Keep Snakes Away: Tips For A Camper

Snakes are a common fear, and for good reason. A snake encounter can be dangerous, especially if you're camping in an area with venomous snakes. While most snakes will avoid humans, it's important to know how to keep yourself safe. In this article, we'll discuss the best ways to keep snakes out of your camper and what to do if you encounter one. We'll cover everything from choosing the right campsite to storing your food properly to natural and chemical repellents. So, whether you're a seasoned camper or a beginner, read on for some helpful tips to keep snakes at bay.

Choose the right camping area: avoid forests, rock piles, and bodies of water

When choosing a camping area, it is important to be mindful of the fact that snakes are cold-blooded and, therefore, seek out warmth in cool climates. They are also attracted to places that are moist, provide a food source, and have plenty of hiding spaces. With that in mind, here are some tips for choosing the right camping area to avoid snakes:

• Avoid forests, rock piles, and bodies of water: Snakes are often drawn to wooded areas with plenty of hiding spaces, tall grass, and rocks or logs to slither under. They also tend to hunt and travel near water sources. So, when choosing a campsite, look for open spaces with short grass and minimal clutter, and stay away from rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water.
• Opt for drier locations: Moist areas that receive a lot of rain or hold water may attract prey species such as worms, slugs, and frogs, which can, in turn, attract snakes.
• Avoid abandoned structures: Snakes are often found in abandoned buildings, vehicles, or structures as they provide shelter and can be a source of food.
• Be cautious of holes in the ground: Holes dug by rodents, moles, or abandoned anthills can be attractive burrows for snakes, so be sure to choose a campsite that is free from these potential hiding spots.
• Choose a well-lit area: Snakes are secretive and tend to avoid open, well-lit spaces. Camping in a well-lit area can help deter snakes and also make it easier to spot them if they do slither by.

Seal your food containers

Snakes are attracted to campsites by the presence of their prey, such as insects and small rodents. These creatures are lured by improperly stored food, so it's important to seal your food containers to avoid attracting snakes.

Always ensure your food containers are properly sealed. This will prevent rodents and insects from accessing your food, which will in turn deter snakes. Keep your food in airtight containers, and don't leave trash or scraps lying around. Place any leftovers in airtight containers and store them away from your tent. If possible, elevate stored food off the ground, for example, by placing it on a tree branch.

In addition to sealing food containers, you should also avoid leaving food out in the open. Be conscious of dropping crumbs near your tent and clean utensils thoroughly after use. You should also avoid leaving trash bags outside your tent, even if they are sealed. Dispose of them correctly or store them in an airtight container until you can do so.

Seal holes in your camper

Snakes are experts at slithering in and out of tight spaces, so it's important to seal up your camper as best you can to keep them out. Use sealing foam or silicone to seal any holes, cracks, or crevices in your camper.

To start, you'll need to check both the interior and exterior of your camper for any holes or entryways that could invite snakes inside. Use a flashlight to search around the corners and detect any holes that might be hidden from plain sight. Block off any holes you find inside your camper to ensure that snakes can't enter. When you're outdoors, snakes can enter your camper and disrupt your peace, so it's important to seal these holes.

The exterior of your camper is just as important as the interior. Snakes can enter holes in the outside of your camper and hide in the walls of your vehicle. Again, use a flashlight to detect holes, especially at night, and seal each one you find.

In addition to sealing holes, it's important to keep your camper clean and free of clutter. Snakes like to hide in dark, hidden spots, so remove any branches, piles of leaves, or stacks of firewood close to your camper. If you have a woodpile for a campfire, set it up as far away from your camper as possible.

By sealing holes and keeping your camper clutter-free, you can help keep snakes out and enjoy a safer camping experience.

Deter snakes with smells, like vinegar

Snakes are a common danger when camping, hiking, or spending time in nature. While most snakes are harmless, there are venomous snakes that pose a threat to humans. If you're looking to keep snakes out of your camper, deterring them with smells like vinegar is one strategy you can try. Here are some detailed tips to help you do that:

Choose the Right Vinegar

The type of vinegar you use can make a difference. While white vinegar is commonly recommended for repelling snakes, any type of vinegar you have on hand will do the trick. White distilled vinegar is believed to be effective because it confuses a snake's sense of smell and organs, deterring them from entering your camper.

Identify Snake Hotspots

Before applying vinegar, it's important to identify areas where snakes are likely to appear. Snakes are cold-blooded creatures that seek out warmth, moisture, and food sources. They are often found near abandoned structures, vehicles, or buildings. Look for holes dug by rodents or moles and abandoned anthills as these can be ideal snake burrows. Identify these hotspots around your camper to effectively target your vinegar application.

Apply Vinegar Strategically

Once you've identified snake hotspots, it's time to apply the vinegar. Pour white vinegar around the perimeter of your camper or tent. Snakes can absorb liquids through their skin, and the vinegar will act as a barrier, deterring them from slithering over it. Additionally, consider applying vinegar to areas near water sources, as snakes are often spotted near bodies of water. Remember to avoid disturbing snakes directly in their habitat or resting places.

Combine with Other Methods

While vinegar can be effective, combining it with other snake deterrence methods will strengthen your defence. Snakes are attracted to food sources, so proper food storage is crucial. Store your food in airtight containers and dispose of trash and scraps properly. Additionally, clear any clutter and remove potential hiding spots near your camper, as snakes seek out dark hiding places.

By following these tips and using vinegar strategically, you can effectively deter snakes from entering your camper and enjoy your outdoor adventures with peace of mind.

Keep a clean camper

Keeping your camper clean is one of the best ways to keep snakes away. Snakes are attracted to areas where they can find food, so it's important to ensure that your camper doesn't become a snake's all-you-can-eat buffet. Here are some tips to keep a clean camper and reduce the risk of a slithery surprise:

Keep Food Secure

Food is a major attraction for snakes, as it brings them closer to their prey. Small animals like mice, birds, and insects are all on the menu for snakes, so it's important to ensure your food doesn't become a feast for these critters. Always keep your food in airtight containers and never leave trash bags outside your camper, even if they are sealed. Dispose of waste correctly and store it in an airtight container until you can dispose of it properly. Be mindful of crumbs and spills, and clean utensils and surfaces thoroughly after meals. Place any leftover food or scraps in airtight containers and store them away from your camper, preferably in an elevated area like a tree branch to keep them out of reach of rodents.

Maintain a Clean Space

A clean camper is a snake-free camper. Snakes like to hide in dark, cluttered spaces, so it's important to keep your living area tidy and free of clutter. Regularly clean your camper to remove any crumbs or food residue that might attract pests. Sweep or vacuum floors, wipe down surfaces, and don't leave dirty dishes lying around. Keep your bedding and sleeping area tidy, and give your sleeping bag a good shake before use to ensure no unexpected guests have taken up residence.

Seal Holes and Entrances

Snakes are experts at squeezing through tight spaces, so it's crucial to seal any holes or entry points in your camper. Check both the interior and exterior of your vehicle for potential entryways, including corners, appliances, and crevices. Use a flashlight to inspect hard-to-reach areas. Seal any holes or cracks you find with appropriate materials, such as sealing foam or silicone. Make sure all windows and doors close properly, and consider using screens to keep snakes out while allowing ventilation.

Practice Good Hygiene

Believe it or not, your personal hygiene can impact your snake situation. Snakes are attracted to strong scents, so it's best to stick to unscented products when camping. Leave the perfumes, scented deodorants, and fragrant soaps at home. Instead, opt for unscented or lightly fragranced personal care products. Taking a shower before bed can also help reduce body odour and the amount of scent you give off, making you less appealing to snakes.

Frequently asked questions