How to Avoid Pests While Camping
With the summer nearing its close, many all around are looking to take a last trip before the kids go back to school and the fall settles in. Camping can be a great experience for people of all ages, but the critters that live out in the wild can cause many to think twice before venturing out there. However, we’re here to put your fears to rest: if you’re thinking about going camping, read on for the only comprehensive pest defense plan that you’ll need out there!
Keep Food Secure
First and foremost, you need to understand that you are venturing out into a pest’s home. Normally it’s the other way around, but this time you are going to where they live, and with that being said you need to be extra careful with what you do with your food. Much like how you can attract ants in your home by not properly putting away food, the same is true for the outdoors. Be sure to clean up during and after cooking or snacking and do your part in picking up any trash or food that falls to the ground. Not only is it good for the environment, but you’ll wind up attracting fewer pests in the process! If you are way out in the woods, you may want to invest in a bear bag to hang your food when you’re about to turn in for the night—by keeping food off the ground, you’ll not only prevent bears from coming into your campsite, but all sorts of other critters like raccoons, opossums, and ants!
Sit Around the Campfire
Campfires are not only great for making s’mores, but they also provide the perfect deterrent against pests. From small critters like mosquitoes to rodents and even to some larger fellows, the sight and sound of a campfire will keep them a ways away from your site. Sure, some moths might find the light a little interesting, but the smoke will do wonders to keep annoying pests away. If it worked for the cavemen, you can be assured that it will work for you, too.
Use Your Zippers
The zipper on your tent is not only good for keeping in the heat and providing some privacy, but it’s also great for keeping out all sorts of pests. Do yourself a favor and make sure that the tent is zipped up at all times—the only time it should be unzipped should be when you are entering or leaving the tent. If you want to air out the tent, go ahead, but make sure that the mesh screen some tents have is securely zipped up.
When it Doubt, Spray it Out
As our final tip, please remember that bug spray is a thing and should be included in the basic camping necessities. Apply liberally and often to limit the risk of bug bites but be sure that you’re spraying yourself down with DEET for maximum effectiveness.
There you have it: our quick tips for making your next camping adventure a pest-free one! Stick to these tips, use your common sense, and you won’t have to worry about bringing home pests. No, the only extra thing coming back with you are some fond memories of the trip!
