Bug Off! How to Keep Bug Bite Free on the Trails

Hitting the trails with your friends is always a blast with the Women’s Wine Hiking Society. However, there’s one uninvited guest we all dread: the mosquito. These little bloodsuckers can turn a fabulous hike into a not-so-savage insect war.

As someone who made the transition from Alaska, where mosquitoes are practically considered the state bird, I can confirm that these pesky creatures know how to make an entrance. I’ve got the perfect mosquito repellent tips for hikers so you can outsmart those little pests.

1. Wear the “Right” Attire: Fashion Meets Functionality

Before you hit the trail, invest in some long-sleeved shirts, lightweight pants, and a wide-brimmed hat—think “fashionable flower child meets rugged explorer.” Opt for light-colored clothing; mosquitoes are like that one friend who only notices you when you wear black. They can’t resist dark hues.

Don’t underestimate the power of a mosquito head net and, if you’re bold, the entire bug net suit.  For those who favor hiking at Antelope Island State Park, about an hour north of Salt Lake City, this is a solid choice to combat the bugs.

2. Bug Repellent: The Classic Approach

Let’s not deny it: DEET is your best friend. Spritz it generously on any exposed skin, focusing on high-traffic areas like the neck and ankles. I’m also a fan of spraying down my gear with Permerthin. A bottle goes a long way! One thorough treatment of your clothing will last 6 weeks or 6 washes, whichever comes first. Bonus: permethrin also protects you from ticks.

I am personally a big fan of attaching a portable Thermacell to my pack in buggy areas. They are pretty useful around a campsite, too. The only downside is the refills can be spendy.

3. Essential Oils: Nature’s Perfume

For those who prefer not to smell like a walking chemical factory, essential oils can come to the rescue. Mix up a blend of eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint oil spritz. Not only will you smell divine, but mosquitoes will think twice about munching on you. I’m a huge fan of layering my bug dope with the first layer being Trader Joe’s lemongrass oil. It’s always my first layer when going out in the woods.

Quick Recipe: 

– Take a small spray bottle and fill it with water and a few drops of each essential oil. Give it a shake, spritz liberally, and voilà! You’re now the best-smelling hiker on the trail—and the mosquitoes are confused!

4. Footwear: A Step Above the Rest 

Mosquitoes are crafty little creatures, but they’ll think twice before invading the fortress that is your high-top hiking boots. Opt for shoes that cover your ankles. There is literally nothing worse than ankle mosquito bites.

5. Stay Hydrated 

We’ve saved the best for last: hydration! Hydration keeps your skin fresh, making you less appealing to mosquitoes. Some even say eating garlic the night before a big hike/camping trip will help as well. I’ve never tried it, but garlic works on other bloodsuckers like vampires. Maybe it works on mosquitoes too!

As a former Alaskan who’s traded in the state’s occasional mosquito swarm for Utah’s sunny trails, I can assure you that a good hike paired with the right wine is worth every effort to keep those bugs at bay. Now, go forth and conquer those trails—not only to explore the beauty of the trails but to sip wine and outsmart nature’s tiny villains!

With these tips, your next hiking adventure will be not only memorable but mosquito-free! I’d love to hear your favorite mosquito repellent tips for hikers below.

Even with all the tricks in the book, the bugs sometimes just keep on bugging! WWHS co-founder Angelique packed a mattress bug net, and we huddled under it during one of our backpacking trips to keep the bugs away.

Cherie Zajdzinski

Salt Lake County (UT) Ambassador