Can't add much to the advice above. Except for the garlic, it's all good.
That said, pump spray insect repellent, not aersol. And, whatever the repellent, it will only prevent the critters from landing on you (or your wife). It will not rid the woods of them. Went with a chap a few years back who used up the entire camp supply trying to stop the buzzing.

And you are right about the utility of this site. I recommend it all the time. Nice people here.

Tim