How changing insect activity is affecting our time outdoors

As Britain experiences warmer, wetter summers and milder winters, the activity of biting insects is shifting. The UK is home to 36 native mosquito species, and many are now active for longer stretches of the year. Midges are also thriving, with increasing numbers of people reporting that bites are becoming more common earlier in spring and later into autumn.

Even concerning indicators, such as sightings of the non-native Asian tiger mosquito in Southern England, highlight how insect behaviour and migration patterns are evolving. While these changes are not cause for immediate alarm, they are becoming more noticeable and more of a nuisance when spending time outdoors.

Why it matters

For UK residents, the concern isn’t exotic diseases, but the simple frustration that biting insects bring to everyday life. From barbecues interrupted by swarming midges to children getting bitten while playing in the garden, these nuisances can quickly take the enjoyment out of time spent outside.

Mosquitos can even deter people from going outside altogether, which can have a knock-on effect on wellbeing. Spending time outdoors is increasingly linked to better mental health – from reducing stress to encouraging more time away from screens – yet these biting pests can create a barrier. Whether hosting guests, relaxing on the patio after work, or heading off on an outdoor adventure, comfort and convenience matter, and biting insects can easily undermine those moments.

Simple and effective protection

That’s where Thermacell® comes in - a clever, hassle-free way to enjoy being outside without the need for traditional repellents such as sprays, lotions or candles. Each device uses a small gas cartridge to gently heat a repellent mat, releasing a scent-free vapour that forms an invisible 20m² zone of protection. Mosquitoes and midges instinctively avoid this zone, giving users quiet, dependable comfort within minutes.

There’s no smoke, no sticky residue, and no chemical odours, so it won’t interfere with mealtimes, entertaining guests, or relaxing in the garden. Each mat provides up to four hours of protection, and a single gas cartridge lasts up to 12 hours, making the system efficient and low waste. The device can also be turned on and off as needed, saving fuel and allowing users to tailor protection to their outdoor activities.

The formula is proven to work against a wide range of mosquito and midge species, including the invasive Asian tiger mosquito, giving peace of mind whether at home, in the countryside, or on outdoor adventures. Unlike sprays or lotions that require constant reapplication, Thermacell provides continuous, hands-free protection, allowing people to fully enjoy their outdoor time.

Designed to suit every outdoor lifestyle

Thermacell® offers a range of devices for every outdoor setting:

·       The Mini Halo is sleek and compact, perfect for patios, balconies, and gardens

·       The MR300 Portable is lightweight and easy to carry, ideal for walks, picnics, or weekend getaways

·       For those who enjoy extended outdoor adventures, the Backpacker model connects directly to standard camping gas canisters, delivering durable, long-lasting protection wherever you pitch up.

With its clean, portable design and proven heat-activated technology, Thermacell® fits effortlessly into modern life. From balconies and gardens to camping trips and outdoor pursuits, it provides quiet, effective protection that helps people reclaim their outdoor space without sprays, scents, or mess.

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Thermacell® is distributed in the UK by SBM Life Science, the company behind trusted garden brands such as Baby Bio®, Maxicrop®, and Phostrogen®. The range is available now from garden centres and outdoor retailers. For more information, visit www.seezon.com.

Ends

Editors notes

For over 25 years, Thermacell® has been helping people enjoy the outdoors without the irritation of mosquitoes and midges. Trusted by millions worldwide, Thermacell® is a leading brand in portable, heat-activated mosquito protection, offering an effective, scent-free and contact-free alternative to traditional repellents such as sprays or candles. Using innovative technology, Thermacell® devices create a protective zone of up to 20m² that helps keep biting insects away, including invasive species such as the Asian tiger mosquito. Compact, convenient and easy to use, the range includes solutions for every outdoor setting, from garden and patios to camping and adventure travel. Designed for comfort and proven performance, Thermacell® delivers reliable, long-lasting protection so users can make the most of their time outdoors.