Whether you're planning a family holiday overseas, enjoying weekends in the British countryside, or simply spending more time outdoors during the warmer months, mosquitoes and ticks are an unwelcome part of summer.
While most bites are little more than an itchy nuisance, some insects and ticks can carry diseases that make prevention an important part of preparing for your trip. The good news is that there are simple steps you can take to reduce the risk of bites and enjoy your time outdoors with greater confidence.
Why are bites more common during holidays?
Holidays often mean spending longer periods outside, particularly during the times when mosquitoes are most active. Warm evenings on restaurant terraces, walks through woodland, camping trips, beach holidays and sightseeing all increase the chances of encountering biting insects.
Many popular holiday destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas and Australasia have higher mosquito populations than the UK. In recent years, warmer temperatures have also contributed to changes in insect activity closer to home, meaning mosquito and tick awareness is becoming increasingly important for UK families too.
Mosquitoes are more than just an irritation
Most mosquito bites cause temporary itching, redness and discomfort. However, in some parts of the world, mosquitoes can transmit infections such as:
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Dengue fever
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Chikungunya
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Zika virus
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Malaria
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West Nile virus
The level of risk varies significantly depending on where you are travelling. Before travelling abroad, it's always worth checking the latest travel health advice for your destination and speaking to a healthcare professional if appropriate.
Don't forget about ticks
Ticks are commonly found in long grass, woodland, heathland and areas where wildlife or livestock are present. They're active throughout much of the UK and many other countries.
Although most tick bites do not result in illness, some ticks can carry bacteria that cause Lyme disease. The sooner a tick is identified and removed, the lower the risk of infection.
If you're walking, cycling, camping or enjoying outdoor activities, it's sensible to:
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Stay on clearly marked paths where possible.
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Wear long sleeves and long trousers in areas with long grass.
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Check yourself, your children and pets for ticks after spending time outdoors.
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Remove any attached ticks promptly using an appropriate tick removal tool.
Why many families are choosing natural alternatives
Traditional insect repellents often contain DEET. While DEET remains an effective ingredient when used correctly, many parents increasingly look for alternatives for everyday outdoor activities, particularly for younger children or when frequent application may be needed.
Natural protection has become increasingly popular because families often want products that:
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Do not contain DEET.
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Are free from parabens.
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Can be worn or applied easily during outdoor activities.
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Are suitable for holidays, camping, walking and everyday use.
Choosing the right product depends on where you're travelling and your individual circumstances, but many families appreciate having a natural option available for day-to-day bite protection.
Discover PARAKITO® natural mosquito and tick protection
PARAKITO® offers a range of products designed to help provide long-lasting protection against mosquitoes and ticks without using DEET or parabens.
PARAKITO® Wristbands
The refillable PARAKITO® Wristband uses specially formulated essential oil pellets that create a protective shielding effect around the wearer. Because the active ingredients are contained within the wristband, there's no need to apply product directly to the skin.
Available in a wide range of colours and designs for adults and children, the waterproof wristbands are ideal for:
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Family holidays
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Walking and hiking
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Camping
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Gardening
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Outdoor sports
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Festivals
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Everyday outdoor activities
Simply replace the refill pellet when required to continue protection.
PARAKITO® Sprays
For those who prefer a topical solution, PARAKITO® Tropical Spray and Family Spray contain Citrepel®, a plant-based active ingredient derived from oil of lemon eucalyptus (PMD).
The sprays are:
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DEET free
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Paraben free
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Suitable for the whole family (from 6 months of age, when used as directed)
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Designed to help protect against mosquitoes and ticks
They're ideal for applying before heading outdoors or travelling to destinations where insect activity is higher.
Simple ways to reduce your risk of bites
Alongside using appropriate bite protection, you can help minimise your chances of being bitten by:
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Wearing light-coloured clothing.
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Covering exposed skin during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
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Sleeping in accommodation with window screens or mosquito nets where appropriate.
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Avoiding areas of standing water where mosquitoes breed.
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Checking clothing and skin after walking through woodland or long grass.
Enjoy your adventures with confidence
Whether you're jetting off abroad, enjoying a staycation or simply making the most of the British summer, preparing for mosquitoes and ticks should be part of your travel checklist.
Choosing effective bite protection can help you spend less time worrying about insects and more time enjoying your holiday.
Explore the full range of PARAKITO® mosquito and tick protection products at bhr.co.uk and discover natural, DEET-free solutions for the whole family.
Always read the product label before use and follow the instructions carefully. If you are travelling to an area where mosquito-borne diseases are common, seek advice from a healthcare professional or travel health clinic before you travel and follow official travel health guidance.
