Summer is coming and that means more outdoor fun… and more chance of getting bugged and bitten. We’ve found five great ways to keep the critters at bay, which you can use just as well at home as on the road.
Also read: Malaria medication, take it or leave it?
1. Mobile mosquito mat
R279, campandclimb.co.za
Working on the same principle as electric plug-in mosquito pads the Thermacell Appliance releases a repellent vapour when heated up with butane cartridges. It gives off a gentle hissing noise and creates a 20-metre square safety zone, free of insects for about 12 hours. There is also a lantern option available so you can simultaneously light up your bug-free campsite.
2. Stick ’em up
From R60, outdoorwarehouse.co.za
Insect repelling bands are not new on the gear scene but the popular product comes in another form – the Lifetrek Anti-Insect Patch. Containing Citronella oil just like its handy wrap-around counterpart, the patch is durable and easy to use. Stick the adhesive onto outdoor apparel, backpacks or your camping mattress for a minimum 12-hour protection.
Did you know?
Citronella works by masking the scents insects find attractive. This is primarily carbon dioxide and lactic acid, emitted when we exhale, along with other chemicals that tell mozzies there’s a delicious human target nearby.
3. Long-lasting insect immunity
Mosquitoes and other biting insects cause serious disease like malaria and dengue fever when travelling. Cover all your bases with the textile application of Vital Protection AM1 Soak and Dry. Mix the sachet with a bucket of water for an effective, odourless anti-insect concoction that’s effective for three months of washing and general outdoor use. It’s also anti-bacterial.
4. Fight nature with nature
From R85, rumf.co.za
Unlike many other insect sprays, sticks and lotions, Mosquito Guard is plant-based (the oil of lemon eucalyptus is a main ingredient) and DEET free, which means it’s free of that chemical smell and safe for children. The factor ten Mosquito Guard stick and spray provides ten hours of protection against a range of irritating insects including ticks, sand flies and mosquitoes.
5. Clever dustbin deterrent
R25 for 10 bags, picknpay.co.za
It’s an obvious solution and we can’t figure out why it wasn’t done years ago – Tuffy Insect Guard refuse bags. Rubbish is a breeding ground for flies and other campsite uglies and these bin bags contain Vital Protection technology keeping them away from trash.
