Bug Spray
Bug spray can also be a very important to have with you especially in warm and humid areas. There are different options for bug repellent, but the one that works best is DEET. But just as it is the most effective, some people have issues with it. It can irritate the skin on certain people. There are DEET free bug sprays, but nearly everyone agrees they aren’t the most effective.
There are other options especially for sitting outside at night. Citronella candles are known to repel bugs. You could use fly paper, fly swatters, or fly traps. There are bug zappers, bug repellent torches, and fans. These seem to work in varying fashions. If you are planning on spending some nights having conversation under the lights of the RV it is best to have a variety of these things. A lot of it will depend on the location you are in. Being near the water in Houston a citronella candle may not cut it, but it might when camping near a lake in hill country. In some cases you may be best off looking to have plants with you. Chrysanthemums and Citronella plants have natural bug fighting chemicals in them.
You also need to consider treating your gear. Permethrin is a type of bug spray that is typically used for treating clothes, tents, gear… It is best to treat gear before you leave. You can either hang the items you want to spray on a clothing line or lay them out flat. Spray with permethrin and let dry. You probably want to treat your hiking clothes, tent, sleeping bag, headgear, and any bug netting.
Which brings us to bug netting. This can be a life saver especially in areas with an abundance of mosquitos. Nets for sleeping, nets for your head while hiking, nets for hammocks…