Growing up in southwestern Louisiana, I became intimately familiar with the insect species the CDC labels as “the world's deadliest animal†— the unassuming mosquito. Alongside those pesky ticks and chiggers, I spent countless summers of my childhood nursing bug bites from all the camping and hunting trips I took.
Back then, climate change wasn't yet the looming threat it is today. Nowadays, I find myself increasingly concerned about the spread of insect-borne diseases moving further north — illnesses like West Nile, Zika, Dengue, Chikungunya, and Lyme disease. While DEET remains my top choice for repelling biting insects, it’s always wise to have alternatives, especially when you’re caught unprepared in an emergency or facing long-term survival scenarios.
Two simple DIY solutions come to mind. They won’t rival chemical sprays, but they’re easy to create using common household items. These methods might not keep every bug away, but they’ll provide enough relief to make a difference when you need it most.
For ticks and chiggers, nylon pantyhose serve as an effective physical barrier. Our experience shows that it works best against ticks and chiggers, though it doesn’t deter mosquitoes. Stretching the pantyhose over your arms, legs, and neck creates a protective layer, especially useful on your legs where ticks tend to latch on.
However, there’s one major drawback: heat retention. During warmer months, wearing pantyhose can feel stifling, though it’s tolerable in cooler weather. On the bright side, pantyhose have numerous other survival applications, from filtering water to creating makeshift rope. As ZZ Top once sang, it’s all about knowing how to use what you’ve got.
When it comes to mosquitoes, I’ve found that Avon’s Skin So Soft (SSS) works surprisingly well for some individuals. Growing up, we relied on it during Boy Scout excursions, and while it does leave your skin feeling soft and slightly greasy, it keeps mosquitoes at bay — provided you apply enough. A generous coating ensures lasting protection, though not quite as effective as DEET.
The scent of SSS is far more pleasant than most bug sprays, which can be a morale booster in stressful situations. Plus, its psychological impact shouldn’t be underestimated. If you’re planning to use it overnight in your tent, apply it just before bed to avoid waking up feeling sticky. It’s a decent backup option, especially if DEET isn’t available.
In survival situations, sometimes you have to adapt with what you have. Whether it’s nylon stockings or a bottle of SSS, these makeshift solutions can make a real difference when you're outnumbered by insects.
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