Thank you for another great and helpful video! I don't think people realize how much work you do to make the finished video they get to watch. You had to plan the video, dig all this gear out of storage, take to the location, set up all the gear, set up the camera, shoot all the scenes, pack everything back up, take it all back home and unpack it all, then edit/craft a professional video from all the clips, make thumbnails, descriptions, upload to TH-cam, add tags, titles, publish, and I'm sure I've missed some things too. Anyway I appreciate all you do for us, thank you.
And that's why I've quit my small channel - it takes some psychological efforts to still enjoy solo outdoors activities (which for me is a huge relief from my everyday life where I need to be communicating a lot) while filming it. For me, there are 4 types of outdoors activities: solo outdoors, solo outdoors with my dog (this is not "alone" anymore), solo outdoors filming (this is not alone as this gives you that "my friendly audience is looking" feeling), outdoors with friends (this is great, but this is just different and doesn't give me any relief). Luke should be very strong person (and he definitely is) to handle all this stuff and not look tired or overwhelmed. We've seen this a lot with other used-to-be-great youtubers.
Luke, The last option you mentioned and basically skipped over is the simple mosquito net Set it up using the ridge line of the tarp The netting is nowhere near you There are ultralight options available You can also buy them pretreated A very inexpensive and lightweight solution Easy to use and very versatile
I got infected with Lyme disease at Point Reyes National Seashore about 30 miles north of San Francisco three years ago. Had the tell-tale bulls eye ring around the bite. The doctor gave me a month long dose of antibiotics which took care of it. Now I spray all my backpacking clothing and gear with permethrin and so far so good.
I car camp using a Home Depot poly tarp ($14) over a little Coleman 2 man w/o the rain fly($60). Sometimes I use a cot ($120) under the tarp with bug net ($20) over me. Bugs suck. I did some jungle training with the Corps in PI and we had no nets or tents. We would try wrapping ourselves in a poncho but the 'squitos there are ravenous and smart. And as deadly as an A-10. I do like some of those bivy bags you show. Thanks.
----option X------ Got my LifeSystems micro net for £10 second-hand new and can be hooked up on a tree or line like the tents. Combine it with a £3-5 groundsheet and bam, you've saved 100 odd quid. TH-cam Erik Normark for a Norwegian guy who does exactly this this without the groundsheet.
Thanks Luke, great content! There is an interesting hack with the cheap, simple bug net. You can pair it with an umbrella which you open inside the net and place above your head to keep it off your face.
Hey, that’s a real blessing! A bit of information for everyone, if you can, take some clear sticky tape with you. If you ARE bit, tape the tick up when you pull it out. You can take this tick and tell your doctor you were bit and if they could run a test on the tick. They should be able to tell you if it’s carrying Lyme, and treat you early without having to wait if you get sick.
I just started treating a lyme disease victim with medicinal herbs. The Drs tried, but couldn't get rid of it so now I have to treat her heart and nerves in addition to hopefully eliminating the bug.
Great video with a lot of options my brother ! Surely the most versatile option is a hammock with a bug net. You can set it hanging or on the floor and you don't have to spend a fortune to buy it. Stay safe and keep having fun!
Working on my cabin this morning and underneath the porch l had a wolf spider on my arm. Glad I'm not afraid of them because l could only slide around on back. Lol Thanks for stressing lyme disease among TOGR community. Had an childhood friend passed away this year after years of lyme disease. Everyone be safe. Thanks Luke
Before a trip to wild areas, I spray my clothing (underwear, socks, pants, shirts, hats, plus sleeping bag, and tent) with permethrin. While out there, I use deet spray on me. This was NEVER needed until 2-3 years ago. Then, there’s the two self inspections daily. AARRGGHH!! Courtesy of Half Vast Flying
When I was fishing in Alaska years ago I bought a skeeter suit. Fully hooded parka and pants made from netting. Worked well even though it’s kinda goofy looking. At 6’4” I resemble a grizzly bear around the campfire.
Very important video and really useful information. Had Lyme Disease last year and it sucks. Despite treatment I still suffer from fatigue and joint pain. It's no joke. It's not only Lyme Disease out there, you can also easily get very bad infections, once a horse fly got me on my side and on my calve, it swell, got hot and itched like crazy. Had to take antibiotics in both cases. I got those things not by camping. Lyme disease I probably got during work for example. Be careful!
Another brilliant production sir thank you for covering this. It's not nice having ticks attach themselves to you and until this year I'd never seen one in the UK. I've had half a dozen so far in 2021 but now we take all the precautions and it doesn't detract from our enjoyment of the outdoors by doing it. Many thanks again 🇬🇧👍
If you need a budget option, look up the Life Systems micro nets. Picked mine up for £10 new second-hand. TH-cam Erik Normark to see a Norwegian guy net camping with something identical. Hope this helps
Rab element 2 has been so nice i paired it with the msr thru hiker mesh. Love the a frame design. Honestly has the best design of all the light weight shelters I've come across.
Fantastic Video. A little hint about sleeping in a Bug Net Hammock System. Use a Sleeping Pad in it. Some of the Hammocks are thin enough the Mosquitoes can get to you through the Fabric.
Companies like Sea to Summit make sleeping bag liners that are made from wicking Coolmax material, that have been treated with the patented, and mostly permanent "Insect Shield" repellent. So in the summer when it is warm, and when insects are more active, you can use a light liner that will encapsulate you, and wick the perspiration away from you, and at the same time give you a covering that kills any insects that might land on it on contact. Like all Insect Shield products, it remains effective through 70 washings, according to the manufacturer. You could come up with all kinds of combinations to use with a liner like this, say in a bug tent, or just on a sleeping pad, with no bug tent, and perhaps just a bug jacket, or in a hammock with or without a bug net. You could also wear Insect Shield, or No Fly Zone treated clothing like pants, shirt, hat, socks in combination with the liner. Of course you could also treat all your clothing, tent, hammock, bug nets, and a liner with Sawyer or Martin's Permetherin, which will kill the bugs on contact, but this is not a permanent treatment, but definitely effective for a while. Another good method of bug repellent, is to use one of the Thermacell devices that will create a 15 foot zone of bug free bliss! If you take the time to think about all the available options, you can basically eliminate 99% of the insect problem.
All great option to get it done. I personally went to a hammock because of ticks. Just to minimize, there no stopping them! They bounce off the tarp all afternoon😄 I like the truss rod hammock with built in nets that can also be a ground bivy. Also have a folding cot and a rectangle bug net( Sea to Summit? Four 6 ft walls, roof, tie-outs) that works great as far as comfort and ventilation but ticks congregate on the outside after a day or so. To roll/pack it up is like taking half the forest home with you😬
I live in the uk and ticks are everywhere , had a few ticks on me over the years. The number one reason I use a tent is because of ticks . Otherwise I would use just a sleeping bag and tarp on most occasions . Lime disease is no joke 👍🤪
Great ideas. I used a tarp and bedroll sleep system with a plastic sheeting base when I did a hike on the Centennial Trail. Bugs weren't too big a concern since the weather was colder.
Great coverage on the various options, Luke. Insects, especially the airborne ones can definitely make or break your camping trip; and to be infected from a bite or sting can ruin your life. I've had to remove a couple of "imbedded" ticks and a few bee/wasp stings but have been fortunate not to have incurred any long term effects. My favorite set up is the inner tent with the tarp overhead or something like the Friendly Swede bug net that you stake four corners with the net's center hanging from a tree branch or rigging beneath the tarp. Once you egress a head net or bug shirt helps. Permethrin is a life saver during bug season. Pre-spray your tarp, bug net, clothing especially your socks and even your backpack. I pack an extra bottle of it in my Jeep just in case. Luke, I know you use a "forest rake" and that gave me an idea for overland camping. I found a small rake at Lowe's that I attached to the cargo basket along with a small shovel and recovery tracks. Anything that makes my life easier once arriving at the camp site that gives me more time at the fishing hole is a plus.
Hey Luke we always had a mesh screen tent when I was growing up where ever we went it went any way hope y'all are well much love your way be safe have a wonderful coming in week
I caught Lyme disease and didnt even know I had it. I caught it between regular doctor visits- one blood test indicated i was Lyme free and the next blood test told us I had had it and recovered. The problem was, minor issues plus Lyme triggered my systems into developing Myalgic Encephalomyetis (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome). Lyme can be treated, ME/CFS is incurable- you MIGHT get better but not from any treatment. 20 hours a day on bed, NEVER not completely exhausted, in pain most of the time, dizzy & light headed 24/7, heart problems, lung problems, memory problems, and about 30 other symptoms ruining my life. KEEP THEM TICKS OFF YOU!
I literally just bought the MSR mesh tent this week. Still need a tarp but that’s in the works and I strongly agree about breathability and view from inside the mesh. I don’t typically enjoy being “inside” a tent. Anymore. 🤙
Hello Luke, thank you for sharing the many options for staying bug free, while in the outdoors. All the best to you, Susie and your family. Stay healthy. 🤗
Great video Luke. That's the reason I've never tarp camped, hate bugs too. Didn't understand why people do it with all the ticks and everything else. Many years ago on a camping trip I think I was bitten by a spider and I was in a tent! never saw anything in my tent. I was bit by something and my right leg swelled 3 times it's size and I could barely walk. When I got home and went to a doctor, they weren't even sure what bit me. They gave me some steroids that I had to take for about a week and my leg finally got back to normal. I've been lucky, never had that happen again. I've been camping for over 40 yrs. now.
Luke👍👍 Another great option video. Lots of work setting up all the items, appreciate your diligence presenting to us👌 I can't sleep in a hammock, kills my back. So, a tarp and mesh tent with ground sheet for me during bug season(or in the back of my truck under the shell😉). Thanks Luke. Enjoy!
Excellent video again Luke 👍 With all of the different options that you are using for bug free bivy and tent options that you also forgot to add most hammock with bug net can be used as bivys like the skeeter beeter pro and the best of both worlds between bivy and hammock combo would be the DD Frontline XL hammock with its double baffle which can be used as a bivy or the DD travel hammock which has an actual bathtub foreground use as a tent or bivy so long as you have your tarps of your choosing
Hey Luke. You should make sure bug net is not touching your exposed body (including t-shirts and other thin materials mosquitoes can bite-through). I've once was sleeping in my hammock and eventually bug net was touching my forehead at around 2 sq inch area. 25 bites - this is roughly what was the bite count in that area. P.S. My bug net is awaiting me in the post office - going to grab it tomorrow. There is nothing like sleeping under the tarp. For me it is much more convenient than sleeping in my tent, especially considering the volume (this is much more important than weight to me), versatility and ability o use it with fire (I am definitely not going to sleep next to fire with bug net setup, going to just attach the bugnet to the ridgeline when going to sleep).
Absolutely love this type of video, in this type you can compare the different types of equipment out there and then go after the right kind of gear . Thank you luke and please make more videos of this nature.👍
One of my Surd Buddies is _really_ spider phobic,... and several years ago, we went caving at Cheddar Gorge (UK) and the exit to the system was called 'The Coffin Lid' a slab of rock that had fallen from the ceiling, at about a 45° angle, that you had to lay flat on, brace against the sides, and shimmy up. Well, wasn't there just a massive spider nest half way up? It's amazing how the words 'Oh no!' echoed down that slab.
I use the OneTrigris Mirage (or what ever it's called, the bug tent that goes under the Fortifly tarp), with my tarp, or just stand alone. Now. That can't stand unless I have poles, trees, or a combination, but man. I love it. Using the same ridgeline as the tarp is brillaint. So nice to chill in without thinking about ticks and crap like that. Or having no-see-ums bug me.
I prefer a hammock during bug season but if I have to go to ground, a tent body with tarp for sure. Tent body gives me room to sit up and room to keep some gear nearby.
Really anything that seals/sips up completely and keeps the mesh away from your skin is going to work great. I use te A frame inner mesh tent by DD hammocks as you can just string it up to the ridgeline and forgo the need for poles or pegs entirely. Hammocks with bug nets are also great as even if you are sleeping on the ground there is usually attachments to hold the bug mesh up so you can use the hammock part as a ground sheet and use some cordage to keep the mesh away from your head and face.
Good video, lots of good info! I second the Premetherin! I've been using it for years and it works for bugs! Doesn't work very well on shelter mice, but great for bugs!
Great video, echo the sentiments on ticks, great advice all round, Hammock with a bug net, off the ground, so less of a problem, but even on the ground if set up on a waterproof tarp, they are a cheap option, especially the cheaper hammocks on Amazon, which are not great hammocks, but make a lightweight ground shelter plus somewhere to sit and chill.
Luke,great video,been w.aiting for this..thanks.I bought the tipi messing netting but may just use my four lb..tent body under my tarp...though the weight is more.
Immediately before COVID lockdown, I was in PA. The only time I was really outside was the backyard of someone's property that abutted a feed of grazing cows. The grass was about ankle height. A day or so later at home, I had what I thought was a tick with a red circle around it. In my hysteria, I removed the tick incorrectly, but kept it. Took a picture of it and sent it to a friend of a friend who worked in the Extension Office. Sure 'nuf, it was a Lyme tick. Went to doctors office immediately to get an RX for prevention of the disease. You don't have to be out in the wild for creepy crawlies to get ya. (Feel your pain re the Wolf spider; I HATE camelback crickets. It's like a spider and a cricket mated, and the worst traits came through. Going into my crawl space is a nightmare. )
I feel yah on the wolf spiders, I had one fall into the bathtub and with its legs out it was as big as my hand, I’m not ashamed I took rag baths for a week before I worked up the courage to actually deal with the thing.
Great presentation on how to stay bug-free with a tarp, Luke. I think you just convinced me to ditch the tarp and take a small tent with bug screens. 😂. All the Best from the rainy PNW.
My main this is to pick a good spot where the ground is flat, dry, and I can see the dirt. If it’s grassy or with leaves on it I stay away. Also I always cover up even in the summer months with thin long sleeve clothes. And I always have a fire which drives away the mosquitos.
Hmmm... very interesting video @Luke ! I was wondering what i should buy because we have summer temps overhere and i was playing the thoughts of sleeping underneath my tarp. But protecting myself from bugs and other insects was still on the move. Needed to find a good solution and here it is. Thanks for sharing your experiences with us and keep up the good work. Greetings from Belgium. ;)
Timely subject, Luke. Much appreciated. Glad that you mentioned a mesh tent body with a separate rainfly. I did this while hiking a section of the AT in Maine with my adult, independent son in 2006. I had an REI bug hut (like this: www.rei.com/c/bug-shelters - it's now Mombasa) 2 person for use at home and an old 10x12 Equinox silnylon tarp (my old winter hammock tarp). Ventilation-wise, the mismatched pieces were vastly superior to any tent that I have ever owned. Perfect for hot weather (the only thing better is a hammock - cooling air all around your body).
I have spent a lot of my younger years in landscape development in Co. I have seen some wolf spiders from the land of the lost and several times I have stomped my foot next to one and they have literally ran over and tried to attack my shoe. I have respect for any creature willing to fend off something a 1000x bigger to protect it's family. With that said, if any of them are crawling on me they will be exterminated with extreme prejudice.
As always thank you for all of this great and precious information. I am 100% with you on that about spiders. Where I come from we have lots and lots of wandering spiders, since young age I had my share with them and it's really not fun at all. Cheers!
I live and camp in Florida. Hence the reason I'm here. Looking for better bug protection because I want to tarp camping more but these skeeters are terrible down here lol
Got my first known tick bite in Marion NC last year (I saw you were there in a video a few weeks ago). I got sick about a week later and had to take antibiotics. I live in Alaska and hike in areas with moose, bear, wolves, coyote, lynx. I'm way more scared of ticks than any of that.
I'd only add that when securing the bug net to the tarp, make sure you rig up a drip line. Otherwise, if it rains, the water will run down the cord to your net.
Kijaro-Hammock-Mosquito-360-Degree-Protection bought this for use with a hammock that doesnt have a bug net , its not a great pack addition as its heavy at 37 ounces. but it works nice for car camping or if you dont mind the weight
Sadly, Permethrin spray is not available in Canada due to health regulations. Health Canada really needs to get with the times. Great video as always!!
Hi Luke love to se more of the terminator back pack me looking for about 2 years for one and wanna know if it so good love your videos lots of help wanna go back pack in drakendberg national park in South Africa thank for all your help your my no 1 back packing show to watch
Same here... never before a worry. What of those in bushcrafting shelters... BUGS? In scouts we had the skeeter net option. Worry about chemical body treating.
This old lady is still personal fond of bug nets as I lived I the jungle for many years. Your Mileage may very. Good video thanks! 🤗 PS 🔥🐜 fire ants go for the max protection you can get! not a simple net! take it from me! 🤕
When my son and daughter go to summer camp and they stay in a platform tent (wooden platform with a canvas wall tent) and a cot, I got them a Sansbug shelter for less than $50.00.
I've wrapped up in my sleeping bag and put a bug head net on (which stays in my bag). They swarmed like an inch from my face but I didn't get bit. Not ideal but light. The bug tent and tarp combo looks super comfy. Not sure how I feel about army crawling in and out of a bivy but the weight savings might be worth it
Thank you for another great and helpful video! I don't think people realize how much work you do to make the finished video they get to watch. You had to plan the video, dig all this gear out of storage, take to the location, set up all the gear, set up the camera, shoot all the scenes, pack everything back up, take it all back home and unpack it all, then edit/craft a professional video from all the clips, make thumbnails, descriptions, upload to TH-cam, add tags, titles, publish, and I'm sure I've missed some things too. Anyway I appreciate all you do for us, thank you.
Thank you brother, I appreciate the appreciation. - Luke
And that's why I've quit my small channel - it takes some psychological efforts to still enjoy solo outdoors activities (which for me is a huge relief from my everyday life where I need to be communicating a lot) while filming it.
For me, there are 4 types of outdoors activities: solo outdoors, solo outdoors with my dog (this is not "alone" anymore), solo outdoors filming (this is not alone as this gives you that "my friendly audience is looking" feeling), outdoors with friends (this is great, but this is just different and doesn't give me any relief).
Luke should be very strong person (and he definitely is) to handle all this stuff and not look tired or overwhelmed. We've seen this a lot with other used-to-be-great youtubers.
So this whole video basically reiterates why I prefer doing my hiking during the winter!
I’m right there with ya sir!! I’m extremely allergic to vespids so me too!!!
🤣 yep
Me, who grew up in alaska
😨😖
😅😂🤣💖🇬🇧
Bug net is small prìce to pay vs having lost a sense in your feet due to cold just before going to sleep. And then trying to get them back warm
Luke,
The last option you mentioned and basically skipped over is the simple mosquito net
Set it up using the ridge line of the tarp
The netting is nowhere near you
There are ultralight options available
You can also buy them pretreated
A very inexpensive and lightweight solution
Easy to use and very versatile
I got infected with Lyme disease at Point Reyes National Seashore about 30 miles north of San Francisco three years ago. Had the tell-tale bulls eye ring around the bite. The doctor gave me a month long dose of antibiotics which took care of it. Now I spray all my backpacking clothing and gear with permethrin and so far so good.
I car camp using a Home Depot poly tarp ($14) over a little Coleman 2 man w/o the rain fly($60). Sometimes I use a cot ($120) under the tarp with bug net ($20) over me. Bugs suck. I did some jungle training with the Corps in PI and we had no nets or tents. We would try wrapping ourselves in a poncho but the 'squitos there are ravenous and smart. And as deadly as an A-10. I do like some of those bivy bags you show. Thanks.
----option X------
Got my LifeSystems micro net for £10 second-hand new and can be hooked up on a tree or line like the tents. Combine it with a £3-5 groundsheet and bam, you've saved 100 odd quid.
TH-cam Erik Normark for a Norwegian guy who does exactly this this without the groundsheet.
Thanks Luke, great content! There is an interesting hack with the cheap, simple bug net. You can pair it with an umbrella which you open inside the net and place above your head to keep it off your face.
video pls
I have actually had lyme disease. I had to take a strong antibiotic,,i never got really sick,,i caught it in time...thank you for sharing..
Hey, that’s a real blessing! A bit of information for everyone, if you can, take some clear sticky tape with you. If you ARE bit, tape the tick up when you pull it out. You can take this tick and tell your doctor you were bit and if they could run a test on the tick. They should be able to tell you if it’s carrying Lyme, and treat you early without having to wait if you get sick.
I just started treating a lyme disease victim with medicinal herbs. The Drs tried, but couldn't get rid of it so now I have to treat her heart and nerves in addition to hopefully eliminating the bug.
@swamp_croc…. True and very valuable advice. 👍
Can we just appreciate how long this probably took to set up, great video man!
Great video with a lot of options my brother !
Surely the most versatile option is a hammock with a bug net.
You can set it hanging or on the floor and you don't have to spend a fortune to buy it.
Stay safe and keep having fun!
Working on my cabin this morning and underneath the porch l had a wolf spider on my arm. Glad I'm not afraid of them because l could only slide around on back. Lol
Thanks for stressing lyme disease among TOGR community.
Had an childhood friend passed away this year after years of lyme disease. Everyone be safe.
Thanks Luke
You're right Sir! I had Lyme disease, No Fun. Permethrin and Picaridin all the way now. Permethrin for the fabrics and Picaridin for the body.
Before a trip to wild areas, I spray my clothing (underwear, socks, pants, shirts, hats, plus sleeping bag, and tent) with permethrin. While out there, I use deet spray on me. This was NEVER needed until 2-3 years ago. Then, there’s the two self inspections daily. AARRGGHH!!
Courtesy of Half Vast Flying
When I was fishing in Alaska years ago I bought a skeeter suit. Fully hooded parka and pants made from netting. Worked well even though it’s kinda goofy looking. At 6’4” I resemble a grizzly bear around the campfire.
Very important video and really useful information. Had Lyme Disease last year and it sucks. Despite treatment I still suffer from fatigue and joint pain. It's no joke. It's not only Lyme Disease out there, you can also easily get very bad infections, once a horse fly got me on my side and on my calve, it swell, got hot and itched like crazy. Had to take antibiotics in both cases. I got those things not by camping. Lyme disease I probably got during work for example. Be careful!
You literally have a video for every one of my questions. Brilliant!
Both son's in scouts and this was a good watch, Thanks LUKE
Another brilliant production sir thank you for covering this. It's not nice having ticks attach themselves to you and until this year I'd never seen one in the UK. I've had half a dozen so far in 2021 but now we take all the precautions and it doesn't detract from our enjoyment of the outdoors by doing it. Many thanks again 🇬🇧👍
Thanks for the gear info. Mosquitos are our main problem so the bit bivy looked great
I really like the look of the DD Hammocks Mesh Pyramid Tent to be used with a DD 3x3 Tarp over.
If you need a budget option, look up the Life Systems micro nets. Picked mine up for £10 new second-hand. TH-cam Erik Normark to see a Norwegian guy net camping with something identical.
Hope this helps
Life Systems** not 'Life Aid'
Sōlhæl Erik is Swedish :)
Rab element 2 has been so nice i paired it with the msr thru hiker mesh. Love the a frame design. Honestly has the best design of all the light weight shelters I've come across.
High Luke, good that you talk about this problem with the ticks and spiders and the solution for. Kindly Fiete
Fantastic Video.
A little hint about sleeping in a Bug Net Hammock System. Use a Sleeping Pad in it. Some of the Hammocks are thin enough the Mosquitoes can get to you through the Fabric.
Talking about those wolf spiders gave me chills!
Companies like Sea to Summit make sleeping bag liners that are made from wicking Coolmax material, that have been treated with the patented, and mostly permanent "Insect Shield" repellent.
So in the summer when it is warm, and when insects are more active, you can use a light liner that will encapsulate you, and wick the perspiration away from you, and at the same time give you a covering that kills any insects that might land on it on contact.
Like all Insect Shield products, it remains effective through 70 washings, according to the manufacturer.
You could come up with all kinds of combinations to use with a liner like this, say in a bug tent, or just on a sleeping pad, with no bug tent, and perhaps just a bug jacket, or in a hammock with or without a bug net.
You could also wear Insect Shield, or No Fly Zone treated clothing like pants, shirt, hat, socks in combination with the liner.
Of course you could also treat all your clothing, tent, hammock, bug nets, and a liner with Sawyer or Martin's Permetherin, which will kill the bugs on contact, but this is not a permanent treatment, but definitely effective for a while.
Another good method of bug repellent, is to use one of the Thermacell devices that will create a 15 foot zone of bug free bliss!
If you take the time to think about all the available options, you can basically eliminate 99% of the insect problem.
"that have been treated with the patented, and mostly permanent "Insect Shield" repellent."
Which is permethrin.
Top tip with the budget tent inner.....👍
All great option to get it done. I personally went to a hammock because of ticks. Just to minimize, there no stopping them! They bounce off the tarp all afternoon😄 I like the truss rod hammock with built in nets that can also be a ground bivy. Also have a folding cot and a rectangle bug net( Sea to Summit? Four 6 ft walls, roof, tie-outs) that works great as far as comfort and ventilation but ticks congregate on the outside after a day or so. To roll/pack it up is like taking half the forest home with you😬
I can't tell you how timely this vid is right now. Thank you for the vid and the great channel!
Thanks Luke for the great ideas. Love the inner tent idea with a tarp as well as treating it all with PERMETHRIN.
Hey, thanks for your comment I will try to find more info about this permethrin!! Cheers
I live in the uk and ticks are everywhere , had a few ticks on me over the years. The number one reason I use a tent is because of ticks . Otherwise I would use just a sleeping bag and tarp on most occasions . Lime disease is no joke 👍🤪
That was a lot of work you did! Thank you for sharing the knowledge you've acquired the hard way.
Great ideas. I used a tarp and bedroll sleep system with a plastic sheeting base when I did a hike on the Centennial Trail. Bugs weren't too big a concern since the weather was colder.
Great coverage on the various options, Luke. Insects, especially the airborne ones can definitely make or break your camping trip; and to be infected from a bite or sting can ruin your life. I've had to remove a couple of "imbedded" ticks and a few bee/wasp stings but have been fortunate not to have incurred any long term effects. My favorite set up is the inner tent with the tarp overhead or something like the Friendly Swede bug net that you stake four corners with the net's center hanging from a tree branch or rigging beneath the tarp. Once you egress a head net or bug shirt helps. Permethrin is a life saver during bug season. Pre-spray your tarp, bug net, clothing especially your socks and even your backpack. I pack an extra bottle of it in my Jeep just in case. Luke, I know you use a "forest rake" and that gave me an idea for overland camping. I found a small rake at Lowe's that I attached to the cargo basket along with a small shovel and recovery tracks. Anything that makes my life easier once arriving at the camp site that gives me more time at the fishing hole is a plus.
how did people survive in primitive times
I'll admit, I don't think I'll ever go camping, but I do enjoy watching these videos. Many thanks Luke.
Please go camping you won't regret
Hey Luke we always had a mesh screen tent when I was growing up where ever we went it went any way hope y'all are well much love your way be safe have a wonderful coming in week
I caught Lyme disease and didnt even know I had it. I caught it between regular doctor visits- one blood test indicated i was Lyme free and the next blood test told us I had had it and recovered. The problem was, minor issues plus Lyme triggered my systems into developing Myalgic Encephalomyetis (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome). Lyme can be treated, ME/CFS is incurable- you MIGHT get better but not from any treatment. 20 hours a day on bed, NEVER not completely exhausted, in pain most of the time, dizzy & light headed 24/7, heart problems, lung problems, memory problems, and about 30 other symptoms ruining my life. KEEP THEM TICKS OFF YOU!
I literally just bought the MSR mesh tent this week. Still need a tarp but that’s in the works and I strongly agree about breathability and view from inside the mesh. I don’t typically enjoy being “inside” a tent. Anymore. 🤙
Hello Luke, thank you for sharing the many options for staying bug free, while in the outdoors. All the best to you, Susie and your family. Stay healthy. 🤗
Great video Luke. That's the reason I've never tarp camped, hate bugs too. Didn't understand why people do it with all the ticks and everything else. Many years ago on a camping trip I think I was bitten by a spider and I was in a tent! never saw anything in my tent. I was bit by something and my right leg swelled 3 times it's size and I could barely walk. When I got home and went to a doctor, they weren't even sure what bit me. They gave me some steroids that I had to take for about a week and my leg finally got back to normal. I've been lucky, never had that happen again. I've been camping for over 40 yrs. now.
Doctors...scheesch !
That's why it's called "Practicing" medicine.
Luke👍👍 Another great option video. Lots of work setting up all the items, appreciate your diligence presenting to us👌 I can't sleep in a hammock, kills my back. So, a tarp and mesh tent with ground sheet for me during bug season(or in the back of my truck under the shell😉). Thanks Luke. Enjoy!
Excellent video again Luke 👍
With all of the different options that you are using for bug free bivy and tent options that you also forgot to add most hammock with bug net can be used as bivys like the skeeter beeter pro and the best of both worlds between bivy and hammock combo would be the DD Frontline XL hammock with its double baffle which can be used as a bivy or the DD travel hammock which has an actual bathtub foreground use as a tent or bivy so long as you have your tarps of your choosing
Hey Luke. You should make sure bug net is not touching your exposed body (including t-shirts and other thin materials mosquitoes can bite-through). I've once was sleeping in my hammock and eventually bug net was touching my forehead at around 2 sq inch area. 25 bites - this is roughly what was the bite count in that area.
P.S. My bug net is awaiting me in the post office - going to grab it tomorrow. There is nothing like sleeping under the tarp. For me it is much more convenient than sleeping in my tent, especially considering the volume (this is much more important than weight to me), versatility and ability o use it with fire (I am definitely not going to sleep next to fire with bug net setup, going to just attach the bugnet to the ridgeline when going to sleep).
Cool vid! I just bought a DD travel hammock, which turns into a bug free bivyy too.
Thank you for the review and discussion.
I have been really wondering about this type of tarp set up.
Thank you!
I've been thinking this recently..perfect timing and great video
A great video on a subject not talked about.
Absolutely love this type of video, in this type you can compare the different types of equipment out there and then go after the right kind of gear . Thank you luke and please make more videos of this nature.👍
Great options. Stay safe.
One of my Surd Buddies is _really_ spider phobic,... and several years ago, we went caving at Cheddar Gorge (UK) and the exit to the system was called 'The Coffin Lid' a slab of rock that had fallen from the ceiling, at about a 45° angle, that you had to lay flat on, brace against the sides, and shimmy up. Well, wasn't there just a massive spider nest half way up? It's amazing how the words 'Oh no!' echoed down that slab.
Good video, I really hate mosquitos here in my part of AR they are brutal.
I use the OneTrigris Mirage (or what ever it's called, the bug tent that goes under the Fortifly tarp), with my tarp, or just stand alone. Now. That can't stand unless I have poles, trees, or a combination, but man. I love it. Using the same ridgeline as the tarp is brillaint. So nice to chill in without thinking about ticks and crap like that. Or having no-see-ums bug me.
Great video! Lots of excellent bug-free options.
I prefer a hammock during bug season but if I have to go to ground, a tent body with tarp for sure. Tent body gives me room to sit up and room to keep some gear nearby.
Really anything that seals/sips up completely and keeps the mesh away from your skin is going to work great. I use te A frame inner mesh tent by DD hammocks as you can just string it up to the ridgeline and forgo the need for poles or pegs entirely.
Hammocks with bug nets are also great as even if you are sleeping on the ground there is usually attachments to hold the bug mesh up so you can use the hammock part as a ground sheet and use some cordage to keep the mesh away from your head and face.
Good video, lots of good info! I second the Premetherin! I've been using it for years and it works for bugs! Doesn't work very well on shelter mice, but great for bugs!
Great video, echo the sentiments on ticks, great advice all round, Hammock with a bug net, off the ground, so less of a problem, but even on the ground if set up on a waterproof tarp, they are a cheap option, especially the cheaper hammocks on Amazon, which are not great hammocks, but make a lightweight ground shelter plus somewhere to sit and chill.
Hey Luke.. great video. I tried the Permethrin insect repellent and it’s awesome. Thanks for the suggestion.
Boiled down to spray deet. Congrats, never thought of that.
Lets all be well. Thank you for the video.
This is why snow camping is the best
Luke,great video,been w.aiting for this..thanks.I bought the tipi messing netting but may just use my four lb..tent body under my tarp...though the weight is more.
Yes. Soiders in Florida. I hear ya!!!
Immediately before COVID lockdown, I was in PA. The only time I was really outside was the backyard of someone's property that abutted a feed of grazing cows. The grass was about ankle height.
A day or so later at home, I had what I thought was a tick with a red circle around it. In my hysteria, I removed the tick incorrectly, but kept it. Took a picture of it and sent it to a friend of a friend who worked in the Extension Office. Sure 'nuf, it was a Lyme tick. Went to doctors office immediately to get an RX for prevention of the disease.
You don't have to be out in the wild for creepy crawlies to get ya. (Feel your pain re the Wolf spider; I HATE camelback crickets. It's like a spider and a cricket mated, and the worst traits came through. Going into my crawl space is a nightmare. )
Great video Luke. Very informative. Keep 'em coming, good buddy!
I feel yah on the wolf spiders, I had one fall into the bathtub and with its legs out it was as big as my hand, I’m not ashamed I took rag baths for a week before I worked up the courage to actually deal with the thing.
My snugpak ionospheres inner mesh tent works brilliantly.....
Agreed. I just use my tent inner. 👍 Regards JB.
Great presentation on how to stay bug-free with a tarp, Luke. I think you just convinced me to ditch the tarp and take a small tent with bug screens. 😂. All the Best from the rainy PNW.
My main this is to pick a good spot where the ground is flat, dry, and I can see the dirt. If it’s grassy or with leaves on it I stay away. Also I always cover up even in the summer months with thin long sleeve clothes. And I always have a fire which drives away the mosquitos.
Thank you Luke, as always, a great review w/ good info ! I appreciate your thoroughness of your reviews.
Regarding hammocks, you need to have either a double bottom and/or sleeping pad because the mosquitoes will bite through the thin nylon material.
Great delivery, great review.. Dude's awesome ! Bug Tent ! For the win.
Great review! I wish you shared the cost of all the options you reviewed. Great topic, Great job!
Hmmm... very interesting video @Luke ! I was wondering what i should buy because we have summer temps overhere and i was playing the thoughts of sleeping underneath my tarp. But protecting myself from bugs and other insects was still on the move. Needed to find a good solution and here it is. Thanks for sharing your experiences with us and keep up the good work. Greetings from Belgium. ;)
I use a hammock with a removable bug net . Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Thanks for sharing Luke. Another excellent video
Timely subject, Luke. Much appreciated. Glad that you mentioned a mesh tent body with a separate rainfly. I did this while hiking a section of the AT in Maine with my adult, independent son in 2006. I had an REI bug hut (like this: www.rei.com/c/bug-shelters - it's now Mombasa) 2 person for use at home and an old 10x12 Equinox silnylon tarp (my old winter hammock tarp). Ventilation-wise, the mismatched pieces were vastly superior to any tent that I have ever owned. Perfect for hot weather (the only thing better is a hammock - cooling air all around your body).
I have spent a lot of my younger years in landscape development in Co. I have seen some wolf spiders from the land of the lost and several times I have stomped my foot next to one and they have literally ran over and tried to attack my shoe. I have respect for any creature willing to fend off something a 1000x bigger to protect it's family. With that said, if any of them are crawling on me they will be exterminated with extreme prejudice.
TheDabbler 241 agreed
As always thank you for all of this great and precious information.
I am 100% with you on that about spiders.
Where I come from we have lots and lots of wandering spiders, since young age I had my share with them and it's really not fun at all. Cheers!
I live and camp in Florida. Hence the reason I'm here. Looking for better bug protection because I want to tarp camping more but these skeeters are terrible down here lol
So do you spray the netted "BIVY??? What do you spray your tarp with??? And as all ways, Thanks for taking US along!!!
Got my first known tick bite in Marion NC last year (I saw you were there in a video a few weeks ago). I got sick about a week later and had to take antibiotics. I live in Alaska and hike in areas with moose, bear, wolves, coyote, lynx. I'm way more scared of ticks than any of that.
I'd only add that when securing the bug net to the tarp, make sure you rig up a drip line. Otherwise, if it rains, the water will run down the cord to your net.
If you want rain...
go camping.
Good information, well covered points, stay safe Mate.
Fantastic break down Luke. Thanks Boss
Thank you!
Kijaro-Hammock-Mosquito-360-Degree-Protection bought this for use with a hammock that doesnt have a bug net , its not a great pack addition as its heavy at 37 ounces. but it works nice for car camping or if you dont mind the weight
Thank you for sharing brother well done brother
Sadly, Permethrin spray is not available in Canada due to health regulations. Health Canada really needs to get with the times. Great video as always!!
Great video. I really like the tent style I like the extra room
Nice video stay safe out there
Hi Luke love to se more of the terminator back pack me looking for about 2 years for one and wanna know if it so good love your videos lots of help wanna go back pack in drakendberg national park in South Africa thank for all your help your my no 1 back packing show to watch
You should check out a tarp with an integrated meshroom. My favorite piece of gear is the Eureka VCS 16 tarp.
Same here... never before a worry. What of those in bushcrafting shelters... BUGS? In scouts we had the skeeter net option. Worry about chemical body treating.
This old lady is still personal fond of bug nets as I lived I the jungle for many years. Your Mileage may very. Good video thanks! 🤗 PS 🔥🐜 fire ants go for the max protection you can get! not a simple net! take it from me! 🤕
When my son and daughter go to summer camp and they stay in a platform tent (wooden platform with a canvas wall tent) and a cot, I got them a Sansbug shelter for less than $50.00.
Very Good my Friend !!! ✌
Is that seriously a black diamond carabiner with your keys? Dude, I swear we think so much alike!!
I've wrapped up in my sleeping bag and put a bug head net on (which stays in my bag). They swarmed like an inch from my face but I didn't get bit. Not ideal but light. The bug tent and tarp combo looks super comfy. Not sure how I feel about army crawling in and out of a bivy but the weight savings might be worth it
Great presentation!