How to Use an Ultralight Bug Head Net for Camping

Quick answer

Wear an ultralight bug head net like Ben's InvisiNet over your hat or hood, adjust the drawcord for a snug seal, and tuck it into your collar to create a bug-proof barrier without blocking your view.

How to put on and adjust your bug head net

1. 1. Choose your base layer: Put on a hat with a brim (baseball cap or sun hat) or a hooded layer. The hat or hood creates space between the mesh and your face, which improves visibility and airflow. A floppy brim works better than a tight beanie — without it, the net clings to your nose and mouth.
2. 2. Pull the net over your head: Hold the net by its drawstring opening and pull it over your hat or hood. Make sure the mesh is centered so the viewing panel aligns with your eyes. The pull-string sack stays attached to the net; you can tuck it under the net or into a pocket. If the net twists during this step, adjust it before tightening — untwisting fine mesh on the trail is fiddly.
3. 3. Tighten the drawcord at your neck: Pull the drawcord until the net fits snugly around your neck without choking. The cord should sit just above your collarbone. If your net has a toggle, slide it up to lock the cord in place. A loose cord lets mosquitoes crawl underneath; a too-tight cord causes discomfort on long hikes. Aim for a seal you can barely fit a finger under.
4. 4. Tuck the net into your collar: Push the bottom edge of the net inside your shirt collar or jacket neckline. This closes the last gap. If your shirt has a zipper, zip it up to the net. Leaving the net outside your collar is the most common failure point — bugs will find the opening.
5. 5. Check your field of view: Look left, right, and down at your feet. The mesh should be taut enough that it doesn't sag into your eyes. If the view is blurry or distorted, reposition the net or switch to a hat with a stiffer brim. Fine mesh (like the 1.0 mm on Ben's InvisiNet) is nearly invisible when held away from your face. Sagging mesh causes glare and reduces clarity.
6. 6. Pack it when not in use: To store, simply gather the net and push it into its attached pull-string sack. Squeeze out excess air and cinch the sack closed. Keep it in an outer pocket or hip belt pouch for quick access when bugs appear. Stuffing the net loosely rather than rolling it prevents creases that can weaken the mesh over time.

Product facts

• Ben's InvisiNet Bug Head Net: Ben's InvisiNet Bug Head Net has a pore size of only 1.0 mm and weighs 0.7 oz. The fine mesh blocks tiny biting insects while the low weight makes it easy to carry as a backup or primary bug defense.