Best itching & rash treatments according to redditors

Sounds like he should just treat all his stuff with Permethrin.

http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Premium-Permethrin-Clothing-Repellent/dp/B007VCRX2S

There is this scrub you can use in the shower (with the hot water!).. I think the brand is Tecnu or something like that. It's expensive, but amazing.

ETA: Found it !http://www.amazon.com/Tecnu-Extreme-Medicated-Poison-Scrub/dp/B0007IOVZK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1376093714&sr=8-1&keywords=tecnu+poison+ivy

Permethrin -http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Premium-Permethrin-Clothing-Repellent/dp/B007VCRX2S

Sum up the light in a few words:

Name | Battery (type and quantity) | Lumens and mode | battery life (in order of lumens mode) | length | price (rounded up to full dollar)

------------------

The simple one mode guy:

• Coast PX25 | 3x AAA | 208 Lumens | 6.25 hrs | 4.7" | $28 Prime
  
  
  Maybe another setting would be nice:
  
  
• Coast HP7 | 4x AAA | 251/58 Lumens | 5.75/10 hrs | 5.6" | $44
  
  
  ...Or like 30 settings:
  
  
• Fenix LD10 | 1x AA | 120/94/47/9/SOS/Strobe Lumens | 1.5/2.2/6/34/varies hrs | 3.4" | $39 Prime
  
  
  Simple and I hate AAAs:
  
  
• Fenix E21 | 2x AA | 170/54 Lumens | 2.25/11 hrs | 6.5" | $31 Prime
  
  
  I like a sleek slim light with a lot of settings. I don't mind that its twist on:
  
  
• Foursevens P2 | 2x AAA | 160/?/2/SOS/beacon/strobe Lumens | 1/?/23/varies hrs | 5" | $45 Prime
  
  
  ...That and CR123As are my kind of battery:
  
  
• Foursevens Mini | 1x CR123A | 189/40/3/SOS/beacon/strobe Lumens | 1.2/8/150/varies hrs | 2.3" | $35 Prime
  
  
  Tail button FTW:
  
  
• Streamlight ProTAC | 2x AAA | 80/10/strobe Lumens | 1.5/30/5 hrs | 5.6" | $29 Prime
  
  
  
  Tail button and AAs FTW:
  
  
• Streamlight ProTAC | 1x AA | 50/6/strobe Lumens | 1.75/22/4 hrs | 3.9" | $33 Prime
  
  
  
  A little longer gets you 2x the brightness:
  
  
• Streamlight ProTAC | 2x AA | 120/14/strobe Lumens | 1.75/21/4 hrs | 5.9" | $36 Prime
  
  
  Okay lets face it. CR123As are kinda cool:
  
  
  
• Streamlight ProTAC | 2x CR123A | 180/10/strobe Lumens | 2.5/50/6 hrs | 4.7" | $40 Prime
  
  
  
  
  
  Hope that helps!! I have a couple Streamlights and I am happy with them. On a budget (sub $50-80) they are great lights. A lot of people (non-tactical) like Foursevens. Never used one. If you aren't afraid of loosing it they seem like fantastic lights. If you can afford it and you are in tactical or just rugged situations Surefire makes unbelievably good flashlights... but they cost a lot.
  
  EDIT: Formatting.
  

I use Sawyer Picaridin spray. It doesn't smell bad like deet does and doesn't damage plastic if it gets on it.

“Bug Bite Thing”

Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard is my favorite.

We just got back from 5 days in Algonquin and had a blast! We stayed in one of the campgrounds though since we had 3 kids with us. I'd really like to go back without the kids and do a backpacking or canoeing trip.

Do not forget your bug repellent.

I forgot to bring it on our first hike and the mosquitoes ate us alive. They are plentiful right now.

A layer of ultrathon in the morning and then spray as needed throughout the day is what worked best for me.

In that part of the country you might want to be aware of deer ticks that cause Lyme disease. These are tiny cousins of the wood tick and are very hard to see on your body. Treat your clothes with this. http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Premium-Permethrin-Clothing-Repellent/dp/B007VCRX2S

I would believe the best protection and comfort would be to wear nylon pants protected with permethrin

Deet would be a second layer of protection applied to the skin and dont forget about the upper body being protected.

Similar product, works well enough.
REPEL HG-24109 Lemon Eucalyptus Natural Insect Repellent with 4 oz Pump Spray, Twin Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010AFV1LQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_A.kizb1190A0K

Avon SKIN-SO-SOFT Bug Guard PLUS, SPF 30 Gentle Breeze
https://www.amazon.com/Avon-SKIN-SO-SOFT-Bug-Guard-Moisturizing/dp/B0001ZWPI4?th=1

Long sleeves and pants help. Even in hot weather - wearing lightweight clothing that covers your skin will cut down on where the bugs bother.

A fire also helps. Candles (citronella) are an alternative option if you can't start a legit fire.

Wind also helps. If you can pick a campsite with cross breeze - it would be best.

Keep that tent zipped up at all times. At least when sleeping you will be in peace.

Ben's 100% Deet bug spray works GREAT. just keep it away from sensitive materials and your mouth - it's STRONG.

All of this stuff happened so quickly, didn't it? It kind of came out of nowhere!

I'd get lots of bug repellent. There is a cream called Ultrathon that is really effective. I guess you'd have to weigh the risks of DEET vs the virus. Personally I'd choose wearing heavy bug repellent for a week. You can put it on pressure points like ankles and wrists like perfume.
You can usually find it at an outfitter or camping store if there is no time for Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004LA5SUC?keywords=Insect%20repellent%20cream&qid=1453126623&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1


I know exofficio also makes bug resistant travel clothing, or they used to.

Enjoy your trip! Consult your doctor too.

If you're in the US (or have it available) look at the Benadryl Itch Stopping Gel. Works wonderfully on bug bites and poison ivy rashes, without needing to take a pill that affects your whole system (and can make you sleepy).

Spray-wise, look at some Picardin like Naturapel. Works really well to keep bugs off of you.

https://www.amazon.com/Tablets-Internal-Deoderant-100chewable-tablets/dp/B0045WG1P2/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1536613710&sr=8-2&keywords=devrom+internal+deodorant

This seems to be the leading product to help reduce odor for people with colostomies and other intestinal issues. Daily enemas are definitely not healthy but you might consider increasing fiber if he has a leaking issue.

This specific pair, I'm not sure. But in general, high quality suede is a lot more resilient than people expect, although I wouldn't trek around in the snow with them, and if I knew it was going to be pouring rain, I'd wear something else. A little bit of rain/snow here and there shouldn't destroy them, especially if you condition & clean them.

Also, this stuff will help.

Tecnu is weaksauce. I am severely allergic and have been on trail crews for NPS, USFS, and BLM. Use Zanfel first on areas you know have been exposed; follow the directions exactly. Then use regular tecnu from your neck down as directed and take a shower with not very hot water. Make sure to wash your clothes with regular Tecnu and always bring a spare change of clothes when you ride or your car seats will get covered and you'll wonder why the backs of your knees keep getting a rash. Once you're dry out of the shower and know you're not reacting to any urishol, reoil your skin with olive/coconut oil etc if you plan on being around poison oak/ivy/sumac/wood again else you'll get it way worse since your skin has lost its natural protectants.

I just ordered this big-ass bottle of it, thanks for the recommendation! I'll be putting it in a little spray bottle to carry on the course.

https://www.amazon.com/Tecnu-Original-Poison-Outdoor-Cleanser/dp/B0034CZ3M6/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&rps=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1494434943&sr=1-1&keywords=tecnu&refinements=p_85%3A2470955011

The Bug Bite Thing! This is the first summer I have not suffered through mosquito bites (although I may have accidentally given myself a hickey or two)

https://www.amazon.com/Bug-Bite-Thing-Suction-Remover/dp/B01576DWQU

• Anker lightweight 10,000 mAh external battery
  
• Leatherman multitool
  
• Luci Lux Inflatable Solar Light
  
• Optimus Titanium Spoon
  
• Sea to summit mosquito headnet

I am prepper and a FIL, here are some things I can never have enough of...

• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NGYGCH2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GH501T2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000O8OTNC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001H9N8B6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000LGPD64/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000WXX0JS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GAOIME/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014SRY5FG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004WFXCSQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00345OMR0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
  Your FIL will be thrilled that you support his prepping no matter what you decide to give him!
  

I used this on my last camping trip and it worked really well.

This one:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000XYWLE6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Yep, just went through the same thing. I happened to be at the RE for something else last week and even he was horrified. My butt was basically a red battlefield of welts.

RE called in a new script to Freedom but they don't carry it. I ended up ordering another vial in the meantime while the new script got figured out, and it hasn't bothered me at all. Welts are going down and it doesn't itch anymore. I have no idea why. I've started doing my own injections so maybe that's it? Or maybe your body rebels after about 3 weeks of PIO and then settles down?

Either way, I feel for ya. I hope it gets better soon! This stuff is the bomb, in the meantime: https://www.amazon.com/Benadryl-Relief-Extra-Strength-Ounce/dp/B00HQRCNWI/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1474913262&sr=8-1&keywords=benadryl%2Bgel&th=1

Maybe this can help you: Parametrek Flashlight selection tool.

I personally carry a Fenix LD10 on my front left pocket, unclipped (but with the removable clip still there) and have no problems. However, I used to carry an Inova X1 (not a great light, but pretty compact) and it was unnoticeable.

Head over to /r/flashlight, they're experts there.

Oh same!!! My bites get really big, and itch like crazy. The skin will get super hard around the bite and it can get to be the size of my palm. No joke, a baseball sized bite on my calf or whatever and it gets hot even. They can itch for a week and make it hard to go to sleep. I’ve never found anything that helps until recently.

Bug Bite Thing Suction Tool, Poison Remover - Bug Bites and Bee/Wasp Stings, Natural Insect Bite Relief, Chemical Free, 3 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EAS3ER8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_JnixDbDAZ9QEF

If I can use this within 30 mins of getting bit, I forget I was even bit. Game changer.

It exists. It's glorious.

Check out the reviews for Zanfel then save yourself some money and buy Mean Green Power Hand Scrub instead which is the same thing but way cheaper.

If you use it on yourself, you should be alright, just avoid spraying it directly on your gear. If you can't see any damage, then you should be fine. It's mostly second hand information, I wouldn't freak out about it, just be careful about how and where you apply it. Maybe try something like this. There are alternative insect repellents like Picaridin and Permerithrin.

Hope that you have a good trip.

They work well as a regular wiping thing. Have hydrocortisone and witch hazel in them, which regular wipes don't.

But for worse booty hole protrusions, get thyself some of this (any 1% hydrocortisone cream) and dab it all over after wiping. Outside only, not in. Tightens things up, helps keep everything where it should be.

But if things are seriously bad with the ol' chocolate starfish, go see a doctor instead of listening to some dude off the internet.

I prefer the 3M Deet Lotion. I am an avid backpacker and this seems to work better than anything else.

A head net isn't so bad once you get used to it. Try wearing a wide brim hat or at least a baseball cap or something underneath it... keeps it from touching your face all the time and makes it more comfortable.

Real vanilla extract seems to help with gnats as well, which seem to be a bigger problem in the U.S. lately for some reason... maybe the new pesticides that farms are using don't affect them as much? Dunno, but we have biting gnats around that are a huge nuisance and I don't ever remember that as a kid... Might not always be mosquitos that are bothering you, but also some biting gnats mixed in there as well.

Hey no problem! Patagonia makes a bunch of different weights of baselayers (https://www.patagonia.com/shop/mens-baselayers), and other gear that can serve as day shirts or baselayers (such as the Tropic Comfort Hoody https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-tropic-comfort-hoody-ii/52123.html, or the Sunshade Technical Hoody https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-sunshade-technical-hoody/52657.html), but all of the ones that are not labeled lightweight baselayer are marginally heavier, for different tradeoffs and features. Definitely an interesting and very well thought out product line in their totality, and always includes the killer Patagonia warranty (which is part of the reason their stuff is so expensive, aside from the fact they try to source and produce stuff ethically, which naturally costs more).

The S2S bug net was the lightest weight robust thing I could find to pair with a tarp that would keep out bugs and nightly scavengers (which seems necessary for the AT, but not the PCT per se).

Speaking of bugs, one thing that I think might be worth investing in for the AT as well is the S2S Mosquito Headnet with Insect Shield (https://www.amazon.com/Sea-Summit-Mosquito-Insect-Shield/dp/B003F5WGNG/), which is about .8oz. Would provide nice help combating all of the bugs on AT while you're walking during the day in the parts where it might otherwise be really annoying.

Ok

Ben's sells individual bug repellent wipes.

EDIT: per comment below, there are also Picaridin wipes available.

And, living in NEPA and being really allergic to poison ivy, lots of Benadryl, Extra Strength

Where are you camping/hiking? What region? City/State?

I'm trying to get a read on whether you'll need to prepare for deer tick issues - NY State is rife with them right now, and you do NOT want to get into a problem with a deer tick - trust me.

Where are you camping?

Here are some essentials:

• Ditch the flashlight, consider instead a headlamp. Energizer x7 LED Headlights which you can pick up from ANY Home Depot right at the register - they're about $20 each. Trust me, if you need to take a leak in the dark, you'll need both hands free ;)
  
  
• Nalgene/water bottles - an empty Gatorade bottle also works. Don't bother carrying 2 gallons in with you, water weighs 1 pound for every liter - do the math - that shit's heavy. If you're camping by a river, consider using a filtration system instead and filter water as you need it. I use the Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System and it works a treat.
  
  
• Leave your knives at home - they're heavy - you're going to have to carry that shit around. Instead, for what you'll actually need a knife for, try a Leatherman Multitool. This thing has scissors, blade, tweezers, file, and a flat head screwdriver (can also work a Phillips head screw). $20, 1.4oz.
  
  
• Bug repellent. If you're in an area susceptible to ticks, you may want to consider treating your gear (clothing mostly) with Permithrin. Ticks hate this shit - in fact it kills them. Get this. Follow the instructions to the letter.
  
  
• Leave the hatchet at home - again, total luxury item that you won't need. And it likely weighs a pound.
  
  
• Zippo? Fuck that - take a box of matches, keep those in a Ziploc bag. Want to know a free method of tinder for making your fires? Dryer lint. Take a Ziploc bag of that shit with you - lights like a dream. Also, fluid? What are you, lazy? There's no better feeling than making a fire all by yourself, and in this climate with particularly dry environments, you shouldn't have a problem with building a nice roaring fire without using lighter fuel.
  
  
• Make sure your tents are rated for at least 10'F LESS than the temperature it's forecast for the nights you'll be staying out. Nothing worse than shivering all night - no sleep means miserable trip.
  
  
• EAR PLUGS. Whether it's your snoring buddy, or random noises in the night (snapping twigs, etc), ear plugs will ensure you get a decent night of sleep.
  
  
• First aid kit - essential. Bandaids, Tylenol/Aleve, antiseptic.
  
  
• Check to see what your state's rules are on bear/food safety. You will either be required to use a Bear Cannister (Bear Vault is an awesome product or you'll have to "bear bag" your food - essentially bear bagging is a method of hanging your food in high branches of a tree out of the reach of bears - you have to know what you are doing. Great article on that here.
  
  
• Do NOT go to bed with anything food related (or anything with an odor, ideally), ever. Bears can smell food from literally miles away - you do NOT want one trying to get inside your tent to sniff out that Snickers wrapper you left in your pants pocket.
  
  
• Food - take whatever you want, that's the beauty of eating out at camp. Make sure to take plenty of fatty foods for your hikes (chocolate, peanuts, etc) so you get plenty of carbs in you. A warm meal before your hike in the morning will not only give you some well needed energy, but it will also serve as a great moral boost. Remember, you need to pack in what you pack out.
  
  
• Booze. Leave this at home. Remember, cans, bottle, everything you carry in you MUST carry out. If you must insist on taking alcohol, maybe fill a Soft Platypus with your favorite wine or vodka cocktail.
  
  
• TOILET PAPER. For obvious reasons. Never take a #1 or #2 too close to a water source. It's considered a big no no to wash in a water source. For washing yourselves, or dirty dishes, fill a pot (or Nalgene, etc) and take it back to around camp and do with it what you will there away from the water source. Soiled water is known as grey water - never dump this anywhere near a water source - at LEAST 200 feet away.
  
  
• Cell phone. Emergencies. Make sure you have them.
  
  
• Batteries - those headlamps take AAA size - take at least a dozen if all you lads are taking a headlamp each.
  
  
• Clothing. If you're hiking quite far (let's say over 3-5 hours), don't wear cotton clothing. It will chafe the crap out of your bollocks, and wet cotton can kill (in low temps, obviously). If you have synthetic clothing for the hike, wear it.
  
  
• Spare socks. It's just smart.
  
  
• Camp towel. This can be a bandana, or other small cloth - wipe down the inside of your tent, wash your face, clean the pots, etc.
  
  If I think of anything else I'll post edits (running out the door right now).
  
  The most important thing... have an awesome time.

I've got the Fenix LD10, a step below what is pictured in the OP, and costs roughly the same thing - about $50 on Amazon.


I don't do anything as exciting or tactically-requisite as a private investigator or similar, but you'd be surprised at how useful a ready flashlight can be in your day to day life. Totally necessary, absolutely not, but handy as hell to have, and having a nicer, more expensive one will not only make the general experience nicer, but makes you more likely to carry/not lose/care for it.

High quality, great light output, surprisingly long battery life (on a regular AA, not even the crazy Lithium batteries), rugged, handy every now and then, and small/compact enough to tuck away and carry every day. I'll pay $50 for that.

I've always found it at pharmacies. Just to warn you, it's not cheap. OH and also, watch out. they have a "moisturizing skin lotion" or something like that. You don't want the lotion, you want the good ol' liquid Tecnu.

Here is the Amazon link to the big bottle, which you may actually need since it sounds like you've got an infestation rolling in your home. Do try your local pharma first though, you may get lucky

Oh and finally, dish soap does work to wash the oil off, it's just a pain in the ass to use. Don't know if alcohol is at all effective at removing the oil, just think it would dry the seepy wounds up a bit.

> "Use and carry your light with you at all times."

I preach this 24/7. It really surprises me just how many people carry a gun but don't also carry a flashlight. This is what I carry with me everywhere, every day.

You can buy some spray and do it yourself. The fabric will change a little, but it's not too noticeable.

http://www.amazon.com/McNett-ReviveX-Nubuck-Fabric-Repellent/dp/B000XYWLE6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1344958540&sr=8-2&keywords=ugg+waterproofing+spray

Cover yourself head to toe and use some wasp/hornet spray. Buy something like this at the store. https://www.amazon.com/Wasp-Hornet-Killer-14-oz/dp/B004VD7NIO

Tecnu Extreme Poison Ivy Scrub

https://www.amazon.com/Tecnu-Extreme-Poison-Scrub-Removes-4-ounce/dp/B0007IOVZK

Great stuff, my son and friends use it. Personally I don't get PI, though am very careful since the immunity fades the more you touch it. My son is highly allergic and uses it. They also make wipes which may be easier on the trail.

The best advice is to be aware of where you're walking, know where it tends to grow and what it looks like. When you make camp, go around and ID all the PI and remember where it is, so you don't go stumbling into it at night.

Here's a pretty good quiz that will help you ID PI... though if you're not sure just try to stay away from it all.

http://www.poison-ivy.org/poison-ivy-quiz

I can vouch for Zanfel as the best. I somehow manage to get poison ivy frequently. You can find this at drugstores too.

Stock up.

Skin so soft has versions with picaridin and IR3535. That are supposed to be much safer as far as carcinogens go. I'm not sure how it works yet because i found these after /u/docbrownsdmc12 mentioned picaridin as an alternative to deet.

long sleeve shirts with gloves and these http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003F5WGNG/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I use these https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BRN9870?pc_redir=T1 or I carry a little bottle of technu

Also living in Tampa. OB just recommended wearing this stuff everyday for a sunscreen/bug repellant combo.

I did not use a bug net at all, although I was carrying one. I have some friends who did the JMT a couple years back, early June and they said the bugs were terrible. I guess I got lucky.

I did use bug spray: https://amzn.com/B010AFV1LQ

I used 3/4 of a bottle for the whole trip. At higher elevations, mosquitos become less of a problem. I recommend you get something that is deet free. Deet has a tendency to eat/melt through your camping gear.

I had blue skies and sunshine everyday, but as soon as that sun dips down behind a mountain it becomes cold, really, really fast. I don't know the exact temperatures, but some places were below 50F/10C for sure. We had frost on our tents some mornings. I had my Patagonia R3 and Nano Puff with me, wore both of them together on plenty of occasions.

Ascending Mt. Whitney at 3am was surprisingly warm, I was in a tshirt and pants until half way up.

I'm just going to leave this here.

https://www.amazon.com/Bug-Bite-Thing-Suction-Remover/dp/B01EAS3ER8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?adgrpid=56158097676&gclid=Cj0KCQjw9pDpBRCkARIsAOzRzivZkKrzfMrD8RRM6DbGuLpwpMgv8v1F8i5k-R4QZUyrJVmrIkGdy_saAoYxEALw_wcB&hvadid=274810582757&hvdev=m&hvlocphy=9029738&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=4457462228313333972&hvtargid=aud-676677759524%3Akwd-324181625009&hydadcr=7852_9531066&keywords=bug+bite+thing&qid=1562723384&s=gateway&sr=8-1

If lotion works, this stuff is awesome. I got issued it for deployments and found it after for personal use. https://www.amazon.com/3M-Ultrathon-Insect-Repellent-2-Ounce/dp/B004LA5SUC

Products like Technu (normally used for poison ivy) will get chili oil off your hands. I keep a bottle under the kitchen sink and wash my hands with it any time I handle peppers.

Gold Standard: http://www.amazon.com/3M-Ultrathon-Insect-Repellent-2-Ounce/dp/B004LA5SUC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395318562&sr=8-1&keywords=ultrathon

http://www.amazon.com/Grabber-Outdoors-Outdoor-Cleanser-32-Ounce/dp/B0034CZ3M6/ref=pd_sim_hpc_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=0DM297CBV29W3E7F5MBZ

I have yet to use it but I have ordered it. I hear great things.

Found out a month or two ago I am definitely allergic to poison oak. It looked like I rolled in the shit naked. it was EVERYWHERE. Balls on fire.

I take a shower immediately after digging my trails in certain areas now.

I live in CO and hike almost exclusively at altitude, but I still use a bug net. Better safe than miserable, IMHO. Fire WILL NOT keep the bugs away. A far better option for repelling the bugs would be treating your sleeping equipment with repellent like this : http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Premium-Permethrin-Clothing-Repellent/dp/B007VCRX2S. I've never tried it, but I've heard good things.

cawcaw

these bug wipes would be useful to me because I'm going to costa rica in August!

Thanks for the contest!

Skin so Soft

http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Premium-Permethrin-Clothing-Repellent/dp/B007VCRX2S

This will change your life...

I don't have reactions to Poison Ivy but some of the local guys here use something similar to THIS.

FRAK PSORIASIS.

I've got it bad. I have three favorite things:

1. Psoriasin. It's icky yellow goo that smells very strongly, but used every day takes away the scales. If you have any open spots, don't get this in it until they close up.
   
   
2. Hydrocortizone Cream. When you go to the dermatologist, they give you a super strength version of this OTC stuff. It is for the itchiness, and really helps. But, I'm pretty sure it is a steroid, so you can't use it every 5 minutes.
   
   
3. Burt's Bees Hand Salve. This is a Godsend. Works 100x better than lotion when you're itchy and uncomfortable. Very oily but AMEN this stuff helps WITHOUT burning.
   

I was browsing amazon, and found something like this. Will this do?
http://www.amazon.com/ReviveX-Nubuck-Fabric-Repellent-4-Ounce/dp/B000XYWLE6/ref=lh_ni_t?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

I have some scaring on my forearms (little white dots) but I have not had any scarring left over on my legs, back, or stomach. That probably has more to do with the fact that those areas were constantly covered and I never wore sunscreen so my arms were always exposed to the sun. They are barely barely noticeable on my arms.

For the percentage, I've always gotten 1%. I'm not sure what all is available in your country, but it may also be listed as hydrocortisone cream. I'm currently using Cortizone-10 for my thighs, and I've used Aveeno Anti-Itch Cream. They are both 1%, but the Cortizone-10 has Aloe in it.

As for the scratching, I completely understand your pain. It would feel absolutely amazing to give in and scratch. It would literally give me chills it would feel so good, and then I'd look down to see my nails all bloody because I was literally gouging my skin.

If possible, try to wear as little clothing as possible to keep things from touching it and try a few different things to get the itch out if you absolutely cannot stand to not touch. Something that works for me (well... sometimes) is a pretend itch. I'll literally hold my hand over the itchy area and move my hand as if i'm scratching it, but I'm really scratching the air. I've also try blowing on it, cooling it, etc. Hydrocortisone cream should help. It is an anti-iching agent, but you have to let it dry. I know sometimes I'd get so impatient searching for immediate relief. It has to absorb into the skin to start working.

I haven't tried it, but it looks like there is a Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream. I know Benadryl is meant for allergies, so this might work. It has a histamine in it.

Also, check your local drug stores. We have cortisone cream in the US in every one of them, and in grocery stores, and convenient stores, etc. You may be able to get it quicker than through Amazon.

noooo, it's like this plastic suction that you apply to your skin. https://www.amazon.com/Bug-Bite-Thing-Suction-Remover/dp/B01576DWQU/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=bug+bite+sucker&qid=1563746909&s=gateway&sr=8-2

I would get this.

I would avoid washing with it everyday though if you can. Tecnu works wonders but it removes the natural oils from your skin as well, so it really dries you out. If you use it often, invest in some good moisturizer. On second thought, I would put on moisturizer (or sunscreen) every morning to help prevent the poison oak oils from soaking into your skin--it can't hurt at least.

jackpot! yall know everything! I found some on amazon. thanks!

Mainer here. Buy nothing but Ben's Deet https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001GCU3VM?th=1. I keep one in my backpack, one in the car, and one in my home. The formula is almost 100% deet. You'll get used to the scent when you see your friends being eaten alive.

If it is water/wax based makeup apply Avon Skin So Soft cream bug repellent then use the makeup over it. The makeup applies and blends better.

As a side note, myself and the guys on my crew use Repel lemon eucalyptus on ourselves and gear with good results. Link

Buy this: https://www.amazon.com/ZANFEL-Poison-Ivy-Sumac-Wash/dp/B000GCPWUU/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_sspa?keywords=zanfel+poison+ivy+wash&qid=1557450278&s=gateway&sprefix=zanfel&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1&smid=A2B04QWKBOTFWI

ONLY this brand. The other stuff does not work. I think it might be slightly cheaper at Walmart. My husband swears by this stuff.

Do your best to eliminate standing water in your yard, as this is where mosquitoes breed. Even things like saucers from potted plants can be mosquito breeding grounds if water is left standing in them for long enough (about a week, from what I understand).

After a particularly bad mosquito year, I bought a head net (similar to this one), which helps in particularly buggy situations. Other than that I mostly use DEET-containing big sprays, although I’ve found some of the more natural repellants (the ones with essential oils) seem to work well enough if the mosquitoes aren’t too bad to begin with.

In Orlando, the mosquitos are really bad this year. I have a Zap-It! Bug zapper which gives a very satisfying zap when you hit an insect and Picaridin spray which lasts 12 hrs (it really does seem to last that long) and works better than anything I have tried - zero bites since I have used this stuff - it doesn't smell but it does leave a very slight film on the skin. If you aren't bothered by that, I would recommend giving it a try.

I use the zapper when they are annoyingly flying around and I feel like playing Zeus while ending their lives with a bolt of lightning.

I haven't tried the Thermocell due to cost - Thermocell and refills - but I will keep that in mind if the Picaridin is no longer effective. Glad you found something that works!

I heard about this Bug Bite Thing in the news yesterday, sucks the mosquitoes saliva out of (ideally new) bites to stop or reduce the itching. Sure could have used that last week when I was covered in clusters of bites and going mad in the middle of the night...

It’s a cousin of pepto bismol but it helps with reduce the smell of gut gas. Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0045WG1P2

There’s still gas but it doesn’t smell half as bad. It’s very impressive.

I'm a big fan of permethrin spray when paired with long pants/a long shirt. Here's a link to the one I like the best. Basically you spray it on your clothes before you go and you then let it dry (don't put it on your skin). It also works great for chiggers, especially if you drench your shoes/socks with it.

That would help me and other to figure out what it might be. I had a problem similar to what you describe. After going to a doctor I learned that it was a flea or woodland mite or something of the same. I got a flea spray for home from Walmart at it’s worked pretty good. I also got the ultra sonic bug repellent to keep them away. Mixed with Insect repellent lotion that the Army uses and I haven’t had any incidents in weeks.

Edit: this is the lotion 3M Ultrathon Insect Repellent Lotion, 2 oz

This shit works wonders. I use it on my pubic area; might be kinda weird on the face.

http://www.amazon.com/Cortizone-10-Strength-Crme-Boxes-Pack/dp/B002CVV1HQ/

Fenix LD10 has been great. Small with a clip to ride inside a pocket with two brightness level.

http://www.amazon.com/Fenix-LD10-Lumens-Waterproof-Flashlight/dp/B004DVIJSW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1381168823&sr=8-1&keywords=ld10

Devrom works. The only side effect is that it turns your shit green.

Another option for a tarp if you don't want to or dont have time to put a lot of DIY work in would just be to buy a cheap utility tarp. A 6x8 tarp, hung in a "Diamond" shape would give you a 10 foot ridgeline. An 8x8 tarp would give you an 11' 8" rigeline.

This is obviously going to be a lot heavier that tyvek or plastic drop cloths, but it already has grommets attached so it is stow and go. It can be strapped to the backpack versus going inside of it so that it doesn't take up any pack space.

Definitely pick up a bug net though, getting eaten alive is no fun, especially on a longer hike like that.

One thing you might also look into is doing a permethrin treatment to your clothes and hammock/bugnet. You can buy the Sawyer spray at many outdoors stores. This works on ticks and mosquitos as well as other biting and stinging bugs.

Basically anything except cotton. I have a pair of pants that say "100% nylon with teflon coating" that are great. Polyester would probably also be good. Basically, you'll have to go by "feel". Find something that isn't cotton, then ask "is this tough/thick enough that most bugs won't bite me through this?" and "is this light enough that I won't get overly hot in it?". And get yourself a bug head net, in black. they usually come in green, but black is easier to see through. here's an example amazon link

http://www.amazon.com/Tender-Bens-Spray-Ounce-Bottle/dp/B001GCU3VM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1368768075&sr=8-2&keywords=bens+max

I've used this for several years, camping, hunting, airsoft/paintball. Haven't had a single tick. If anyone does get this, or any 100 Deet repellent, remember to try not having it on bare skin, tuck pants legs into socks, shirt into waist, spray around those areas, cuffs and collar area of your shirt and you will be golden.

Lately I've been keeping a few of these in my bag:

Poison Ivy Wipes

Often times I don't spot the poison ivy until I've already stepped into it, or reached through it to grab my disc, but a quick wipe-down with these seems to do the trick.

I would recommend spraying your clothing that you are going to wear beforehand with Sawyer Premium and then using Repel on your skin during the trip. Those are both effective. Don't use OFF! as it is only like 25% DEET. Repel is 98%.

That's fine! What about something like a Fenix LD10?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004DVIJSW?pc_redir=1395223756&robot_redir=1

Great brand, durable, very bright, uses common batteries.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01G9G9KEK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

That is pretty much the gold standard.

I am no good at recognizing poison oak or poison sumac.

But when I get poison ivy, the best over the counter stuff for it I've found is teknu.

Zanfel is the only thing I've ever found that really works. It neutralizes the irritant (urushiol) by binding to it chemically and allows it to be washed away.

Most big drug stores have it but it's much cheaper on Amazon. I keep some in the house just in case my kids get it.

Also, if DEET spray isn't an option there is DEET lotion sold in 3 oz bottles so it makes the perfect travel companion. Took this stuff to Peru (though it didn't really make a bit of difference....)

Uh, yeah it is.