Reddit mentions: The best itching & rash treatments

Multipurpose waterproof match case. I prefer this case because it's not much bigger than other waterproof cases, but has other stuff built into it. I put waterproof matches in it along with the striker strip from the package. The whistle is good for signaling. The other functions are marginal, so I supplement them with the actual things, which consist of a signal mirror, lensatic compass, and emergency fire starter.

A stove and solid fuel. I was pretty impressed with this particular one when I received it. It's stainless steel, well constructed, and you can store four fuel tabs inside of it.

A multitool and a fixed-blade knife. I don't have either of these specific models, but they seem pretty decent.

A folding shovel. These are good for burying waste, helping a car gain traction in the winter, etc.

A self-adhesive bandage. This is a three-pack. The single one cost $4 locally. Buy this one and leave the other two in your medicine cabinet. Wrap the remaining one around a piece of cardboard and put it in your emergency pack.

Disposable antibacterial wipes.

Antimicrobial silver gel. Like Neosporin, but better. Stays on a wound for multiple days without covering, and the colloidal silver is a strong antimicrobial agent. See the oligodynamic effect.

Dust masks. This is for a 50-pack, but for half the price, you only get 10 at a local store. These help prevent you from spreading germs if you're sick, and keep you from inhaling macroscopic particles if you're in a dusty/dirty area.

QuikClot sponge bandage. This helps to stop bleeding from major injuries. Along with an Israeli battle dressing you have two great ways to help stem major bleeding, separately or combined.

Local anesthetic for stings. Good for numbing injuries other than stings, too.

Sterile pads, 4” x 4”.

Sunscreen.

Cigarette-adapter power inverter. Good for charging small electronics.

Hand warmers.

Work gloves and watchcap.

All of the following are probably best bought in stores or scrounged up around the house:

Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, all with obvious uses.

Aspirin, for heart attacks and pain, ibuprofen for pain, anti-histamine for allergic reactions, and Imodium or off-brand equivalent for diarrhea. I can't stress having Imodium enough. Having cramps and shits can render you unable to do anything for long periods of time, even more so than other ailments.

A disposable razor can be used to shave to keep up appearances, or to shave the area around a wound for better bandaging.

Maxi pads and tampons can be used as intended as well as to prevent bleeding from wounds.

Toilet paper. Wrap it around a piece of cardboard to save space.

Bandanas or an old shirt can be used to make a sling, protect yourself from the sun, filter macroscopic particles out of water, filter dirty/dusty air, etc.

Hot chocolate with caffeine added can be used to help stay alert.

Lighters are a must-have to start a fire.

I also have a Ziploc bag containing about ten cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly. They're great firestarters.

Cash. Keep various bills and coins in an amount that you think is suitable for emergencies.

Maps. Carry folding maps of your area, state, and surrounding states.

I think that covers everything that I have. There's a lot of redundancy, but it all fits in my bag, so I'm happy with it. I'm definitely interested in hearing thoughts as to what can be added or changed.

Hi!

​

I am the same, always bring a flask of whiskey. I also always bring a pipe and tobacco, cob pipes are pretty light.

Anyways, here are my suggestions:

• Your backpack is very heavy. You might be able to find one on the gear exchange or something so you could potentially do that before the trip. You could also get the Osprey Levity which would save you about 2 lbs. The 3F UL Backpack is also a quality, very inexpensive, UL Backpack that would save you some weight.
  
• Lose the sleeping layers. You can use your hiking layers to sleep in as long as you keep them dry.
  
• Lose the camp shoes.
  
• You can get a flask like this and save a few oz.
  
• Camelbaks or hydration bladders in general are really inefficient for carrying water as far as weight goes. Consider just bringing another smart water bottle is you feel like you need more storage.
  
• You will need a wind screen for the BRS
  
• Your tent is on the heavy side. If you aren't ready to splurge on something else, The 3F UL 1 person tent is a great, fairly light, tent for a great price. Also, I have never found a footprint to be needed. You can also get similar tents on amazon if you are on a time crunch but I can't attest to their quality.
  
• First aid kit and hygiene kit is very heavy. For the first aid kit you could probably bring less of each thing to get it down to a little over an ounce. You probably don't need deodorant. For hygiene I only bring a toothbrush and little 15ml eye dropper of Dr. Bronner's soap, I brush and wash with it. Maybe consider the weight difference between bringing glasses and the contact solution? I don't wear either so i'm not sure.
  
• If you bring the Dr. Bronner's you don't need hand sanitizer.
  
• Looks like you have a heavy knife. There are much lighter options. I really like my Opinel No.6, weighs 0.9oz
  
• You could save weight by bringing a Picaridin spray pen.
  
• I don't know about you but I have found that I can get 5 days on one full charge from my phone if put in airplane mode and only used for photos and minor navigation. If you were confident and didn't absolutely need your phone you could go without the power bank.
  
  All together these adjustments would save you around 10.4lbs. Hope this helps!
  
  ​
  
  Good luck and have a great trip!

PI can be vine-like but often on the edge of trails it grows as a stand-alone plant, which is where I see people get it. The stuff that grows on the side of trees and cliffs, those are easy to avoid. It's the small stuff hidden on the trail's edge that gets you.

Here's a pretty cool quiz from the same site TheRussian posted.

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

You can probably print those images out to help you ID PI on the trail.


For those who get PI, I suggest they carry some Tecnu

https://www.amazon.com/Tecnu-Extreme-Medicated-Poison-Scrub/dp/B01GUHQ6YA

You should be able to find it in most pharmacies, and I see they now have smaller packets for sale. Good stuff, I have it in my car for my friends in case they run into PI.

I don't get PI... yet. Just a note to those who "don't get PI"... immunity is not forever. I could roll around in the stuff as a kid, as but in my 30s I started getting a little redness in reaction, so now I take care to avoid it like everyone else.

What is your project like? Is this your first time tanning? Are you buying a hide and doing something with it? Or are you skinning a squirrel for the first time ever?

Assuming the last, go for just drying the hide. Save tanning for when you've done a few squirrels (when you won't put as many holes in the hide and have more to test on). It's exciting to start, I know, but it's a learning process and learning both skinning and tanning honestly might be overwhelming (especially because both take many hours out of the day). I'm still not "perfect" at skinning, and I'm learning tanning, which still seems a bit overwhelming to do.

A few things you're going to need:

• Double Edge razor blades (for skinning, making things very easy) - Family Dollar, $1 for 5 blades
  
  
• Borax - Any store, around $5 (can also use salt, the cheapest of which is water softener salt for ~$5 per 25-50lb bag, which needs to be blended into a small grain like you'd expect in a salt shaker)
  
  
• Nitrile gloves - Harbor Freight, ~$7 (if you want to use them; I also sometimes stop using them post skinning and when cleaning)
  
  
• Permethrin - Tractor Supply, $8 OR this Coleman stuff if you don't want to mix and test it on the ants outside first to make sure it works. YES, I would say it's required. I like killing the ticks off before working on animals.I also use it in case they have any bugs that may survive by eating fur, which is common on squirrels. Gross, but just something you have to deal with in taxidermy.
  
   
  
  One other thing to know is how to sew. Get a decent needle (one that isn't poorly cast/stamped and cuts into your thread with each pull of the thread) and maybe a thimble and sew those holes closed while the hide is still wet. If you don't know how (to sew), you're going to have to learn (something I'm still doing).
  
   
  
  When you're confident in skinning (when it doesn't take a super long amount of time and you feel more comfortable), go for tanning. I honestly recommend not "case" skinning when trying tanning out for the first time. Completely just a slit across the back legs and one down the chest/belly. I'll simply link to my post on tanning for now since I don't have my guide for beginners put together yet. Heck, I'm still somewhat of a beginner myself. I'm just trying to find guides that actually make sense and is written coherently. No information let out. The type of guide where it isn't assumed you know everything as a beginner, y'know?
  
   
  
  Edit: One thing that's REALLY important to know is drying. DON'T dry a hide in front of a heater. I learned that the hard way and now I have a squirrel with really short arms and a really short tail. ...And it had fur slipping, too, so it's (probably) pretty much not fixable (if I re-hydrate it, the top layer of skin and fur would probably peel right off).
  
  If you get the skin off and need to take a break (say, overnight), go get some 70% isopropyl alcohol and a jar. Fill the jar rather full and put the hide right in. It should last forever. I've kept hides like that for a week straight.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.
  

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Would you recommend a hydrocortizone cream to help with the itching? I was looking at buying Aveeno Maximum Strength 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream. The itchiness is unbearable. When I put lotion on, it just burns and itches even more. I rinsed it off soon after because my skin felt like it was tingly/itchy all over.

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.

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.

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%.

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

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.

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.

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

happy birthday! what are your big plans for tonight?

these bug wipes would be useful for me since I'm going to costa rica this summer!

I have "phantom" itching quite often. It has kept me up on many occasions, and steroid or antihistamine creams do nothing (since nothing is really there). My neurologist recommended Sarna lotion. It's just a mild lotion with a cooling agent (menthol?) in it. I really didn't expect it to help, but it does! I guess it gives my nerves something to focus on or transmit, and it eases the itching signals somehow. It worked for me... here is a link:
Sarna Original Lotion on Amazon

Items like this would probably be appreciated:

• Lightweight Multi tool
  
  
• Mosquito Headnet
  
  
• Titanium Trowel
  
  
• Solar charger
  
  
• Subscription to Cairn

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!
  

We used the generic DEET-based repellant. I brought some picaridin-based repellant, but since my dad only had short-sleeved t-shirts we decided to take the larger bottle. Funny enough, I found another one of those bottles on the trail, so we had two bottles of repellant!

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.

Mini fan? your cruise cabin will be air conditioned. Is it the white noise you're after?

The Go Pro is a "to each his own" thing I suppose. It just seems like one more thing to drag along that is not going to add to your overall enjoyment.

Bug spray - if you're going to the Caribbean this time of year, it's not really the wet, buggy season, and they won't be an annoyance assuming that is your main concern. If you're on high alert due to Zika, go for the highest concentration of DEET by % rather than the biggest bottle. (this is 98% DEET https://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-Premium-Maxi-DEET-Repellent/dp/B07BRPKYXM/ref=sr_1_8?keywords=off+deet&qid=1550017016&s=gateway&sr=8-8 --- while this is 15% DEET https://www.amazon.com/OFF-FamilyCare-Insect-Repellent-Smooth/dp/B005MGRMZS/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=off+deet&qid=1550017016&s=gateway&sr=8-6) Again, though...mid-winter, bugs are not going to be swarming you.

Most of the stuff you've listed is small and packable, but I think you will find you won't use half of it. Hard to say which half that will end up being.

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

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

It exists. It's glorious.

I can tell you from personal experience, when mosquito-magnet bf puts the current skin-so-soft with picardin (not the ancient one pictured in that article) on, he doesn't get bitten, or maybe one bite. when he puts on nothing, he gets eaten alive. when I read reviews of Sawyer "fisherman's formula" I got some of that. he got eaten alive. went back to skin so soft, he doesn't get bitten. same results when I put them on or don't. same.

Oh yeah duh haha sorry. I’ll have to try this next time!

Edit- I see there’s a few types. is this the one?

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

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

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....)

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

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

You can also use products made for removing poison ivy to get pepper oil off your hands. My go to after dealing with peppers is technu. It works like a charm and is safer for kitchen and food related uses.

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 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

off spray lol

Community: "Off Spray OP; Bungo plz nerf"

I have a can of Permethrin spray that I bought back somewhere around summer of 2011. It's been sitting in the basement this whole time.

Do you guys know if it will still be effective?

It's an older bottle of Coleman Gear & Clothing Spray (http://www.lancasterarchery.com/coleman-gear-clothing-permethrin-insect-repellent.html) which I assume is the same as the current bottle (https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Clothing-Permethrin-Repellent-Aerosol/dp/B003AMH6JS) with 0.5% permethrin.

She was referring to this lotion: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0001ZWPI4/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1492608476&sr=8-1&keywords=skin+so+soft

I'm in Florida, by the way, so I think she just liked the idea of a bug repellant/sunscreen combo for everyday since no one wants to be doused in DEET all the time. But I would probably go for something stronger if I were camping or hanging out in a buggy park for a long period of time. I have had decent luck with the lotion so far, though.

ETA: what a pain, the price and availability seems to fluctuate on Amazon! I got it for around $7 a couple months ago. Sorry you haven't had much luck with your midwife's recommendation.

Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard is my favorite.

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

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

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.

The coal tar and hydro cortisone suggestions are great but I have to chime in Sarna anti itch lotion. Gotta get the original though. The sensitive one doesn't pack as much punch.

https://www.amazon.com/Sarna-Original-Lotion-7-5-Ounce-Bottle/dp/B002DUDEOY

I HIGHLY recommend that you wipe your googles with something like Tecnu. Poison Oak is VERY resistant to cleaning and water will NOT do the trick.

https://www.amazon.com/Tecnu-Extreme-Medicated-Poison-Scrub/dp/B01GUHQ6YA/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1503898166&sr=8-1&keywords=tecnu+extreme

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

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

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

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

This one:

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

Uh, yeah it is.

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.

Skin so Soft

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

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

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

This will change your life...

Ben's sells individual bug repellent wipes.

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

> "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.

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.