🏕️ That One Time I Went Camping and Forgot the Bug Spray (And What I Learned the Itchy Way)
I had the tent. I had the food. I even had two different flashlights because, ya know, preparedness. But guess what I didn’t have?
Bug spray.
And I didn’t realize it until I was already deep in the woods with the sun going down and the bugs clocking in for their night shift.
Let’s rewind.
🌄 The Setup: Nature, Peace… and a Mosquito Ambush
I arrived at my campsite excited for a relaxing escape. I set up the tent like a pro, got the fire going, and settled in. The breeze was light, the sky was golden, and I was feeling all earthy and serene—until I felt the first nibble on my leg.
And then my arm. Then my face.
Within minutes, I was being eaten alive.
I dove into my gear, frantically searching every bag and side pocket. Nothing. I checked twice. I even dumped out my toiletries bag just to make sure it hadn’t magically appeared. Nada. I had packed everything except the one thing you absolutely should never forget in the woods during mosquito season.
🧠 What I Did Instead: Creative Bug Defense Tactics
I wasn’t about to give up my peaceful night to a cloud of flying vampires. So I got scrappy.
🔥 1. Smoke as Emergency Bug Spray
I threw damp pine needles and green leaves into the fire to make it extra smoky.
🔥 Why it works: Mosquitoes hate smoke, and it gives you a mild barrier when you don’t have chemical help.
🧥 2. Fashioned a DIY Bug-Blocking Outfit
It was summer, but I layered up anyway—long socks, sleeves, and a scarf around my neck. Not glamorous, but functional.
👚 Hack: If you forget bug spray, clothing becomes your shield. Loose, light-colored fabrics work best.
🌿 3. Tried Plant-Based Repellents
I crushed wild mint and pine needles between my fingers and rubbed the oils on my skin. Did it work? Kind of. Was it better than nothing? Absolutely.
🌱 Natural repellents: Mint, cedar, and pine are mildly effective in repelling insects if you know what to look for.
💤 4. Slept in the Smoke Zone
I moved my sleeping spot close enough to the fire to stay in the smoke path (safely), which kept bugs from swarming overnight.
🔥 Sleep tip: A smoky fire ring plus clothing layers = your best bet for sleeping in peace without bug spray.
🐜 5. Became One with the Forest Sass
Let’s be honest: I wasn’t thrilled. I was itchy, annoyed, and swatting at everything that moved. But I leaned into it.
🧘♀️ Survival mindset: Stay calm, hydrate, and don’t scratch too much—you’ll only make it worse.
✅ What I Learned (So You Don’t Have To)
After that night, I made a non-negotiable list of things I will never go camping without again:
- ✅ Bug spray (DEET or natural—whatever works)
- ✅ After-bite balm or soothing gel
- ✅ Citronella candles or essential oil wipes
- ✅ Lightweight scarf (good for sun, bugs, and drama)
- ✅ Long-sleeved layer—even in warm weather
📌 Pro tip: Keep a laminated camping checklist in your gear tote. Cross-check it every time.
💡 How to Make Sure This Never Happens to You
- Make a pre-packing checklist and use it
- Keep travel-size bug spray in your glove box, purse, or backpack
- Have a mini “emergency survival kit” with bug protection, sunscreen, and pain relief
- Read blogs like this one 😉 for real-life tips and things people actually forget
🔁 Related Posts You’ll Love:
- 20 Must-Know Camping Hacks
- Camping Without Bug Spray? Here’s How I Survived
- How to Deal With Bugs While Camping (Coming soon—want to be notified?)
🧭 Final Thought
Camping without bug spray taught me one thing: always be prepared—and if you’re not, be resourceful (and maybe a little dramatic).
Nature is beautiful, but it doesn’t play. Pack smart, double-check your bag, and keep your bug spray where you’ll actually find it next time. Your skin will thank you.
🦟 Disclaimer, Darling:
Heads up! This post contains affiliate links—which is a fancy way of saying if you click and buy, I might earn a tiny commission (at no extra cost to you). It helps keep the bug spray stocked and the sass flowing. Thanks for supporting MGs Journeys… and my deep fear of mosquito bites. 💅