Wearing the wrong clothes while camping can turn your trip into a buffet — for bugs. Mosquitoes, ticks, and biting flies are relentless in certain climates, especially near water or wooded areas. But with the right clothing and fabric treatments, you can drastically reduce your risk of bites and irritation. This guide breaks down exactly what to wear camping to stay protected and comfortable.
This post is part of our Ultimate Guide to Bug-Free Camping. Be sure to explore that full guide for tent sealing tips, repellents, and campsite strategies.
🧭 Table of Contents
🧠 Why Clothing Matters for Bug Protection
Insects are drawn to body heat, sweat, and carbon dioxide — all things you generate more of while camping. Clothing creates a protective barrier, but not all fabrics are equal. The tighter the weave and better the coverage, the harder it is for bugs to bite through.
👕 Best Types of Clothing to Avoid Bug Bites
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants: Lightweight synthetics offer breathability and protection at once.
- High collars and gaiters: These block access to the neck and ankles — high-target bite zones.
- Elastic cuffs or cinchable hems: Help seal off entry points for crawling insects.
- Light-colored clothing: Bugs are more attracted to dark colors like black and navy blue.
🦟 Treated Clothing vs. Natural Fabric Options
If you're serious about bug protection, consider clothing pre-treated with insect-repellent chemicals like Permethrin.
Permethrin-Treated Clothing
- Offers built-in bug protection (lasts through 40+ washes)
- Odorless and safe for adults and kids (not for direct skin use)
- Great for long trips or high-tick areas
DIY Spray-On Options
If you already own outdoor clothing, apply Permethrin Spray to pants, socks, shirts, and hats before your trip. Let it dry completely before wearing.
🧢 Must-Have Bug-Blocking Clothing Items
- Insect Shield Adventure Hat – Treated with Permethrin and designed with neck protection.
- BugsAway Sandfly Pants – Lightweight, breathable, and bug-resistant for all-day wear.
- Unigear Gaiters – Prevent ticks and ants from crawling up your legs during hikes.
✅ Clothing Checklist: What to Pack
- Long-sleeved synthetic shirts
- Lightweight hiking pants or convertible zip-offs
- High socks or compression socks
- Bug-resistant hat with neck flap
- Permethrin-treated gear or spray-on repellent
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Rain gear (wet clothing = bug magnet)
🙋♀️ FAQ: Bug-Proof Camping Clothes
Can bugs bite through leggings?
Yes, especially if the fabric is thin or stretched. Stick to looser-fitting pants made of tightly woven synthetics or canvas blends.
How long does Permethrin last on clothes?
Pre-treated clothing typically lasts for 40+ washes. DIY spray-on versions last about 5–6 washes. Always reapply as needed for long trips.
Is DEET better than Permethrin?
They serve different purposes. DEET is applied to skin; Permethrin is for clothing and gear. For full-body protection, use both correctly.
🧭 Final Thoughts: Dress Smart, Camp Comfortable
Protecting yourself from bug bites doesn’t mean wearing bulky or uncomfortable gear. With the right fabrics, colors, and repellents, you can enjoy the outdoors bite-free and still feel cool and comfortable. Combine these clothing tips with campsite setup and repellent strategy from our Bug-Free Camping Guide for the full protection plan.