MIDGES and mossies are hell to cope with and I do not mind shelling out on a product that will keep those little beggars away. And that is exactly what I’ve been doing for quite a number of years now. The ThermaCELL is one of those best kept secrets of the camping world – which is a surprise given it works.

A ThermaCELL releases a small amount of repellent into the air over a long period of time. It uses the same butane cartridges found in ladies’ travel tongues, to gently heat a metal plate. A mat saturated with Allethrin – a copy of the natural insecticide found in chrysanthemum flowers – is placed on the plate and the heat vaporizes the repellent to quickly create a 15ft x 15 ft midge free zone. You do not notice the repellent and it should be safe for humans and pets if used correctly.

A favourite with the hunting community, I’ve used mine to create a midge free pitch and a pleasant workspace around my boat. However, ThermaCELL has now also launched a LED Patio Lantern that uses the same technology to keep insects away. This is bound to appeal to campers wanting to enjoy sunsets in mossie land.

A gas cartridge lasts around 12 hours and a pad for four. Smallest refill pack contains one cartridge and three pads.

INFO

Expect to pay ThermaCELL £29.99; Patio Lantern £39.99; Refills From £7.99
Web pest-stop.co.uk

This review was published in the November 2010 issue of Camping magazine. Order our latest issue.