your backpacking tent, scope out the area! Bugs love standing water, which makes it a prime breeding ground for mosquitoes and other flying nuisances.
One of the best mosquito repellent strategies is to pick a dry, well-drained campsite away from lakes, ponds, and marshy areas.
Bonus: You won’t have to deal with soggy tent stakes in the morning!
Also Read: Camping in the Rain (Tips, Tricks, and Hacks to STAY Dry)
Keep Your Tent Doors Shut
This may sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many campers leave their camping tent door open just a little too long.
Bugs are opportunists, and if they see an open door, they’ll take full advantage!
Try to keep your zippers closed for the majority of your camping trip, and you’ll significantly cut down on unwanted tent invaders.
This way, you’ll keep anything from crawling on you in the night (our worst nightmare!).
Don’t Smell Too Good
This is the one time where skipping perfume and heavily scented deodorants is actually a great idea!
The floral and fruity notes commonly found in perfumes, lotions, and shampoos act as an open invitation for mosquitoes, flies, and other pests, so it’s best to go fragrance-free when you can.
If you’re worried about odor, don’t be.
Most natural bug-repellent alternatives are made of great-smelling essential oils like lemon or eucalyptus oil — they’ll keep you fresh and the bugs far away!
Bring a Mosquito Net
If you’re camping in a high-mosquito zone, a mosquito net can be a game changer.
Hanging one around your camping tent or sleeping area can block most of those bloodsuckers from getting to you.
Most mosquito nets are multipurpose, meaning you can also drape them around a picnic table or hammock for extra protection.
This helps create a relaxing, bug-free space where you can enjoy meals, play games, or take an afternoon nap without swatting away pests.
Also Read: How To Keep Mosquitoes Away While Camping
Try Natural Bug Repellents
Not a fan of chemical-laden bug sprays? No problem!
There are plenty of chemical-free and non-toxin options that work just as well. Check out these two natural mosquito repellent strategies:
● Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Spray – As two of the best natural mosquito repellents, oil with both lemon and eucalyptus is a proven bug deterrent. Simply mix it with a little witch hazel and water, and you’ve got an effective natural mosquito repellent for the whole family.
● Citronella Candles or Essential Oil Diffusers – Citronella is a classic natural bug repellent that can help keep mosquitoes and flies at bay. Light a few candles around your campsite for added protection. Just remember to practice fire safety rules and check for any relevant regulations before you depend too heavily on this strategy.
Use Light Wisely to Repel Bugs
Bugs are naturally drawn to bright lights at night, especially white and blue light.
If you need illumination in your tent at night, opt for a red or yellow-toned camping light instead.
The heat from a campfire can act as a natural bug repellent for the whole campsite, making it one of the best defenses against those pesky mosquitoes at night.
However, make sure that you keep a safe distance between the fire and your (very flammable) nylon backpacking tent!
This strategy will cut down on the number of bugs in the campsite as a whole, but you should use the other tips and tricks in this article for tent-specific bug control.
Always comply with local fire safety guidelines and restrictions.
Don’t Forget About Your Furry Friends!
Fido deserves a bug-free trip too! Dogs are just as susceptible to mosquitos, ticks, and other creepy crawlers.
Be sure to bring a mosquito repellent for your pup that’s safe and effective.
Many natural sprays contain pet-safe essential oils like cedarwood or lavender, which help repel bugs without harming your pup.
This spray from Nantucket Spider is a great option to get you started!
Pro-tip: Some essential oils can hurt your furry friend’s coat, so we recommend going with a pre-made option rather than a homemade one. As always, make sure you check with your vet for their advice or recommendations.
Also Read: Dog Camping Tips For Enjoying Nature With Your Best Friend
Plan Your Next Camping Trip: The Best Seasons to Avoid Bugs
If you want to reduce your chances of dealing with pesky insects, choosing the right time of year to camp is key.
In many parts of the country, late fall and early spring are the best times to enjoy the outdoors with fewer bug encounters.
Mosquitoes, ticks, and flies are most active in warm and humid conditions, making late spring and summer peak bug time.
● Spring (Early to Mid) – While some bugs start to emerge as temperatures warm, early spring camping trips can still be relatively bug-free, especially in cooler climates.
● Summer – This is peak bug season, especially in humid areas. If you really want to camp in summer, try to aim for high-altitude locations where mosquitoes are less likely.
● Fall (Late) – One of the best times to camp! Cooler temperatures significantly reduce insect activity, and you can enjoy the crisp air without constantly swatting bugs away.
● Winter – Bugs are practically nonexistent in cold weather, making winter camping ideal for those who don’t mind bundling up!
Use These Bug Repellent Tips on Your Next Camping Trip!
With a little planning and the right approach, you can enjoy your camping trip without turning into a mosquito buffet.
From picking the right campsite to using natural therapies and smart lighting, these tricks will help keep your camping tent free of unwanted guests without the use of chemicals.
Now, grab your gear, push down those tent stakes, and enjoy the great outdoors—bug-free!
Next up: How To Keep Mosquitoes Away While Camping – 17 Awesome Tips & Tricks