The 7 Biggest Travel Mistakes People Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Your bite-free, stress-free guide for winter travel

Whether you're heading to winter sun, a tropical escape, or simply visiting family abroad, travelling is exciting but it also comes with a few common pitfalls. At incognito®, we see the same patterns every year: small mistakes that lead to big annoyances, from unexpected bites to travel-day chaos.

Here are the 7 biggest travel mistakes people make, and how to avoid them, so you can focus on the good parts (sunsets, adventures, and unforgettable memories).

1. Packing Too Late, and Forgetting the Essentials

Last-minute packing is the number one cause of forgotten items, especially bite protection and skin essentials. Most travellers only realise they’ve left these behind when they’re already at the airport… or already bitten.

How to avoid it:
Create a simple “pre-travel essentials” checklist and pack your liquids and protection items first, not last.

(Hint: next month we’re launching a new, super-convenient travel essential designed to make this even easier… 👀)

2. Wearing Scents That Attract Insects

This is a big one. Insects - especially mosquitoes - are drawn to certain fragrances found in perfumes, deodorants and even some hair & body washes.

Many travellers unknowingly make themselves more attractive to biting insects by using fragranced products before heading out.

How to avoid it:
Choose natural, low-fragrance or mosquito-neutral cosmetics while travelling. This creates a better foundation for effective bite protection.

3. Relying on a Single Line of Defence

Depending on your level of attractiveness and how high risk the areas you're going to is, you may need a layered approach. 
Every destination, climate and time of day requires a slightly different approach.

How to avoid it:
Layer your protection:
• natural repellent
• skin-friendly wash
• clothing choices
• evening routine
• room protection
Together, these create the strongest defence.

4. Not Checking Bite Risk at the Destination

People research weather, visas, outfits but rarely insect activity or bite risk, even though this can massively impact a trip.

How to avoid it:
Check local advice or destination forums before you travel. High bite-risk areas benefit from stronger layering and more consistent application.

5. Using Harsh Chemical Fresheners Indoors

A closed hotel room or villa can feel stuffy, especially in warm climates. Many travellers reach for plug-ins or sprays - but harsh chemicals can irritate skin and attract insects, not repel them.

How to avoid it:
Choose natural room fresheners or plant-based fragrances that clear the air without creating attractants.

6. Not Treating Travel Clothing Properly

Darker clothes, tight fabrics, and sweat-retaining materials make you more appealing to biting insects. Many travellers don’t realise clothing can either deter insects… or invite them.

How to avoid it:
Opt for light, breathable fabrics, lighter colours, and looser fits.
Avoid wearing heavily fragranced laundry detergents on holiday.

7. Forgetting That Evenings Are High-Risk

Many travellers apply repellents in the morning and forget to top-up before dinner - peak mozzie time.

How to avoid it:
Reapply protection in the late afternoon or early evening. Outdoor dining, bars, and walks are prime bite windows.

Travel smarter, not harder

Avoiding these mistakes doesn’t require complicated routines — just a few smart swaps. With the right preparations and natural protection layered into your routine, your winter trips can be bite-free, fresh and hassle-free.

And if you like simple, travel-friendly solutions… keep an eye out. Something small (and mighty) is coming next month. 😉