PMD and Natural Protection: The incognito® Approach to Safer Expedition Travel 

Preparing for a Camps International expedition is an exciting milestone and, with new environments, climates and ecosystems to explore, it’s important to understand how to protect yourself from biting insects while travelling responsibly. 

One of the most effective and sustainable ways to do this is through PMD (Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus), the naturally derived active ingredient at the heart of the incognito® range. 

Why PMD Matters for Expedition Environments 

PMD (para-menthane-3,8-diol) is derived from the leaves of the Lemon Eucalyptus tree and is one of the most extensively recognised natural insect repellent actives. 

PMD is one of only two insect repellent actives recognised by leading health authorities – including the WHO and NHS – for travellers visiting regions where mosquito-borne diseases may be present. As the only naturally derived option among these recognised actives, it provides an additional choice for travellers who prioritise sustainability, sitting alongside synthetic alternatives such as DEET. 

incognito® uses the highest-strength, highest-purity PMD available, which undergoes a specialist refinement process to boost its potency and performance. This, alongside our clinically proven formulations to achieve 100% effectiveness*, ensures robust, tropical-strength protection suitable for expeditions in high-risk environments. 

By helping to mask your natural scent, incognito®’s PMD makes it harder for biting insects to detect you – an essential advantage during outdoor activity, community projects, trekking or evening downtime. 

Creating Your Complete Expedition Protection System

Staying bite-free is about applying the right protection and preparing your skin and environment so your repellent can work at its best. The incognito® range is designed to support a full, layered approach to natural defence. 

1. Start with a neutral base

Everyday body washes and shampoos often contain fragrances that can attract insects. Using a biodegradable, fragrance-controlled wash (such as incognito® bestselling Hair & Body Wash) helps create a clean, neutral base that allows your repellent to perform more effectively. 

2. Apply your incognito® insect repellent

Your incognito® spray, lotion, mineral sunblock or roll-on is your primary defence. Apply it evenly to all exposed areas before activities, treks or time outdoors. 

After washing, swimming, working or heavy activity, reapplying your repellent helps maintain a consistent protective barrier throughout the day. 

3. Add optional accessories for extra protection

For those who are typically more prone to bites or travelling to higher-risk areas, additional incognito® protection can offer extra reassurance. Options include refillable insect-repellent bracelets (sizes S, M & L), repellent necklaces, insect-repelling aftersun & moisturiser, and natural crystal deodorant to help minimise attractive scents. 

4. Support your sleeping space

In expedition settings, a natural, non-toxic room refresher (like the incognito® Room Refresher) can help reduce the presence of insects in tents, cabins, homestays or lodges — making evenings and nights more comfortable. 

Responsible Travel: Protecting People and Planet 

Camps International and incognito® both champion responsible travel. Travellers may wish to consider natural, biodegradable and cruelty-free options that support local ecosystems while still offering effective protection.

This approach gives students, leaders and parents access to science-backed products that align with their personal values and the environments they visit.

Preparing for Your Expedition

As you prepare for departure, your Camps International team will guide you through everything you need from kit lists to destination-specific advice. By understanding how natural protection works and how to use it throughout your trip, you can stay comfortable, confident and ready for adventure. 

A detailed expedition protection guide will also be shared later in the season, offering step-by-step advice tailored to different environments and daily routines. So keep your eyes peeled!