.jpg)
Take a Stand Against Mosquitoes so that you can Enjoy the Outdoors Bite-Free.
If you are anything like me and my son, you will be used to being a mosquito magnet or a bug magnet in general!
You probably also react badly to them, as I find anyone who gets bitten a lot tends to have a more extreme reaction to them.
You have probably tried various concoctions of chemicals and natural products to avoid being bitten.
I am also willing to bet these have been unsuccessful on many accounts!
But have you ever wondered WHY some people seem to be more attractive to mosquitoes than others?
There are many factors that can play a part in you appearing so tasty to bugs!
So, why exactly do we get bitten and how can we stop it from happening?
Why do Some People Get Eaten Alive?
So, why do some people get eaten alive?
I should point out I am not a scientist or medical professional and neither do I proclaim to be.
After hours of research online trying to find a solution for us as a family, I have picked up some useful (and not so useful) information along the way.
I thought I would share my newfound knowledge to see if I can help someone else in the same situation as we often found ourselves in!
So here goes…
The main reasons why some of us appear to be completely irresistible to those pesky Mosquitos:
Genetics
Word on the street is that mosquitoes have a soft spot for Type O blood.
So, if you're a proud owner of this blood type, you might want to take extra precautions to avoid those itchy bites.
But blood type isn't the only genetic influence. Variations in your genes can also impact the production of certain chemicals in your body that mosquitoes find irresistible.
This means that some folks are naturally more prone to getting nibbled on than others.
Yep! That’s right, some of us are just predisposed to be bitten, not what you wanted to hear right?
Don’t lose hope, I may just have the solution for you at the end of this post!
Body Odour
Mosquitoes just can't resist the smell of humans!
They're drawn to all sorts of scents we give off, especially the ones in our sweat.
If you're someone who produces a lot of lactic acid, uric acid, or ammonia, you are likely a mosquito magnet.
So, if you're planning a holiday or you're in an area infested with mosquitoes, showering like there's no tomorrow may help a little! Especially if you opt for a Lemon scented shower gel.
Mosquitos hate lemon!
But in all honesty, even if you scrub yourself squeaky clean, those pesky bugs are still going to catch a whiff of your natural scent that drives them wild!
I am aware, if you are the one who gets bitten, this is all looking a little bit grim so far.
As I said, stick with me …. Help is coming!
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Emission
Mosquitoes are drawn to carbon dioxide, which as we all know, humans naturally exhale.
However, what you may not know is that some people exhale more CO2 than others. For instance, those who are overweight or pregnant!
Meaning these people may be more attractive to a Mosquito.
Are you noticing a pattern? Unfortunately, there are factors that we can't control.
Skin Temperature and Heat
When it comes to mosquito bites, staying cool can make a difference.
These pesky insects are drawn to warmth and target areas of the body with higher temperatures.
Combine that with the sweat factor, and you have a mosquito's dream come true.
Additionally, some individuals naturally have higher body temperatures due to genetics (there’s that dreaded word again).
So, while keeping cool might not be foolproof, it's a step towards minimizing those itchy encounters with mosquitoes.
Not so easy when you're on a beach in Greece or hiking through the pinewoods in Croatia in the 40-degree heat! Right?
Skin Microbiota
Now this one sounds like it would be complicated but basically, the bacteria on our skin can influence our appeal to mosquitoes.
Some bacteria produce chemicals that attract these buzzing insects, while others create compounds that act as natural repellents.
This might explain why you come home looking like you were the main course at a Mosquito buffet while your partner remains untouched.
Another factor that you can do nothing about!
The list just keeps getting longer!
Clothing Choices
Finally! Something you have 100% control over.
Although, in the hot sun you might not feel you have many options for outfit choices!
Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colours and can easily spot individuals wearing black, navy blue, or red clothing.
So maybe avoid these if possible or limit them at least and opt for light colours. These will also be cooler so it's a win-win really!
Some fabrics, such as tightly woven materials, offer better protection against mosquito bites than others. As they find it harder to get through!
Also wearing loose-fitting clothes may help keep your body temperature down.
However, if they are too loose the pesky things can get under them and bite you from under your clothing!
So, according to science, there are some things that are just out of our control. No matter how hard we try, the truth is, some of us are simply Mosquito magnets!!
DISCLOSURE: 'Rule your own world' is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Find out more here.
So, what can you do to stop getting mosquito bites?
Well, the good news is, there are things we can do to lessen the chances of being bitten!
A few suggestions can be seen here:
Use mosquito repellent with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Wear long sleeves, pants, and light-coloured clothing.
Avoid outdoor activities during dawn and dusk.
Utilize screens and nets to keep mosquitoes out.
Remove stagnant water sources.
Stay in air-conditioned or screened areas.
Avoid scented products.
Stay cool with fans and lightweight clothing.
Consider natural repellents like citronella and essential oils.
Remember to choose the right repellent and follow application instructions for effective protection.
The bad news is, in my experience, most of them have very little effect.
That is until we discovered the ultimate solution for mosquito troubles!
What is the ultimate solution to avoid being bitten?
Introducing Pyramid Trek, the holy grail of insect repellents.
After enduring costly steroid injections and countless bites while on previous trips abroad.
We went in search of a product that could give us better protection against all bugs!
It was whilst researching that I stumbled upon this miracle product.
After reading that this product was:
Sensitive skin-friendly repellent, offering effectiveness equivalent to 50% DEET whilst remaining completely DEET-free!
Non-greasy formula that is sweat and splash-resistant, providing long-lasting protection.
Pleasant scent for an enjoyable user experience.
Lasts all day with just one application.
Suitable for children aged 2 years and above.
Manufactured, tested, and fully approved in the UK.
I then discovered it was also Mandarin Orange scented and came in 100 Millilitres bottles. Which is perfect for the current liquid bag requirements when travelling on a plane with hand luggage only.
After reading some reviews I decided to give it a go.
I was sceptical to be completely honest, mainly due to its suitability for sensitive skin and lack of DEET.
I assumed it may not be strong enough to scare away the little nuisances.
But at around only £9 a bottle I thought it worth the risk!
Is it as good as people say it is?
Yes! In my opinion, it is a miracle worker!
We first used the Pyramid Trek product during our trip to Montenegro a few weeks ago and quickly discovered just how much I had underestimated the ability of this product!!
When neither I nor my son received a single bite thanks to this DEET-free, vegan, and child-friendly repellent.
I was in total shock. I was also ecstatic to have finally found something that is relatively cheap and actually works!
I cannot stress just how extremely we have been bitten over the years and how badly my 10-year-old son, especially, reacts to such bites!
He even managed to get bitten in Italy at Christmas by something. So, to have no bites at all, from any bug for the whole trip of 10 days just blew our minds!
The description of the product did suggest that it was effective against the following:
Mosquitoes
Malaria
Zika virus
Dengue Fever
West Nile virus
Midge
Sandfly
Horsefly
The lack of any form of bite would tell me that this is probably an accurate description.
At least, it has been for us so far!
Still, think you need extra help?
If you still don’t think this would work for you as a singular product and you want a bit of extra protection, then I would recommend combining both the Pyramid Trek and the Avon skin so soft.
This is not actually a repellent, it's a dry oil spray but it has been rumoured to repel mosquitos due to its ingredients. We have used this on its own previously with relatively good results.
You could also pack a few citronella candles if you wish (these are allowed in hand luggage but lighter is not, not to worry though as you can pick one up cheap in most countries once you arrive at your destination).
However, I am quite confident that if you apply the Pyramid Trek all over, you will not be reaching for any other products!
Other products you could try
If for any reason you are still not sold. Here are some other well-regarded insect repellents that you can purchase online:
This repellent contains 98.11% DEET, providing long-lasting protection against mosquitoes, ticks, gnats, and other insects.
This Organic mosquito DEET Free repellent offers protection for up to 7 hours at a time and states it protects from a range of biting Insects, as well as mosquitos, Including Bed Bugs.
This formula offers effective protection against mosquitoes and ticks without the greasy residue associated with DEET-based repellents.
With a high concentration of DEET (up to 25%), this repellent provides long-lasting protection against mosquitoes, ticks, chiggers, and other biting insects.
This repellent is effective for up to 6 hours and is Deet-free. This is a plant-based insect repellent that also provides lasting protection.
Powerful, 8-hour protection against midges, mosquitoes, flies, fleas, and ticks. Safe for adults, children over 30 months, and pregnant women. Non-sticky, moisturizing, pleasant fragrance.
Designed for babies and children, this DEET-free repellent is made with plant-based ingredients and essential oils. It is gentle on the skin and provides protection against mosquitoes and other flying insects.
Remember to carefully read the product descriptions, user reviews, and consider your specific needs when choosing an insect repellent. We have not used any of these other alternatives personally so cannot advise on their effectiveness.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, this has given you further understanding as to why you might be a mosquito magnet and will help you fight back.
While you can't change your genes, you can take steps to minimize bites.
Try Pyramid Trek Sensitive DEET-Free Insect Repellent Spray or any of the repellents mentioned in this blog and drop us a comment after your trip to let us know how you got on.
For us, this was a magical potion that saved me and my son from becoming mosquito food in Montenegro.
But for reasons discussed above it may not be as successful for some.
It does come with tons of excellent reviews though, so I have very high hopes it is going to work extremely well for the masses!
I am interested to see what you think of it.
Do not let mosquitoes ruin your next outdoor adventure.
Happy Travels guys and may you all remain bite-free!
For information on travelling with ‘hand luggage’ only check out :
Travelling Light: How it can save you money on Your Next Trip and other benefits!
How to travel abroad on a budget: The ultimate guide to saving money on your next trip!
How to pack hand luggage correctly: Fit in all your essential items easily!
What to pack when taking hand luggage only! : Buy All Your Travel Essentials today in one place!
Comments