I thought a bit of fuzz was stuck in my seatbelt—until it twitched. That small movement quickly turned into a nightmare. My car had been invaded by Solifugae, commonly called camel spiders, sun spiders, or wind scorpions.
Not Venomous, But Still Terrifying
These spiders aren’t venomous. However, their speed, creepy look, and painful bite can unsettle anyone.
The Hidden Invaders
The first spider hid between my seatbelt and the upholstery. Soon, I spotted more near the backseat and door hinges. They blended perfectly into the car, making them easy to miss.
Their bites cause sharp pain, swelling, redness, and risk of infection if untreated.
How to Protect Your Car
If you want to keep unwanted pests—especially spiders—out of your vehicle, it’s important to take a few simple but consistent precautions. Start by vacuuming your car thoroughly, paying extra attention to corners, under the seats, and inside storage compartments where dust and debris tend to accumulate. These hidden spots can become perfect hiding places for pests if left unchecked.
Inspect your car regularly for any small cracks, gaps, or openings where insects or spiders could enter. Seal these areas with weatherstripping or automotive sealant to block entry points. Whenever possible, avoid parking in dry, brushy, or wooded areas, as these environments are natural habitats where spiders and other insects thrive.
For an added layer of protection, consider using natural repellents. Essential oils like peppermint, citrus, or eucalyptus not only leave your car smelling fresh but are also known to deter many insects and spiders. Simply mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle and lightly mist areas inside your vehicle—just avoid electronics and leather surfaces.
Another important step is to keep food out of your car. Even small crumbs can attract ants, beetles, and other insects, which in turn may invite spiders looking for an easy meal. Make it a habit to clean up immediately after transporting groceries or snacks, and keep trash from accumulating inside.
A Chilling Reminder
This experience was a sobering lesson that nature doesn’t always make its presence known. Sometimes, it slips in unnoticed—quietly finding a place to hide—until the moment it’s ready to move. Whether it’s a harmless spider or something more dangerous, it’s a reminder that our cars, like our homes, can become temporary shelters for the unexpected passengers of the natural world.