Things You'll Need:
- Bug spray
- White socks
- Good walking shoes
- Unscented toiletries
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Step 1
Avoid scented deodorants, perfumes, hair sprays and sweet-smelling shampoos. Bugs are attracted to sweet smells—remember flowers?—so you need to use unscented products whenever you're going to be outdoors.
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Step 2
Put on bug spray right under your clothes before you start. Make sure to get the kind made for excursions in the woods. It's good to put some of the bug wipes—or the can of spray—in your backpack or pocket if you're going to be out for a while.
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Step 3
Dress in light-colored clothing, including socks. Bugs don't like light clothing as they have no camouflage on it. Wear white socks that cover your ankles, as this is a particularly susceptible spot for bugs. The taller the socks the better. If you're worried about the heat, make sure to wear all-cotton socks—and undies, too.
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Step 4
Wear clothes in layers. All-cotton clothing is best. Put on a little tank top, for example, with a very thin long-sleeved shirt. It is good to wear a hat on your head as well.
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Step 5
Put on shoes that cover your whole foot and lace up or Velcro tightly. There are some things in the woods that will hurt you if you step on them—think snakes for one. It's important for your whole body to wear good sturdy shoes when hiking. They will protect your back and legs from pain and injury, too.
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Step 6
Take a whistle with you, plus a walking stick and a few first-aid items. You can make a very small package with a few alcohol wipes, a tiny tube of antibiotic cream, band aids and Benadryl (this can save a life in severe allergic reactions) and one small zipper bag to seal it up. Throw in some matches for good measure. A little forethought will save you a great deal of trouble later. Follow these few rules and you're all set to enjoy a day in the deep and lovely woods.
