Don’t Let Bites Ruin Your Adventure!
There’s nothing like RV Camping; exploring new landscapes and waking up to the sounds of nature. For me, that means taking Millie up to Michigan in July / August to escape the Southern heat! While there, I enjoy quality time with my dad, who is retired, in his 70s and has his own 40-foot rig.
What I do not enjoy are the bugs! I don’t know why, but the mosquitoes in Michigan seem bigger and meaner than any other U.S. state! Maybe it’s the Great Lakes? And they seem to love the taste of my blood, in particular. For those of us who suffer from mosquito allergies, rather than a dream, camping can quickly turn into a nightmare of itchy, swollen welts that linger for weeks.
If you’ve ever had a mosquito bite bloom into an angry, persistent reminder of your outdoor adventure, you know exactly what I’m talking about. It’s not just an annoyance; It’s a real health concern. The intense itching can disrupt sleep, and prolonged inflammation can lead to skin infections, if you’re not careful.
So, how do you reconcile a love for the great outdoors, when your body has such a dramatic reaction to these tiny vampires? By applying a few smart strategies, you can reduce the likelihood of becoming a mosquito’s next meal. Here’s what I’ve learned . . .
1. Lay a Foundation
- Avon Skin So Soft (for your skin) – Skin So Soft serves as a good base layer of protection. Before you even think about stepping outside, shower up with Skin So Soft Bar Soap. Then follow on with Skin So Soft Oil, as soon as you towel off, while your skin is still a little damp, slather on that Skin So Soft bath oil. The idea is that all those smooth, moisturizing ingredients create a slick barrier on your skin, making it super tricky for those little bloodsuckers to land and get a good bite.
- Picaridin Insect Repellant (for your clothes & gear) – When it comes to bug spray, not all formulas are created equal, especially for us who react strongly to mosquito bites. It’s less oily, odorless, and less likely to damage plastics or synthetic fabrics compared to DEET.
- Citronella Candles (for the air): Citronella candles can add another layer of defense. Strategically placing a few near your camp chairs—can help create a less appealing environment for mosquitoes. The smoke and scent act as a mild deterrent, making your cozy spot a bit less inviting.
2. Dress Smart
This one may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s easy to forget when you’re trying to enjoy the sunshine.
- Pants & Sleeves – This is your best direct line of defense. Go for lightweight, breathable fabrics that cover up as much skin as possible. And bonus tip: lighter colors are often better, as dark colors can sometimes attract more bugs.
- Socks & Crocks – Don’t let those ankles, feet and toes be easy targets. Mosquitoes love those spots.
3. Protect Your Safehaven
While protecting yourself outdoors, is super important, remember your Airstream can also be your safe haven!
- Check Your Screens – Regularly inspect your Airstream’s window and door screens. Even a tiny tear can invite a whole party of mosquitoes in. Be sure to patch them up!
- Avoid Peak Hours – Those little buggers are most active around sunrise and sunset. If you can, plan outdoor activities to avoid these times.
- Expand Your Domain – If you plan on chilling outside, set up a screen house tent within a few steps of your Airstream. It creates a bite-free zone for eating, relaxing, and just enjoying the evening. We love Coleman’s Skyshade 10 x 10 Dome for its set-up ease and fit into our Airstream’s underfed storage.
What to Do When a Mosquito Gets You?
Even with all our best efforts, a super determined mosquito might just sneak through. When you do get bit try this:
- Rubbing Alcohol – My mom and aunties taught me this growing up, so it’s old-school (but it works). Grab a cotton ball, douse it in rubbing alcohol, and dab. Trust, rubbing alcohol will take the edge off the itch and sting.
- Cortizone 10 Fast Relief Rollerball – For me, the rollerball is the absolute best for that intense itch. Roll it directly on the bite for instant relief. I use it right before bed, so I can sleep comfortably.
- Say NO to Gadgets – Don’t waste your money on those little suction gadgets that promise to suck out the venom. I’ve tried them, and they’ve never done a thing for me.
Don’t let a mosquito allergy keep you from enjoying your camping experience. By combining smart product choices, protective clothing, and a bit of vigilance, you can significantly reduce your chances of being bitten and ensure your outdoor adventures are filled with joy, not incessant itching!