Shoo Fly: How to Keep Bugs Out of Your RV and Campsite

The joys of camping in the warmer weather allow you to experience fun, outdoor activities while experiencing nature. However, with warm weather comes a few negative factors, including the presence of bugs. Insects can be a serious nuisance when camping in your toy hauler, Class C motorhome, fifth wheel trailer or other RV. Too many, and your vacation can feel totally ruined. To help combat these pesky creatures, RVT has provided seven tips to keep bugs away while you enjoy the great outdoors.

1. Seal Your RV

Before you embark on your journey, check your RV for any gaps, cracks, or holes where bugs could enter and seal them up. Use weatherstripping around doors and windows and add screens to any vents or openings. Keep your windows and doors closed at rest stops to prevent any insects from entering while you take a break to refuel.

2. Keep Your RV and Campsite Clean

The easiest preventative measure to minimize the number of bugs that could potentially enter your RV or campsite is by keeping your area as tidy as possible. Insects are attracted to food and crumbs, so keep your RV clean and free of food debris. After you’ve eaten your meals, put away or dispose of all leftover food immediately, and thoroughly wipe down counters and tables. Likewise, clean up any spills that occur as soon as possible. It is also helpful to sweep and vacuum regularly. 

3. Use Bug Repellent

A simple, useful way of keeping bugs out is by applying bug spray or insect repellent on you and your surrounding area. Additionally, spray bug repellent on the exterior and around the perimeter of your RV and campsite for a first line of defense. Reapply as needed, especially after it rains as water tends to wash away repellents. Some common DEET-based products include Cutter, OFF, and Repel.

If mosquitos are particularly rampant in the campsite, a product such as the Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller may help. Simply place the repellent on a table and allow it to do its magic; it is known to repel mosquitos in a 15-foot diameter zone. 

4. Use Natural Repellents

Some natural repellents have been known to help keep bugs away. These include essential oils, such as lavender, peppermint, and citronella. Put a few drops of these oils on your curtains and bedding to keep the critters out of your bedroom while you are sleeping. You can also use plants like lemongrass and marigolds around your RV and campsite to ward off other insects. Natural repellents can be useful, as they release pleasant odors for humans but deter some types of bugs.

5. Use Bug Zappers or Traps

Bug zappers and traps can help control and slowly reduce the insect population around your campsite. Most devices use light or chemicals to attract and kill bugs. Likewise, keeping an electric fly swatter handy will help you eliminate nearby insects.

6. Reduce Light at Night

Bugs are attracted to light. During the daytime, minimizing light is not an option. However, at night, reduce the amount of light at your campsite. Only use your flashlights when necessary. If possible, keep exterior lights off, or use red or yellow lights that tend to be less attractive to insects.

7. Use Bug Screens

Equip your RV with screens and doors to prevent bugs from entering. Screens tend to be advantageous, as they stop insects from coming into RVs while also allowing fresh air to flow through. 

Don’t let a few annoying bugs ruin your camping adventures. Remember to prepare your RV by keeping it clean and checking for any cracks prior to driving to your destination and use these simple tips to help shoo the insects away from your campsite. Do you have other tips that keep you and your family from going ‘buggy’ on your camping trips? Let us know in the comments!

Check out the online marketplace on RVT.com for new and used RVs for your next outdoor excursion.

By Alex Hoyes