When summer arrives and holidays beckon, most of us think of sun-soaked afternoons, lazy beach days, and family adventures in nature – but warm weather and outdoor fun also bring an unwelcome companion: insects. Mosquitoes, midges, wasps, ticks, and other biting bugs are more than just a minor nuisance — for many people, they can be a serious issue. Whether it’s a painful sting at a picnic, a mosquito bite that keeps your child awake all night, or the growing concern over tick-borne diseases, bites and stings can cast a shadow over an otherwise perfect trip.

Why We Should Care About Bites and Stings

It’s easy to brush off insect bites as part of summer life, but they can have genuine health implications:

• Severe reactions: For some, bites and stings can lead to significant allergic responses, including anaphylaxis.
• Infections: Scratching bites can break the skin and lead to secondary infections, particularly in children.
• Sleep disturbance: Persistent itching can disrupt rest for both children and adults, leaving everyone irritable and exhausted.
• Disease transmission: In some parts of the world — and increasingly here in the UK — insect bites can transmit diseases. Ticks may carry Lyme disease, and warmer weather has led to an increase in mosquito activity even in parts of Europe.

Holidays and Insects: The Perfect Storm

On holiday, you’re likely to spend more time outside, whether it’s hiking, camping, enjoying the beach, or dining al fresco. Add in warm temperatures, sweat, exposed skin, and different regional insect populations — and it’s the perfect storm for being bitten.

Families travelling with young children, in particular, face extra challenges. Babies and toddlers have sensitive skin and may be more reactive to bites. They’re also less able to communicate their discomfort. Let’s face it — the last thing any parent wants on day three of a long-awaited holiday is a child who can’t stop scratching.

What We Can Do About It

The good news? With a little planning, you can dramatically reduce your risk of bites and manage any that do happen with ease.

1. Prevention is Key

Keeping insects at bay should be your first line of defence. However, with concerns about harsh chemicals, especially when applying products to children or sensitive skin, many families are looking for gentler, more natural alternatives.

Enter Puressentiel.

This trusted brand offers a collection of plant-based insect repellents and soothing treatments that are free from harsh chemicals, making them ideal for family use. There is nothing from their range so far that I’ve tried that hasn’t been first class. These products are natural yet effective.

Highlights from the Puressentiel Bite & Sting Range:

• Bite & Sting Repellent Spray + Soothing (75ml): Offers up to 7 hours of protection, and contains essential oils like Citronella and Tea Tree to help soothe bites that do occur. A two-in-one hero for your holiday bag.
• Bite & Sting Soothing Roll-On (5ml): With a compact design and 11 essential oils, this is a handbag essential for instant relief on-the-go.
• Repellent Roll-On (Face & Body, 50ml): Designed for sensitive areas, this hydrating formula is perfect for adults and teens.
• Baby Repellent Roll-On (30ml): Specially formulated for babies over 6 months, it’s a gentle and effective solution for little ones.
• Baby Multi-Soothing Cream (30ml): Ideal for calming skin irritation caused by both insect bites and plant stings.

View the full Puressentiel Bite & Sting Collection →

2. Dress Smart

Cover exposed skin when possible. Lightweight, long-sleeved tops and trousers help protect against mosquitoes and ticks. Choose neutral colours (bright colours and floral patterns can attract insects), and wear shoes in grassy areas to avoid stings from ground-dwelling insects.

3. Be Aware of Your Environment

• Standing water (like paddling pools and ponds) attracts mosquitoes.
• Open food and drinks can tempt wasps and flies.
• Grassy and wooded areas may harbour ticks — consider using a tick remover and always check after walks.

4. Travel Smart

Whether you’re heading to the Lake District or a Mediterranean island, do your research. Some destinations are higher risk for insect-borne illnesses, so protection is even more critical.

5. Aftercare Matters

Even with the best prevention, bites and stings can happen. Treating them quickly can prevent further irritation or infection. Use a soothing product like the Puressentiel Roll-On or Baby Multi-Soothing Cream to calm the area. Avoid scratching, keep nails trimmed, and monitor the site of the bite for any unusual swelling or redness.

Why Natural Matters

Many families are now prioritising more natural and skin-friendly solutions in all aspects of life, including first aid and skincare. The Puressentiel approach — blending the power of essential oils with rigorous safety testing — offers peace of mind. It’s an excellent option for parents looking to protect their children without resorting to harsh DEET-based products.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Bugs Ruin the Fun

Summer bites and stings may be common, but they shouldn’t be inevitable. With smart planning, quality products, and a natural approach like Puressentiel’s Bite & Sting range, you can make this your most comfortable, itch-free summer yet — whether you’re camping in Cornwall, hiking in the Alps, or playing on a beach in the Caribbean.

Stay safe, stay bite-free, and enjoy every moment of your summer adventures.