Natural Camping Insect Repellent Spray: DIY Guide
By Organic Body Shop | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to make a natural camping insect repellent spray with essential oils. This DIY guide covers simple steps, common mistakes, and when to choose a store-bought option.
Quick Answer
You can make a natural camping insect repellent spray at home with a few essential oils, water, and a carrier liquid. This guide walks you through the steps and the common pitfalls to avoid.
Why make your own bug spray?
Store-bought insect repellents often contain synthetic chemicals that some people prefer to avoid. A DIY spray lets you control the ingredients and tailor the scent to your liking. It's also a budget-friendly option, especially if you already have essential oils at home.
However, natural repellents generally don't last as long as synthetic ones. You'll need to reapply more often, especially if you're sweating or near water. Keep this in mind when planning your outdoor activities.
Choosing the right essential oils
Not all essential oils repel insects equally. Citronella, lemon eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint are popular choices for camping. Each has a distinct scent and varying effectiveness, so you may want to experiment with blends.
If you prefer a ready-made option, the Camping Outdoor Spray from Organic Body Shop is handcrafted with a blend of pure essential oils. It's designed for campfire evenings and sunset trails, making it a convenient alternative when you don't have time to mix your own.
Steps to Make Your Natural Camping Insect Repellent Spray
- Gather your ingredients: You'll need a 4-ounce glass spray bottle, witch hazel or vodka (as a carrier), distilled water, and your chosen essential oils. Common choices include citronella, lemon eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint. Using a glass bottle helps preserve the oils' potency. Check that your essential oils are pure and suitable for skin application.
- Mix the carrier and essential oils: Fill the spray bottle about halfway with witch hazel or vodka, then add 30-50 drops of essential oil (about 10-15 drops per ounce). The carrier helps disperse the oils in water and adds a slight preservative effect. Don't skip the carrier—oil and water don't mix without it, and the spray won't be effective.
- Add distilled water and shake well: Fill the rest of the bottle with distilled water, leaving a little space at the top. Screw on the nozzle and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds to combine the ingredients. Shake before each use, as the oils will separate over time. Label your bottle with the date and contents; the mixture is best used within a few months.
- Test on a small skin patch: Spray a small amount on your inner forearm and wait 24 hours to check for any allergic reaction. This is especially important if you have sensitive skin or are using a new essential oil. If irritation occurs, dilute the spray with more carrier or reduce the oil drops.
- Apply and reapply as needed: Spray evenly on exposed skin, avoiding the eyes and mouth. Natural repellents typically last 1-2 hours, so reapply after swimming, sweating, or every couple of hours. For a convenient backup, keep a store-bought spray like Camping Outdoor Spray in your pack. Always do a patch test before full application, and reapply more often in high-bug areas.
Product Spotlight
- Camping Outdoor Spray: Camping Outdoor Spray is handcrafted in Canada with a signature blend of pure essential oils. If you want a natural repellent without the DIY effort, this spray offers a ready-made option with a botanical scent.
Camping Outdoor Spray
