By: Blonde Two

Midges in Scotland

Whilst on our recent road trip to Scotland, Mr B2 and I did a mixture of roadside and campsite camping. We awoke one morning in a tiny quarry by the side of Loch More feeling smug about our superior planning ability and the fact that we had been in the Highlands a week and not seen a single midge. We had arrived well prepared with not one but two bottles of Smidge and a backup tube of Jungle Formula (don’t get this one near your waterproofs) as well as an emergency midge hood in each front door pocket of the van. This particular morning, however, we were still at the smug stage and, when I insisted on throwing open the back door so that we could enjoy the morning cuckoo and inhale some soft Scottish air, we got more than we bargained for.

Midges and Carbon Dioxide

Midges are attracted to the carbon dioxide breathed out by their prey, and prey was exactly what we had become. Within five minutes of cuckoo listening, the little critters had found us and started what felt like a vanguard attack. We didn’t know when the backup troops were due to arrive but we’re quick to batten down the hatches and start squishing. Of course, all of this frenzied activity (us, not the midges, who seemed very relaxed), brought on the usual morning need and we had to take it in turns to make a swift mission outside. Trying not to breathe while squatting inelegantly behind a van is a new one on me… Needless to say, I wasn’t very successful and very soon ended up laughing.

Campervans in Scotland

This was one of many occasions during our trip when I appreciated the camping advantages of a campervan over a tent or even a 4×4 truck. Once we had dealt with our bladders and finished our midge squishing, we could pack up and enjoy our morning cuppa without having to go outside and face the hordes again. I will admit here and now to finding a few inelegantly placed bites the next day. Maybe it is time to try out that Shewee!