How To Keep Pests Out Of A Camper Van/Car Camper

One thing that makes my skin crawl is the thought of peacefully sleeping in my car while camping, and feeling something crawl on or next to me. The absolute horror!

Not only do critters in your car make you feel icky, but they can do damage to your vehicle. Mice can get inside cars and chew on things, sometimes causing expensive repairs to be needed.

Avoiding critters during van life involves a combination of preventive measures and proactive strategies.

In this article I will share tips on how to keep out pests along with sharing some recommended products. This article includes affiliate links. That means if you make a purchase from the product links shared, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps me afford my website!

Here are some tips to help you keep unwanted animals and insects at bay:

Preventive Measures

1. Seal Entry Points:

   • Ensure all doors, windows, and vents are properly sealed when not in use.

   • Use weather stripping and caulk to seal any gaps or cracks in the van’s body.

   • Install screens on windows and vents to allow ventilation without letting insects in.

     
     

2. Proper Food Storage:

   
   

   • Store food in airtight containers to prevent attracting pests.

   • Avoid leaving food out, and clean up immediately after meals.

   • Dispose of trash regularly and use sealed trash bags or containers.

     
     

3. Regular Cleaning:

   
   

   • Sweep and wipe down surfaces daily to remove crumbs and spills.

   • Keep the van tidy and clutter-free to minimize hiding spots for critters.

     
     

4. Park Strategically:

   
   

   • Avoid parking near dense vegetation, standing water, or areas known for high insect activity.

   • Choose campsites with well-maintained grounds and fewer critter habitats.

     
     

Proactive Strategies

1. Natural Repellents:

   
   

   • Use natural repellents like essential oils (e.g., peppermint, eucalyptus, citronella) to deter insects.

   • Place sachets of dried herbs like lavender or cedar chips in the van to repel moths and other pests.

     
     

2. Electronic Devices:

   
   

   • Consider using ultrasonic pest repellents, which emit sound waves to deter rodents and insects.

   • Install LED lights that do not attract insects as much as traditional bulbs.

     
     

3. Outdoor Precautions:

   
   

   • Use mosquito nets or bug screens when sleeping with the windows open.

   • Keep the area around your van clean and free of food scraps and trash.

   • Use bug spray or wear insect-repellent clothing when spending time outside.

     
     

4. Check Your Gear:

   
   

   • Inspect outdoor gear, clothing, and shoes before bringing them back into the van to ensure you’re not carrying any hitchhiking critters.

   • Shake out bedding and other items before use, especially if they’ve been outside.

   
   

Emergency Measures

1. Bug Spray and Insecticides:

   
   

   • Keep a can of bug spray or insecticide in the van for emergency use.

   • Use ant traps or rodent bait stations if you notice an infestation starting.

     
     

2. Professional Help:

   
   

   • If you experience a significant infestation, seek professional pest control services to address the problem effectively.

   
   

By taking these preventive and proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the chances of encountering critters during your van life adventures.

Product recommendations

Bug screens for windows

This is a great product to have when going car camping. It allows you to open your windows and get a nice breeze without worrying about pesky gnats and mosquitos. It can also provide extra shade and privacy.

Mosquito repellent bracelet

These are great for camping with kids. They each get their own bracelet and you won't have to worry about itchy bug-bitten kiddos. Not to mention kids love getting bracelets and they can pick out a color they like.

Citronella lamp

Bring a little ambiance to your camp site with a candle that prevents bugs from attacking. It brings some light and keeps bugs away. It's a win win!

Bug zapper

This bug zapper is just what you need when bugs won't keep away. Not only does it instantly kill a bug, but you can make a game out of it, with it's tennis racket shape. The kids will enjoy this product.

Sunroof screen

Bring in some more ventilation through your sunroof while keeping out buggies. It keeps out creepy crawlies and provides some extra shade.

Peppermint oil spray

Peppermint essential oil is a natural bug deterrent. You can use it to prevent spiders, ants, roaches, and more. Unlike many bug repellents it doesn't have a strong chemical smell. It is plant based and pet friendly.

Ultra sonic pest control device

This device goes underneath the hood of your car and emits ultra sonic waves that keep away mice and rats. Rodents can cost you thousands of dollars by chewing wires under the hood. This device will solve that problem.

That brings us to the end of this article. I hope you found it useful. I'm wishing everyone safe and happy camping trips!

About the author

Shello! My name is Mermaid Liv, a professional mermaid and content creator. I share my love of mermaiding through this blog, along with my Youtube channel.

If you've never heard of it before, mermaiding is a hobby, profession, and sport that involves wearing mermaid tails made for swimming.

I began making tails in 2013 and have continued my mermaid journey, starting my Youtube channel, working at a mermaid festival, performing at gigs, and being featured in the Netflix Docu Series MerPeople.

Follow me on Instagram for mermaid photos and videos: @the_real_mermaid_liv and be *shore* to check out my Youtube channel.