Bugs bug you.
Bears scare you.
You can never remember what poison ivy looks like.
When you hit the trail or go camping, frankly, you look a little nervous, a little clueless.
Fear not. Here are some tools you can toss into that backpack to help you repel insects, bears and potentially even your own body odor.
Mosquitoes
As West Nile Virus remains a concern, hikers should stay mindful of mosquitoes.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has signed off on several deterrents, including the naturally derived oil of lemon eucalyptus, which is in a 4-ounce bottle of Repel ($8). However, reliable old DEET — a chemical found in the average 6-ounce bottle of Off! ($6) — gets the job done, too.
In a 2005 study, Consumer Reports also recommended sprays that use picaridin, a chemical found in a 6-ounce bottle from Cutter Advanced ($5), with the caveat that the spray may need to be reapplied more frequently than other sprays.
Bears
If you plan to hike in bear country this summer, keep in mind that bear spray is a better tool at turning away the animals than a gun, regardless of your marksmanship.
The spray, which burns the eyes and inflames the throat, doesn’t cause long-term harm to the bear. However, spraying a cloud in front of you as the animal charges generally will deter it. And even if it isn’t immediately turned back, its attack may be shorter and less severe, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Counter Assault carries two sizes — 8.1 ounces ($45) and 10.2 ounces ($57) — which can spray about 30 feet.
Granted, when it comes to grizzlies, the odds of crossing one’s path in the North Cascades is slim. Only about 20 are estimated to live in the area, according to the Grizzly Bear Outreach Program.
Poison Ivy
Long-sleeve shirts and pants down to your ankles may be the best way to avoid an accidental brush with poison ivy, which is found in Eastern Washington. But for those who need to let their limbs breathe, try Ivy Block ($10).
By applying the lotion at least 15 minutes before taking a stroll, the substance can protect against or reduce a rash, according to the Food and Drug Administration.
Still, your best bet is to just avoid poison ivy. Keep a look out for its three broad leaves and shiny yellowish or white berries.
Body odor
OK, OK, we know, the average camper isn’t all that concerned about his or her smell. But for the overly considerate outdoorsman who wants to stay fresh for a tent-mate, consider Crystal Body Deodorant ($7).
Why? Well, for one, the natural product is unscented. Fragrance from deodorant or perfume can attract bears, the type of thing that might irritate your camping buddy even more than B.O.
Additionally, according to the manufacturers of Crystal Body Deodorant, the salt-based product creates an environment where odor-causing bacteria can’t live. In short, you’ll still sweat — it’s not an anti-perspirant — but you may not stink.
Andy Rathbun, Herald Writer: arathbun@heraldnet.com or 425-339-3455.
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