As summer approaches, many of us eagerly plan our long-awaited holidays and trips, but we often overlook a tiny yet formidable foe: mosquitoes.
These pesky pests can quickly turn our dream trips into itchy nightmares, however, with a few simple precautions, you can reduce the risk of mosquito bites and enjoy your summer adventures to the fullest.
We’re sharing our top tips for avoiding mosquito bites…
Dress Appropriately
Opting for loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts, and longer trousers to provide a physical barrier between your skin and the mosquitoes will reduce your chance of being bitten.
Not only that, lighter coloured clothing can also help as mosquitoes are often attracted to dark colours and consider treating your clothing with an insect repellent for added protection.
Apply Insect Repellent
Using an effective insect repellent on exposed skin is crucial to fend off mosquitoes.
Look for repellents lemon or eucalyptus oil, as these ingredients have been proven to be highly effective and it is important to apply the repellent according to the instructions on the label and reapply as necessary, especially after swimming or sweating.
Avoid Peak Mosquito Activity
Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk.
If possible, plan your outdoor activities accordingly, which will help you to avoid these times when mosquitoes are particularly aggressive.
Consider scheduling your activities for the mid-morning or late afternoon when mosquito activity is generally lower.
Stay in Accommodation with Screens or Air Conditioning
When choosing your accommodation, look for options that have well-sealed windows, screens, or air conditioning.
Doing so will provide your family and friends with an additional barrier against mosquitoes, making it harder for them to enter your living space.
If your room does not have these features, consider purchasing a bed net treated with insecticide to create a mosquito-free zone while you sleep.
Eliminate Breeding Sites
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so it’s essential to eliminate any potential breeding sites around your accommodation.
Empty and clean any containers that can collect water, such as flowerpots, buckets, or birdbaths and ensure that gutters are clean and properly drained to avoid leaving standing water in any outdoor areas.
6. Use Fans and Mosquito Nets:
Mosquitoes are weak fliers, so using fans can help create a breeze that makes it difficult for them to approach you. Place a fan near your sitting or sleeping area to create a protective airflow. Additionally, if you’re traveling to areas with high mosquito activity, consider using a mosquito net around your bed or sleeping area to provide an extra layer of protection.
Be Mindful of Fragrances
Certain scents and fragrances can attract mosquitoes, so it’s advisable to avoid using heavily scented products like perfumes, moisturisers and tanning oils.
Opting for unscented or lightly scented products instead will reduce your attractiveness to these pesky pests.
While mosquitoes may seem like an inevitable annoyance, taking these preventive measures can significantly reduce your risk of mosquito bites while travelling this summer.
