8 ways to prevent mosquito bites on vacation

To quote Alice Cooper, school’s out for summer!

For many of us, this means summer vacation is beginning and is often a time when we jet off across the globe for some much-needed relaxation and nice weather.

However, there is one insect that is just waiting to spoil your vacation – mosquitoes!

These biting insects not only inflict multiple itchy bites upon us, but they can also spread a range of diseases such as malaria, dengue fever and the Zika virus. So, you should take mosquitoes seriously.

Ehrlich definitely does, and if you’re noticing a lot of mosquitoes, we can send an expert out to your property to see how bad the issue is. We will ensure the mosquitoes are removed so you are less at risk of contracting a disease. Call us at 888-984-0186 or contact us online today for mosquito control services.

Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to avoid mosquito bites. These tips will help avoid spending endless days of itching and scratching those irritating bites.

How to avoid mosquito bites

Below is a list of ways to avoid mosquito bites:

1. Avoid mosquito hotspots

One way you can avoid mosquito bites when traveling is to check if your vacation destination is a hot spot for mosquito activity, and in particular, the areas where the mosquito-borne diseases are more prevalent.

Organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and The World Health Organization have all this information available. A simple Google search will let you see which areas are hotspots for diseases such as dengue and yellow fever.

2. Wear light colors

A little-known fact is that mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors. This is believed to be because of the contrasting dark-colored clothes provide against the horizon during dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

Wearing lightly colored clothing is a good way to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

However, it is important to note that it’s also a good idea to stay away from bright colors, as these are known to attract stinging insects such as wasps. Because of this, neutral and pastel-colored clothing is advised to help prevent mosquito bites.

3. Use insect repellent

When it comes to avoiding mosquito bites, insect repellent is your best friend! This is because it is one of the most effective solutions.

You can buy insect repellents from your local supermarket and/or pharmacy, and apply them to any exposed areas of the skin. Those products, which include DEET, claim to be the most effective, but there are alternatives if you are allergic.

It’s a good idea to apply insect repellent before leaving your hotel or apartment especially during the later parts of the day.

Depending on the strength of the spray, apply frequently to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Always follow the product label instructions carefully.

4. Avoid certain times of day

Generally, mosquitoes are more active at dusk and dawn, although this may differ depending on the species.

These times of the day are often cooler and less windy making conditions more favorable conditions for mosquitoes.

To avoid mosquito bites it’s a good idea to plan any activities you might have during the times of day when mosquitoes are less active.

5. Wear appropriate clothing

More often than not, mosquitoes will bite on any area of exposed skin. Because of this, it’s a good idea to wear long-sleeved clothing to protect yourself against mosquito bites.

Now I know this may sound ridiculous as long sleeves and warm climates aren’t exactly a match made in heaven, but this doesn’t mean you have to wear jeans and a sweater.

Long-sleeved t-shirts and linen pants are both good options.

6. Remove standing water

We’ve all been guilty of leaving the buckets and spades from our beach trip out on the porch or balcony. However, did you know that these can attract mosquitoes?

Standing water provides mosquitoes with the perfect breeding environment!

You can avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes by making your accommodation less appealing to mosquitoes. This can simply be done by remembering to empty the water out of glasses, mugs, cups, buckets and spades if being left outside.

7. Use an insect net

How many times have you woken up to find yourself littered with mosquito bites? That’s because, when conditions are favorable, a mosquito’s dining experience can lead well into the night.

Preventing mosquito bites can be done with the use of an insect net.

If you’re worried about mosquitoes when traveling. it’s a good idea to check that your accommodation has either mosquito nets around the bed, or insect screens on the doors and windows.

8. Keep air circulated

Mosquitoes aren’t strong flyers (that’s why they are more active during dusk and dawn when there is little wind).

Keeping air circulated with the use of fans is a good way to avoid getting bitten by a mosquito, as it makes it difficult for them to fly near you.

What to eat to avoid mosquito bites

There are many discussions online around eating certain types of food such as garlic to help repel mosquitoes.

To put it simply, eating specific foods to repel mosquitoes is not an effective, reliable method. Although for some people it may seem to work, the majority of the time it has little to no effect.

Ehrlich can help you avoid mosquito bites

If mosquitoes are ruining your time outdoors, reach out to Ehrlich for professional mosquito control. A friendly specialist can come out to evaluate the infestation and determine which treatment method is best for you. Once we take care of the problem, you’ll be able to enjoy the summer weather without needing to worry about lots of pesky mosquitoes!