Ticks, the tiny pests, are constant companions for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. A tick bite carries the risk of transmitting serious diseases. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce the danger.

About Ticks

Ticks are highly successful and can be found almost everywhere in the world. Around 900 species are known, and ticks belong to the order of mites.

In Germany, the most common species is the castor bean tick (Ixodes ricinus). Whether in meadows, forests, or even your own garden, the chances of encountering a tick are relatively high.

How Do Ticks Hunt?

Ticks are usually found near the ground, preferring plants 20–30 cm high. They also hide in leaf litter and other low-lying areas.

They respond to movement vibrations, body heat, and carbon dioxide. When a host passes by, they try to latch on with their eight legs.

The myth that ticks drop from trees onto their victims is false.

Ticks are resilient: they can survive underwater for up to two weeks, and they become active at temperatures as low as 7°C (45°F).

Ticks as Disease Carriers

Ticks are notorious for spreading dangerous diseases. Humans can contract TBE (tick-borne encephalitis) or Lyme disease from a tick bite.

• TBE is caused by a virus that can lead to inflammation of the brain and meninges. Vaccination is available and recommended for outdoor activities in certain parts of Europe.
• Lyme disease is a bacterial infection. Symptoms may appear months after the bite, often starting with a round, reddish rash (“bullseye”) at the bite site. A doctor should be consulted if this appears, and antibiotics can prevent further disease progression.

Disease transmission usually occurs 8–12 hours after the bite, for both TBE and Lyme disease.

Minimizing Tick Bites

Certain behaviors can reduce the risk of tick bites, such as regular checks, brushing off ticks from clothing, and wearing protective clothing.

Common Bite Locations

Ticks prefer moist, well-blooded areas such as armpits, the back of the knees, sock or belt pressure points, and the genital region. They can also attach to legs or other exposed areas.

Checks, Brushing, and Clothing

Due to the delayed transmission of pathogens, regular tick checks can prevent infection. Check yourself at your evening campsite and again in the morning.

Brushing off legs after walking through tall grass can further reduce risk. Wearing light-colored pants makes ticks easier to spot.

Creating Barriers

Ticks always climb upwards, so clothing folds can be used as a barrier. For example, tuck a T-shirt into your pants, then pull it back up slightly to create a horizontal fold. Ticks may be caught in these folds before they attach.

Removing Ticks Correctly

Many myths exist about tick removal, including twisting, burning, or drowning them in liquids — these methods are ineffective and risky.

Tools for Removal

Our preferred tool is a fine-tipped tick tweezer, which allows precise removal even of tiny ticks. Tick loops or pliers work only on larger or fully engorged ticks.

How to Remove a Tick

Grasp the tick by its mouthparts and pull it straight out, ensuring the entire tick is removed to reduce infection risk. Disinfect the bite area afterward.

If parts of the tick’s mouth remain embedded and cannot be removed, consult a doctor immediately.