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Boundary Waters Quetico Forum :: Gear Forum :: Bug repellent
 
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schweady
06/24/2022 01:33PM
 
Permethrin on your clothes, Picardin on your skin, a net on your head.

 
Jerrad
06/13/2022 12:30PM
 
Does any have any suggestions for the best bug repellent for BWCA? late june trip and I'm curious if people have found some more worthy than others. Thanks
 
Bjmd28
06/13/2022 05:06PM
 
I was just there last week. The gnats were out in swarms and are very disrespectful of all chemicals, the only good news is they don’t hurt when they bite and only itch later. Head nets were a must. The mosquitos showed up our last day and deet works good, also the European version picaridin works good too and won’t destroy your equipment if it leaks like deet.
 
greywolf33
06/14/2022 01:48PM
 
Carry a couple of these bad boys:

Thermacell Backpacker

They are great for creating a bubble of protection while on the latrine or under a tarp.
 
LaVirginienne
06/15/2022 10:56AM
 
Picaridin hands down. It is highly concentrated. Deet destroys expensive tents, tarps and outdoor clothing. Picaridin doesn’t. Works just the same for me. Smells better too.
 
ockycamper
06/22/2022 12:56PM
 
Picardin was developed for the military to replace Deet and the problems that cam with Deet. I have used Picardin for years and found it just as effective as Deet, not oily (feels more like skin cream), doesn't smell like bug spray, and can be used on children
 
kenpark23
06/15/2022 03:55PM
 
Picaradin/Natrapel. Works good and you don't have to worry about your face melting off like you do with the high percentage deet products.
 
Hammertime
06/13/2022 11:41PM
 
Anything 30-40% deet works for us.


100% is too strong in my opinion, it will melt your clothes (synthetic) and gear, not to mention the effects it has on your skin.


I have not experimented with other chemicals.
 
Gaidin53
06/14/2022 01:09AM
 
I believe I read about a study where they found that around 36% deet is the sweet spot for effectiveness. For black flies the Picaridin is supposed to be more effective. Headnets along for everyone although I don’t think I’ve ever worn them on trip. That being said I’ve tripped the last few years around the first week of August. I do always treat my outer clothes with permethrin as well. Meaning l9ng sleev shirt and pants.


I’ve been happy with the 3M tube version of deet mosquito repellent. Doesn’t feel gnasty and seems to help. I’ve only used it a few times though.


Ryan
 
Jackfish
06/13/2022 03:18PM
 
Welcome Jerrod. I encourage you to register with the website and join the fun and frivolity. It's painless and free. :)

I've been bringing Deep Woods OFF for as long as I can remember. Works just fine for me.
 
mschi772
06/13/2022 02:34PM
 
I'll link you to a write-up I've posted on various locations on the web over the years.


LINK