Mosquitoes and Critters

Mosquito Repellents (and Other Insects)

Beyond the nuisance, many tropical diseases (malaria, dengue, encephalitis) are transmitted by insects and mites. So, when travelling to many countries, it will be essential to always use protective products for clothing, the body (lotion, gel, spray), and at night (coils, etc.).

Products

Effectiveness

At a pinch, it’s best to opt for local products, theoretically better suited to local critters. Indeed, the effectiveness of repellents varies greatly depending on the brand, the places you plan to visit, the quantity and type of insects encountered, as well as the active ingredients used and their concentration in the product.

For "high-risk" destinations where serious diseases like malaria, dengue, or chikungunya are prevalent, the reference for vaccination centres and many health ministries (European and American) is DEET at a concentration of 30% to 50% (at 50%, effectiveness lasts 8 to 10 hours).

Categories

You’ll easily find various lotions, sprays, and even mosquito-repellent bracelets (though the latter aren’t universally endorsed by the medical community) for just a few euros. Against mosquitoes and other pests, there are also atmospheric repellents with varying effectiveness. While travelling, you might avoid electrical devices, which aren’t always practical depending on where you are, and instead opt for coils or candles.

In addition to repellent, a soothing balm for "post-bite" relief (insects, spiders, marine animals, plants, etc.) in ointment or "thermostick" form can be highly recommended.

Double Protection

Finally, in all cases, a good repellent combined with appropriate clothing (long sleeves, thickness, treated fabrics) and suitable behaviour (most critters are fiercest at dusk) will offer the best protection against these parasites.

However, remember that 40% of bites occur through clothing. So, skin repellent alone isn’t enough—it’s better to treat your clothes as well. Ideally, do this before departure, as the insecticidal active ingredient remains effective for up to 8 weeks after treatment (simply spray the insecticide on clothes and let them dry).

Impregnated Mosquito Net with Cover

This is the complement to repellents for "high-risk" areas. Useful—even essential—for nights spent outdoors or under the stars (though some hotels may also require it). You can buy a mosquito net locally, but it may not always be impregnated.

Note that the WHO considers insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets the only true defence against malaria.

Models

There are, of course, different models of mosquito nets (adult, child, single or double occupancy) in various sizes. The most useful—though they take up a bit of space (at least 500 g)—are fully sealed ones with a built-in groundsheet and zipper, plus a foldable support rod (around 80 €).

Generally, though, opt for the least bulky models, pyramidal in shape, and especially pre-impregnated with repellent. On this topic, impregnation kits (around 6 to 10 €) are available to take with you if you prefer to buy your mosquito net on-site or use what you find along the way. Expect to pay around twenty euros (and a hundred grams) for basic individual mosquito net models. Don’t forget adhesive hooks to hang your net anywhere (2 € for 6) and the cover.

Insecticides

Note that insecticide sprays (around 15 €) are sold to treat your clothes before departure, remaining effective for several weeks even after washing. For info, there are also mosquito-net hats, hammocks, and tents.

Venom Extractor

If you’re doing a lot of hiking, you might consider bringing a venom extractor, like Aspivenin. Count on around 15 to 20 € and 100 grams for a small-box format.