Nothing spoils a peaceful evening faster than dealing with swarms of bugs while camping. While it feels impossible to keep them completely away, there are proven methods that can minimize their presence. Here are a few ways to prevent bugs from gathering on your camper screen doors without detracting from your ventures.
1. Use LED Lights With Warm Tones
Bright and cool-toned lights attract bugs. If your camper features standard fluorescent bulbs or cool LED lights, these can act as a beacon for insects.
Amber or yellow lighting tends to deter most insects. Swap out the bright lights with warm tones, as they are less likely to draw bugs toward your camper. You can position outdoor lighting away from doors and windows to avoid bugs flying inside.
2. Keep Food and Trash Sealed
Open food containers and trash bins are an invitation to insects. Bugs swarm to the smell of food and waste, so store leftovers or waste in tightly sealed bags or containers. Place the trash at least a few feet away from your camper to redirect insect attention.
Double-bagging trash can add an extra layer of odor control, further reducing the chance of attracting bugs. Consider using scented trash bags that mask food smells or repel insects. Always clean food preparation areas promptly to remove crumbs and spills.
3. Add Natural Repellents Around the Campsite
There are several natural repellents, like citronella candles, essential oils (lavender, lemon eucalyptus, and peppermint), and herb bundles (rosemary and sage) that can keep bugs from converging.
Furthermore, scattered cedar chips or shavings around your campsite naturally repel insects like ants and fleas. Place these repellents near the entryways of the camper.
4. Clean Around the Camper Regularly
Bugs love moisture, crumbs, and sticky residues. Sweeping and wiping surfaces are a great habit. Don’t forget to rinse or wipe down areas where drinks tend to spill, as sugary residue can attract flies and other insects.
You can also check under furniture and cushions for crumbs that may have gone unnoticed. A portable vacuum reaches those tight spaces where bugs can hide. Keep outdoor mats or rugs clean so they don’t collect particles that attract pests.
5. Install or Repair Screen Doors Properly
A reliable screen door is your best defense against bugs. If your camper’s screen door has any tears or gaps, fixing them can do the trick. You can even enhance your setup with magnetic closures or zipper systems for extra protection.
It’s helpful to check the edges of your screen door to see if there are gaps where bugs might sneak through. If you spot any problematic areas around the door frame, weather-resistant adhesive strips can seal them up.
6. Be Careful How You Let Air In
Proper airflow is essential for comfort, but leaving openings exposed can attract bugs. A Sprinter van mosquito net is a great solution. It lets fresh air in while stopping mosquitoes, gnats, and other bugs. These nets are easy to install and incredibly effective.
Mosquito nets with fine mesh block even the smallest bugs like no-see-ums. Secure the net tightly to prevent gaps where insects could sneak in. The Bug Wall specializes in bringing you the best products that keep bugs out while providing ventilation.
7. Avoid Bright Clothing Near the Doors
Bugs, particularly mosquitoes and gnats, are also drawn to light-colored and bright clothing. Light-colored fabrics can also reflect UV light, making them even more appealing to bugs.
If you’re hanging around the camper, consider wearing dark or neutral clothing. Additionally, consider treating your clothing with permethrin, a safe insect repellent spray for fabrics. This keeps bugs from hovering around you and accessing the camper.
8. Use Fans To Create a Breeze
Bugs, especially flying insects, struggle to move in windy conditions. By strategically placing fans near the screen doors, you can create airflow that deters them from coming too close. Portable battery-operated or USB-powered fans work perfectly at most campsites.
One strategy is to place the fans at varying heights. This can disrupt flying insects at different levels for comprehensive coverage.
For the best results, position fans so the breeze flows outward, pushing bugs away from the camper. If using multiple fans, create cross-ventilation to boost airflow and further deter pests.
9. Turn Off Any Exterior Lights When Not in Use
While exterior lighting is essential for safety and convenience at night, these lights can easily turn into a nuisance by luring insects toward your camper. Turning off unneeded lights near entrances can reduce their activity. If you prefer to keep lights on, consider pairing them with bug zappers or traps to minimize the problem.
Install motion-activated lights instead of leaving them on continuously to reduce bug activity when you’re not using them. Use light shields or covers to direct the beam downward and away from windows or doors. Yellow-tinted exterior lights can also reduce insect attraction while providing necessary illumination.
10. Use Bug Traps Strategically Near Doors
No trap eliminates insects altogether. However, you can reduce the number of bugs hanging out near your space. Electronic bug zappers and sticky traps can work wonders if you strategically place them around the campsite. Odorless options are ideal, so you don’t replace one issue with another. Regularly empty and clean bug traps to keep them effective and hygienic.
Combine traps with attractants, like UV light, to lure bugs more efficiently. This might seem counterproductive. The trick is to place the traps away from the camper, so the space remains bug-free.
Keep the Good Times Rolling at Your Campsite
Enjoying your camper van vacations means minimizing the little annoyances, like preventing bugs from gathering around your screen doors. These practical tips can help you maintain a bug-free area. You can repair your camper screen doors, use natural repellents, or install a mosquito net. A combination of adjustments can fortify your space for a more peaceful time.
For a dependable setup, check out The Bug Wall’s solutions for a secure and comfortable camping experience. We offer high-quality screens that keep out flying insects without hindering the camper’s airflow.
