Whether you lean towards a natural spray infused with essential oils or prefer the straightforward approach of dousing yourself in Deet, the choice is yours. Personally, I concoct my own mosquito repellent using lemongrass and lavender mixed with water and alcohol, creating a fragrant solution. For those seeking heightened protection, products containing Deet as an active ingredient are available, but caution is advised during application due to potential skin irritation.
As dusk sets in, a prudent move is to don a flannel or long sleeve to ward off mosquitoes during their peak feeding time. If you find yourself in a high-activity zone, such as near a lake or river, having a lightweight throw is essential for the weekend. Ideally, the weather isn't too hot, allowing you to safeguard even the more accessible areas both day and night.
Zip Up your Shelter/Tent
Ensure your tent is zipped shut every time you exit to prevent gnats, mosquitoes, spiders, ants, and other pests from invading your space.
Know the Area You're Staying In
Every festival holds its unique charm, just as the local bugs vary from one region to another. Understanding the environment you're about to immerse yourself in is essential. Whether you're enjoying a weekend in Arizona or navigating the swamps of Northern Florida, it's crucial to be aware of the prevalent poisonous or dangerous insects and creatures in the area. Take the time to identify them and educate yourself on what to do if you happen to be bitten, such as in the case of the common Brown Recluse Spider found near Southern Illinois. A bit of research about the locale can make a significant difference.
Pick A Good Camping Spot
Upon arrival, invest some time in surveying the terrain and selecting an optimal campsite to minimize the presence of insects in your vicinity. Be mindful of and steer clear of:
- Heavily wooded areas
- Proximity to water bodies
- Areas close to trash or bathrooms (but maintain a reasonable distance!)
- Low-lying areas – not only are they susceptible to flooding in case of rain, but the accumulated water can also attract more insects.
Keep it Clean
Please refrain from littering your campsite, the festival grounds, or any other area. Bring trash bags for your campsite and place them at a distance from your hangout spaces.
While nobody expects you to clean up at 2 AM after a day filled with walking and dancing, develop a routine to tidy up anything left unattended from the previous day when you wake up. Segregate recycling, garbage, and compost to facilitate the trash team's efforts in efficient removal. Each morning, dispose of your trash in the designated area after cleaning up your campsite. This practice not only significantly reduces the presence of bugs around your space but also imparts a fresh start to your campsite each day, making it feel more like home.
Check for Ticks!
This is of utmost importance. I've witnessed several friends contract Lyme disease at music festivals, causing significant life changes for them. Take the time to inspect your hair, the edges of your clothing, and other areas, and remind your friends to do the same. Lyme disease is just one of the illnesses carried by ticks. If you discover a tick bite, be sure to familiarize yourself with the symptoms of Lyme Disease.
Tiki Torches with Lemongrass
Lemongrass serves as a plant-based insect repellent, commonly found in candles and tiki torches. These not only provide additional lighting but also contribute to a soothing ambiance at your campsite. When setting them up, exercise caution to position them away from other tents or objects that could pose a fire hazard. These work exceptionally well for smaller festivals where space is not a constraint, aiding in creating a distinct boundary for your site. As a bonus, the lemongrass naturally deters insects from your camping area!
Pack Bug Bite Relief and Ibuprofen
In the event of bug bites, whether from mosquitoes, ticks, no-see-ums, spiders, or others, ensure you treat the affected area with bug bite medicine and take Ibuprofen for any associated pain. For severe reactions, seek assistance at the medical tent, where they can provide the necessary medication or arrange transport to a hospital if needed.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Being well-prepared equips you to handle any challenges that may arise during festival living (as there's always something!). Compile a comprehensive list of everything you need and check off items as you pack. If you happen to forget something, like bug spray, explore the vendors on-site, as you'll likely find what you need there.