When it comes to outdoor activities such as camping, bugs are and always have been a bit of a pest. There is no known full solution to this problem but here are a few tips to keep you as bug free as possible.

• Don't set up camp near water
• Eliminate all standing water in your campsite
• Wear pale colors and avoid bright, bold or flower print clothing
• Avoid using strong scented perfumes, sprays and lotions
• Keep yourself cool as bugs are attracted to sweat
• Cover up with long sleeve shirts and full length pants
• Avoid tall grass and overly bushy areas if possible
• Use insect repellent with DEET except on children as DEET may be harmful to them
• Always keep food covered
• Keep trash a good distance from campsite and dispose of it often
• Wear a hat and a bandana on your head and neck
• Coconut oil and coconut soap repels some bugs
• Citrus foods, garlic and zinc secrete through your pores and repels insects
• Spray bug killer around the tents and under the table
• Always zip up the tents even if your just in there for a couple minutes

Now matter how careful you are, it's impossible to avoid all bugs and insects. If you get bit or stung, you can reduce the swelling by using ice. Apply a cream such as calamine lotion for quick relief. Ticks can carry nasty diseases so avoid tall grass, cover up and check your body periodically. If a tick is found on the body they should be promptly removed and treated accordingly. If any signs of fevers, rashes or infections manifest you should report to a doctor immediately.

Camping Tips