Originally Posted by Rowan

Yes, I've seen this happen with lycra bike shorts as well. We use a roll-on version at the moment, which I think I prefer to sprays, especially around the neck, head and face.

We're usually pretty good with the bug spray and sunscreen, but we arrived at our first campsite on Hokkaido after dusk, set up camp, and had something to eat in the shelter. The campsite was right next to a crater lake (the second deepest in Japan).

We arrived in the mid-afternoon at the second campsite, but stood and laid around on the perfectly manicured grass for several hours, then had dinner. I suspect the majority of the attacks occurred then -- there is a small, still lake about 150 metres from our campsite. I counted 31 bites on my right shin and ankle alone. Ouch!!

Needless to say, we are a little more careful about our bug repellant regimen, plus covering up -- fortunately or not, the weather hasn't been particularly warm.