Swollen, itchy mosquito bites – there’s nothing worse when you’re trying to enjoy a relaxing getaway. Although they’re unavoidable when you visit humid destinations, there are a number of different ways to keep mosquitoes away so that you can return from your holiday free from irritating bites. Take a look at our tips for keeping mosquitoes away below and enjoy your next holiday – itch-free.
Insect Repellent Clothing
Are you spending your holiday exploring the outdoors in hotter climates? Use mosquito repellent clothing as a protective barrier against annoying insects. With a unique fabric composition, insect repellent clothing uses scientific advances to repel insects effectively, helping you to avoid frustrating bites as you explore. Invest in a few key pieces of Nosilife clothing – helping you to repel insects as well as providing cool and comfortable clothing, ideal for staying active abroad.
Protection While You Sleep
If you’re visiting a destination known for mosquitoes as carriers of malaria or dengue fever, it’s best to invest in a mosquito net for your bed or your tent to protect yourself while you sleep. For full protection, make sure you’re not touching the net as you sleep – a hook and cord attached to your net will do the trick, and check for holes regularly so you’re fully protected at a time when mosquitoes are most active.
Chemical Sprays
Mozzies are generally attracted to us because of our body warmth, as well as the carbon dioxide we emit. Covering yourself with something that can mask those elements will keep them as far away from your body as possible undoubtedly reducing bites and irritation. The most common form of insect repellent spray is a chemical compound called N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide, more commonly known as DEET. This spray was produced by the US Army to protect troops from diseases carried by insects. Although it’s not entirely clear why it repels the insects, it will protect you from mosquitoes for a few hours whilst you enjoy your holiday.
Natural Repellents
Using a harsh chemical like DEET on your skin is not ideal, so if you want to find a more natural way to keep mosquitoes away, there are a few other options to consider. Lavender oil rubbed into your skin can make for an effective mozzie-repellent and smells a lot less pungent than DEET-based products. To make your own lavender repellent, all you’ll need is lavender essential oil and some olive oil. Rub some into your skin and the mosquitoes will soon be avoiding you like the plague.
You could also use citronella for getting rid of mosquitoes. Citronella oil is known for being a really effective mosquito repellent, as is the citronella plant which it originates from. You will have to use these natural repellents more liberally than DEET-based products, and will have to reapply more frequently – but if you want to avoid harsh chemicals on your skin, both citronella and lavender oil are effective when it comes to keeping insects at bay.
Alternatively, burn a citronella candle while you are sitting outside on an evening. The scent and smoke from the candle will keep mosquitoes and other biting insects at bay. Mosquito coils and incense are another great way to keep mosquitoes at bay, and are especially good for people with sensitive skin who may not wish to apply repellents, whether natural or chemical.
For the best line of defence against mosquitoes while you’re away, invest in the right insect repellent items to ensure you holiday is bug-free. Browse our entire range of insect repellent clothing to find protective clothing for your next trip. Or take a look at our travel essentials, so you’re fully prepared before you set off.