Summer is just around the corner, and most people are busy preparing for their annual two-week holiday in the sun by stocking up on summer clothes and sunscreen. However, theres one thing that often gets overlooked when preparing for a trip to a warm country, and thats adequate protection against mosquitoes. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways that you can ensure that you have a relaxing holiday while keeping those pesky insects at bay.
Avoid mosquito hotspots
Most mosquitoes are found in tropical regions of the world such as Africa and South America and they can carry serious diseases like malaria, dengue, yellow fever and zika. If you do need to travel to these regions, its important to get vaccinated against these diseases before you go. While there is also a large population of mosquitoes in some European countries like Portugal and Spain, they arent dangerous at all. Nevertheless, they can be very annoying, so you should try to avoid going outside at dusk and dawn when they are most active.
Wear appropriate clothing
If you do need to venture outside when mosquitoes are likely to be around, then you should cover up as much as you can. Mosquitoes will bite any area of exposed skin, so its a good idea to wear long-sleeved clothes and trousers. This isnt ideal when youre in a warm country but wearing light summer sweaters, cardigans and linen trousers will help.
Use insect repellent
Of course, the first line of defence against mosquitoes is insect repellent. Its important to bring a few bottles with you on your holiday and apply it regularly throughout the day and before you go to bed at night. You can choose between two different types of insect repellent, with or without DEET. The one with DEET works by forming a vapour barrier that deters insects from coming into contact with the skin, but it can cause skin irritation for some users, so it is not suitable for everyone. Our DEET Free Insect Repellent Spray is ideal for the whole family and protects against mosquitoes for up to 5 hours. We also have a version containing DEET, which offers protection for up to 6 hours.
Use an insect net
How many times have you woken up to find yourself covered in mosquito bites? You might think youre safer from them at night, but some of them hide in dark spaces during the day and only come out to feed at night. However, you can prevent them from disturbing your sleep by hanging an insect net around your bed. Some hotels provide them for free along with insect screens on the windows, so its good to check with your accommodation before you travel.