Travel Tips

Travel Tip: How to Protect Yourself From Bugs This Summer

mosquito3The outdoors can be filled with dangers when it comes to creepy-crawly insects. But there are some simple ways to protect yourself from bugs.

The biggest concerns in the great outdoors are ticks, which can transmit Lyme Disease, and mosquitoes, which can be a source of West Nile disease.

While it may seem helpful to combine your sunscreen and insect repellent, you’re better off using two separate products.

That’s because sunscreen needs to be reapplied—but the repellent doesn’t.

If you’re going anywhere with a risk of ticks, apply lotions or sprays containing DEET and wear clothing with built-in tick repellent. Follow that with thorough tick checks, including your scalp.

Pitcarin can be an alternative to DEET for avoiding mosquitoes.

As a rule of thumb, don’t use scented soaps or perfumes. Keep in mind, mosquitoes are most attracted to darker colors like navy blue, red, and black.

For more ways to stay healthy while you’re on the road, check out:

Keep reading for more travel tips.