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Box
These provide the most room and are ideal for double beds. They allow more air circulation within the net so are cooler to sleep in. They can be tricky to assemble, so they are better suited for long-term accommodation.
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Insect Repellent & Mosquito Net Buying Guide
Introduction
Protecting yourself from biting insects is critically important in many parts of the world.
Mosquito-borne diseases such as Malaria, Dengue Fever and Yellow Fever are still prevalent throughout much of Sub-Saharan Africa, Central and South America and Southern Asia. Arming yourself with the correct insect repellent and mosquito net should be one of the first things you do before travelling.
Once you know what to look for, choosing the right insect protection is an easy process.
DEET vs. alternatives
What is DEET?
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DEET concentrations explained
DEET concentration does not reflect how effective a repellent is, but actually how long it lasts. Concentrations from 50 to 100% can be effective for over 10 hours. Lower concentrations will need more regular applications to provide continuous protection. However, lower concentrations are easier on skin. The minimum concentration you should use in areas with mosquito-borne diseases present is 20%.
20-50% DEET
Use anywhere outdoors with biting insects
Low-risk countries with no presence of mosquito-borne disease
Ideal for general outdoor use and shorter periods spent exposed to insects
Reapply every 6-8 hours, depending on humidity and how much you sweat
20-40% DEET Expedition Endurance Formula
Areas with a high risk of mosquito-borne disease such as Sub-Saharan Africa, Central & South America, Southern Asia
Use on exposed skin when going outdoors, especially when near still water.
Can also be used during extended exposure to insects in low-risk countries
Suitable for children ages 2+
Reapply 10-12 hours, depending on humidity and how much you sweat
50-95% DEET
Countries with a high risk of mosquito-borne disease such as Sub-Saharan Africa, Central & South America, Southern Asia
Use on exposed skin when going outdoors, especially when near still water
Can also be used during extended exposure to insects in low-risk countries
Not suitable for children under 6
Reapply 8-10 hours, depending on humidity
Alternatives to DEET
Pyrethrin & Pyrethroids
Pyrethrin is a naturally occurring insecticide and repellent chemical found in the flowers of a strain of Chrysanthemum. The natural chemical is hard to isolate in the quantities needed. Repellents often contain Pyrethroids. It's a synthesized version of Pyrethrin which can be made in much greater quantities. They are biodegradable and generally considered the safest insect-repelling chemicals available. They work by affecting an insect’s nervous system, causing it to fly away or die. They don’t affect mammals. Purely Pyrethroid-based products are suitable for use in low-risk countries.
Many DEET-based repellents also contain Pyrethroids to provide an extra element of protection.
Guide to mosquito nets
Mosquito net fabrics
Mosquito nets are the most effective way to keep biting insects at bay when you're sleeping. They form an impenetrable barrier against mosquitoes and other biting insects.
Modern mosquito nets are made from polyester as it is lightweight and strong. But, they can vary in density depending on their intended use.
Lifesystems categorise their nets into three brackets according to coarseness:
· Travel nets - 156 holes per square inch These protect against mosquitoes, but not smaller biting insects. They offer more ventilation and are ideal for indoor use.
· Superlight nets - 500 holes per square inch These are more versatile and protect against most biting insects indoors and outdoors.
· Expedition nets - 1001 holes per square inch This is their finest weave, and protects against the smallest insects including sandflies and midges. (Ideal for Scottish camping)
To provide even greater protection, Lifesystems treat their mosquito nets with EX8. This is a repellent formula that can last over 2 years and can be retreated.
Mosquito net shapes
Mosquito nets come in different shapes and sizes. Your choice will depend on where you're using them, how much room you have and how long you’re staying in one place.
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Insect repellent clothing
The best way to protect yourself from being bitten is to cover up. If you're sensitive to DEET-based repellents, treated clothing can provide an extra shield.
Accessories & bite relief
Mosquito coils
Mosquito coils are made from incense that contains an insecticide, usually a Pyrethroid such as Allethrin. As they burn, the smoke released deters mosquitoes and other biting insects from coming near the area. They are a cheap, lightweight option for keeping mozzies away from your camp.
Plug-in mosquito killers
Mosquito plug-ins are a highly effective way to keep insects away from your room at night. They secrete an insecticide that provides 10 hours of protection with each tablet.
Bit relief clicker
These little click devices provide instant relief, and are most effective if you act straight after being bitten. They work by restricting the histamine that causes the itch and inflammation around a bite.
Tick removers
Ticks are found in areas of long grass or heather, usually where sheep or deer are present, and carry Lyme Disease. Their mouthparts latch into the skin, and once they've anchored they can be pretty tricky to remove. It's very important to ensure a tick is removed fully and intact. Leaving any of the mouthparts in the wound can result in infection. Squeezing or bursting the tick can cause it to release its contents back into your bloodstream. Using specially designed tick removal tweezers or a tick removal card makes the job much easier.
More guides
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