Safety
Essential Mosquito Safety Tips for Camping in Australia
Learn how to protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes during your next camping adventure in the Australian bush.
Read Article →We're a team of outdoor enthusiasts and health researchers dedicated to helping Australian families stay protected. Get science-backed guidance, honest product comparisons, and practical tips—not just sales pitches.
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Educational articles to help you make informed decisions about mosquito protection
Learn how to protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes during your next camping adventure in the Australian bush.
Read Article →A comprehensive guide to keeping your little ones safe from mosquito bites using age-appropriate protection methods.
Read Article →An in-depth comparison of the two most effective mosquito repellent ingredients and when to use each one.
Read Article →Explore plant-based and chemical-free options for mosquito protection, including their effectiveness and limitations.
Read Article →Practical strategies for reducing mosquito populations around your property and keeping them out of your living spaces.
Read Article →Learn about Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, and other mosquito-transmitted diseases affecting Australians.
Read Article →Essential information for choosing the right protection
DEET remains the gold standard, effective against all mosquito species. Picaridin is a newer alternative that's odourless and less irritating. Natural oils like citronella and lemon eucalyptus offer chemical-free protection but require more frequent reapplication.
Higher concentrations provide longer protection. A 30% DEET formula protects for up to 10 hours, while 10% lasts around 2 hours. For Australian conditions with aggressive mosquitoes, we recommend at least 20% DEET or Picaridin.
For children under 12, use products with lower DEET concentrations (10-30%) or Picaridin-based repellents. Natural options are gentler but less effective. Always apply to your hands first, then to the child's skin.
Australia's humid conditions mean mosquitoes are active year-round in northern regions. Use water-resistant formulas if swimming or sweating. Dawn and dusk are peak mosquito times—reapply before these periods.
Australian mosquitoes can carry Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, and Murray Valley encephalitis. Effective repellent use is crucial, especially in Queensland, Northern Territory, and during summer months.
Apply sunscreen first, wait 15 minutes, then apply repellent. Cover all exposed skin but avoid eyes and mouth. Wash off repellent when you return indoors. Store products away from heat and direct sunlight.