Camping season is here — and if you're heading into BC's backcountry, you're probably thinking about what to pack. Sunscreen, check. Rain gear, check. Bug repellent, check.
But what about your soap? Most campers don't think twice about it, grabbing whatever's in the bathroom and tossing it in the pack. The problem is that conventional soaps — loaded with synthetic fragrances and detergents — can actually attract insects, harm waterways, and irritate skin that's already been through a long day on the trail.
There's a better way. Here's what you need to know about natural bug repellent soaps and why they belong in your camp kit.
Why Your Regular Soap Isn't Ideal for Camping
Most commercial soaps are made with synthetic fragrances that can attract bugs rather than repel them. They're also not biodegradable — which means washing up near a stream or lake leaves behind chemicals that harm aquatic ecosystems.
Leave No Trace principles recommend using biodegradable soap at least 60 metres from any water source — but even then, truly biodegradable means plant-based and free from synthetic surfactants. Most "biodegradable" labels on commercial products don't meet that standard.
How Natural Soaps Can Help Repel Bugs
Certain essential oils have well-documented insect-repelling properties. Lemongrass, patchouli, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil are among the most effective — and they've been used for centuries as natural deterrents for mosquitoes, black flies, and other biting insects.
When these oils are incorporated into a cold-press soap, they're preserved in their natural state (no heat to degrade them), which means they remain active and effective in the finished bar.
Our Best Bars for the Backcountry
Lemongrass Luffa Soap Bar
Our most popular camping bar. Lemongrass essential oil is a proven natural insect repellent, and the luffa interior gives you a gentle exfoliating scrub to clean off a day of trail grime. Waterway safe and fully biodegradable — it's built for the outdoors.
Patchouli Soap Bar & Patchouli Luffa Soap Bar
Patchouli has a rich, earthy scent that bugs find deeply unappealing. Both the classic bar and the luffa version are great for camping — the luffa version doubles as a scrubber for tougher clean-ups after a day of hiking or fishing.
Anise Poppyseed Soap Bar
Formulated specifically with hunters, anglers, and outdoor workers in mind. Activated charcoal helps neutralize odours, and the anise scent is a natural deterrent for many insects. A cult favourite among people who spend serious time outdoors.
Camper Soap and Shampoo Bar
Our all-in-one bar for minimalist packers. Use it as a body wash, shampoo, and even a shaving soap. Compact, long-lasting, and formulated to be gentle on skin and safe for BC's waterways.
Tips for Using Soap in the Backcountry
- Always wash at least 60 metres from water — even with biodegradable soap, this protects aquatic ecosystems
- Use a small amount — a little goes a long way with cold-press soap, especially in cold water
- Pack a soap bag or tin — keeps your bar dry between uses and extends its life on longer trips
- Apply after washing — for maximum bug-repelling effect, let the essential oils sit on your skin rather than rinsing immediately
Ready to Pack Smarter?
Whether you're car camping at a provincial park or deep in the backcountry, the right soap makes a difference. Browse our full range of handcrafted bars and find the one that fits your adventure — or try our Guest & Travel Soap Slices to sample a few before your next trip.
Made in BC. Built for BC. Leave no trace.