Recreational vehicles, or RVs, are practically a national pastime, but if you find a nest of bees in yours, it's the last place you want to be. Don't get caught in a frantic buzz on your next camping or cross-country trip; know how to stay one step ahead of these masterful hive and honey-makers instead. 

Carefully Inspect Your RV For Bees Before Heading Out

You'd much rather know about a nest before you're on the road or in the woods, so take a day or so to investigate the possibility. Keep an eye on your parked RV, preferably out in the open, and you should see bees coming and going if they've taken up residence inside. Note which opening they're using to pass in and out of the vehicle and what type of bee you're dealing with. A bee removal professional can eradicate the problem, leaving you free to take off on the open road. 

Consider Relocation Over Killing

These days, most bee control services offer their customers a humane way of dealing with these buzzing pests and if that's an option you'd prefer, let them know when you call. Once the technicians have a clear path to the nest (which may involve removing interior or exterior panels on your RV), they can safely remove the bees, along with their hive, relocating them to a neutral location. Especially if you're dealing with beneficial honey bees, the population of which is on the decline, there's great value in preserving their numbers.

Following the removal, your RV will be scrubbed of any evidence the bees were ever there, and an odor barrier will be applied. This follow-up process ensures no other bees invade and no wild animals, such as hungry and curious raccoons or squirrels, are tempted in by the smell of honey.

If you're adamant about quick and deadly removal, the bee control company you contact can accommodate that request, too. Be prepared, either way, to steer clear of your RV and backyard while the experts are at work. 

If You Discover Bees While On The Road, Have A Plan

Even with the most careful of inspections, there could still be a nest somewhere in your RV, especially if it has an air conditioning unit and refrigerator. Bees like to take up residence in such equipment, as it provides a suitable and covert base for their nest-building. If you find a nest, don't panic; be prepared with a plan, instead:

• Know how to identify any potentially dangerous bug, including bees.
• Keep your cell phone(s) charged and ready so you can contact a bee professional in the area.
• If anyone you're traveling with is allergic to bees, remain out of the RV until the pest professionals clear the vehicle.
• Have phone numbers handy for bee control services and local information, which can guide you to the nearest hotel or other essential service.

It's not uncommon for campers and travelers to find bees and other insects inside their RVs, making a plan essential for comfort and safety. You may need repellents, traps, a bee vacuum, and other products to protect yourself and family, but it's all part of being in the great outdoors. You should also have a first aid kit accessible at all times for insect bites and stings, along with other possible mishaps that may occur.

Take Steps To Prevent Another Invasion

When you bring your RV home for the season, clean it thoroughly to remove all traces of food. Cover and seal any openings, including the roof vents and connection outlets, to make sure no insects or other critters have entrance points. If you've had a bad encounter with a bee colony or have an allergy in the family, your best bet is to contact a bee control service at the start of each season to be absolutely certain no bees have found their way into your RV.

Dealing with bees is no easy task, no matter what type or how many you have buzzing around. Bees are special creatures in their own right, but even so, you don't want to share your close-quarter RV space with them, especially if a sting means a fast trip to the ER. Know where to look for their hiding places, what to do if they move in on you, and how to get professional help in a hurry.