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The Best Bug Sprays for Outdoor Comfort, Tested

From family-favorites to the expert-recommended, these are the best bug sprays out there.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

Warm weather brings us fun in the sun, but it also means encounters with pesky bugs that can cause serious harm. Mosquitoes and ticks carry bacteria, parasites, and viruses — including Zika, dengue, and Lyme disease — that they transfer to humans through biting. Protecting yourself with bug spray before heading outdoors is the best way to lessen your risk of contracting an illness from a bite.

We spoke with Dr. Sonya Kenkare, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor at Rush University in Chicago, about what types and brands of bug sprays to use. Dr. Kenkare is preparing to go on a medical mission trip to Zambia, where numerous mosquito-borne illnesses are endemic to the area.

After testing 16 different bug sprays, we have favorites that are gentle enough for the whole family to use and don't damage clothing or gear. Our picks include both DEET-based products and those made from picaridin, which Kenkare and her patients prefer because it doesn't have a harsh smell like the traditional bug spray ingredient. If you're looking for something that also provides sun protection or want an essential oil-based product, there are also great options out there for you.

Best Overall Picaridin

Off family care insect repellent ii with picaridin.

• Effectiveness 5 /5
• Coverage 5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5

It doesn't have any off-putting chemical smells.

It doesn't come in a size larger than 4 ounces.

Even on hot, sweaty days, this insect repellent protects users. In fact, we didn't experience even a single bug bite while wearing this spray. The formula has a very light scent and doesn't feel sticky at all, so you forget you have it on while staying protected. The bottle is incredibly easy to use and features a wide spray nozzle that creates a fine, even mist on the skin. It's also the perfect size to toss in your bag or fanny pack to use on the go, and didn't leak at all throughout our tests.

The Details: 5 percent picaridin | 2.5 to 4 ounces | Spray

Best Overall DEET

Off active insect repellent i (15% deet).

It lives up to its promise of five-hour protection.

It's not travel-sized.

As with our best overall picaridin pick, we didn't sustain any bug bites at all while wearing this product. It's relatively scent-free and only needed to be applied once in the four hours spent outside . We love how easy it is to use the spray bottle, which is even effective when you turn it upside down to get to hard-to -each areas. It also doesn't leave any residue behind on your clothes or skin and is easy to spread without leaving a white cast or greasy feeling. Plus, a little goes a long way and absorbs quickly.

The Details: 15 percent DEET | 9 ounces | Spray

Best Unscented

Earthkind stay away mosquitoes insect repellent.

• Effectiveness 4.9 /5

The spray nozzle has a wide range, which ensures for great, evenly dispersed coverage.

It's not waterproof.

This easy-to-spray insect repellent is not only fragrance-free, but it feels moisturizing, which is perfect for kids and adults alike. We didn't notice any staining or transfer onto clothing, although we do recommend rubbing the spray in after you apply to avoid any white cast. While the repellent isn't waterproof, it is water-resistant, so users who are swimming or enjoying other water activities should be sure to reapply more frequently. Overall, we love that it's a gentle and clean formula that you could feel good about using on the whole family.

The Details: 20 percent picaridin | 14-hour duration | 4 ounces | Spray

Best Lotion

Sawyer products 20% picaridin insect repellent.

• Coverage 4.5 /5

It prevented bug bites even in tall grass and near rivers.

The repellent is white, so users will need to rub it in to avoid residue.

This lotion repelled bugs in a variety of environments all day and even into the night. We didn't notice it fade or sweat off throughout our tests, making this a long-lasting product perfect for camping trips or long days outdoors. Because this is in fact a lotion, the color is white and needs to be rubbed in to avoid transfer to clothing and any white cast. On the other hand, the color makes it easy to see exactly where you've applied the lotion, so you never miss a spot. When first applied, the repellent has a citrusy smell, but it fades quickly and isn't overpowering.

The Details: 20 percent picaridin | 14-hour duration | 2 ounces | Lotion

Best Heavy-duty DEET

Off deep woods insect repellent viii.

• Effectiveness 4 /5
• Value 4.5 /5
• Smell 4.5 /5

It sprays easily, quickily, and evenly.

It doesn't last quite as long as other products we tested.

While some bug sprays leave the skin feeling greasy, this one has a dryer, more powder-like formula. The bottle is easy to use and the repellent comes out even without leaving any residue or white cast. It's also fast-absorbing so you don't waste any time waiting for your bug spray to dry. We love that the size of the bottle is easy to transport and can even fit into pockets or toss into a day bag. While it does have a minor chemical smell, we found it to smell better than other repellents we've tested, and it didn't linger.

The Details: 25 percent DEET | 2.5 ounces | Spray

Best Heavy-duty Picaridin

Sawyer products picaridin insect repellent.

Made from 20 percent picaridin, this product is user-friendly for the whole family and lasts all day long. 

The formula is slightly greasy. 

Studies show that products containing 20 percent picaridin work just as well as DEET products and don’t give off the harsh smells that often come alongside bug sprays containing the popular active ingredient. Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent is among the options that protect against ticks and mosquitoes and the diseases they spread without the unpleasant odor. It also repels stable flies, black flies, gnats, chiggers, and sand flies, and protects for up to 12 hours. The formula is fragrance-free and won’t damage your clothing or gear. 

“I like the spray because you can put it on a little kid’s arm without putting them in a cloud of bug spray,” says Kenkare. “And the smaller container is great to take with you for hiking.” The spray is available in 3, 4, and 6-ounce bottles at Amazon. The company also makes a repellent spray specifically for clothing and gear . 

The Details: 20 percent picaridin | 12-hour duration | 3 to 6 ounces | Spray

Best With Sun Protection

Bullfrog sunscreen and insect repellent.

The waterproof formula stays on for the long haul. 

This spray can leave an oily residue.

Bullfrog is known for bringing great sun protection to users, and this combo sunscreen/bug spray formula is a double win for those trying to enjoy time outdoors. It’s waterproof and provides SPF 50 protection, and the bug spray portion is DEET-free and repels insects for up to eight hours. It’s also free from oxybenzone, a reef-damaging ingredient commonly found in sunscreens. Calming aloe and vitamin E bring skin-soothing comfort to the formula, so it’s pleasant to use at any age. 

The Details: 3 percent avobenzone, 5 percent octocrylene, 10 percent homosalate, 7.5 percent octyl methoxycinnamate, 5 percent octisalate | 8-hour duration | 5.5 ounces | Spray

Best Eco-friendly

Repel lemon eucalyptus insect repellent.

The pump spray bottle helps direct the oil onto skin easily.

The lemon eucalyptus oil gives off a strong scent.

DEET and picaridin are approved by the EPA, but there are people who still would rather choose a natural product for bug spray. Repel’s mosquito repellent is made with lemon eucalyptus oil, which repels insects for up to six hours. Despite what you might expect, the lemon eucalyptus oil base doesn’t leave your skin feeling greasy, and the 4-ounce bottle size is perfect for throwing in a fanny pack, purse, or backpack while traveling. 

The Details: 30 percent oil of lemon eucalyptus | 6-hour duration | 4 ounces | Pump spray

Best for Sensitive Skin

Proven odorless mosquito & tick spray.

No harsh smells are a perk not often found with bug spray.

Despite the listed application window, you should apply more than once every 14 hours.

According to Kenkare, picaridin products are best for sensitive skin. This bug spray from Proven contains 20 percent picaridin. It repels mosquitoes and ticks for up to 14 hours and can repel flies, chiggers, gnats, and no-see-ums for up to eight hours. The formula is odorless, so that chemically smell often associated with bug spray is gone here. The formula also isn't sticky or greasy, so you can use it without ruining your clothes. Proven is an EPA-registered, family-owned company that sources ingredients from the United States and Germany.

The Details: 20 percent picaridin | 14-hour duration | 6 ounces | Pump spray

Best Essential Oil-based

Auntie fannie's mosquito spray.

This bug spray has a surprisingly pleasant smell.

All of the essential oils make the formula very oily on skin.

Enjoy up to four hours of mosquito-free fun with Aunt Fannie's repellent spray. The DEET-free spray is powered by citronella oil, peppermint oil, cedarwood oil, lemongrass oil, soybean oil, and geranium oil. Aunt Fannie's also makes an entire collection of natural, pet-friendly pest control products. The spray goes on like a dry body oil instead of a water-based spray, so be aware that you need to apply and then rub it into your skin.

The Details: 2.5 percent citronella oil, 1.5 percent cedarwood oil, 1 percent peppermint oil, 1 percent lemongrass oil, 1 percent geranium oil | 4-hour duration | 3.38 ounces | Pump spray

Best for the Woods

Ben's clothing and gear insect repellent.

The strong formula lasts through a long camping trip or numerous outdoor getaways.

Clothing needs to hang for at least two hours to dry before wearing after spraying with Ben's.

If you're headed out on a camping trip into the deep woods where monster mosquitoes and bugs thrive, it's best to use a repellent that you can spray on your clothes, tent, and gear to keep bugs away from you and your campground. Ben's makes a permethrin-based repellent spray that Kenkare recommends. Permethrin is a CDC-approved insect repellent that can be used on fabrics, which is super important while out in deep woods. "I like this formula from Ben's because it not only repels mosquitoes, but ticks too, which can be a whole other problem in deep woods," she says. Ben's repellent also repels flies, gnats, and other insects as well. Just spray your clothes and gear with the repellent, and you're good to go. The formula bonds to the fabric for up to six weeks, or six wash cycles, so you won't need to reapply every single day or even every week.

The Details: .5 percent permethrin | 6-week duration | 24 ounces | Pump spray

We tested 16 different bug sprays and mosquito repellents at least five times each to determine the best options for families, portability, long-term use, and more. The bug sprays were first applied at home, following manufacturer instructions, and we noted whether we had any negative reaction to the spray. We also noted the texture of the spray on the skin, how long it took the repellent to dry, how the repellent smelled, and how well it absorbed. Next, we tested for water and sweat-proofing by first spraying the repellent and then spritzing the area with water to note if the chemicals ran or stayed absorbed into the skin.

We used each bug spray a minimum of five times outside throughout the duration of the test. We made sure to pay attention to how long the repellent stayed on, whether it sweat off easily, and if bugs were biting sooner than listed on the packaging. We also made note of whether the repellent was portable or if it leaked or spilled during transport.

Other Bug Sprays We Liked

Coleman IR3535 SkinSmart DEET-free Insect Repellent Spray : We love that this insect repellent dries quickly and doesn't feel sticky on the skin but felt that it needed to be reapplied fairly often and wish that there was a travel-sized bottle.

Sawyer Products Controlled Release Insect Repellent : We found this repellent to be very effective, even on those who tend to attract mosquitoes; however, it goes on white and feels greasy when you first apply it.

Tips for Buying Bug Spray

Know the pros and cons of your active ingredient options.

DEET, picaridin, and natural oils like lemon eucalyptus oil are all very common ingredients in bug repellent. Some people prefer to stay away from DEET, as it can burn when it gets in your eyes and often comes with a potent smell. However, it’s worth noting that DEET is EPA approved and highly recommended for use over oil-based repellents and in deep woods. “If you’re camping, etc., you need DEET,” says Kenkare. “The formulas using essential oils are not as effective, and if you’re really a savvy outdoor person, you can put yourself at risk of diseases.” 

Picaridin, on the other hand, is another great ingredient often used in bug repellent and an effective alternative if you don’t want to use DEET. Products containing 20 percent picaridin work just as well as DEET-based products, studies show , offering an array of options for consumers. “Picaridin is great for sensitive skin, plus it doesn’t smell bad, and people are really excited to have another option aside from DEET,” says Kenkare. Thanks to their gentle yet protective formulations, picaridin-based sprays are our preference when it comes to camping gear for kids .

Again, oil-based products just generally don’t offer quite as much protection as those with DEET or picaridin. You’ll also find yourself reapplying more with essential oil-based products. If you still want to opt for essential oils, lemon eucalyptus oil, citronella oil, cedarwood oil, and rosemary oil are commonly used to repel mosquitos.

Consider scent and texture

One downside to bug sprays are the harsh smells that often come with the formulas. DEET, picaridin, and even essential oil-based formulas all can have strong, foul odors that make you contemplate not even wearing bug spray (don’t do this, just endure the smell). There are products out there with less potent and more pleasant smells to them, but keep in mind insect repellent is meant to deter bugs: they’re not supposed to smell like sunshine and roses. Cope with the odor by remembering your bug spray is doing its job and keeping you safe from harmful insects. 

Lots of bug sprays are also greasy, oily, and sometimes even gritty. This is a combination of the ingredients inside the bottle, which again are combating mosquitoes and other annoying bugs. Essential oil-based products are obviously going to be, well, oily, but if you’re looking for something that’s not, try to find a quick-drying powdery formula or a lotion that absorbs into your skin. 

Firstly, let's distinguish insecticide versus insect repellent. Insecticide is designed to kill bugs and is mainly found in products meant for your yard and such. Insect repellent keeps bugs from approaching us and is designed for us to use on our bodies.

Insects are attracted to our bodies because we naturally produce carbon dioxide from our breath, pores, and sweat. This carbon dioxide is what insects are looking for in order to find food (a.k.a. blood for mosquitoes and ticks), which is why they sniff us out and attack us. Insect repellent masks the scent of carbon dioxide so insects can't find us. This is also why you might still find a mosquito on one small spot on your forehead or the back of your leg after applying bug spray, for example. If you miss one spot, they can smell that carbon dioxide and will bite you, which is why it's important to fully cover yourself with bug spray when applying. Insect repellent also generally comes with a strong smell that bugs hate, which further dissuades them from swarming.

Many bug sprays expire after three years, but you should always check your individual products for expiration dates and follow the guidelines carefully.

You'll need to follow the instructions on the bottle of bug spray for reapplication times. All bug sprays are different — some only last an hour or so and some last half a day.

The CDC says you can use insect repellents containing up to 30 percent DEET or 20 percent picaridin during pregnancy as long as the products are EPA-approved. Just use the products as recommended. You can also consult the EPA database with approved products .

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T + L writers are adventure and travel experts who use personal experience and expert recommendations to choose the best items for shoppers. For this article, Amanda Ogle interviewed Dr. Sonya Kenkare , a board-certified dermatologist, and researched dozens of bug sprays. She and T+L writer Taylor Fox used their expertises as travelers, product research, and testing insights to craft the perfect list of bug sprays for you.

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Related Articles

6 Expert-Recommended Bug Sprays That Actually Work

By Iona Brannon

A bug bite is, at best, irritating, and at worst, deadly. This summer, as the weather heats up and we spend more time outside for picnics , camping trips, al fresco dining, and long-awaited summer travel , a bottle of bug spray can be as important to pack as sunscreen .

But it's not as easy as just dousing yourself with bug spray. You need to know how to apply it, how often to reapply, and how to layer it with your favorite SPF.

“As well as following the directions on the bottle (for example, age restrictions on the use of certain formulations), it is important that repellents are applied as a thin, even covering on all exposed areas of skin,” says medical entomologist Cameron Webb, Ph.D. “A dab here and there is not going to provide adequate protection.”

When applying to the face, pediatric dermatologist Joseph Lam, M.D., recommends spraying repellent on your hands first and then patting on skin for application. He also recommends applying insect repellent on children instead of letting them apply it themselves.

According to the CDC , insect repellents should include DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or 2-undecanone. You should only apply them after sunscreen, and it’s important to rinse off once you’re back home. To know how often to reapply , follow the directions on the product's label.

Of note, insect repellents with non-traditional active ingredients like citronella or geranium oil, rather than the active ingredients recommended by the CDC, have become a popular option in recent years. These ingredients have been tested and approved for safety by the EPA , but were not tested for effectiveness. According to Dr. Webb, there aren’t many products that last as long or work as effectively as DEET . With these factors in mind, we’ve included both types of sprays, and noted the main ingredients in each one.

Now that you know the general guidelines for insect repellent, here are some of the best buy sprays to add to your outdoor packing list.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

For sensitive skin: Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus picaridin pump spray

Dr. Adeline Kikam , a board certified dermatologist and Skin of Color advocate and educator, says to opt for a picaridin-based repellent if you have sensitive skin because it’s less irritating than other active ingredients. She recommends the Skin So Soft skin repellent for its added aloe and vitamin E, which give the skin an extra boost of moisture.

For trips that require a flight: Repel 100 insect repellent pump spray

A bug spray is only useful when you actually use it—and that means finding travel-size options for certain trips. This TSA-friendly pump spray is DEET-based and can easily fit in your carry-on or backpack to bring on all your adventures. Although it’s small, the bottle packs a mean punch with 98.11 percent DEET. The heavy duty repellent protects against mosquitoes, gnats, ticks, biting flies, fleas, and chiggers for up to 10 hours.

For the deep woods: Natrapel 12-Hour insect repellent spray

If you know you’re going to encounter a specific type of bug on a trip, “choose a repellent that specifically mentions the type of pest you want to repel,” says Dr. Kikam. A more comprehensive spray that she recommends is Natrapel Eco Spray, which covers mosquitos, chiggers, gnats, and black flies for up to 12 hours. The aerosol spray also allows for easy and thorough application.

For a park picnic: Kinfield Golden Hour repellent

Golden Hour’s vanilla-citrus scent makes it a great option to throw in your bag if you don’t want to overpower your senses on a picnic. According to Nichole Powell, the founder and CEO of Kinfield, the DEET-free spray—made with Indonesian citronella—has gone through two sets of double-blind lab trials and has been found to repel Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes, the yellow fever mosquito that transmits viruses such as yellow fever, dengue fever, and Zika fever. Powell recommends re-applying every two to four hours to ensure full protection.

CNT Editors

Caitlin Morton

Jesse Ashlock

Alex Erdekian

For furry friends: Meow Meow Tweet insect repellent

With whimsical packaging and a light scent, the Meow Meow Tweet repellent spray has an apple cider vinegar and essential oil base that is safe for humans and dogs alike. The spray comes in multiple sizes for convenience, and it can be sprayed over skin, hair, and clothes. If you’re feeling bold, the brand even says you can use it as a deodorant spray, making it a real multi-purpose product.

For children: Sawyer Products 20 percent picaridin insect repellent

While DEET is approved for use on children with no age restriction, per the EPA , some parents may prefer alternatives. Dr. Lam uses picaridin-based products for his children (another CDC-recommended ingredient). This Sawyer Products repellent protects against mosquitos and ticks for up to 12 hours. It also protects against chiggers, gnats, and flies for up to eight hours, ensuring adequate coverage regardless of the environment.

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The 10 Best Natural Insect Repellents and Bug Sprays for Travel

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

782 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

34 Published Articles 3169 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

What Is Insect Repellent?

Oil of lemon eucalyptus (ole), the different applications, 1. natural protection against diseases, 2. a great addition to your camping kit, 3. 6 hours of protection from a single application, 4. keep your garden bug-free with natural incense sticks, 5. natural insect repellent for your purse, 6. a gentle natural insect repellent for your little ones, 7. natural protection for kids on the go, 8. contactless protection for babies and children, 9. a legendary wonder product that really works, 10. long-lasting picaridin repellent, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Natural insect repellents offer a more skin-friendly alternative to DEET bug sprays that often contain potentially damaging chemicals. Natural ingredients such as citronella, peppermint, and lemongrass can be just as successful at keeping bugs at bay without the use of potentially harmful alternatives.

Whether you are planning on enjoying summer evenings at home or traveling overseas, a good insect repellent is worth its weight in gold to keep those nasty little bugs at bay.

In simple terms, insect repellent is a substance that can help to prevent the unwanted attention of little critters that may like to sting or bite you. They are designed to completely repel the bugs or minimize the effect of any contact by making the skin less attractive to a wide variety of pests .

There are many ways to apply insect repellent to your skin, as well as diffuse it into the air around you to help keep bugs away. The most common types of natural insect repellents include creams, lotions, and roll-ons, as well as lanterns, torches, diffusers, candles, and sprays.

Insect repellents don’t just help to prevent annoying bites and stings, they can also offer a substantial layer of protection against the more serious side effects of interactions with bugs. These can include severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, and in some countries, insects can even spread serious illnesses such as Lyme disease and malaria.

Insect repellents are a useful addition to your household , whether you are sitting at home on the deck on a balmy evening, taking a camping trip, or even just to throw into your children’s school bags. In certain parts of the world, they are an absolute necessity for your travel health.

Bottom Line: If you are planning a trip to Africa, South Asia, parts of Central and South America, the Caribbean, and even the Middle East, you will need a strong and effective repellent to help protect you from mosquitoes. They could be carrying malaria, Zika , and other nasty diseases.

Types of Insect Repellents

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to keeping bugs from having at you, the most commonly found insect repellents usually contain at least one of the following ingredients.

First developed by the U.S. Army in 1946, DEET is the common name for N, N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide. It is a chemical compound that deters and repels mosquitoes by interfering with neurons and receptors located on their antennae. It also offers protection against flies, ticks, fleas, chiggers, midges, and gnats.

DEET has also been proven to be one of the most effective insect repellents available and one that is able to maintain its effectiveness for many hours after the initial application. In some parts of the world, it is recommended that you apply a DEET-based repellent with a maximum of 50% concentration to ensure you are well protected from malaria and other tropical diseases.

While DEET is incredibly effective and mostly safe to use, it can be harsh on the skin if used for prolonged periods of time. It is also thought to have a negative effect on the effectiveness of sunscreen , and in some cases, the combination of DEET creams or sprays on the skin can lead to a more than a 30% reduction in SPF.

DEET is also known to be able to stain, break down, or even melt some plastics and other surfaces, which is a worrying trait for something that you would willingly apply directly to your skin.

Permethrin is a topical insecticide that is often used to treat head lice, nits, scabies, and various species of ticks. Available in creams or lotions, it is also highly effective when sprayed directly onto clothing, mosquito nets, and other soft-touch surfaces.

In recent years, the U.S. Army has been providing military personnel with permethrin-impregnated clothing in field operations to help protect them against the ill effects of tick and mosquito bites.

While permethrin is an effective repellent against most bugs, especially those with bites and stings that can cause longer-term conditions in the human body , its broad-spectrum compound means it is also toxic to cats, fish, bees, and other animals.

Permethrin also starts to lose its effectiveness if mixed with oils on the skin, meaning it’s not as suitable for use on exposed areas where sunscreen will also be applied.

Hot Tip: There are 3 types of insect repellents that are marketed as “natural,” but it should be noted that these are, in fact, man-made compounds that resemble naturally-occurring chemicals. 

This synthetic compound resembles the natural active ingredients in piperine, which is found in the plants that are used to produce black pepper. It works by repelling insects and making them less likely to bite or sting.

It is often found in sprays, creams, aerosols, and wipes, and although it is very much still a man-made compound, it is considered to be a more natural alternative to DEET .

Picaridin is odorless, non-greasy, and does not dissolve plastics or other synthetics, and it is particularly effective against ticks, black flies, sand flies, no-see-ums, midges, and other biting insects.

Despite the fact that picaridin is newer to the market than DEET, there is already good evidence suggesting that it can be as effective as DEET without causing any of the best-known side effects.

While it may cause some topical irritation to the skin and occasional eye irritation, it does seem to be a good choice for those not wanting to use a DEET-based product.

OLE is an oil extracted from the eucalyptus tree that contains the chemical PMD. Synthesized lemon eucalyptus oil is a potent repellent and is highly effective against mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting pests .

This natural alternative to DEET and picaridin provides reasonably long-lasting repellent capabilities, without some of the commonly found side effects, including skin irritation and damage to plastic and other surfaces.

While OLE does indeed offer a good layer of protection against the bites of disease-carrying mosquitoes and other insects, it is relatively new to the market.

This means that there has not yet been a great deal of research undertaken to fully access what, if any, side effects may present with ongoing use of the product as an insect repellent.

IR3535 (Ethyl butylacetylaminopropionate) is an effective repellent that works well against midges and other biting insects in European and North American environments.

However, it may not offer a sufficient level of protection to be solely relied upon in tropical countries where insect bites can lead to diseases such as Zika, dengue fever, or malaria.

IR3535 works well against insects that are looking to bite and feed off you, including mosquitoes, midges, sand flies, biting flies, fleas, ticks, and chiggers. It doesn’t, however, work particularly well on spiders, bees, wasps, and hornets.

Manufactured as an alternative to DEET, and having been in use for more than 30 years, IR3535 is skin-friendly and safe for use in children and pregnant women.

There are different ways to use and apply insect repellents that can offer varying levels of effectiveness. The most common way to protect yourself against bug bites is by applying a spray, cream, or lotion to your skin . This is usually the best way to ensure that they leave you well alone.

Formulas such as permethrin are also particularly effective when applied to clothes . You can even buy permethrin-impregnated clothing that provides odorless, wearable protection against ticks, mosquitoes, chiggers, biting flies, ants, and spiders. If you do choose to spray your clothing, or buy pretreated ones, be aware that you will still need to rub a repellent cream onto your exposed skin.

Finally, airborne insect repellents can offer a limited amount of protection from mosquitoes and keep them away. This can be useful in enclosed areas, but these sprays will not work on other pests and may smell bad or damage the surfaces where the droplets land.

The 10 Best Natural Inspect Repellents

Repel plant-based lemon eucalyptus insect repellent, pump spray.

This DEET-free insect repellent takes its protective power from the oil of lemon eucalyptus and has a refreshing scent and a light, non-greasy feel. Designed to offer up to 6 hours of protection from 1 application , this plant-based insect repellent comes in an easy-to-apply pump spray and is perfect for use in the garden or out and about in warmer weather.

Using only natural properties, you and your family can still enjoy protection against the unwanted attention of mosquitoes and the nasty diseases they can carry with them, including Zika, West Nile, dengue, and the chikungunya viruses.

What We Like

• Not greasy or sticky

What We Don’t Like

• The scent is quite strong

Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent, Pump Spray

Perfect protection against bugs when camping, playing in the woods, or while simply enjoying spending time in your garden, this natural insect repellent uses oil of lemon eucalyptus to keep the bugs at bay.

With a clean, cool scent and a non-greasy formula, this spray offers up to 6 hours of protection  but should be reapplied if you are planning on staying out all day.

The natural ingredients create an effective barrier against mosquitoes, including those that may be carrying malaria or the West Nile virus. The easy-to-use pump spray container can even be used upside down for the application.

• Has an easy pump spray that works upside down
• Can react with some people’s skin

Coleman Naturally-Based DEET Free Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent

This DEET-free insect repellent uses the oil of lemon eucalyptus to offer natural protection against itchy mosquitoes bites and the more serious diseases they can carry, including Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and the West Nile virus.

Perfect for time spent outdoors, this non-greasy, lemon-scented bug spray comes in a handy travel-sized spray container , and each application will remain protective for up to 6 hours at a time. Unlike products that contain DEET, this insect repellent is gentle enough to not harm your watches, tents , or bedding, while still being effective against insects.

• Protects for up to 6 hours
• The bottle can sometimes leak when using

Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Repellent Incense Sticks

Keep your outdoor area free from unwanted visitors with these natural mosquito repellent sticks. Using all-natural ingredients including rosemary, peppermint, citronella, lemongrass, cedarwood essential oils, and bamboo, these insect repellent incense sticks are great for keeping your dining table, campsite, or play area bug-free.

The sticks are designed to offer up to 2.5 hours of protection, and they let off a pleasant, refreshing scent while burning . As a great alternative to DEET sprays or creams, these naturally repellent incense sticks can provide up to 12 feet of protection against mosquitoes and the diseases they carry.

• Great alternative for people who are sensitive to creams and sprays
• Protection is only provided in the immediate area

BUGGINS Natural Insect Repellent 0% DEET

With a light and pleasant vanilla scent, this little spray bottle of DEET-free insect repellent works wonders at keeping a variety of flies, gnats, and no-see-ums away, while also repelling mosquitoes for up to 2 hours.

This repellent uses natural ingredients including geraniol, peppermint, lemongrass, and clove essential oils to keep the bugs at bay. Just as effective whether you are relaxing in your yard or heading out into the wild, this non-greasy, natural insect repellent is perfect for keeping in your purse or backpack.

• Good for repelling gnats
• Comes off easily with sweat

Babyganics Travel Size Bug Spray

With no nasty ingredients like DEET, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, artificial fragrances, or dyes, this is a natural repellent spray that is gentle enough to keep your little one protected .

Cruelty-free and made using 100% natural essential oils, including citronella, peppermint, rosemary, lemongrass, and geranium, this spray will help keep mosquitoes, gnats, flies, and other unwanted beasties away from your baby.

The non-greasy formula is easy to apply to sensitive skin, and the hypoallergenic, natural ingredients will leave your child’s skin soft, without creating dry patches.

Completely DEET-free, this little bottle is small enough to carry around with you in your purse or diaper bag for easy application when you need it.

• Made from 100% natural ingredients
• Can attract bees and wasps

All Terrain Kids Herbal Armor Natural DEET-FREE Insect Repellent

Offering an entirely natural, oil-based formula, this DEET-free insect repellent spray is perfect for kids on the go. From camping to schoolyards, and everything in between, this natural formula will repel bugs without damaging clothing or irritating skin.

Using an effective blend of soybean, citronella, peppermint, cedar, lemongrass, and geranium essential oils , parents can feel assured that their children’s delicate skin is protected from mosquitoes, gnats, and other insects, while still using only non-toxic and natural ingredients.

The Herbal Armor range promises to be environmentally friendly and cruelty-free.

• Needs reapplying often
• Doesn’t work against all bugs

BuggyBands Mosquito Bracelets

These cute and colorful bracelets can help protect you and your kids from the unwanted attention of bugs, gnats, and even mosquitoes. With an active blend of citronella, lemongrass, and geraniol oil, these bracelets will keep bugs at bay without insect repellent creams or sprays.

They can be comfortably worn for any occasion, including swimming, as they’re waterproof, and are great for camping, traveling, and days in the sun. Being 100% DEET-free, these clever little bracelets can remain effective for up to 350 hours .

• Can be worn on your wrists or ankles
• Not effective for some people

LOT OF 2 Avon Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard Plus Picaridin With Vitamin-E & Aloe Spray Pump

This legendary Avon product has been used by savvy travelers for many years to help deter unwanted bugs. This particular formula has now been designed with that purpose in mind and contains 10% picaridin, which naturally protects against bites and stings, as well as vitamin E and aloe to keep your skin smooth and soft.

Skin So Soft can repel mosquitoes for up to 5 hours, and deer ticks for up to 7 , and the 100% DEET-free pump spray has a pleasant “Gentle Breeze” scent.

• Has a pleasant scent
• The bottle can leak when applying

Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent

With an increased and incredibly effective 20% picaridin formula, this insect repellent spray is also available in a variety of pump sprays, lotions, and even cute little lotion packets, making it a great choice for those looking for DEET-free protection the go.

The safe and harmless ingredients can remain effective against mosquitoes and ticks for up to 14 hours and up to 8 hours against the annoying bites and stings you can receive from biting flies, gnats, chiggers, and sand flies.

With all-natural ingredients, the Sawyer insect repellent is safe for the whole family and won’t damage your clothing, bags, or travel equipment. With regular applications, you can even protect yourself against viruses, including Zika and malaria.

• Lotions can provide better coverage than a spray
• Lotion can take longer to apply than spray

Bug bites and stings are itchy and annoying at the best of times. Throw into the mix the possibility of contracting a potentially dangerous disease from these teeny tiny unwanted visitors and you can see just how important it is to keep them at bay.

If you don’t want to smother your skin with chemicals, products containing natural alternatives can be just as effective at keeping you and your family safe all day.

All information and content provided by Upgraded Points is intended as general information and for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice or legal advice. For more information, see our  Medical & Legal Disclaimers .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best natural insect repellent.

Products that contain oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or picaridin are considered to be the best natural insect repellents. They are synthesized, so not wholly natural, but are great alternatives to DEET.

Is DEET harmful to your health?

DEET has been used since the 1940s as an insect repellent and is regarded as safe for use by the Environmental Protection Agency. However, there are some notable side effects of DEET use that include irritation, redness, rashes, and swelling. Some studies have also shown that DEET can reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen.

Is 15% DEET enough?

A DEET percentage of 15% would not be adequate enough to provide protection. Doctors recommend products that contain between 20% to 50% DEET concentrations. Alternatively, you could use DEET-free products such as oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) and picaridin that have been shown to be just as effective.

What scent do mosquitoes hate?

Natural insect repellents offer a more skin-friendly alternative to DEET bugs sprays that often contain potentially damaging chemicals. Natural ingredients such as citronella, peppermint, and lemongrass can be just as successful at keeping bugs at bay without the use of potentially harmful alternatives.

What types of insect repellent are there?

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Bug Repellent

The FAA limits the total amount of restricted medicinal and toiletry articles, including aerosols, in checked baggage. The total aggregate quantity per person cannot exceed 2 kg (70 ounces) or 2 L (68 fluid ounces). The capacity of each container must not exceed 0.5 kg (18 ounces) or 500 ml (17 fluid ounces). See the FAA regulations for more information. Note that only bug repellants to be applied to the skin are accepted.  Insect repellents or insecticides designed to be sprayed in the air or at the insect are not permitted in either carry on or checked baggage.

Permitted aerosol release devices (button/nozzle) must be protected with a cap or other means to protect against accidental release.

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• Outdoor gear

The Best Bug Repellents

By Doug Mahoney

Doug Mahoney is a writer covering home-improvement topics, outdoor power equipment, bug repellents, and (yes) bidets.

Everyone should avoid bug bites, which are annoying at best and debilitating (or even lethal) in worst-case scenarios.

For a bug repellent that’s safe and effective—and that won’t stink or leave a puddle of oil on your skin—skip the DEET and get a picaridin formula, like Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent . It’s the best bottle of bug spray we found after testing over 25 repellents and talking to everyone from the EPA to the American Mosquito Control Association.

Everything we recommend

Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent

The best bug repellent.

This EPA-approved picaridin formula is safe and effective, and it comes in a bottle that’s better than that of competitors at spraying evenly and accurately.

Buying Options

Ranger Ready Picaridin 20% Tick + Insect Repellent

Another standout picaridin spray.

Ranger Ready offers pump- and trigger-spray bottles in a variety of scents, as well as bulk refill bags to reduce waste (and lower your costs).

Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent

The best deet-based repellent.

DEET formulas are widely available, but they aren’t more effective than picaridin (they tend to smell bad and feel oily, too). Cutter Backwoods Dry, with its even aerosol spray and locking cap, is the best DEET repellent we’ve found.

May be out of stock

Sawyer Products Permethrin Fabric Treatment

For clothing and gear, and tick protection.

For clothing and gear (but not skin), Sawyer’s permethrin repellent is as effective as similar formulas at repelling ticks and mosquitoes, and its trigger spray is easier to control.

How we picked

EPA-approved repellents have undergone extensive safety and efficacy testing and can be trusted.

Most of our recommendations use a 20% concentration of picaridin, which offers long-lasting repellency for ticks and mosquitoes with none of DEET’s downsides.

We test our picks for usability, as opposed to efficacy, because the variables of environment, physiology, and bug behavior affect performance.

The best repellents have a nice, even spray that is easy to apply. The worst ones are spitty and messy, and can overspray or puddle up.

Our research led us to seek a spray with a 20% concentration of picaridin—a repellent chemical that’s as effective as DEET, but without the drawbacks. Sawyer is our favorite, but any repellent with 20% picaridin should have the same effectiveness. We zeroed in on Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent in particular because its smart, compact bottle design makes it easy to apply evenly and accurately. Its pump spray is less likely than aerosol competitors to overspray or leave a puddle on your skin, and its secure, two-capped design prevents accidental leaks inside a backpack or other bag. Sawyer’s repellent is widely available in a variety of sizes—smaller ones for the backpack, plus a larger size to keep by the front door.

If our top pick is not available, our next choice is Ranger Ready Picaridin 20% Tick + Insect Repellent . It has the same 20% concentration of picaridin as the Sawyer repellent, so it provides the same amount of protection. Ranger Ready comes in either a pump- or trigger-spray bottle; we like the even spread of the latter, but the bottle isn’t as compact as Sawyer’s, so it’s less travel friendly. (The trigger spray has a locking button to keep it contained during travel, though, or to help prevent kids from fiddling with it.) This picaridin spray is available in a variety of sizes and scents ( orange  and night sky ), and we like that you can bundle it with the company’s 8- or 24-ounce permethrin sprays.

DEET formulas aren’t our first choice because they smell bad, feel oily, and can damage plastic and synthetic fabrics, but we’ve heard of some people having rash reactions to picaridin repellents. There’s no question DEET is effective—decades of tests and studies have established it as the gold standard in bug repellents—but it’s no more effective than picaridin . If this type of classic repellent is all you can find (or if you prefer it), the best version we’ve found is Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent . Its 25% DEET formula protects against mosquitoes and ticks for up to 10 hours, and it smells milder and feels less oily than other DEET repellents we tried. Its locking cap is a design feature many other aerosol sprays lack.

To give your clothing and gear (but not your skin) an added level of protection against ticks, we recommend Sawyer Products Permethrin Fabric Treatment , a formula with 0.5% permethrin. Like the other permethrin repellents we looked at, each application provides about six washings (or six weeks, whichever comes first) of protection. The bottle’s trigger spray is easier to control and apply evenly than others we tried; the 12-ounce size is enough to treat two outfits (shirt, pants, socks). A 24-ounce size is also available. If you can’t find our pick, look for other brands with a 0.5% concentration of permethrin, like Ranger Ready Permethrin Spray , Ben’s Clothing and Gear Insect Repellent , or Coleman Gear and Clothing Insect Treatment . We have more tick advice, including what to do if you find one on you, here .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: sawyer products 20% picaridin insect repellent, runner-up: ranger ready picaridin 20% tick + insect repellent, also great: cutter backwoods dry insect repellent, also great: sawyer products permethrin fabric treatment, repellent lotions: cons and a couple pros, similar stuff, different bottles, the competition.

While researching this guide, we spoke with Joe Conlon, then the technical adviser of the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA). Prior to his retirement in 2020, Conlon had been a medical entomologist since 1981, during which time he published dozens of articles and presented more than 350 invited papers to various universities, public health associations, and mosquito-control groups. He has conducted mosquito-control operations or on-site consultations in 34 countries.

We also spoke with the Environmental Protection Agency to learn more about its extensive approval process for repellent chemicals. This process is so thorough that nearly every word on a can or bottle of repellent is under the EPA’s purview. As an EPA spokesperson explained, “As part of the registration process, we review a wide range of data on safety and ecological effects before making a decision on registration. We then develop a label that tracks with the data conclusions and the safety standards in the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act.” In addition, we relied on the findings of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization regarding the safety and effectiveness of various repellents.

We interviewed Sonja Swiger , an associate professor in Texas A&M University’s Department of Entomology, to get her thoughts on mosquitoes, ticks, and repellents. Swiger’s area of expertise is nuisance insects and their effects on humans and cattle. She also develops educational programs for various municipalities on mosquito control, among other work.

We also relied on the National Pesticide Information Center , a joint effort by Oregon State University and the EPA. The NPIC is a treasure trove of fully referenced repellent information, with comprehensive directories for every chemical and extensive links out to relevant EPA documents and peer-reviewed studies.

The Environmental Working Group , a nonprofit research and advocacy organization focused on environmental and health issues, also offers detailed, well-supported research on repellent chemicals, which we reviewed.

For questions specific to DEET’s effect on plastics, we spoke with Judi Anderson, director of the DEET Education Program , an organization supported by the companies that make and sell DEET-based products. We also talked to Travis Avery, sales and marketing director at Sawyer Products . Avery talked with us about DEET and plastic, in addition to answering some general questions about picaridin and the EPA-approval process. We had a similar conversation with Chris Fuentes, founder and CEO of Ranger Ready .

Mosquitoes and ticks pose a much bigger threat than just being incredibly annoying. A single bite “can be a matter of life and death,” said Joe Conlon of the AMCA. “There are lethal diseases out there, or ones that ... cripple you for life if you’re not using the right type of repellent.” Anyone spending time outdoors should think seriously about using a bug spray (or a spatial repellent ) to ward off biting insects.

According to this 2018 CDC report , tick-borne diseases—including Lyme disease, spotted fevers, babesiosis, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis—more than doubled in the US between 2004 and 2016, and they’ve occurred in new, expanded risk areas. I live in New Hampshire, and in the past 15 years, I have been treated for Lyme five times. I was lucky to spot it by its telltale bull’s-eye rash (not everyone does). On two of those occasions, I had to undergo a four-week course of the antibiotic doxycycline, which is awful in its own right. I also have family members who have been deeply affected by Lyme. Seeing what this disease is capable of is a sobering experience; I can’t stress enough how important it is to protect yourself against tick bites.

The CDC also reports epidemics of the mosquito-transmitted West Nile virus in the US. This map of West Nile cases in 2020 (PDF) shows infections in 40 states. Because such findings rely on a person seeking care and the medical provider actually reporting the case, the prevalence of bug-borne disease is likely worse than even the CDC says.

Even if you live in an area with a larger-scale mosquito-control program, repellents are still a good idea. Texas A&M entomologist Sonja Swiger told us that community-wide vector control “can still only control so much, so to get down to your personal space, you have to add to it.”

The heart of any bottle of bug spray is the repellent chemical, so we started there before we dug into specific products. To cut to the chase, our research led us to picaridin, a repellent chemical endorsed by the CDC  and the WHO . Independent tests prove that a 20% concentration of picaridin can repel mosquitoes and ticks for up to 12 hours. But we began our search considering all options, using expert guidance to determine what mattered most when seeking a formula to recommend. Below is an overview of the factors we considered.

EPA approval: This requirement left us with a short list of skin-applied repellents focusing on picaridin, DEET, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus, or OLE (as well as PMD, its synthetic form). To meet EPA approval, a chemical must undergo extensive testing and evaluation for efficacy, safety, and the potential for environmental hazards. “If it doesn’t have an EPA registration, then it hasn’t been proven,“ Texas A&M’s Swiger told us.

Because they are classified as pesticides, the EPA approves for use not only all repellent chemicals but also every product that includes those chemicals. This approval extends all the way to the specific labeling on the bottle, including efficacy times, application procedures, and storage and handling. In fact, according to the EPA website , this labeling is “legally enforceable … In other words, the label is the law.”

Store shelves are loaded with repellents that are not approved by the EPA. Most of these are based on essential oils, including cedar oil, lemongrass oil, peppermint oil, and citronella oil. The fact is, essential oils make terrible bug repellents . Conlon told us that although many of these formulas have some effectiveness, it lasts for a very limited time. “If you spread garlic all over your body, you’re going to get 20 minutes of repellency, then you’re going to have to do it again,” Conlon said. “Is garlic repellent? Yes, it is. Is it a good repellent? No, it isn’t.” The Environmental Working Group (EWG) states, “While effectiveness varies, and there may be a few exceptions, most botanicals repel bugs for a short time, if at all.”

Safety: Picaridin was created in the 1980s, so it hasn’t been studied as much as DEET, which has been around since the 1940s. But like DEET, picaridin does have a proven track record of safety. According to the NPIC , skin irritation due to picaridin is “very uncommon,” and the chemical “is considered practically nontoxic if inhaled.” Further, the EPA has approved the chemical for use in children as young as 2 months old. For pregnant women, the EWG recommends a picaridin concentration of 20% and a DEET concentration of no more than 20% to 30%. “What studies have been done have found no connection between picaridin use and any neurotoxicity, carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, or anything like that,” Conlon told us.

Effectiveness: A 2018 review published in the Journal of Travel Medicine analyzed 11 studies comparing DEET and picaridin, and concluded that “the studies showed little potential difference between DEET and picaridin applied at the same dosage, with some evidence pointing to a superior persistence for picaridin.” According to the EPA-approved labels, a repellent with 20% picaridin can provide protection for up to 12 hours, while one with 25% DEET provides up to 10 hours. The studies mentioned in the Journal of Travel Medicine analysis offered varying results, with the majority showing 20% picaridin effectiveness up to and beyond nine and 10 hours.

We should also note that the percentage of an active ingredient doesn’t necessarily translate to increased efficacy. It appears that after a certain concentration, a maximum effectiveness is reached, and additional concentration results in longer protection time only. According to the CDC , “DEET efficacy tends to plateau at a concentration of approximately 50%.” The CDC also recommends using a DEET concentration of at least 20% to ward off ticks, implying that lower concentrations have reduced effectiveness against such hardier insects.

Minimal drawbacks: Aside from picaridin, the other EPA-approved repellents we considered have at least one major downside.

DEET (PDF) , the most well known, is effective but tends to be oily and smelly. Available “dry” formulas remedy this some, but another issue with DEET is that it can damage some synthetic fabrics, as well as watches, fishing line, cameras, glasses, and anything else made of plastic. Judi Anderson, director of the DEET Education Program , told us, “DEET-based products are not recommended for use directly on certain fabrics, such as rayon, spandex, acetate, or other synthetic fabrics,” adding that “it can affect the finish of many hard surfaces, such as plastic, vinyl, paint, or lacquer.” To demonstrate this effect, Philip Werner, writer at SectionHiker.com , used DEET to dissolve a pair of pants made from synthetic fabric. The American Academy of Pediatrics says DEET is safe for children over 2 months old—in concentrations of no more than 30%—and recommends washing off the repellent once children return indoors.

Oil of lemon eucalyptus (PDF) (also available as the synthetic PMD) is an extract of the eucalyptus tree and not approved for use on anyone under the age of 3 (picaridin and DEET are both approved for babies as young as 2 months). According to the EPA-approved labeling, OLE doesn’t last as long as DEET and picaridin. After testing, we realized that the biggest drawback to OLE-based repellents is that they smell really, really, really bad. The very strong odor doesn’t go away.

IR3535 (PDF) , like DEET, also affects plastics. The EWG writes, “The manufacturer recommends avoiding contact with plastics other than polyethylene and polypropylene.” IR3535 is typically combined with a sunscreen, which is not recommended because sunscreen is applied at a higher rate than repellent, leading to needless overexposure to the repellent chemical.

We also evaluated a number of products containing permethrin, which is particularly useful against ticks (and EPA approved). Unlike the others, permethrin is meant to be used on clothing and gear—think a backpack or tent—but not directly on skin. Permethrin should be used in addition to a skin-applied repellent, not in lieu of one. When properly applied, permethrin is extremely effective, providing protection for roughly six washings. A study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology found that “subjects wearing permethrin-treated sneakers and socks were 73.6 times less likely to have a tick bite than subjects wearing untreated footware.” High concentrations of permethrin, when wet, can be toxic to cats, but once it dries, there’s no issue.

A decent spray bottle: A good repellent is wasted in a bad bottle. The best ones apply repellent in an even coat with limited overspray. Kids are squirmy, so getting repellent on them takes precision, as does applying spray to the neck and shoulder area. Locking caps are a plus, prohibiting accidental sprays and providing one more barrier for a curious child to overcome. We looked at both pump sprays and aerosols. Some manufacturers offer repellent lotions. We have more thoughts on these below .

We did not test for efficacy of the individual repellents, for a few reasons. First, there are simply too many variables to consider to make any sweeping statements on repellency. The US alone has over 176 species of mosquitoes, and, as Conlon has written for the AMCA, “The process of a mosquito questing for a blood meal involves a complex, interconnected cascade of behaviors, each probably having its own cues, be they visual, thermal, or olfactory.” In other words, the way someone smells, what they’re wearing, how much they’re sweating, and weather conditions can all affect mosquito attraction.

We did test for usability, looking at different competitors’ bottles and comparing design details that we noticed when applying (lots of) bug spray firsthand. Is the spray nice and even? Does the repellent bottle have any safety features? Is it likely to activate when stuffed into a backpack? Are there any overwhelming odors?

After testing over 25 spray repellents, we’ve concluded that Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent is the best. It has a 20% picaridin formula, making it effective against mosquitoes and ticks for up to 12 hours. Compared with the other picaridin-based repellents we looked at, the Sawyer pump spray applies repellent the most evenly, with the least amount of overspray. We also like its compact bottle design and double cap.

Sawyer insect repellent has a 20% picaridin base. As we outlined above, this chemical has the most positives and the fewest negatives of any EPA-approved repellent.

It sprays evenly. All 20% picaridin repellents should provide similar protection, but the Sawyer pump spray stands apart due to a couple of usability features. Compared with other pump sprays, the Sawyer offers the most even cloud of repellent. The majority of the others we tested were too wet, and some even spat out little puddles, leaving thick droplets on the skin. Getting even coverage on an arm or a leg was easiest with the Sawyer repellent—aerosol sprays are much harder to control and result in a lot more overspray. They also make it difficult to spray areas near the face, like the shoulders.

It’s easy to tell how much you have left (compared to an aerosol spray). Another benefit to a pump bottle is that if you just give the bottle a little shake you can get a good sense of how much repellent is left. This is much harder to do with an aerosol can. (That’s more like shaking a can of whipped cream.)

Sawyer's picaridin has minimal odor (well, there’s a very slight odor if you put your nose right to your skin), and it’s not oily. Once it dries, there are really no “tells” that you’re covered in bug repellent, other than a very slight tackiness on the skin that seems to go away within an hour. If you still use a DEET-based repellent, this will likely be a very different experience for you.

We also like how compact and durable it is . The 4-ounce size is shorter and stouter than the 4-ounce bottles from other manufacturers, making it a nice fit for a backpack or a glove box. (Unlike many other companies, Sawyer Products does not offer this repellent in an 8-ounce size, but it does sell the 4-ounce bottle in a twin pack.)

It has has two caps, which is a big winner, especially if you have kids. Both caps click in tightly, and it’s really difficult to pull them straight off. We’re not saying they’re totally childproof, but the added difficulty might be enough to discourage a toddler’s curiosity (or buy you some time to confiscate the bottle). This second cap also guarantees that the repellent won’t accidentally be set off while stuffed in a backpack or beach bag. If you don’t want to deal with the second cap, it can be discarded.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The only real downside to the Sawyer picaridin repellent is that it has a slight off-smell to it when first applied. Once it dries, which takes only a couple of minutes, the odor dissipates to nearly nothing, so this is only a minor gripe, and it’s consistent across all the repellents we tested.

As a pump spray, this repellent is sold in 3- and 4-ounce sizes. It is also available in a 6-ounce aerosol ( twin pack ), which offers a continuous spray. We found it harder to use than the pump spray, but it offers the same protection, if the pump spray is out of stock or if you simply prefer the aerosol format.

If Sawyer’s repellent is not available, we’ll happily reach for Ranger Ready Picaridin 20% Tick + Insect Repellent . Ranger Ready’s repellent has the same 20% picaridin concentration as our top pick, so it should have the same effectiveness against ticks and mosquitoes. It comes in either a pump- or trigger-spray bottle, the latter of which emits a nice, even clout of repellent. This repellent is available in a variety of scents ( orange  and night sky ). We found all of the scents to be pleasant, and the night sky reminded us of a light cologne. Lastly, Ranger Ready also sells repellent refills in a pouch . This reduces both the waste of a tossed-out bottle and the cost of additional repellent.

If you can’t find a picaridin-based repellent, if you have a reaction to it (which we’ve heard anecdotally can happen), or if you simply prefer to stick with the active ingredient you’ve always relied on, we think the DEET-based Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent is the best option. There’s no question DEET repellents are effective—in decades of testing since the 1940s, DEET has become, in Conlon’s words , “the standard by which all other repellents are judged.” But DEET is not any more effective than picaridin, and our firsthand tests confirmed its well-known drawbacks: It’s smellier and oilier, and can damage plastics and synthetic fabrics. (So be careful when using it around your camera, rain jacket, and laminated trail map.)

But Cutter’s dry formula means it’s not as oily as regular DEET spray. And although it has an odor, it’s not as strong a scent compared with that of other repellents that contain DEET. Cutter is a 25% DEET formula, which the EPA-approved label says  provides up to 10 hours of protection, but a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine concluded that a 23.8% DEET product had a mean protection time closer to five hours. This CDC fact sheet (PDF) says to “use no more than 30% DEET on a child,” so Cutter’s formula provides long-lasting protection while still meeting that threshold.

The Cutter is an aerosol spray, which makes it harder than our picaridin picks to apply in limited areas. It also makes it harder to tell how much repellent you have left. The reason we didn’t go with a pump spray here is that none of the dry DEET formulations come in pump-spray bottles. That said, this spray nozzle applied more evenly than others we tried, and a handy twisting lock on the cap helps prevent it from accidentally depressing and discharging in a bag or backpack.

If you live in tick country , get Sawyer Products Permethrin Fabric Treatment , which contains 0.5% permethrin, an insecticide that’s effective at stopping ticks, those particularly nasty creatures that carry Lyme, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and a host of other serious diseases. You don’t apply permethrin directly to your skin. Instead, this odorless spray is used to treat clothing and pieces of gear, like a tent or backpack. Once dried, it offers protection for up to six washings (or about six weeks). It’s suitable for most fabrics and should be used alongside other repellents: You treat clothes and gear with permethrin in advance, then apply a picaridin or DEET repellent as you head, for example, into the Peruvian jungle .

We looked at four different permethrin sprays and preferred Sawyer’s due to its slightly better bottles, options for wide or narrow spray, broad availability, and variety of sizes (but the others we tried have the same reported effectiveness). The trigger spray on the Sawyer’s pump bottle is very even and easy to control. If you prefer, this repellent also comes in an aerosol can, which is great if you’re treating something large—like a tent—so you don’t wear out your index finger. The pump spray also comes in a 24-ounce size for the biggest jobs.

The differences among the permethrin options are less pronounced than with the other types of repellents we recommend. The need for a super-precise spray pattern is not as important here, because it gets sprayed on a large object instead of, say, your ankle, your wrist, or the back of your neck. The most important thing to look for by far is EPA approval and the presence of 0.5% permethrin; competitors such as Ranger Ready Permethrin 0.5% Clothing-Worn Repellent , Ben’s Clothing and Gear Insect Repellent , and Coleman Gear and Clothing Insect Treatment are also fine options.

Permethrin is not applied like a regular repellent. For it to be fully effective, you can’t just put a few squirts on your pants as you head out the door. Each item needs to be fully treated, and that means it needs a thick coat of spray. Sawyer recommends taking each item outside and coating it until the moisture causes the fabric to darken. At that point, the permethrin needs to dry fully before something is worn.

Some people worry that because permethrin is an insecticide, it will harm them, but this isn’t the case. It kills ticks by interfering with how neurons fire in the bugs’ little brains, causing them to spasm and die. But how our neurons fire is slightly different; plus, we’re much larger and can metabolize permethrin before it reaches our nervous system (permethrin is over 2,250 times more toxic to ticks (PDF) than to humans). According to the TickEncounter Resource Center permethrin fact sheet, a 140-pound person would have no adverse health effects even if exposed to 32 grams of permethrin in a day, and a bottle of clothing treatment has less than 1 gram of permethrin. (If you’re pregnant, know that animal studies have found no evidence that permethrin is harmful—but make sure to read the next paragraph.)

It is important to know that permethrin is toxic to cats. On its site , Sawyer Products states that cats should not be exposed to wet permethrin, but that there is no risk once it’s dried. An article in NPR looked into the issue and found that the problems typically start with higher concentrations of the chemical, but we think it’s a smart idea to be very aware of your feline friends when you spray your items.

Some companies, including Sawyer and Proven, sell repellent lotions with a 20% picaridin concentration. We tested both, and they do have advantages. But we don’t think repellent lotions are the best option for general use, although they may work in your specific circumstances.

Repellent lotions have two major downsides. First, they can’t be applied to clothing, so they’re less versatile. There is no way to get them onto your shoes or boots for added tick protection. The same goes for a backpack or a tent. Second, Conlon told us that after application, lotions take about 20 minutes to start repelling bugs. Sprays, like those we recommend, are more immediately effective.

The upside of a lotion is that its effectiveness lasts longer than that of a spray. According to the labeling on the Sawyer and Proven lotions, the repellency time bumps up to 14 hours, as opposed to the 12 hours for the spray versions. The lotion may also be easier to apply to difficult areas, like the forehead or the back of the neck, or on a particularly squirmy child. As with the spray bottles, Sawyer 4- and 32-ounce while Proven is available in both 2-  and 6-ounce bottles.

Our Sawyer and Ranger Ready picks stood out for a number of reasons, but any other repellent with 20% picaridin should offer the same protection against mosquitoes and ticks for a similar duration of time. We’ve tested other brands, and even though they have some drawbacks—mostly centered on the spray pattern—they’re all valid options if the Sawyer or Ranger Ready repellents are unavailable.

Proven 12 Hour Mosquito + Tick Spray and Natrapel Tick & Insect Repellent are pump sprays that are wet and almost spitty at times. We like that the Proven repellent has a completely clear bottle, which makes it easy to see how much is left. Natrapel’s bottle has a small viewing window along the side, but it’s not as easy to see how much repellent is in there.

Off Defense Insect Repellent 1 With Picaridin is available in both an aerosol can and a pump-spray bottle (we generally prefer the latter). It’s very similar to our Sawyer pick, but it doesn’t have the range of buying options or the second cap. Off also has their Clean Feel Aerosol Insect Repellent . We have yet to use it, but with the 20% picaridin, it should have the same repellency as the others.

Ben’s Tick Repellent Eco-Spray is marketed as a tick repellent, but the 20% picaridin formula is just as effective on mosquitoes, similar to other 20% picaridin options. This one is available only in an aerosol can, which produced a dense and focused spray that we found harder to control than the others. It’s much mistier, and a lot of the spray gets lost in even the slightest breeze. One good thing is that the spray works when the can is upside down, which can’t be said for the pump sprays. This makes application on feet and shoes much easier. ( Natrapel Tick & Insect Repellent Eco-Spray can spray upside down, too.)

Earthkind Stay Away Mosquitoes Insect Repellent has the spittiest spray of the bottles we looked at, but it has 20% picaridin, so it’ll work against mosquitoes and ticks. Earthkind also sells a 0.6-ounce travel size , which is barely bigger than a credit card and would be a great grab-and-go option for a pocket or a purse. Unfortunately, it’s also very spitty—and it has a much, much higher per-ounce price.

Repel Tick Defense each have a 15% picaridin concentration, versus our picks’ 20%. The repellency is the same as with the 20% formulations, but it lasts for just 10 hours, as opposed to the 12 you’d get with a 20% formula. We think these provide solid repellency for long enough to recommend—just be mindful of the reduced coverage time.

SC Johnson’s Stem for Mosquitoes , an essential-oil–based repellent that intrigued us due to the backing of SC Johnson, the makers of Off. Unfortunately, the spray is extremely spitty and, like other essential-oil repellents, doesn’t have the EPA’s extensive testing to back up its effectiveness.

We looked at Off’s Deep Woods Insect Repellent V and Deep Woods Insect Repellent VIII (Dry) , and, for a DEET option, neither is as good as Cutter Backwoods Dry . Deep Woods Dry is the better of the two, but the spray is thick, and it puddled on our arms. The regular Deep Woods is oily and smells pretty bad.

Repel Insect Repellent Sportsmen Max Formula 40% DEET is another DEET formulation.

We tested a number of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) repellents and boy, do they smell. We made the mistake of giving it a single squirt in a closed room, and we could still smell it an hour later. We found it even more unpleasant when the repellent was on our arms. It’s the kind of smell we could taste in our mouths and feel in our throats. OLE repellents include Murphy's Lemon Eucalyptus Bug Spray and Cutter’s Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent .

Coleman SkinSmart DEET-free Insect Repellent and Zevo On Body Mosquito Repellent + Tick Repellent rely on the active ingredient IR3535 and go on dry with a light, floral scent. As the EWG notes, IR3535, like DEET, may damage plastics.

Bullfrog Mosquito Coast Bug Spray Insect Repellent + Sunscreen SPF 50 is another IR3535 repellent, but this one is paired with a sunscreen, which is not recommended because sunscreen and insect repellents should be applied at different rates.

At the other end of the concentration spectrum are products such as Off FamilyCare Insect Repellent I with 15% DEET. To prevent Lyme disease, the CDC “recommends using products with ≥20% DEET,” so these lower concentrations may not provide adequate protection against ticks.

This article was edited by Harry Sawyers.

Meet your guide

Doug Mahoney

Doug Mahoney is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter covering home improvement. He spent 10 years in high-end construction as a carpenter, foreman, and supervisor. He lives in a very demanding 250-year-old farmhouse and spent four years gutting and rebuilding his previous home. He also raises sheep and has a dairy cow that he milks every morning.

Further reading

The Best Bug-Killing Gear

by Doug Mahoney

Here’s the best gear for killing flies and other common household pests.

Do Bug Zappers Work? Yeah—About As Well As Any Other Indiscriminate Wildlife Slaughter.

Bug zappers kill the wrong bugs—to control bugs without a spray repellent, use a spatial repellent or a fan instead.

Bug Control Gear That Actually Works

by Harry Sawyers

Here are the pest repellents and traps that experts agree can effectively keep bugs away.

The Best Gear for Your Bug-Out Bag

by Doug Mahoney and Joshua Lyon

These items will meet your needs for water, nourishment, comfort, and more while you evacuate to a safe location.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

The 9 Best Bug Repellents of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Protective sprays, lotions, and lanterns that actually work

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Other Options We Tested

• How We Tested
• What to Look for

The Checkout Counter

• Why Trust The Spruce

The Spruce / Eric Brockob

When spending time outdoors, bug repellent is an essential product to have on hand. But to ensure that you keep away the insects bothering you the most, you have to choose the right product.

"Keep in mind that not all repellents will work the same on different insects," says Emily Mader , a public health researcher at the Northeast Regional Center for Excellence in Vector-Borne Diseases (NEVBD). "Your product label will let you know if the repellent is effective against mosquitoes, flies, and/or ticks." 

With that in mind, we tested 12 different products to find the best bug repellents for any situation. We purchased formulas with the most common active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, and IR3535, to determine which bug sprays work the best. We put every formula to the test in real-world environments, like backyard get-togethers, park outings, beach days, and camping in the woods. While all of the bug sprays we evaluated provided adequate protection against bug bites, we found that the best repellent ultimately came down to personal preferences for ingredients, fragrance, and skin feel.

All of the products were compared based on important features like how easy it is to apply the repellent, how long it remains effective, and whether it has a perceptible odor. Based on our testing and research, here are the best bug repellents to keep insects at bay.

What to Know About Picaridin

Picaridin is a highly effective insect repellent that can be applied directly onto the skin. This powerful solution belongs to the piperidine chemical family and works by disrupting the mosquito's ability to detect or identify its target.

Best Overall

Off active insect repellent i.

• Effectiveness 5 /5
• Coverage 5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5

Long-lasting formula

Leaves no residue on clothes or skin

Light scent

May not be safe for all fabrics or materials

After conducting thorough tests, we highly recommend OFF! Active Insect Repellent as the best option for keeping insects at bay . Its formula is incredibly effective and provides dependable protection against a slew of irritating insects, including mosquitoes, biting flies, gnats, ticks, chiggers, and fleas.

We tested out the repellent several times during our dog walks at a park, which is notorious for having an abundance of insects. To our surprise, we didn't experience any insect bites even after spending one to four hours outside, following the application of the product. With a 15 percent DEET formula, the label indicates it’s effective for up to five hours.

When testing OFF! Active Insect Repellent, we were also pleasantly surprised to find that the aerosol spray was highly efficient in evenly dispersing the product. We had no trouble applying the insect repellent to our arms and legs, even when using the spray can upside down. It’s worth noting that a little product goes a long way, giving you maximum value for this affordable insect repellent.

While it’s not an unscented bug repellent, we didn’t notice any lingering chemical odor after application. The lightweight, non-greasy formula also didn’t need to be rubbed in and left no visible residue on skin or clothes. If you do apply it to clothes to protect against insects like ticks and chiggers, keep in mind that the manufacturer specifies that it’s safe on cotton, wool, or nylon but should not be applied to some other materials, including rayon, spandex, or leather.

After use, you should wash treated skin with soap and water, per the product’s directions. Overall, OFF! Active Insect Repellent is a reliable and cost-effective solution for anyone who wants to enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about pesky insects.

Type: Aerosol spray | Pest Type: Mosquitoes, biting flies, gnats, ticks, chiggers, fleas | Volume: 6 ounces | Active Ingredient: DEET (15 percent)

Best Long-Lasting

Natrapel picaridin tick & insect repellent eco-spray.

• Coverage 4 /5
• Ease of Use 4 /5

Effective for up to 12 hours

Twist-lock nozzle for transport

Won’t damage plastic or synthetic materials

Less precise application

Strong odor

A long-lasting bug repellent means that you won’t need to interrupt your outdoor activities as often to reapply the product. Some insect repellents only last for a few hours before losing effectiveness, but we found Natrapel Tick and Insect Repellent to work well for hours at a time, even during vigorous activities, like playing tennis.

According to the manufacturer, it’s intended to repel mosquitos, ticks, and other insects for up to 12 hours with a single application. The Natrapel Tick and Insect Repellent is formulated with 20 percent picaridin. The advantage of picaridin over DEET is that it’s safe for use on synthetic materials and plastic, so you can freely apply this repellent even to your shoes, clothes, and gear.

That being said, we found that the formula has a rather strong odor and it lingered for hours, even requiring that we wash our clothes to remove the smell. Of course, this is a testament to the fact that Natrapel lives up to its claims of being a long-lasting insect repellent. But if you’re sensitive to chemical smells, it’s something to know before you buy.

The aerosol spray nozzle has a twist lock feature that keeps it securely closed in your bag. This makes it more portable for taking along on overnight trips or to sporting events. However, the nozzle isn’t perfect. We found that it sprays a lot of product at once, leaving a very wet spot.

A more precise nozzle with a lighter spray pattern would make the product easier to use, especially if you’re applying it to yourself. We still appreciate the long-lasting efficacy of Natrapel Tick and Insect Repellent and think it’s a great choice for extended time periods outdoors, like hiking trips, sports games, or an al fresco dinner with friends.

Type: Aerosol spray | Pest Type: Mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, gnats, chiggers, sand flies | Volume: 6 ounces | Active Ingredient: Picaridin (20 percent)

Best DEET- Free

Coleman skinsmart insect repellent.

• Effectiveness 3 /5

Dry finish that isn’t sticky

Distributes evenly

Effective against mosquitos and ticks

Larger size bottle makes it less portable

After testing multiple DEET-free insect repellents to find a formula that provides long-lasting protection from bug bites, this aerosol spray from Coleman stands out. The active ingredient in Coleman’s SkinSmart Insect Repellent Spray is IR3535, an alternative to DEET that is similarly effective against mosquitos and twice as effective against ticks, according to a study cited by the Environmental Working Group.

Coleman SkinSmart insect repellent offers up to eight hours of protection, although our real-world experience suggests an effective period of closer to six hours. Even still, we weren’t bothered by insects during outings at the park or beach, which allowed us to fully enjoy our time outside.

It’s worth noting that the aerosol spray nozzle distributes the product very well, and it has a dry finish that is neither sticky nor greasy. This is especially beneficial when using this DEET-free repellent at the beach, as we did, as it prevents sand or dirt from adhering to your arms and legs.

We do wish that the product was offered in a smaller, more portable container. Although the 6-ounce bottle is reasonably priced and offers good value, it's not very convenient to carry around in a compact waist bag. This is a minor inconvenience in comparison to the effectiveness and quality of the product.

Type: Aerosol spray | Pest Type: Mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies | Volume: 6 ounces | Active Ingredient: IR3535

Best with DEET

Sawyer controlled release insect repellent.

• Coverage 4.6 /5
• Ease of Use 4.2 /5

Extended release formula lasts up to 11 hours

Can be applied over sunscreen

Initially leaves a greasy feeling

Has an odor

If you're looking for an effective insect repellent with DEET, Sawyer's Controlled Release formula is a solid choice. With 20 percent DEET as its active ingredient, it provides reliable protection against mosquitoes and ticks. When we put it to the test, we found this lotion insect repellent to be very long-lasting and effective, although we wish that it was odorless, as the bottle claims. We found it to have a chemical odor, though, to the product’s credit, the smell was mild and eventually faded. 

We tested this bug repellent on park outings and used it for a long day of yard work. It earns high marks for effectiveness, keeping us protected from any bug bites, even despite exposure to sweat. The lotion formula was as easy to apply as sunscreen, although we wish it were a little less greasy upon application. However, the greasy feeling went away within about an hour. 

The unique thing about this DEET bug repellent is the controlled release of the active ingredient. The DEET is encapsulated in a special protein that slows evaporation for this lotion formula. As a result, the DEET sticks around longer and provides up to 11 hours of effective protection against mosquitoes and ticks. Keep in mind, however, that DEET is generally considered less effective against flies than picaridin, so if that’s the bug you’re battling, you may want to pick Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent instead. 

Type: Lotion | Pest Type: Mosquitoes, ticks | Volume: 4 ounces | Active Ingredient: DEET (20 percent)

The Spruce / Henry Yung

Best Unscented

Earthkind stay away mosquitoes insect repellent.

• Effectiveness 4.9 /5

Non-irritating formula

Easy to apply 

Feels moisturizing on skin

Not waterproof

Needs to be rubbed in

For an unscented bug repellent, we recommend EarthKind StayAway Insect Repellent. In our testing, we found the formula to be non-irritating, even on sensitive skin. The wide-angle spray nozzle also meant that it was quick and easy to apply, although we did find that it needed to be rubbed in to avoid a white residue on the skin. 

Formulated with 20 percent picaridin, we used this unscented bug repellent when spending several hours at a time outside. It proved highly effective, resulting in only a mosquito bite or two—likely due to a missed spot during application. For best results, be sure to cover all areas of exposed skin thoroughly. Keep in mind that this insect repellent isn’t waterproof, so you’ll need to reapply if your skin gets wet. 

The unscented formula has no strong odor, although if we really sniffed the product up close, a very faint, sweet smell is perceptible. However, it’s nothing harsh or overpowering and certainly not enough to outweigh the other benefits of this insect repellent. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable bug repellent that feels gentle on the skin, the EarthKind StayAway Insect Repellent is a great option.

Type: Pump spray | Pest Type: Mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, gnats, chiggers | Volume: 4 ounces | Active Ingredient: Picaridin (20 percent)

The Spruce / Kimberly Souza

Best Lotion

Sawyer products 20% picaridin insect repellent.

• Coverage 4.5 /5

Simple to apply, especially on children

Very lightly scented

Easy-to-transport bottle

Effective for up to 14 hoursrtified-organic and GMO-free

More expensive than other options

Insect repellents are commonly available in liquid form, which requires a spray pump or aerosol can for application, although applying spray insect repellent can be difficult in windy conditions or while dealing with children. When we tested this lotion picaridin insect repellent from Sawyer, we were impressed with the simplicity of applying this formula and how effectively it worked while spending time outdoors. Upon initial application, we noticed a subtle citrus fragrance. However, those sensitive to smells will be pleased to know it faded very quickly, unlike some other high-concentration picaridin or DEET products.

Based on our experience, the Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent can be applied as effortlessly as body lotion or sunscreen. Its white color made it easy to see where it was applied on the skin, but it also absorbed completely within 5 minutes without leaving any visible residue. If you are looking for an effective way to apply insect repellent to a child, we would recommend this product because there’s no mist that can be accidentally inhaled or sprayed in the child’s nose, mouth, or eyes. 

The 4-ounce bottle is about the size of your hand and would fit into most small bags or backpacks. It has an outstandingly long effectiveness period—up to 14 hours.

Type: Lotion | Pest Type: Mosquitoes, chiggers, ticks, gnats, flies | Volume: 4 ounces | Active Ingredient: Picaridin (20 percent)

The Spruce / Renee Scott

Best Non-Greasy

Off family care insect repellent ii with picaridin.

Immediately absorbs into skin

Very light odor that is barely noticeable

Highly effective

Small bottle size

For a non-greasy bug repellent that you’ll hardly notice after application, we recommend OFF! FamilyCare Insect Repellent II. Out of the 12 sprays and lotions we tested, this particular one stands out for its fine and light mist that easily absorbs into the skin without leaving any greasy or sticky feeling. It feels like there's nothing on your skin after it gets absorbed. It proved highly effective when used outdoors, even while sitting in the grass near a body of water with plenty of mosquitos and gnats in the area . 

Other features of this non-greasy bug repellent that we appreciate are its wide-angle nozzle that easily spritzes out sufficient product without oversaturating the area and the barely noticeable scent of the formula. While some bug repellents we tested left us feeling like we needed to wash our clothes to remove the strong chemical odor, the light odor of this product is far from overpowering. 

The small bottle is great for bringing along in a backpack or tote, but we wish it were also available in a larger size. The effectiveness and lightweight formula make it a great bug repellent for everyday use, so the 4-ounce bottle could become depleted quickly, especially when used by multiple family members. 

Type: Pump spray | Pest Type: Mosquitoes | Volume: 4 ounces | Active Ingredient: Picaridin (5 percent)

Best Aerosol

Off deep woods insect repellent viii.

• Effectiveness 4 /5
• Value 4.5 /5
• Smell 4.5 /5

Easy spray application

Absorbs quickly 

Doesn’t leave a residue or tacky feeling on skin

Noticeable smell

May need reapplication for extended protection

Aerosol insect repellents produce a fine mist that absorbs quickly and easily when applied to the skin. Unlike other insect sprays and lotions we tested, the OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent VIII didn’t need to be rubbed in, and it left behind no visible residue. The spray application worked well and evenly applied the product, keeping us feeling comfortable on a number of outdoor occasions.

Using a 25 percent DEET formula, this insect repellent wards off some of the most common and annoying backyard biters, like mosquitoes, ticks, gnats, and chiggers. In one hot spot where we’ve been bitten numerous times, we only sustained a bite or two. While we did have to reapply the product, it still felt like a major victory compared to the amount of mosquito bites that are normally incurred.

OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent VIII is a ‘dry’ formula, meaning that it soaks into your skin with a light, powdery finish rather than leaving a wet or sticky sensation. We were impressed with how easy it was to apply evenly and how quickly it absorbs, although we did find it to make our skin feel somewhat dry. There is definitely a noticeable fragrance to the product. While we didn’t find it to be unpleasant or overpowering, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re specifically looking for an unscented insect repellent.

Type: Aerosol spray | Pest Type: Mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, gnats, and chiggers | Volume: 2.5, 4, or 8 ounces | Active Ingredient: DEET (25 percent)

The Spruce / Kelly Meehan Brown

Best with SPF

Avon skin so soft bug guard + spf.

SPF 30 formula 

Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes

Includes skin-moisturizing ingredients

Not scent-free

Protect your skin from sunburn and bug bites by choosing a 2-in-1 insect repellent with SPF. We tested Avon Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard Plus with IR3535 and found that just a little of the lotion formula goes a long way. That’s a good thing because this insect repellent is one of the most expensive that we tested. The active ingredient, IR3535, is effective against a wide range of nuisance insects, including mosquitoes, deer ticks, black flies, sand flies, gnats, no-seeums, and biting midges.

We found that this insect repellent with SPF worked effectively during our time spent at the lake, while taking walks around the neighborhood, and while sitting on the porch. It provided ample protection against bug bites and also offered protection from the sun. We highly recommend this versatile product for travel, as it comes in a convenient 4-ounce bottle that easily fits in a suitcase or backpack.

Like other Avon Skin-So-Soft products, there is definitely a significant, sweet smell to this insect repellent. It’s better than the chemical smell of some other bug repellents, but it’s certainly not odorless. If that’s what you’re after, you’d be better off with EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes Insect Repellent , which is our pick for the Best Unscented bug repellent.

Type: Pump spray | Pest Type: Mosquitoes, ticks, black flies, sand flies, gnats, no-see-ums, biting midges | Volume: 4 ounces | Active Ingredient: IR3535

The Spruce / Stella Yu

Final Verdict

Of the 12 bug repellents we tested, OFF! Active Insect Repellent earns our recommendation as the best option for most situations. We found the aerosol spray formula to be easy to apply, effective for several hours, and affordable. If you prefer a lotion, we suggest Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent . It absorbs quickly into the skin but offers the longest effective time of any product we tested—up to 14 hours. 

OFF! Sportsmen Deep Woods Insect Repellent 3 : With 30 percent DEET, we found that this bug repellent did its job in preventing bug bites from mosquitos and gnats when used in the backyard or for a hike in the woods. However, the spray nozzle distributes the product very quickly and unevenly, leaving you to do all the work of distributing the formula using your hands. All things considered, this bug repellent didn’t earn our recommendation because it was hard to apply evenly, and the scent was very unpleasant.

3M Ultrathon Insect Repellent Aerosol : This is a 25-percent DEET formula that claims to offer up to eight hours of protection from insects like mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, chiggers, gnats, fleas, and deer flies. However, when we tested the formula, it did a subpar job of repelling swarms of gnats, and we still observed mosquitoes in the immediate vicinity. In addition, we found the smell of this insect repellent to be very potent and detectable within a 20-foot radius while spraying the product. It took about 30 minutes for the smell to fade. With less-than-impressive effectiveness and an overwhelming smell, we think there are better options for a bug repellent.

The Spruce / Stephanie Petit

How We Tested the Bug Repellents

To find the very best bug repellents for any scenario, we tested 12 different formulas and various types of products, including pump sprays, aerosol sprays, and lotions. We performed a series of tests and used the products across a range of outdoor activities. We evaluated each product based on a variety of factors, including ease of application, effectiveness, coverage, scent, and value.

To determine the ease of application, we applied the bug spray to our arm and took note of the texture of the spray on the skin. We also paid attention to the repellent's drying time and its absorption into the skin, being mindful of any sticky or greasy residue. We then evaluated the scent of the mosquito repellent, including the strength of the chemical odor or sweetness (or lack of it), as well as the duration. After that, we spritzed water onto our arms to check whether the repellent ran when exposed to moisture.

Effectiveness in repelling insects is likely the top consideration for bug sprays. In order to assess this, we applied the repellent on at least five separate outdoor occasions. Real-world scenarios varied but included neighborhood walks, hikes in the woods, camping, afternoons at a lake or beach, yard work, and time spent in the backyard. We gathered information regarding the duration of the repellent's effectiveness, any instances of bug bites experienced by the tester, and whether the product's texture or scent caused any discomfort during the activity.

What to Look for in a Bug Repellent

Ingredients .

The product label for a bug spray will tell you the active ingredient in the formula and what percentage is contained in the formula. Picardin and DEET are two of the most common choices. Picardin, a synthetic compound, is known for being safe and effective against various biting insects. It also is safe for use on a variety of materials, including synthetics and plastics. DEET also has a reputation for effectiveness and safety when used according to the manufacturer’s directions. However, DEET tends to have a strong odor, and it can’t be used on some materials, like spandex or leather.

IR3535 is the active ingredient found in some DEET-free bug repellents. It claims to be just as effective as DEET against mosquitoes and offers even better protection against ticks. Formulas with IR3535, like Coleman SkinSmart DEET Free Insect Repellent Spray , have a light scent and protect against bites from mosquitos, ticks, and biting flies.

"The EPA has a great tool to help you look up active ingredients that have been registered with the [agency] to protect against ticks and mosquitoes," says Mader. The tool can help you to compare one active ingredient to another to determine which one fits your most common outdoor scenarios.

Effectiveness

The effectiveness of a bug repellent is determined by how well it protects you against bug bites and for how long. The CDC says that, in general, the higher the percentage of active ingredients in the formula, the longer you can expect the formula to prove effective.

Most formulas will give you an estimate of how long the effect of the repellent lasts after application. The longest-lasting bug repellent we tested was Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent . The lotion formula offers up to 14 hours of protection against pests like mosquitos and ticks. Keep in mind that effectiveness can vary from one type of bug to another. For example, some bug repellents may have a shorter window of effectiveness for insects like ticks or no-see-ums than for mosquitos. Keep that in mind as you compare one bug repellent to another and pick the one with maximum effectiveness for the types of bugsyou’re most likely to encounter.

Application Form 

Insect repellents are usually applied with a pump sprayer, aerosol can, or lotion. A pump spray or aerosol spray, like OFF! Active Insect Repellent gives you a mist of product that quickly and easily covers your arms, legs, or torso. You’ll probably need to take a different approach if you want to use it on other areas of your body. "If you want to put repellent on your face, first spray and spread it in your hands, then pat it onto your facial skin so you can avoid sensitive areas," says Emily Mader, a public health researcher at the Northeast Regional Center for Excellence in Vector-Borne Diseases (NEVBD). "This is also the best way to apply insect repellent on children."

Lotion formulas offer an alternative way to apply bug repellent. The advantage of using a lotion is that you can see exactly where you’ve applied the product. There’s also no chance of the mist being carried away in the wind, and it’s usually easier to apply it to little ones. The downside is that you’ll have to rub the product in with your hands, while some aerosol sprays absorb nearly instantly on their own, like OFF!® FamilyCare Insect Repellent II —our pick for the best non-greasy insect repellent.

To know how often you should apply bug repellent, check the label’s instructions for use. Of course, if you’re being bitten by bugs, it’s probably a sign that it’s time to reapply. Keep in mind that sweat or water can reduce the effective time of a repellent, so if your skin has been exposed to a lot of moisture, you may need to reapply more frequently. At the same time, keep in mind that most products have a limit on how often you should apply the product. Don’t exceed any frequency of use warnings. 

You can protect your skin in more ways than one by combining sunscreen with bug repellent. When doing so, the CDC advises you to apply sunscreen first and then bug repellent on top. An alternative to layering the products is to use a combination formula that includes sunscreen and insect repellent, such as Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard + IR3535 Gentle Breeze SPF Lotion . Regardless of your chosen formula, you should never apply bug repellent underneath your clothes. 

DEET and picaridin are synthetic chemicals commonly found as the active ingredient in insect repellents. When compared to DEET, picaridin offers similar protection against mosquito bites but has less odor. In addition, picaridin is a better choice for use on clothing and gear than DEET, since it’s safer on more types of materials, including synthetics, plastics, and leather. It also has a reputation for being more effective against biting flies than DEET.

Before you check out, consider these products you may also need to keep bugs at bay.

• Flowtron Bug Zapper : This bug zapper is perfect for those times when you just want to relax outside without worrying about getting bitten. It provides protection for up to an acre, ensuring that your outdoor activities remain bite-free.
• OFF! Backyard Citronella Scented Candle : Citronella candles are similar to conventional candles in appearance, but they provide further protection against mosquitoes. You can get up to 25 hours of burn time out of each candle.
• Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets : Mosquito-repellent wristbands are a great way to encourage children to protect themselves from mosquitos. Fun and protective, these coil accessories don't contain any DEET. 
• Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray Concentrate : Going straight to the source is the best approach to fixing your bug problem. This spray, which can treat up to 5,000 square feet of lawn, provides protection against fleas, mosquitoes, and insects.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Erica Puisis is a freelance writer and product tester that has been covering home, garden, and outdoor products for The Spruce since 2017. To find the best bug repellents, she compiled results from at-home testers that evaluated each product based on ease of application, effectiveness, odor, and other key factors. The products tested included various active ingredients, including DEET, picaridin, and IR3535.

Our Experts:

• Emily Mader , a program manager at the Department of Entomology at the Northeast Regional Center for Excellence in Vector-Borne Diseases (NEVBD)
• Daniela Galvez , senior editor at The Spruce

EWG’s 2018 guide to bug repellents . (n.d.). Environmental Working Group. Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/consumer-guides/ewgs-2018-guide-bug-repellents

https://drs.illinois.edu/Page/SafetyLibrary/Repellent

Mosquitoes, ticks & other arthropods . (n.d.). Cdc.gov. Retrieved from https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/environmental-hazards-risks/mosquitoes-ticks-and-other-arthropods

Prevent tick and mosquito bites . (2022, February 9). Cdc.gov. https://www.cdc.gov/ncezid/dvbd/about/prevent-bites.html

Mosquito repellents: Types and recommendations - Mississippi state department of health . (n.d.). Msdh.ms.gov. Retrieved from https://msdh.ms.gov/msdhsite/handlers/printcontent.cfm?ContentID=957&ThisPageURL=http%3A%2F%2Fmsdh%2Ems%2Egov%2Fmsdhsite%2Findex%2Ecfm%2Findex%2Ecfm&EntryCode=957&GroupID=14

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• Outdoor Living

The 8 Best Mosquito Repellents & Bug Sprays of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Make itchy bug bites a thing of the past with these effective sprays and lotions.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks

Final Verdict

Our testing process.

• How to Shop
• More to Consider

Take Our Word for It

What is real simple selects.

Real Simple / Kristin Kempa

If you’re dreading the bug bites that often come with warm weather, then you need an effective mosquito repellent. The best mosquito repellents give you peace of mind so that you can enjoy being outdoors without constantly swatting bugs. Plus, they can protect your skin from more than just mosquitoes—many of these formulas also work against ticks, biting flies, and more. 

To come up with this list, we tested 15 mosquito repellents and evaluated them on effectiveness, ease of use, smell, coverage, and value. We also spoke with Jim McHale , president and CEO of JP McHale Pest Management, for expert insight on what to look for in a bug repellent. 

Best Overall

Off active insect repellent i.

• Effectiveness 5 /5
• Coverage 5 /5

It has a light scent and non-greasy formula that can be sprayed on clothes, too.

The duration of protection is not as long as other repellents.

If you’re looking for a reliable and effective mosquito repellent, our top recommendation is Off!'s Active Insect Repellent. We love that it doesn’t have a strong odor and doesn’t feel greasy on the skin—it can even be applied to your clothing, too. In our testing, we found that the aerosol spray allows for easy application and even coverage, and we particularly liked that it didn’t leave a white cast on darker skin tones. 

Whether you're exercising outside or just hanging out in your backyard, this mosquito repellent spray is sweat-resistant and keeps a variety of bugs away, including biting flies, gnats, ticks, chiggers, and fleas. Protection can last for up to six hours, which isn’t as long as other repellents, but we only had to apply once and didn’t experience any bug bites while outside. 

Additionally, we like that this mosquito repellent is reasonably priced and that a little goes a long way when applying the product. We found that the spray absorbed onto the skin without any sticky residue, which makes it the perfect summertime essential. The main ingredient in this mosquito repellent is DEET, which is deemed safe by both the CDC and EPA . 

Type: Aerosol | Active Ingredient: DEET | Protection Duration: 6 hours | Size: 6 ounces | EPA-Registered: Yes

Real Simple / Surfina Adams

Best DEET-Free

Earthkind stay away mosquitoes insect repellent.

• Effectiveness 4.9 /5

Instead of DEET, this moisturizing and fragrance-free formula uses picaridin to repel insects.

It’s not waterproof, and applying it on children can be a bit challenging.

For those with a sensitivity to DEET or those who just prefer a DEET-free mosquito repellent, we recommend the EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes Insect Repellent. This mosquito repellent is made with picaridin, which is an EPA-registered insect repellent that is just as effective as DEET, but usually not as greasy. For those who prioritize products that are odor-free and gentle on sensitive skin, this mosquito repellent is an excellent option. 

We like that the spray nozzle has a wide yet even range, while the formula itself is moisturizing without feeling greasy. It’s also one of the longest-lasting on our list, with up to 14 hours of protection from mosquitoes and ticks and eight hours of protection from biting flies, gnats, and chiggers. 

While the label says it's water-resistant, it’s not waterproof, so it may not be the best option for those who want a mosquito repellent to use around the pool, beach, or garden hose. It’s also safe to use on children, according to the brand, but we found that applying it on kids requires some extra maneuvering. 

Type: Spray | Active Ingredient: Picaridin | Protection Duration: 8–14 hours, depending on pest | Size: 4 ounces | EPA-Registered: Yes

Real Simple / Kimberly Souza

Best Non-Greasy

Off deep woods insect repellent viii.

• Effectiveness 4 /5
• Coverage 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

It won’t leave your hands greasy or sticky and can be applied to skin and clothes.

It can feel almost too dry and powdery.

Much like sunscreen, mosquito repellent has a reputation for being a little greasy. In our testing, this pick from Off! stood out for its dry and long-lasting formula. We found that this product completely absorbed into our skin without leaving any residue or cast and had a powder-like finish. Because of this, we recommend applying a light layer of moisturizer or sunscreen before using this mosquito repellent. Despite this, it’s still an effective product that repels mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects. 

Since this is an aerosol repellent, it’s quite easy to apply and provides even coverage. It can be sprayed on both skin and clothes, too. While this product may not damage cotton, wool, or nylon, it should not be used on acetate, leather, plastic, and other types of surfaces. If you have naturally oily skin or will be sweating outdoors more than usual, then this non-greasy mosquito repellent is the one for you. 

Type: Aerosol | Active Ingredient: DEET | Protection Duration: 8 hours | Size: 4 ounces per bottle | EPA-Registered: Yes

Real Simple / Kelly Meehan Brown

Best Long-Lasting

Sawyer controlled release insect repellent.

• Coverage 4.6 /5

It has long-lasting protection and is sweat-resistant.

Although the label claims to be odorless, it has a slightly pungent smell.

Whether you’re spending the day camping, doing yard work, or hosting a barbecue, a long-lasting and effective mosquito repellent is a must-have for outdoor activities. We chose Sawyer Controlled Release Insect Repellent as the best long-lasting mosquito repellent for its impressive 11-hour protection. Standard mosquito repellents last for as long as it’s on the skin or clothing or until you reapply them. With controlled-release repellents, however, the active ingredient (in this case, DEET) is slowly released over a long period to extend the protection. We like that just a pea-sized amount of this lotion was enough to evenly cover both arms in our testing.

Although the product label says “odorless,” we found this repellent to have a somewhat astringent smell, but it decreased in strength over time and didn’t linger on clothes. Much like other mosquito repellent lotions, this product can feel a bit oily when first applying it to your skin—but this is something we can overlook because of how long-lasting and effective it is against mosquitoes and ticks. Lastly, we also like that it’s sweat-resistant and designed to be compatible with the use of sunscreen for the ultimate all-day outdoor protection. 

Type: Lotion | Active Ingredient: DEET | Protection Duration: 11 hours | Size: 4 ounces | EPA-Registered: Yes

Real Simple / Henry Yung

Best Lotion

Sawyer products 20% picaridin insect repellent.

It’s highly effective and offers a smooth application.

It leaves behind a white cast.

Mosquito repellent lotions are ideal for evenly covering exposed skin, giving you proper visualization of any missing spots. We recommend this lotion from Sawyer for its effectiveness, thorough application, and easily transportable bottle. In our testing, we liked how sweat-resistant this repellent was and how even the coverage was. Although it felt a bit oily with a light citrus scent, both dissipated within a few minutes and fully absorbed into the skin. However, keep in mind that it does leave behind a white cast like sunscreens or other lotions would. 

Formulated with picaridin, this repellent is effective at repelling biting flies, ticks, chiggers, and, of course, mosquitoes as well as other insects. Most mosquito repellent lotions should not be used under certain fabrics and can damage other surfaces, but this particular product is safe to use around most types of clothing, backpacks, watches, sunglasses, fishing lines, and more. 

Type: Lotion | Active Ingredient: Picaridin | Protection Duration: 8-14 hours, depending on pest | Size: 2 or 4 ounces | EPA-Registered: Yes

Best for Travel

Off family care insect repellent ii with picaridin.

It has an easy spritz nozzle and is easy to take on the go.

The small bottle may not be enough for families to reapply multiple times.

When camping or traveling to a tropical, humid area where mosquitoes are most common, it’s imperative to bring along an effective and easy-to-use mosquito repellent. The Off! Family Care Insect Repellent II With Picaridin is perfectly sized so you can pack it without it taking up much space in your bag. It has a useful nozzle with a fine mist spray that evenly covers your skin and protects you from pesky mosquitoes. 

In our testing, we liked that it was lightweight, non-greasy, and practically invisible on our skin. It also stays on as you sweat and won’t damage your clothing or plastics. Since this mosquito repellent is more compact than other products, it may not be big enough for multiple people to use, especially considering that it should be reapplied every two hours. 

Type: Spray | Active Ingredient: Picaridin | Protection Duration: 2 hours | Size: 4 ounces | EPA-Registered: Yes

Easiest Application

Coleman skinsmart insect repellent.

• Effectiveness 3 /5

It’s easy to spread, offers even coverage, and leaves behind no residue.

The bottle is not as portable as others.

When applying mosquito repellent, it’s important to find the most convenient and efficient method to make sure you have even coverage for full protection. We recommend the Coleman SkinSmart Insect Repellent for its easy application and long-lasting protection. In our testing, we were impressed with how well the aerosol nozzle could disperse the product evenly, and how easy it was to rub thoroughly onto the skin. Additionally, it does not leave behind a white cast or sticky residue.

This mosquito repellent offers up to eight hours of protection from mosquitoes and ticks. It is also formulated with IR3535 as the active ingredient, another EPA-registered repellent. While the bottle is slightly larger and bulkier for those who prefer a more travel-friendly repellent, the rust-resistant bottle has a locking switch to keep it from leaking. Still, it’s an effective and easy-to-apply mosquito repellent that will come in handy for any outdoor activity. 

Type: Aerosol | Active Ingredient: IR3535 | Longevity: 6-8 hours | Size: 6 ounces

Real Simple / Sharon Essien

Best with SPF

Bullfrog sunscreen and insect repellent.

It’s a water-resistant and moisturizing repellent that offers UVA and UVB protection.

It's only water-resistant for 80 minutes, so you will have to reapply often if you're swimming.

Sunny weather and bugs go hand in hand, so it makes sense to have a two-in-one product that offers protection from insects and harmful sun rays. The Bullfrog Mosquito Coast Insect Repellant provides the best of both worlds, serving as both a sunscreen and bug spray in one.

This formula boasts an impressive SPF 50, making it the perfect partner for hot summer days. Along with protecting against UVA and UVB rays, this waterproof spray offers insect protection for up to 8 hours. We also appreciate the addition of aloe vera and vitamin E, which ensure your skin stays moisturized without feeling greasy or slick. Plus, it's free of DEET and oxybenzone, making it safe for coral when you go for a swim. That said, it’s important to keep in mind that this mosquito repellent is only water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and should be reapplied frequently.

Type: Aerosol | Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, octyl methoxycinnamate, octisalate | Longevity: 8 hours | Size: 4.7 ounces

Our top pick is Off! Active Insect Repellent , which is effective on both the skin and clothes and has a non-greasy formula. If you’re looking for a DEET-free alternative, we recommend EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes Insect Repellent . 

To find the best mosquito repellents, we tested 15 options and evaluated them based on effectiveness, ease of use, smell, coverage, and value. For each product, we applied a small patch of product on our arm for five minutes to test for any reactions, such as itching or rashes. We took note of how it felt on our skin (like lightweight or greasy), how well it absorbed, and how fast it dried. We also considered the smell of the repellent, as some products can have mild fruity scents while others can be strong and unpleasant. 

Then, we applied the mosquito repellent to our entire arm. Once dry, we sprayed our arm with water and checked to see if the repellent ran or if it stayed put. After those initial tests, we applied the mosquito repellent at least five more times when going outside during the testing period. During use, we evaluated how well the product stayed on our skin and how accurate the listed protection time was. We also considered the portability of each mosquito repellent. (Is the bottle easy to throw in a bag? Does it leak?)

How to Shop for Mosquito Repellents Like a Pro

Mosquito repellents can come in many forms or types, such as lotion, sprays, wipes, and oils. In our testing, we evaluated a variety of lotions, aerosols, trigger sprays, and spritz sprays. Choosing the best type for you is based on certain lifestyle factors. For example, applying mosquito repellent on children may be easier with lotion than with a spray. However, sprays are useful because they can often be applied to both skin and clothing (like our top pick, the Off! Active Insect Repellent ).

Ingredients 

McHale says two of the most common active ingredients are DEET and picaridin, though IR3535 and lemon eucalyptus can also be effective. “All of these ingredients are EPA-registered active ingredients found in insect and tick repellents,” he adds. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency , products containing 20 to 30% DEET are effective and will protect anywhere between two and 10 hours. However, it’s important to note that products containing more than 50% DEET will not work any better for protection. 

“DEET was created by the military and has been on the market longer than any other repellent and has an excellent safety record with the exception of occasional and minor skin rashes,” says McHale. “By most accounts, it is the best repellent when it comes to fending off ticks but can leave behind an odor, greasy residue, and may damage some synthetics.” 

Picaridin is another ingredient often found in mosquito repellents, which is odorless and synthetically formulated from the same plant that we make table pepper from. While it's very effective against weak flying, and biting insects, McHale notes that it does not have the same historical safety data that DEET has.

Application and Use

Depending on the type and formulation, some mosquito repellents recommend frequent reapplication or may not work as well with sweat and water. Understanding these variables and establishing your preferences can help you decide which repellent is best for you. For example, the Sawyer Controlled Release Insect Repellent provides 11 hours of steady protection and is sweat-resistant.

“It’s important to research a formulation that fits your planned activity for optimal results,” McHale says. “Both the percentage of the active ingredient and your ability to reapply the product during your outing may factor in your decision.” The Bullfrog SPF 50 Mosquito Coast Sunscreen and Insect Repellant stands out because it doubles as a sunscreen, but it is only water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you'll have to reapply often.

More Mosquito Repellents to Consider

Natrapel Tick & Insect Repellent : This picaridin-based mosquito repellent offers up to 12 hours of protection from mosquitoes and ticks. The fine mist aerosol gives a wide-range coverage with no rubbing required. However, we found this repellent’s fragrance to be a little too strong, and too much liquid was released after spraying.

Off! Sportsmen Deep Woods Insect Repellent 3 : We didn’t enjoy the strong DEET scent of this repellent, but it provides up to eight hours of protection against mosquitoes and biting flies, including gnats, sand flies, no-see-ums, stable flies, and black flies. It also repels ticks, chiggers, and fleas. We found that the spray is released in a thin and somewhat forceful stream, so spreading it thoroughly across your skin is a must for adequate coverage. 

Questions You Might Ask

What is the most effective mosquito repellent.

With dozens of options and a handful of effective ingredients, it may take some trial and error to find out which mosquito repellent is most effective for you. McHale recommends a product with DEET or picaridin for optimal repellency. 

What scent will keep mosquitoes away? 

According to the EPA, certain scents, especially in the form of a topical repellent, can help repel mosquitoes and other insects . These include catnip oil, citronella oil , and lemon eucalyptus oil. “Lemon eucalyptus in particular has shown to repel weak flying, biting insects that seek carbon dioxide and lactic acid,” says McHale. “Most repellents interfere with the insects’ olfactory receptors.”

If you want to take additional preventive measures to avoid mosquitoes, especially around your home, he emphasizes harborage elimination as a safe and effective method. (You can also use a mosquito repellent designed for your yard .)

“Agitators placed in decorative ponds, elimination of standing water , and diverting precipitation away from living areas are essential,” McHale says. “This includes having citronella or lemon eucalyptus candles outdoors; adding mosquito-eating fish to decorative ponds to interrupt breeding cycles; extending bird netting over ponds to capture leaves that elevate mosquitoes' love of nitrogen; and oscillating fans strategically placed near party areas to deter weak flying biting insects.”

How long do mosquito repellents last on your skin?

The protection duration, or longevity, of a mosquito repellent will vary depending on a few factors. McHale recommends always checking the percentage of the active ingredient and the application instructions since reapplication usually extends your protection. 

“Efficacy is directly correlated to the percentage of the active ingredient,” he says. “10% DEET or 7% picaridin, applied according to label specifications, can result in two hours of repellency, while 20% elevates protection to four hours. According to several studies, however, repellency rates do not elevate significantly above 20%.”

This article was written by L. Daniela Alvarez , contributing writer for Real Simple with three years of experience writing about lifestyle content and product reviews. To compile this list, we tested 15 mosquito repellents and evaluated them based on effectiveness, ease of use, smell, coverage, and value. For expert advice, Daniela also consulted Jim McHale , president and CEO of JP McHale Pest Management. 

Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval . Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company.

Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects , from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.

Related Articles

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Avoid Bug Bites

Bugs, including mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and flies, can spread diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and Lyme. While some cases are mild, these diseases can be severe and have lasting consequences. Some diseases caused by bug bites can be prevented with vaccines or medication, like yellow fever and malaria; however, many cannot, such as Zika and Lyme. Learn more about steps you can take to avoid bug bites.

Check Your Destination

Your destination  and activities may determine what steps you need to take to protect yourself from bug bites. Check CDC Destinations pages to see what vaccines or medicines you may need and what diseases or health risks are a concern at your destination.

Your Activities Can Increase Your Risk for Bug Bites

Some activities put you more at risk for bug bites than others. Activities that can increase your chances of getting bug bites include hiking, camping, working with animals, and visiting farms and forested areas.

Common Bugs and Diseases They Spread

• Chikungunya
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Murray Valley Encephalitis virus
• Rift Valley Fever
• Ross River virus disease
• West Nile virus
• Yellow Fever
• African Tick-Bite Fever
• Tick-borne Encephalitis
• African Trypanosomiasis (African Sleeping Sickness)
• Chagas Disease (American Trypanosomiasis)

Take Steps to Prevent Bug Bites During Your Trip

Use an EPA-registered insect repellent

• Picaridin (known as KBR 3023 and icaridin outside the US)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)
• Para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone

Find the right insect repellent for you by using EPA's search tool .

• Dress your child in clothing that covers arms and legs.
• Cover strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting.
• Always follow label instructions.
• Do not use products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD) on children under 3 years old.
• Adults: Spray insect repellent onto your hands and then apply to a child’s face.
• If also using sunscreen, always apply insect repellent after sunscreen.

Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants

Treat clothing and gear with permethrin

• Permethrin is an insecticide that kills or repels insects like mosquitoes and sand flies.
• Permethrin-treated clothing provides protection after multiple washings.
• Read product information to find out how long the protection will last.
• If treating items yourself, follow the product instructions.
• Do not use permethrin products directly on skin.
• Watch the CDC video How to Use Permethrin .

Keep mosquitoes out of your hotel room or lodging

• Choose a hotel or lodging with air conditioning or window and door screens.
• Use a mosquito net if you are unable to stay in a place with air conditioning or window and door screens or if you are sleeping outside.

Sleep under a mosquito net

• Sleep under a mosquito net if you are outside or when screened rooms are not available. Mosquitoes can live indoors and bite during the day and night.
• Buy a mosquito net at your local outdoor store or online before traveling overseas.
• Choose a mosquito net that is compact, white, rectangular, with 156 holes per square inch, and long enough to tuck under the mattress.
• Permethrin is an insecticide that kills mosquitoes and other insects.
• To determine if you can wash a treated mosquito net, follow the label instructions.

If you are bitten by mosquitoes, avoid scratching the bites and apply over-the-counter anti-itch or antihistamine cream to relieve itching. See Mosquito Bite Symptoms and Treatment .

Additional steps you can take to prevent or quickly find tick bites

Prevent Tick Bites

• Know where to expect ticks. Ticks live in grassy, brushy, or wooded areas, or even on animals. Spending time outside camping, gardening, or hunting could bring you in close contact with ticks. Many people get ticks in their own yard or neighborhood.
• Treat clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin. Permethrin can be used to treat boots, clothing and camping gear and remain protective through several washings. Alternatively, you can buy permethrin-treated clothing and gear.
• Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. EPA’s helpful search tool  can help you find the product that best suits your needs. Always follow product instructions. Do not use products containing OLE or PMD on children under 3 years old.
• Avoid wooded and brushy areas with high grass and leaf litter.
• Walk in the center of trails.

Find and Remove Ticks

• Check your clothing for ticks. Ticks may be carried into the house on clothing. Any ticks that are found should be removed. When possible, tumble dry clothes in a dryer on high heat for 10 minutes to kill ticks on dry clothing after you come indoors. If the clothes are damp, additional time may be needed. If the clothes require washing first, hot water is recommended. Cold and medium temperature water will not kill ticks.
• Examine gear and pets. Ticks can ride on clothing and pets, then attach to a person later, so carefully examine pets, coats, and daypacks.
• Shower soon after being outdoors. Showering within two hours of coming indoors has been shown to reduce your risk of getting tick-borne diseases. Showering may help wash off unattached ticks and it is a good opportunity to do a tick check.
• Under the arms
• In and around the ears
• Inside belly button
• Back of the knees
• In and around the hair
• Between the legs
• Around the waist
•  If you find a tick attached to your skin, simply remove the tick as soon as possible.

After Travel

If you traveled and feel sick, particularly if you have a fever, talk to a healthcare provider and tell them about your travel. 

If you need medical care abroad, see Getting Health Care During Travel .

More Information

• Mosquitoes - CDC Website
• Ticks - CDC website
• Lyme Disease
• Plague (Bubonic, Pneumonic, Septicemic)
• Rickettsial Diseases (Ticks)
• Tickborne Encephalitis
• Trypanosomiasis, African (Sleeping Sickness)
• Trypanosomiasis, American (Chagas Disease)

File Formats Help:

• Adobe PDF file
• Microsoft PowerPoint file
• Microsoft Word file
• Microsoft Excel file
• Audio/Video file
• Apple Quicktime file
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10 Best Bug and Mosquito Repellents of 2024, Tested by Experts

Keep the bugs away with these top-rated sprays, candles and backyard applications.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Thermacell e55 e-series rechargeable mosquito repeller.

Cutter Backyard Bug Control

Best Plant-Based

Lemongrass farms trek spray (twin pack).

OFF! Botanicals Insect Repellent

Best Device

Thermacell mosquito repellent lantern.

Best with DEET

Off deep woods insect repellent aerosol.

Best Candle

Murphy's naturals mosquito repellent candle.

Best for Clothing

Sawyer products premium permethrin clothing and gear insect repellent.

Best for Water

Summit mosquito dunks.

Best for Fleas and Ticks

Wondercide flea & tick spray.

The best mosquito repellant from our tests isn’t a conventional spray or candle. Instead it's a rechargeable device called the Thermacell E55 that creates a 20-foot zone of protection, say, around your campsite or outdoor dining area. It might sound too good to be true, especially since you can’t see or smell the heat-generated repellant as it works its magic, but in test after test it did a superb job of scaring off mosquitoes.

The one exception is when a stiff breeze is blowing, since it dissipates the repellant, though, of course, a stiff enough wind will also keep the bugs away. It also only repels mosquitoes, not ticks or other pests.

The E55 is incredibly easy to set up and operate. After charging the device with the provided USB cable, simply place it in the center of your desired zone of protection and hit the power button. It takes about 15 minutes for the repellant to heat up and create a full zone of coverage. A full battery provides five and a half hours of protection. The cartridge that contains the repellant will need to be replaced every 12 hours; a status indicator on the control panel lets you know how much protection you have left.

In addition to the simplicity and effectiveness of the E55, our experts like Thermacell's claim that its repellent uses EPA-reviewed pyrethroid as its active ingredient. Replacement fills are fairly affordable, costing about $20 for 40 hours of protection — good for plenty of hot summer nights.

Active ingredient : Pyrethroid | Application : Device

If you have a large yard that's often the scene of cookouts and games of capture the flag, you're best off creating a bug-free zone. This aggressive solution from Cutter is formulated to not just repel mosquitoes and other pests, but to kill them dead, using the EPA-registered insecticide lambda-cyhalothrin .

The big upside to sprays like Backyard Bug Control is their ease of use. Simply attach your hose to the sprayer bottle and you'll be able to reach every nook and cranny of your yard. A single bottle treats up to 5,000 square feet of landscaping, lawn and other outdoor terrain. Even rain or humid weather won't get in its way: It kills mosquitoes, ants, fleas, ticks and other insects for up to 12 weeks — all summer long, in other words.

Our experts caution that the product needs to be applied safely and according to the manufacturer's instructions. Keep it away from sewers and storm drains, where it could enter rivers, lakes and other waterways. If children or pets are present, it's important to keep them away until the spray is thoroughly dry.

Active ingredient : Lambda-cyhalothrin | Application : Yard spray

Lemongrass Farms is a newer name to the bug spray category. The brand touts its quick-drying, plant-based formula and its repellants didn't leave behind any oily residue in our initial tests. That's good for sporty types who don't want to worry about a golf club or tennis racket flying out of their hands.

"I like that the cans dispense the spray evenly, making it easy to apply," said Sabina Wizeman , director of the Beauty, Health and Sustainability Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. She also praised the textured surface of the spray bottle, which provides a firm grip, preventing it from slipping out of your hands.

Take note, however, that the Trek sprays leave behind a rather intense scent, so they're not ideal for indoor use. And since the essential oils they contain can cause allergies in some people, our experts recommend patch-testing a small area of your skin before applying the spray more widely over your body.

Active ingredient : Geranium oil, lemongrass oil, peppermint oil and cedarwood oil | Application : Body spray |

One of the oldest names in bug sprays is still up there with the best. The brand's Botanicals spray boasts an effective plant-based formula that's made with pine oil extract and lemon eucalyptus oil without added fragrances or dyes .

One of our testers has been using this for four consecutive summers now with her family, including spraying her kids' clothes before they go off to camp. "There have been the odd bug bites, but it generally provides several hours of protection," she said.

Off's repellent also works directly on skin. Just note that the brand recommends spraying in the palm of the hand, then spreading onto the face and neck to avoid getting into eyes. One more important caveat: The spray cannot be used on children under the age of 3 and it does need to be reapplied every two hours for maximum protection.

Active ingredient : p-Menthane-3,8-diol (pMd) | Application : Body spray

Like its brand-mate in this round-up, the Thermacell E55, this Thermacell device is meant to keep mosquitoes from flying into your space with the use of a odor-free, heat-activated repellent. Our product experts like that it also allows you to illuminate your patio or deck, thanks to its built-in, battery-powered lantern.

Operation is the same as with E55 and replacement fills cost the same: $20 for 40 hours of mosquito protection. However, it does not help with ticks or fleas.

To fend off bugs like ticks, biting flies, gnats and chiggers for hours on end, our experts recommend Off! Deep Woods Spray. Though the name suggest camping and hiking, it's also great for the golf course, since the spray repels mosquitoes for "the longest period of time of all sprays," said Ohio State University's Dr. Meuti.

Credit DEET, which accounts for 25% of the formula, with the repelling power of this aerosol spray. Meuti calls it one of the most effective mosquito repellents on the market, and that's been the experience with testers who have taken it into deep into nature and onto some of the buggiest golf courses around. One drawback is that it can leave skin slippery.

Active ingredient : DEET | Application : Body spray

Although it isn't a permanent solution, our experts say lighting a citronella candle is a tried-and-true way to temporarily ward off mosquitoes. This pick from Murphy's Naturals has more than 4,800 five-star Amazon reviews due to its 30-hour burn time, confirmed in our tests, and refreshing scent of rosemary, peppermint, citronella, lemongrass and cedarwood.

While we always remind consumers that ‘natural’ is not a regulated term, our review of the candle's active ingredients list found them to be plant-based botanical oils, which are considered minimum risk biopesticides by the EPA . Along with citronella , most of the other oils in this candle have also been shown to have some repellent efficacy against mosquitoes. It's not suited for indoor use.

If you're not a fan of candles, consider Murphy's Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Mosquito & Tick Repellant Spray , which the brand says can repel mosquitoes for up to six hours, deer ticks for up to four hours, and lone star and brown dog ticks for more than eight hours. The 2-ounce bottle is TSA-approved as a carry-on item, so it's ideal for travel.

Active ingredient : Rosemary oil, peppermint oil, citronella oil, lemongrass oil and cedarwood oil | Application : Candle

Spraying your clothes before heading out for a hike or a round of golf is one of the easiest ways to stay bug-free. In particular, reach for this permethrin -based product from Sawyer for one of the most effective strategies. The spray is so powerful and long-lasting that after you spray it directly onto clothes, it will last for several washe s .

It can also be applied to the exterior of outdoor gear like tents, sleeping bags and backpacks. "It will keep both ticks and mosquitoes away, so it's perfect for hiking or while gardening in the yard," said Meuti. But take note: Permethrin is toxic to cats, so pet lovers should opt for another repellant.

Active ingredient : Permethrin | Application : Clothing spray

Here's another option for eliminating mosquitoes at their source. Stick one of these small (but mighty) circles in any bird bath, pond, plant tray or flood-prone area up to 100 square feet to kill mosquito larvae for 30 days . Keep in mind that this isn't a solution for getting rid of existing bugs.

Don't worry about fish or other wildlife, said our expert team: BTI , the EPA-registered ingredient in this product, only kills mosquito larvae and is non-toxic to people, pets and other animals. Meuti gives a resounding "yes" to this mosquito repellent: "This is a great idea for reducing mosquito numbers on your property!"

Active ingredient : BTI | Application : Water treatment

Wondercide Flea & Tick Spray

For a plant-based option, treat up to 5,000 square feet with this spray from Wondercide, which uses a combination of cedarwood oil, sesame oil and sodium lauryl sulfate to kill mosquitoes, as well as fleas and ticks, at any and every stage of the life cycle.

Spray twice within two to 10 days to ensure that you're getting rid of all pests, and then continue to spray as needed. More applications are likely needed than with chemical sprays.

Our experts have also tried Wondercide's Insect Repellant , which uses a similar plant-based formula in a convenient 4-ounce bottle. Efficacy tests are ongoing, but both the rosemary and lemongrass formulas have a fairly mild scent and don't leave behind an oily residue.

Active ingredient : Cedarwood oil, sesame oil and sodium lauryl sulfate | Application : Yard spray

How we choose the best mosquito repellents

When choosing mosquito repellents, our experts start by gathering a list of the products most commonly found on store shelves and online. They look for a wide range of solutions for different scenarios, from candles designed for small decks and patios to backyard applications with claimed coverage areas of up to 5,000 square feet.

Our product experts then performed informal tests of the products in their own yards, when possible. In addition, our health and sustainability experts reviewed ingredient lists to ensure products are in accordance with guidelines set forth by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency .

What is the best thing to keep mosquitoes away?

There are a number of things to consider to limit mosquitos.

✔️ Repellent vs. insecticide: You need to decide whether your goal is to repel mosquitoes or kill them off completely. Repellents are best for small-scale, temporary relief (think: summer meals in the open air). Reach for an insecticide when your goal is to wipe out entire mosquito populations for weeks at a time, if not longer. To be clear, the insecticides that you use in your yard shouldn't be the same ones that you spray on your body and clothes.

✔️ Active ingredients: Always follow the guidelines set by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . This will help ensure that you're buying the most effective repellents that are also safe. All bug sprays marketed in the U.S. must contain EPA-registered active ingredients that can effectively repel mosquitoes, ticks and flies. (See below "How Do I Stop Mosquitoes From Biting Me?" for more info on these active ingredients.)

✔️ Yard maintenance: Aside from using top-of-the-line sprays and repellents, generally the best way to reduce mosquitoes is by emptying anything that holds water. "Remember the tip-and-toss rule," said Craig Stoops, chief science officer for Mosquito Authority , a pest control service. "Tip over items that you can’t dispose of to empty water where mosquito larvae may be found. Then toss any items in your backyard that you don’t need anymore that may be sources of mosquito breeding."

The EPA offers this additional checklist for eliminating mosquito habitats at their source:

• Drain standing water in rain gutters, old tires and buckets.
• Empty and change the water in birdbaths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels and potted plant trays at least once a week.
• Keep swimming pool water treated and circulating.
• Replace your outdoor lights with yellow-hued lightbulbs that attract far fewer mosquitoes.

How do I stop mosquitoes from biting me?

A variety of active ingredients are deployed by brands in the battle against bugs. Here are the four most common:

✔️ DEET : It was once believed that DEET worked by interfering with a mosquito’s ability to detect humans by masking the scent of carbon dioxide (the gas we exhale with every breath) and lactic acid (a chemical that is in our sweat). However, more recent studies reveal that chemicals within DEET are repellent to mosquitoes, meaning that they have specific receptors within their antennae that allow mosquitoes to smell and avoid DEET if they smell it at a distance, said Meuti.

✔️ Picaridin: Another effective mosquito repellent, it's quite similar to DEET in the way that it can get mosquitoes to turn away from its scent, added Meuti.

✔️ IR3535: A synthetic amino acid, this repellent can bind to the same sensory receptor as DEET and picaridin, suggesting that this compound also smells bad and is avoided by mosquitoes.

✔️ Oil of lemon eucalyptus: For a more natural repellent, you may reach for this effective oil. It's designed for broad outdoor application and EPA-registered, unlike other essential oils like citronella, lemongrass and cedarwood oil, which are not registered because the EPA deemed they pose minimal risk to people. Note, however, that oil of lemon eucalyptus is not recommended for children under the age of 3.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

The Good Housekeeping Institute provides expert reviews and advice on all things home-related, including lawn and yard care.

In his role as Director of the Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab, Dan DiClerico brings more than 20 years of experience to the Institute, having reviewed thousands of products for Good Housekeeping , as well as brands like This Old House and Consumer Reports.

For this report, DiClerico and our review team also worked closely with Sabina Wizeman , director of the Institute's Beauty, Health and Sustainability Lab, and Megan E. Meuti, P.h.D. , an assistant professor of entomology at Ohio State University.

Having written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute . A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids.

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Insect Repellents Help Prevent Malaria and Other Diseases Spread by Mosquitoes

Every year, millions of U.S. residents travel to countries where malaria and other diseases spread by mosquitoes (mosquito-borne) are found. These diseases can cause serious illness and death in some cases. Preventing mosquito-borne infections is very important to staying well when you travel.

Why do I need to use an insect repellent when I travel to an area with malaria?

An insect repellent will help protect you from mosquitoes that spread malaria and other diseases, such as dengue, chikungunya, and Yellow fever. You can use an insect repellent on your skin and clothes to keep away (repel) insects.

Your doctor may also prescribe you a medication to prevent malaria (antimalarial drug).

Although antimalarial drugs are very effective, they are not 100% effective in preventing malaria. This is why you need to also use an insect repellent and take other steps to keep mosquitoes from biting you (mosquito avoidance).

In some areas where only a few cases of malaria occur, CDC recommends mosquito avoidance as the only way to prevent malaria.

Are insect repellents safe?

Most insect repellents that can be put on the skin must be registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) before they can be sold in stores.

EPA registration means the insect repellent has been tested and approved for human safety and is effective when used according to directions on the label. Before you buy an insect repellent, be sure to look on the label for EPA approval.

Which insect repellents will give me long-lasting protection against mosquitoes?

For hours of long-lasting protection, look for insect repellents with the following active ingredients:

• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)*
• Picaridin (KBR 3023)

Some brand names of repellents include:

• DEET products: Off!, Cutter, Sawyer, Ultrathon.
• IR3535 products: Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus Expedition, SkinSmart.
• OLE products: Repel, Off! Botanicals.
• Picaridin products (Autan, Bayrepel and icaridinoutside U.S.): Cutter Advanced, Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus.

*”Pure” oil of lemon eucalyptus (essential oil) is not recommended. It has not been tested by EPA for safety and effectiveness

See a doctor or other healthcare provider 4-6 weeks before your trip to get any prescriptions, shots, and information you may need to stay healthy while you travel. Even if your trip is sooner, see a doctor to be safe. For more information visit CDC Travelers’ Health website at www.cdc.gov/travel

How do I use an insect repellent?

• Always follow directions on the label.
• Spray or rub the insect repellent onto your skin that is NOT covered by your clothes. Do not use under clothing.
• Use just enough insect repellent to cover your skin not covered by clothing. Heavy use of insect repellent or pouring it all over your body is not necessary.
• Never use insect repellents over cuts, wounds, or irritated skin.
• Do not spray insect repellents directly on your face—spray it onto your hands first and then pat the insect repellent onto your face.
• Do not spray or put insect repellents on your eyes or mouth, and put only a little around your ears.
• Use separate sunscreen and insect repellent products. Put the sunscreen on first, then spray on the insect repellent.
• After returning indoors, wash the insect repellent off your skin with soap and water or take a bath. This is especially important when you use insect repellents daily.
• Wash any clothes you treated with insect repellent before wearing them again.

Can I use an insect repellent if I am pregnantor breastfeeding

Yes. Pregnant and breastfeeding women can use EPA-approved insect repellents. Always follow directions on the label.

Can I put insect repellent on my baby?

• Do not put insect repellent on babies younger than 2 months of age.
• Protect small babies under the age of 2 months by placing a fitted mosquito net around their infant seat or carrier.

How do I put insect repellent on a child?

• Follow directions on the label.
• See directions for how to use an insect repellent on this page.
• Use no more than 30% DEET on a child.
• Do not use insect repellent with lemon eucalyptus on children under the age of 3 years.

What other things can I do to prevent mosquito bites?

• Wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and a hat when you are outdoors.
• Spray insect repellent on your clothes for extra protection or buy a product with permethrin to treat your clothes and bed net to repel insects.
• Sleep in a well-screened or air-conditioned room, or sleep under a permethrin-treated bed net. This is because malaria mosquitoes mostly bite at night (dusk until dawn).
• Stay indoors during the times biting mosquitoes are most active.

Always spray insect repellents in open areas and wash your hands after using

What should I do if I develop a rash or reaction to the insect repellent?

Stop using the insect repellent and wash the area with soap and water. If you see a doctor about the reaction, take the repellent container with you. You can also call the Poison Help Hotline at 1-800-222-1222 .

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Visit the EPA website at www2.epa.gov/insect-repellents

Check out the CDC malaria website at www.cdc.gov/malaria  or call toll-free the CDC Malaria Hotline at 1-855-856-4713

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What’s the Best Insect Repellent? I’ve Tried Everything

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With so many options, it’s hard to know what’s the best insect repellent so I’ve put together a list of products I’ve tried over the years, along with a few recommended by other travelers!

Best Insect Repellent

Table of contents.

Mosquitoes absolutely love me and I have the scars on my legs to prove it.

These pesky little bloodsuckers are seemingly everywhere, no matter how much bug spray, smoke coils, citronella candles, or zappers you have.

They somehow get through and make you their lunch when you least expect it. It’s not just the itchiness that’s annoying–bites can lead to infections and diseases.

So what is the best bug repellent out there to make sure you don’t become a walking mosquito buffet during your next trip?

Best Bug Sprays

Did you know that insect repellent causes me to check my carry-on bag? As a long term-traveler who spends much of my time in the tropics, I rely heavily on bug sprays to keep me bite free.

Repel 100 Insect Repellent, 4Oz

Best Insect Repellent: Editor’s Choice

The best bug repellent choice for me has been Repel Sportmen Max . However, I’ve only been able to find it in the US. There’s another brand more commonly available worldwide, but I haven’t found it as effective.

Three months into my round-the-world trip , I ran out of my preferred spray and had to buy what was available locally. To my dismay, it didn’t work as well, plus ants loved the other brand!

Due to this, instead of traveling with one giant can of aerosol I always packed two before leaving the USA for the next segment of my journey. Imagine what the security at the airport thought when they scanned my checked baggage ! They never kept it but they always searched my bag for this odd-looking shape.

The key to packing light for your round the world trip is to create a capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide !

Repel 100 Insect Repellent, 1Oz

Over time, I haven’t had the need to use as much mosquito repellent. I only use it after sunset, so I’m no longer traveling with those large cans. Because I’ve had such success with this brand even in the worst conditions, I refuse to buy anything else, if I can help it.

I switched to their 4oz , 100% DEET product and it’s been working well so far (although it’s still too large to carry on). They also have a 1-ounce size , which I use on trips that are under two weeks long.

The only variety of this brand’s products that I don’t like is the solid stick. I didn’t find it very effective when I brought it along on my trip to Cartagena, Colombia .

Bug Guard Plus

3-in-1 Travel Bug Spray

When it comes to choosing a good travel bug spray, you don’t have to restrict yourself to a sticky, bad-smelling insect repellent. Bug Guard Plus is a 3-in-1 product that not only gives you protection for pesky critters but also acts as a moisturizer and sunscreen with SPF 30.

Natural Insect Repellent

Natural Bug Repellent

If you’re looking for a natural solution to rid yourself of bugs then  Herbal Armor’s Natural Insect Repellent might be a great travel mosquito repellent choice for you. This bug-ridding solution has none of the chemicals or pesticides used in some of the more traditional bug spray choices.

Eco-Friendly Insect Repellent

Badger Deet-Free Natural Bug Spray

Another non-deet option is Badger bug spray which is highly rated by our readers. It has citronella, rosemary, and lemongrass essential oils, so it’s very gentle and reviewers say effective to keep insects away.

Herbal Insect Repellent

Travel Size Mosquito Repellent

OFF makes some great natural products, and users of their natural bug spray say it’s no exception. Built for those on the go, OFF packs their mosquito repellent in a handy travel-friendly sized bottle. It is also available in towelletes which are Individually wrapped and easy to apply.

Check out our list of the best toiletry bags for travel. Which will be the best bag for you?

Watch this video for tips on how to fit all your toiletries into a carryon

Best Insect Repellent Alternatives

Good ol’ fashioned insect repellent isn’t the only way to ward off those unfriendly bugs. When even the strongest bug spray doesn’t keep the critters away, use the additional methods suggested below.

Aside from sprays, there are a few other tactics available to keep the bugs off:

Expedition Mosquito Net

Expedition Travel Mosquito Nets

While I’ve never traveled with one, some travelers use travel-size mosquito nets . The benefit is that you have an extra layer of protection when you sleep, but the disadvantage is that they can be tricky to set up if your accommodation doesn’t have anything to hang the ends on.

Portable Folding Mosquito Net

Travel Mosquito Repellent Net

I met one female traveler in India that was so terribly allergic to mosquitos that she traveled with a structured mosquito net.

If mosquitoes are a major issue in your destination, chances are your accommodation will have a net situated above the bed. If you book in advance, you can also contact your accommodation to see if they offer mosquito nets.

But if that’s not the case, you can pack a portable mosquito net for your trip. The Portable Folding Mosquito Net is a great choice for keeping mosquitoes away while you sleep, but it’s important to note that it’s too big to pack in your suitcase.

Tip: Keep your doors and windows closed particularly at sunset hours!

Coolmax Liner with Insect Shield

Sea To Summit Coolmax Insect Shield

Part of the reason I never needed to travel with a mosquito net is that I always have a sleeping liner to protect me.

While the strongest insect repellent you can find is a must, there’s one thing it won’t protect you from: sand flies. They’ll attack day and night–and they are far worse than mosquitoes. Bring along a long sleeve top and trousers to defend from the brutal sand flies.

I got bitten so badly that I looked like I had chicken pox. The only way I could sleep was fully covered inside of my sleeping liner . Our accommodation in Utila, Honduras was right next to the water so I’m not sure if you’d have relief staying further away.

A sleeping bag liner like the Coolmax Liner with Insect Shield is a great choice to stave off those sandflies and other bugs. In addition to helping defend you against the bugs, this liner wicks moisture, adapts to your climate and is made from a soft, comfortable material. It’s unofficially the best strongest bug repellant travel sheet I’ve found.

Tip: Keep in mind that prime insect hours start the moment the sun sets!

How do you select an outdoor capsule wardrobe that’s up to the task? Find out more!

Bug Repellent Bracelet

Citronella Insect Repellent Bracelets

In search of the best insect repellant, I tried out some bracelets during a one-week stint in the Borneo jungle . It was hard to tell whether they worked or not because I used them in addition to bug spray. However, I figured it didn’t hurt to have them and they didn’t take up space!

So, what are some of the best bug repellent bracelets?

The best bug repellent bracelets are often made with citronella. These ones have a fresh citronella scent and fun bright colors.

Wearers report that they’re best used with one on each ankle and one on each wrist.

Mosquito Repellent Bracelets

Ript Gear Mosquito Repellent Bracelet Band

When you’re not wearing your travel insect repellent bracelet , simply keep it sealed in a ziplock bag so it’s fresh for the next use!

Use packing cubes to keep your belongings organized in your luggage and personal item.

L.L. Bean Insect Shield Long Sleeve Shirt | Sizes XS-XL

Long Sleeve Insect Repellent Shirt

The strongest bug repellent clothing claims to stop various bugs—including mosquitoes and ticks. It is treated with permethrin, which is used as an insecticide for agriculture, in dog collars, and to treat timber.

If you’re interested in using some bug-resistant clothing in addition to your travel bug spray, you’ll be happy to know that some of the clothes don’t look too bad!

A long sleeve crew top is a great choice for the best insect repellant clothing. It’s a travel-friendly choice that’s quick-dry and is built to keep mosquitoes, flies, chiggers, ticks, ants, and midges from bothering you. 

In addition to its bug repelling qualities, this shirt can also protect you from UV rays.

Here are the most stylish and travel friendly options for SPF clothing !

Hadley Wren Insect Repellent Scarf

Strongest Insect Repellent Scarf

A scarf that acts as travel insect repellent? You heard us right!

The Hadley Wren Insect Repellent Scarf  is one of the best bug repellent clothing pieces. It’s made of lightweight and breathable material that’s built to shield you against a whole host of bugs and critters. It’s also available in a range of other colors to match every personality. 

L.L. Bean No Fly Zone Long Sleeve Shirt | Sizes XS-XL

Insect Repellent Shirt

If you need a slightly dressier top, the L.L. Bean No Fly Zone Long Sleeve Shirt   is a travel-friendly choice. Lightweight womens relaxed fit long-sleeve shirt is perfect for exploring new trails, navigating new cities, and anywhere repelling insects and sun protection are your top concerns. It’s one of the bug spray travel size shirts, built to shade you from insects and ensure you stay fashionable! 

Clothing Bug Repellent

Travel Bug Spray For Your Clothes

If your budget doesn’t allow for a whole new insect-repellent wardrobe, you can purchase it in spray form and treat your own clothing, plus other items like shoes, camping gear , bed sheets, and mosquito nets. It’s effective for around 70 washes when built into clothing or at least 6 washes when used a spray.

The Sawyer Products Clothing Insect Repellent is one of the strongest bug spray for your clothing (but not skin). You can turn any piece of your travel wardrobe into a piece of the bug repellent clothing.

Please Note: Permethrin is extremely dangerous to cats, so be careful when using this type of spray around your pet kitty!

What’s the best insect repellent?

Choosing the best bug repellent for you can be a bit of a challenge, and you’ll likely have to take a stab at a few products before you find the best one. You might even have to combine a few.

That said, when it comes to picking a travel-sized mosquito repellent, we should share the reality that DEET is not good for you. However, as a mosquito magnet myself, I weighed the pros and cons of using a chemical of this strength and decided that the best one for me contains DEET .

In Thailand , there’s a natural lemongrass spray that everyone uses. I didn’t find it as effective as DEET, but it helped a little. Personally, I would only use it if I had no other choice as it’s simply just not effective enough.

I have found a few other natural options online with good reviews but haven’t tried them myself.

Comparison Chart for Best Insect Repellent

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

Use Packing Cubes for Carry On Travel 

Packing cubes can help organize all the clothes you intend to bring! We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. See the video  below for more.

Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the   video  above!

We put together a  five-part YouTube series  showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use  this  specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!

It’s important to follow the suggested precautions when traveling to areas with mosquitos and other bugs.

What do you think is the best insect repellent? Share them below!

For more travel tips, please read:

• The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist)
• Don’t Worry About TSA Approved Liquids with these Solid Toiletries for Travel
• 5 Tips to Travel Size Toiletries for Minimalist Travelistas
• How to Prevent Bed Bugs While Traveling: 8 Effective Tips

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I hope you liked this post on the best insect repellent. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

10 comments.

I’m a big fan of the insect repellent boxes with heated pads. I have used the butane ones and I have a battery powered one I’ll be using this summer. It works in the Pacific Northwest and my friend uses one when he gator hunts in the Everglades.

Hi Karen, thank you for sharing your recommendation with us!! Had never thought of using one!

There is a new product that is the best I ever used. It’s called Proven Repellent. I bought the spray at Ace hardware store. I found their webshop and ordered the lotion for my children, no fumes for my kids and it works for 14 hours. I work a lot in the garden and have a lot of bugs. I haven’t got any bites since I used proven. I even spray it on my dog and she has long hairs and I need to check her for ticks often. Now she’s free of ticks. I’m a new fan :).

Hi Wilma, thank you so much for taking the time to share your recommendation for an insect repellent with us!! 🙂

Thanks for the tip. I bought a bottle of Proven bug spray and it’s the best ever. My family is a fan!!! We use it while watching my son playing soccer and when we go to the park. No more deet…ever!!

We used the Permethrin spray on a trip to Puerto Rico, at the height of Zika virus insanity, and it worked very well. We were there for 4 nights, staying in a treehouse airbnb, and I didn’t get a single bite. You really have to soak your clothing in it, but once it’s dried you can’t tell there’s anything on your clothes.

Thanks for the input Steph! Great advice! sounds like an awesome trip!

Very useful! I recently (unexpectedly) got eaten alive by mosquitos in Rome, so I’d like to try something new next time.

Honestly, I’ve had mixed results with DEET repellents – sometimes they just don’t seem to work for me. I tried the Burt’s Bees one a few years ago and it did work well for me, but it’s not always easy to find here (UK).

Has anyone tried the Avon Skin So Soft products which have natural insect repellents in them? I’ve heard good things but not tried them myself. Definitely interested in those bracelets too and would love to know more if anyone has tried them. Thanks!

I haven’t actually tried that particular brand! But thanks for the recommendation, will have to check it out! Happy travels!

I can’t use Deet based products as they irritate my skin so badly, and have also stained and damaged clothes and jewellery. I found the Avon Skin So Soft to be effective in repelling insects but it was just too oily and greasy for me, especially in humid climates. I have found the best protection is to cover my skin with lightweight clothing. As long as the fabric covers the skin I don’t find it necessary to spray repellent. Some of my tops have long but loose sleeves. To deter the really determined bugs, I sometimes put hair scrunches round my cuffs so they cannot sneak up the gap! My favourite solution is sticking to cooler climates. Bugs tend to be less prevalent and it’s less of a problem being unable to wear shorts or dresses!

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The Insect-Repellent Clothing and Gear Every Traveler Should Have

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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At best, getting a bug bite is an itchy nuisance for a few days. At worst, it could expose you to a serious or even deadly disease. Common mosquito-borne illnesses include malaria, dengue, chikungunya, West Nile virus, and Zika virus, while ticks can spread Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other maladies. To protect yourself, consider packing insect-repellent clothing and other gear on hiking trips, tropical vacations, or any other trips where you might be at risk of bug bites.

Insect-Repellent Clothing

The Insect Shield clothing line from Craghoppers includes pants, button-down shirts, T-shirts, hoodies, dresses, hats, and more. This bug-repellent clothing has other useful travel features as well, including moisture-wicking technology and sun protection.

Another option is Women’s Insect Shield Hoodie , which lives up to its name with clothes that offer protection from insects for 70 washes.

Shop Insect-Repellent Clothes

What to Pack for Hiking: 38 Essentials

Permethrin Clothing Spray

If you don’t want to invest in a whole new wardrobe of insect-repellent clothing, treat what you already have with permethrin spray , a bug repellent designed to be used on clothing and shoes (but not skin!) that lasts through multiple washings. This permethrin spray for clothes is effective against mosquitoes, ticks, mites, and other bugs for six washings or six weeks, and it’s as effective as 100 percent DEET. Odorless after drying, it won’t stain or damage your clothes, so you can wear them again after your trip.

Long-Sleeved Shirts and Pants

The more covered your skin is, the harder it is for mosquitoes to feast on you. Of course, it’s likely to be warm where the bugs are, which makes wearing long shirts and pants unappealing. Pack lightweight, light-colored clothing like these travel-friendly long-sleeve shirts , which can actually help you stay cooler than short sleeves thanks to their moisture-wicking properties.

Columbia makes a number of high-performance long-sleeved shirts specifically designed to keep you cool even while you’re covered up. Try the Silver Ridge Lite Long Sleeve, which is available for both men and women ; it’s got vents, moisture-wicking fabric, and UPF 50 sun protection to keep you cool and shielded from the sun. Pair it with a lightweight, stretchy pair of hiking pants, such as the Women’s Saturday Trail Stretch Pant or the Men’s Silver Ridge Convertible Pant .

Bonus: Shirts and pants made from UPF fabric will also protect you from harmful UV rays . I like these pants from Coolibar , specifically designed to be worn in hot and sunny environments.

Travel Mosquito Bed Net

Just because you’re staying in a hotel room doesn’t mean that mosquitos can’t get in—whether it’s via a hole in your window screen or just by flying in alongside you as you enter. That’s why it’s a good idea to pack a mosquito net for your bed if you’re staying in a place at risk for mosquito-borne diseases. Mosquito nets are also useful if you’re camping in an area with lots of bugs.

This one from Universal Backpackers is great for travel, as it needs just a single rope to hang from and folds into a small and lightweight bag.

5 Smartphone Essentials You Should Never Travel Without

EPA-Registered Insect Repellent

Not all bug sprays are created equal. Only some ingredients are scientifically proven to repel bugs. Check to see if your insect spray meets the requirements with this search tool from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

One option is Repel 100 , a spray with super concentrated DEET for heavy-duty bug conditions. The one-ounce size is perfect for travel and it protects for up to 10 hours, so you don’t need a ton.

For a more natural solution, look for products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (which is one of the only non-chemical repellents recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ), such as this option from Repel .

Mosquito Head Net

You might look at the picture of this mosquito head net and scoff, thinking that you’d never be caught dead wearing one, but you might change your mind if your destination is swarming with bugs. Small and lightweight, this mosquito head net is made from a fine black mesh (which is easy to see through) and comes with its own stuff sack for easy packing.

The Best Sun Protective Clothing for Travel

Insect-Repellent Bands and Wipes

If you are flying carry-on only and don’t want to worry about fitting bug sprays into your 3-1-1 bag, insect repellent bands and wipes are a great alternative. For wipes, this 20-Count Repel Mosquito Wipes is affordable and contains DEET, so you’ll be protected without spending a lot of money.

An alternative form of mosquito protection is the Mosquito Repellent Bracelet , which is waterproof and non-toxic, and offers protection for up to 200 hours.

Caroline Morse loves combining practical fashion and travel. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline and on Twitter @CarolineMorse1 .

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Most effective mosquito repellents for traveling to tropical places

Using mosquito repellents for traveling is essential in places where diseases like Zika, malaria or Dengue fever mean high risk. Although most popular tourist destinations work actively against these annoying insects and try to reduce the mosquito population in order to provide visitors with a safe and enjoyable holiday experience, it is better if you take responsibility for your own safety. Read our tips on what repellents work the best against mosquitoes and how to use them!

Table of Contents

Most dangerous mosquito-borne diseases

Natural vs synthetic mosquito repellents, oil of lemon eucalyptus, mosquito repellent spray, lotion against insects, thermacell mosquito repellent portable device, ultrasonic pest repeller, mosquito bracelet, insect repellent wipes, mosquito repellent patches, incense sticks, natural repellent candles, essential oils soap, mosquito net for traveling, how to make a natural mosquito repellent, how to apply mosquito repellents correctly, mosquito disease symptoms and what to do, why mosquito repellents are important.

Mosquito bites are not only painful and uncomfortable but can cause serious, in worst cases deadly illnesses. Parasites or viruses can get into your blood system with the saliva of the mosquito that bites you.

Dangerous mosquito species can be found in almost all countries, but mosquito-borne diseases typically affect tropical countries where we spend our well-deserved beach and snorkeling vacations. Using mosquito repellents for traveling in order to minimize the risk of mosquito-related tropical illnesses is as important as learning how to stay safe in the ocean (I recommend reading about snorkeling safety too).

Avoiding bites is the most important for children and pregnant women. Combining physical and chemical solutions works best against mosquitoes. Installing mosquito screens and using a net over your bed are basic yet important steps when fighting against biting insects. When outside, wearing long-sleeved clothing is crucial, but using effective mosquito repellents ensures the highest protection.

• Dengue fever
• Yellow fever
• Chikungunya
• West Nile Fever
• Sindbis virus
• Leishmaniasis

Mosquitoes find their victims following smells and heat. The carbon dioxide we exhale, and the molecules we create when sweating are signals for them where the food is. Synthetic mosquito repellents perform better on tests regarding effectiveness and provide longer protection, almost 100% in the first 2 hours. When visiting countries where mosquito-borne diseases mean high risk, DEET repellents are the most reliable.

But for summer night walks or garden parties at home, you might go for non-chemical products. Some people are skeptical about the effectiveness of essential oils, but certain natural elements are proven to be effective in keeping mosquitoes at bay. Natural products are less likely causing skin irritation but require frequent re-application because they are effective in the first 30-60 minutes only.

More travel tips: – Beach vacation packing list – How to reduce plastic when traveling?

What repellents work the best

The US Center for Disease Control recommends DEET, Picaridin, IR3535 and OLE (oil of eucalyptus) containing mosquito repellents. These ingredients are considered safe to use for adults including pregnant women, kids and babies too if consumers follow the actual product’s instructions.

Diethyltoluamide (DEET) is the first commonly used repellent that was developed by US Army over 70 years ago. Repellents that contain 15-30 % DEET provide reliable protection. Despite safety concerns, according to EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency DEET containing products are safe if used as directed both for adults and children.

A synthetic mosquito repellent that models the compound of black pepper plants. Products containing 20% Picaridin are effective and considered safe to use even on infants. Many manufacturers prefer to use Picaridin over DEET because it is not oily, doesn’t have a strong smell but features similar effectiveness. Picaridin enjoys World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation for malaria prophylaxis.

A synthetic amino acid that is structurally similar to the natural amino acid B-alanine. It was developed by Merck as an alternative to DEET. IR3535-containing items are recommended if there is a Chikungunya outbreak and are considered to work well against Zika virus mosquitos. The manufacturer recommends using products with 10 to 30 % IR3535.

Tip: babies have very sensitive skin, so despite that synthetic repellents are stated safe to use, the best way is to skip using chemicals on children younger than 2 years and protect them by using a net for strollers .

This natural gum eucalyptus tree extract wards off insects if the product contains at least 30 %. OLE is a biochemical pesticide, an effective alternative to DEET and safe to use on adults but not recommended on young kids under 3 years.

The best mosquito repellents

To minimize the number of mosquito bites, the best is to practice physical protection (wearing long-sleeved clothing, installing mosquito nets) and using effective mosquito repellents that contain DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, Oil of lemon eucalyptus or other natural repellents.

Both chemical and natural repellents work by masking odors and/or blocking mosquito’s smell receptors. From classical sprays, and lotions to bracelets and ultrasound plug-in devices, the selection is wide and now we investigate what are the best ones.

Effective mosquito repellents to buy:

• Thermacell device
• Ultrasonic repeller
• Citronella candle
• Incense stick
• Essential oil soap
• Mosquito net

Tip: The US Center of Disease Control doesn’t recommend sunscreen-mosquito repellent combination products. The repellent might decrease the sunscreen’s UV radiation feature, while the UV blocking ingredient might increase the repellent’s toxicity. If you need sun protection too, apply the sunblock first then the repellent. Make sure you use a coral-friendly sunscreen for snorkeling !

No matter whether you choose a natural or DEET or Picaridin mosquito spray, make sure that it provides you with high-level protection. You can spray your clothes or skin, but the ingredients remain effective longer on the skin. We all have different skin types and the ingredients might work differently for each of us. Therefore, it is good to test various products until you find one that works for you the best. Natural mosquito sprays contain a mix of citronella, geraniol, lemongrass and peppermint oils.

On top of a pleasant scent, you will enjoy natural protection so you can enjoy your outdoor activities carefreely. Synthetic sprays with DEET or Picaridin perform the best on repellent tests against Zika, malaria, dengue or West Nile virus mosquitoes. They give long protection up to 8-10 hours without re-application.

This fragrance-free, 20% Picaridin-containing lotion provides you a 14-hour long protection against chikungunya, Zika, West Nile Virus and Dengue mosquitoes. The handy small packets are perfect for traveling, while the pump dispensers are good to keep at home or in your beach house where the whole family can use it. Lotions are effective a little longer than sprays because of slower evaporation.

• easy to apply lotion form
• contains 20% Picaridin
• long-lasting effect up to 14 hours
• fragrance free and safe to use on the whole family

An absolute customers’ favorite, the Thermacell is the best lightweight, portable device that is DEET free and fragrance-free. It creates a 15ft bug-free zone no matter it is your patio or a camping area. The Thermacell mosquito repellent operates with a fuel cartridge and mats that are easily changeable and available in different colors to match the environment.

No products found.

Devices working with ultrasound offer a chemical-free alternative to keep away not only bugs but also mice, cockroaches, spiders and rats. The device creates electromagnetic frequency, which is not audible to humans, and doesn’t bother cats or dogs but pests so they will stay away. Use it in your house, garage or backyard, the area will be free of pests!

• newest technology pest repeller
• effective against insects, spiders, cockroaches but rats and mice too
• ultrasonic technology, no harmful chemicals

The fashionable natural oil-infused bracelets look cool and keep mosquitoes and other annoying insects like flies and gnats effectively off. Just simply put one on the wrist or ankle and enjoy your outdoor activity. The bracelets are available in different versions such as soft microfiber bracelets that are infused with essential oils, one-size-fits-all adjustable plastic ones or silicone models with replaceable oil pellets.

• adjustable bracelets with citronella, geraniol and lemongrass essential oils
• individually packed spiral bands
• perfect for traveling
• DEET-free, safe for kids too

Mosquito wipes are faster and more convenient to use than sprays. Easy to re-apply if needed. The special formula is water and sweat-resistant and gives you long-lasting protection against several kind of biting insects including flies, gnats, ticks, etc…

• individually packed easy-to-use towelettes
• 25% active DEET
• non-greasy, water and sweat resistant formula

The convenient, DEET-free patches provide you with long protection. No harmful effects, safe for kids too. Easy to use, perfect for any outdoor activity like camping, boating, walking or when traveling to tropical places.

• all natural formula containing Citronella, Lemongrass, Geraniol
• concentrated formula for faster absorption
• safe for babies too

Another natural way to drive unwanted bugs and insects away is burning natural oil incense sticks that are perfect for indoor/outdoor. These non-toxic chemical-free sticks contain natural repellents such as citronella, lemongrass and lavender oil. For the best result, place multiple sticks on the ground to get the most concentration of oil in the air!

• DEET-free eco-friendly sticks
• contain natural repellent oils (lemongrass, citronella)
• each stick is good for 90 minutes

Burning natural oil-containing candles is a great natural way to keep mosquitoes at bay. The candle fills the air with repellent oil creating a scented cloud where biting insects won’t be able to detect humans. Soy oil based, no paraffin, 100% essential oil candles are environment and eco-friendly!

• 100% eco-friendly soy candle
• high essential oil concentration to keep biting insects off
• burning time 80 hours
• handmade in the USA

Ensuring reliable bug protection simply while taking a shower using only natural elements sounds heavenly. This no-bite mosquito soap contains a special blend of quality essential oils but doesn’t have DEET or other chemicals. It leaves a pleasant smell on your skin that helps to drive away flying insects.

• best quality soap with pure essential oils
• preventive and after bite treatment
• package includes 2 oz. tube of cream plus 5 oz. soap bar
• American handmade products

Using screens and nets is definitely the most effective chemical-free way keeping unwanted visitors off, but of course, you cannot install mosquito screens in your hotel room or rental apartment when traveling. Buying a travel size mosquito net that you can take everywhere is such a brilliant idea! A lightweight mosquito tent is very easy to set up thanks to the self-supporting frame. No hook needed, just simply pop it up and enjoy peaceful nights!

• high quality net made with breathable material
• with zippers for easy going in and out
• self supporting system, no assembly kit required
• easy-to-carry, fits into luggage bigger than 18inch

Mosquito repellent essential oils

The best natural solution to keep mosquitoes at bay is using essential oils. Certain essential oils are very effective against mosquitoes and they are often among the ingredients of commercial mosquito repellents as well.

Compared to chemical-containing products, essential oils are safer to use and less likely to cause skin irritation. Although they are highly volatile, meaning that are effective only for a short time, therefore you need frequently re-apply them.

Best essential oils to keep mosquitoes  away

If you prefer natural solutions over DEET-containing bug sprays, you can easily create your own natural mosquito repellent spray!

What you need:

• mixing jar, spray container
• 1 bottle natural witch hazel
• essential oils (citronella, lemongrass, peppermint, tea tree)

To prepare the spray, pour witch hazel into the clean glass mixing jar and add the essential oils. A good combination is 15 drops of citronella oil and 15 drops of lemongrass oil. You can add 10 drops of peppermint oil to give the mixture a refreshing scent and increase the repellent effect.

Moreover, you can also add 10 drops of tea tree oil to the mixture which is an excellent antiseptic. Mix everything well and pour it into the spray bottle and your homemade, natural mosquito repellent spray is ready to use!

Shake the mixture before each use since the ingredients might separate. Be careful when spraying it on clothes because the oils might leave a stain.

• always read and follow the directions on product label
• if possible, do a skin allergy test on a small area before using on the whole body
• use repellent on exposed skin areas, on clothing but not under clothing
• don’t spray directly on your face, spray the palm of your hand first then apply to the face
• avoid the mouth and eyes, use it carefully around the ears
• don’t let kids use repellents alone
• don’t use it on sunburned, irritated skin or on cuts
• do not use repellents near food or in enclosed areas
• the ingredients may harm materials like spandex, wood, leather, synthetics, therefore keeping them away from furniture and surfaces and such clothes. See directions on the product label!
• wash the repellent off the skin with soap and warm water when returning home
• wash the treated clothes before wearing them again, the best is separately

If you are in a place where mosquitoes are common, no matter in your home country or at a tropical location, if you experience symptoms like high fever, muscle/bone/joint pain, headache, fatigue, vomiting, severe rash, or itching on yourself, family members or kids, seek medical assistance immediately!

When traveling, make research on what diseases pose a risk in your destination and take necessary precautions such as buying a travel mosquito net and effective repellents.

Always travel with travel insurance to avoid high hospital costs if you have to visit a doctor. Symptoms might begin days or weeks after infection. If you are not feeling well after arriving home from a tropical vacation, visit the nearest tropical diseases center!

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Best Mosquito Repellent For (Bug-Free) Travel

Whether you are planning a seaside summer vacation or a Safari expedition, you need to make sure that you protect yourself from mosquitos. Sure, some are completely harmless and they will just annoy you, but others are actually carriers of dangerous illnesses , such as Zika, the West Nile virus, etc.

At A Glance: Our Favorites

• Outdoor Use W4W Citronella Mosquito Repellent Coils Jump To Review
• Indoor Use Neatmaster Ultrasonic Pest Repeller Jump To Review
• General Use Sawyer Products Premium Ultra 30% DEET Repellent Jump To Review

It is always better to be safe than sorry, so the best way to protect yourself from these pesky bugs (and others!) is to arm yourself with an effective repellent.

In this review, we will first take a look at the various types of mosquito repellents out there. Then, we will take a look at the best products from the most effective repellent categories. So, without further ado, here are the best mosquito repellents for travel!

Different Types Of Mosquito Repellents

The most common types of mosquito repellents are:

• Electric Diffusers
• Ultrasonic Repellents
• Wall stickers
• Repellent wipes…

For some reason, mosquitos love me. Whenever I go away on a summer vacation, I return home with dozens of mosquito bites. Do you know what’s the best part? I am actually allergic to them, so every single bite swells to the size of at least a golf ball.

So, I have plenty of experience in dealing with these pesky little bugs, and I can honestly tell you what works best.  We’ll start off this review with electric diffuser repellents because, in my experience, these do the best job.

We’ll also take a look at a few  sprays and lotions , as these are great for the on-the-go. They can provide up to 14 hours of protection, and they are your best option if you want to stay protected while you are out and about. Especially if you plan to spend a lot of time in nature.

Bracelets are also pretty effective , especially if you want to protect your kids. They are great because they can last for several days. Once the effect of a bracelet wears out, you just throw it out and put on a new one. And, most are made of fully natural ingredients, so you don’t need to panic even if your child (or pet) decides to check what the bracelet tastes like.

In this review,  we will not go over any candles or wall stickers, because they are the least effective (in my experience!) . Additionally, candles usually have an unpleasant odor. Also, both the stickers and candles are meant to protect you inside or on the patio/balcony, so there is really not much need to go over them – electric repellents perform better in these settings.

Top Product Overview

Mavic pro battery chargers, w4w citronella mosquito repellent coils.

Mosquito coils are something people have been using for decades. For some strange reason, mosquitos just seem to hate them. Simply lay a few around where you are sitting, taking into account any wind or breezes, and soon you will have significantly fewer mosquitos around.

I find such coils are super effective and often leave me bite-free, but if you are someone they love to bite, I would also combine it with some DEET spray if you are sitting outside for a long time. Just to be safe!

Setting them up is easy too. All you need are some matches or a lighter, and they will then burn very slowly for hours. Of course, because they run down over time, you will need to keep some stock on hand so that you always have replacements. But other than that, there are very few downsides.

• Creates a handy mosquito-free zone when you are outside
• Easy to use and setup
• They do burn down over time and need replacing
• People who the mosquitos love will need to combine it with a spray

Neatmaster Ultrasonic Pest Repeller

Ultrasonic repellents also do a great job at protecting you from insect bites . They are much more suitable for indoor use than diffusers or coils because they  don’t release any toxic chemicals or smells . Instead, they produce ultrasonic waves (ie. they are silent to humans) that repel insects. This also makes them safer to use overnight, especially if you have pets or small children.

And, I don’t know about you, but one of my biggest concerns, when I travel during the summer, is mosquitos feasting on me while I’m sleeping. And you can leave this baby on while you sleep!

Note, however, that these devices are  harmful to hamsters . Additionally, a downside of such devices is that  you have to wait a week or two for them to actually start working . But, once they start to work, it will efficiently protect you from insects. However, since they take a while to actually start repelling bugs, they are not really that useful for short vacations.

These devices  work best in smaller rooms – bedrooms, living rooms, etc. If you want to repel mosquitos from a larger area (a garage or a basement) you will need to plug in several of these in the room for them to stay effective.

A  restriction  is that they have to be  plugged into an outlet . This means that they are not very portable, and won’t do much for you once you leave the room the device is operating in. On the other hand, they  do not require any tablets or heat to work , so they are better (and cheaper) than diffusers or coils.

Similar Products:

MaxMoxie Ultrasonic Pest Repeller

• Meant for indoor/overnight use
• Safe for use with children and pets
• Takes 1-2 weeks to start working
• Not portable
• Not suitable for indoor use

Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelet

Bracelets  are a great choice because they are incredibly easy to use. You just put one on, and that’s it!  You are protected from mosquito bites for the next 2-3 days . And, they are  waterproof , so you don’t have to take them off even when you want to go for a swim.

They have a  really strong lemongrass smell . And, even though they are chemical-free and made of  100% natural ingredients if you are sensitive to smells this will be a problem for you. In that case, you might consider wearing this around your ankle; their effect will still be as powerful, but their scent will not.

A great thing about such a bracelet is that you get a multi-pack with various colors . And when you are not using the bracelet, just put it away and use it again later.

It’s also cool that they come in 5 different colors, so everyone can choose the one they like best.

The downside of these?  They might not be as effective for people who get bitten by mosquitos more often than your average Joe . They will still work wonderfully, but one or 2 of those annoying insects could get through to your skin.

• Lasts up to 420 hours
• Made of natural ingredients
• May not work for people who attract mosquitos

Repel 94101 6-Ounce Sportsmen Max Insect Repellent

Spray repellents are usually really good at protecting you from bites.  The Repel’s effect can last up to 8 hours , and after that you just re-apply it. This particular spray is  made of 40% DEET , a chemical that is used in most insect repellents.

Even though DEET is mostly harmless, it can cause skin irritation, especially if you are allergic to it . If you experience any unusual irritations after applying the spray, stop using it and get tested for a DEET allergy. And by all means, avoid spraying it in your eyes in your mouth.

This particular spray is  great if you are planning to travel to Africa , and you want to protect yourself from mosquitoes that transmit Zika, Dengue, and West Nile viruses. It is a very strong repellent, and as such, it is recommended that you do not spray it under your clothing . It is, however, suitable to be used on the face; just don’t spray it directly on your face.

This spray is meant for  outdoor use , and it is not recommended that you use it in enclosed areas. A good thing about this spray is that  you can use it on children , just don’t spray it directly on their skin.

Repel 100 Insect Repellent

REPEL Lemon Eucalyptus Natural Insect Repellent Pump

Sawyer Products Premium Ultra 30% DEET Insect Repellent

• Great at repelling insects and works with disease-transmitting mosquitos
• Suitable for kids
• Works outdoors
• DEET is an allergen

Sawyer Products Premium Ultra 30% DEET Repellent

In general,  lotions  have an advantage over sprays because they  last longer . However, you can’t apply lotions to your clothes and sprays you can. In terms of their effectiveness, I’d say that they both do a great job. Additionally, this is suitable for children, and there are no restrictions on indoor/outdoor use .

This lotion in particular has an  effect that lasts up to 11 hours.  You can  apply it in combination with sunscreen – the first pun on sunscreen and then put on the repellent. You will be safe from bug bites whether you are on a safari or just strolling along the lakeshore.

This lotion contains  30% DEET  which will protect you from bug bites incredibly well. And, another advantage this, and many other lotions have over sprays is that they are  usually odorless . Therefore, if you are sensitive to strong smells but still need powerful and long-lasting protections, maybe a lotion is the way to go.

REPEL Sportsmen Max Formula Insect Repellent Lotion

Sallye Ander “No-Bite-Me” All Natural Bug Repellent

• Lasts up to 8 hours
• Can't be applied to clothes

What Mosquito Repellent Should I Get?

That depends on several things. First, it depends on whether you need the repellent for use indoors or outdoors. For  indoor use , I would recommend an ultrasonic repellent, such as the  Neatmaster Ultrasonic Pest Repeller .

• DRIVING OUT PESTS FROM YOUR HOME : Our mouse repellent uses state of bionic wave , electromagnetic wave and ultrasonic wave technology to drive pests away , which drive pests out of your home for good. Mice, rats, spiders, roaches, mosquitoes, ants ,snakes , rats; None are immune to our bug repellent and completely leave after a few short weeks of use.
• EASY TO USE : Simply plug our rodent repellent in the outlet, ultrasonic mouse repellent works when you notice the green light is on , which is used for minor pest infestation; Adjust to blue light mode if you have middle pest infestation, Turning on Red mode if you have terrible pests infestation.

For  outdoor use , I would suggest either a bracelet or a coil, depending on whether you need to repel mosquitos while you are out and about, or when you are just chilling on the patio. I would say recommend the  W4W Citronella Mosquito Repellent Coils , simply because old-school tech like this is simple, portable, easy to use, and just works!

• 3 Pack (Contains 12 coils & 6 coil stands)
• Each Coil Burns for 5 - 7 Hours

On the other hand,  if you need something to protect yourself while you are out exploring nature, then a lotion or a spray is the way to go . Your best bet is to get something that contains DEET, provided you are not allergic to it. DEET is undoubtedly the most used chemical in mosquito repellents, and it is incredibly effective. Since lotions last longer than sprays, I’d say go for the Sawyer Products lotion .

• Liposome-based repellent with 30 percent DEET — great for use in the backcountry or backyard
• Effective against mosquitoes, ticks, flies, chiggers, fleas, and no-see-ums

For a bite-free vacation, go check out these products on Amazon; you won’t find a better deal anywhere else!

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Top Picks: Best Travel Insect Repellent for Trips

Warm weather brings us fun in the sun, but it also means encounters with pesky bugs that can cause serious harm. Mosquitoes and ticks carry bacteria, parasites, and viruses — including Zika, dengue, and Lyme disease — that they transfer to humans through biting. Protecting yourself with bug spray before heading outdoors is the best way to lessen your risk of contracting an illness from a bite. We have researched and tested various bug sprays to find the best options for travel .

Key Takeaways:

• Choose the best travel insect repellent to protect yourself from bug bites.
• Mosquitoes and ticks can carry diseases, so it’s important to use bug spray when outdoors.
• Our top picks include effective options for various needs, such as picaridin-based repellents, DEET-based repellents, unscented options, lotions, and more.
• Consider factors like duration, scent, size, and sunscreen protection when selecting the right insect repellent for your travel needs.
• Stay safe and enjoy your outdoor adventures without worrying about bug bites and the diseases they may carry.

Best Overall Picaridin Repellent

The Off! Family Care Insect Repellent With Picaridin is our top pick for the best overall picaridin-based insect repellent. It offers effective protection against bugs, including mosquitoes, with a 5/5 rating for effectiveness and coverage . The formula is gentle on the skin and doesn’t have an off-putting chemical smell. It comes in a convenient size for travel at 2.5 to 4 ounces.

Best Overall DEET Repellent

The OFF! Active Insect Repellent I (15% DEET) is our top pick for the best overall DEET-based insect repellent. With a 15% DEET concentration, it provides five-hour protection against bugs. The spray bottle is easy to use, and the formula is non-greasy and doesn’t leave any residue. However, it is not travel-sized.

• 15% DEET concentration
• Provides five-hour protection against bugs
• Easy-to-use spray bottle
• Non-greasy formula

Note: The table above provides a comprehensive overview of the OFF! Active Insect Repellent I, highlighting its key features and specifications.

When it comes to bug sprays, the OFF! Active Insect Repellent I stands out as the best overall DEET-based option. Its 15% DEET concentration ensures effective protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs for up to five hours.

The spray bottle design makes it convenient to apply evenly on the skin, ensuring maximum coverage . Plus, its non-greasy formula absorbs quickly, leaving no residue, making it comfortable to wear. Although it may not be travel-sized, its performance and reliability make it an excellent choice for outdoor activities .

Whether you’re hiking, camping, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, the OFF! Active Insect Repellent I provides the long-lasting mosquito repellent you need to keep pesky bugs at bay.

Best Unscented Repellent

The EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes Insect Repellent is our top pick for the best unscented insect repellent. It has a fragrance-free formula that feels moisturizing on the skin and is perfect for both kids and adults. The wide spray nozzle ensures even coverage , and it has a 14-hour duration against bugs. However, it is not waterproof.

When it comes to insect repellents, finding a safe and non-toxic bug spray is essential. Many conventional repellents on the market contain harmful chemicals that can be toxic to humans and the environment. That’s why the EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes Insect Repellent is a standout choice for those looking for a more natural alternative.

This repellent is made with safe and effective ingredients that are derived from plant-based essential oils. It contains no DEET or other synthetic chemicals that can be harmful to your health. Instead, it relies on the power of nature to keep bugs at bay.

One of the standout features of this insect repellent is its fragrance-free formula. Many repellents on the market have strong, unpleasant scents that can be overwhelming. The EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes Insect Repellent, however, is completely unscented, making it ideal for those who are sensitive to fragrances or simply prefer a more neutral scent.

Not only is this repellent safe and unscented, but it also provides long-lasting protection against bugs. With a 14-hour duration, you can enjoy outdoor activities without the constant worry of mosquito bites or other insect nuisances. The wide spray nozzle ensures even coverage , helping to maximize the repellent’s effectiveness.

While the EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes Insect Repellent is not waterproof, it is still a highly effective option for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or simply enjoying a day at the beach, this unscented repellent will help keep bugs at bay without the use of harsh chemicals.

Investing in a safe and non-toxic bug spray not only protects you and your family from annoying bug bites but also minimizes the negative impact on the environment. The EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes Insect Repellent offers a reliable solution for those seeking a more natural alternative without compromising on effectiveness.

Best Lotion Repellent

The Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent is our top pick for the best lotion-based insect repellent. With its effective bug spray formula and long-lasting mosquito repellent properties, it provides reliable protection against bugs even in challenging environments, such as tall grass and near rivers.

The lotion has a white consistency but easily rubs into the skin, leaving no residue behind. Its non-greasy formula ensures comfortable and hassle-free application. Additionally, the Sawyer Products Insect Repellent offers a remarkable 14-hour duration, making it an excellent choice for extended outdoor activities . Travelers will appreciate its convenient 2-ounce size, perfect for on-the-go protection.

Key Features:

• Effective bug spray formula
• Long-lasting mosquito repellent properties
• Protection against bugs in tall grass and near rivers
• Non-greasy and residue-free application
• 14-hour duration
• Convenient 2-ounce size

When it comes to choosing a reliable lotion-based insect repellent, the Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent is a top contender that offers both effectiveness and convenience. Say goodbye to annoying bug bites and enjoy your outdoor adventures with peace of mind.

Best Heavy-duty DEET Repellent

The Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent VIII is our top pick for the best heavy-duty DEET-based insect repellent. Its powerful formula provides effective bug protection, making it an ideal choice for those seeking long-lasting mosquito repellent during outdoor activities . With a dryer, more powder-like consistency, this repellent sprays easily and evenly, ensuring comprehensive coverage .

The Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent VIII comes in a travel-friendly bottle, making it convenient to carry wherever your adventures take you. Its quick-absorbing formula means you can apply it and get on with your day without any greasy or sticky residue. However, it is important to note that compared to other products we tested, its duration of protection is slightly shorter.

To help you visualize the performance and features of the Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent VIII, here’s a side-by-side comparison with other heavy-duty bug sprays we evaluated:

As you can see from the comparison table, the Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent VIII offers a user-friendly application, a powder-like consistency, and effective protection against mosquitoes and other bugs.

Here’s a quote from a satisfied customer:

“I recently used the Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent VIII during a camping trip, and it provided excellent protection against mosquitoes and ticks. The dry formula was easy to apply and didn’t leave any greasy residue. I highly recommend it for anyone seeking heavy-duty bug repellent.”

If you’re searching for a heavy-duty DEET-based insect repellent that offers effective bug spray and long-lasting mosquito repellent, the Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent VIII is the ideal choice for your outdoor adventures. Its powerful formula, ease of application, and travel-friendly packaging make it an excellent option for staying protected against pesky bugs.

Best Heavy-duty Picaridin Repellent

The Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent is our top pick for the best heavy-duty picaridin-based insect repellent. Made from 20% picaridin, it offers effective bug spray that provides long-lasting mosquito repellent. This powerful formula ensures protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and other bothersome bugs.

The Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent is user-friendly for the whole family, making it a versatile option for outdoor activities . Its long-lasting nature means you can enjoy bug-free adventures all day long.

As with any bug spray, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The formula of the Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent is slightly greasy, which can be a downside for those who prefer a non-greasy feel.

Overall, if you’re in need of a heavy-duty picaridin repellent that offers effective bug spray and long-lasting mosquito repellent, the Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent is an excellent choice. Its powerful formula ensures protection against a variety of insects, allowing you to fully enjoy your outdoor activities without the annoyance of bug bites.

Best With Sun Protection

The Bullfrog Sunscreen and Insect Repellent is our top pick for the best insect repellent with sun protection. It is a combo sunscreen/bug spray formula that provides SPF 50 protection and repels insects for up to eight hours. The formula is waterproof and contains calming aloe and vitamin E for skin-soothing comfort.

Best Eco-friendly Repellent

The Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent is our top pick for the best eco-friendly insect repellent. It is made with 30% oil of lemon eucalyptus and repels insects for up to six hours. The pump spray bottle makes it easy to apply, but the lemon eucalyptus oil does give off a strong scent.

Why Choose Eco-Friendly Repellents?

When it comes to protecting yourself and the environment, opting for an eco-friendly insect repellent is a smart choice. Traditional bug sprays often contain chemicals like DEET, which can have harmful effects on both human health and the planet. Natural insect repellents, like the Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent, provide an effective alternative without compromising on safety or efficacy.

The Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent is an excellent choice for individuals who prefer a natural approach to bug protection. Its formula is free from DEET, providing peace of mind for those looking to avoid chemical-based repellents. With its powerful bug-repelling properties and easy application, this eco-friendly spray offers a safe and effective solution for your outdoor adventures.

The Benefits of Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus

The Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent is formulated with 30% oil of lemon eucalyptus, a natural and plant-based ingredient known for its mosquito and tick repellent properties. This essential oil is derived from the leaves of the lemon-scented gum eucalyptus plant and has been proven effective in warding off biting insects.

In addition to its efficacy, oil of lemon eucalyptus offers the following benefits:

• Natural and DEET-free alternative
• Gentle on the skin
• Environmentally friendly
• Does not leave a greasy residue

Eco-Friendly Insect Repellent Comparison

Based on the comparison table above, the Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent stands out as the top choice for its higher oil of lemon eucalyptus concentration and longer-lasting effectiveness. Keep in mind that the scent of the product may be stronger compared to other options, which can be a factor to consider if you are sensitive to strong smells.

Remember, choosing an eco-friendly insect repellent not only protects you from bugs but also supports a healthier environment.

Best for Sensitive Skin

A safe insect repellent is essential, especially if you have sensitive skin. The Proven Insect Repellent Spray is our top pick for the best insect repellent for sensitive skin. It provides effective protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects for up to 14 hours, giving you peace of mind during outdoor activities .

The formula of Proven Insect Repellent Spray contains 20% picaridin, a non-toxic bug spray ingredient that is highly effective in repelling bugs without causing harm to your skin. It is fragrance-free and non-greasy, making it suitable for all ages, including children and those with sensitive skin conditions.

With Proven Insect Repellent Spray, you can enjoy your outdoor adventures without worries about bug bites or skin irritations. Its gentle formula ensures a pleasant experience while keeping harmful insects at bay.

Choosing the best travel insect repellent is essential for protecting yourself and your family from bug bites. Our top picks include both DEET-based and picaridin-based insect repellents that offer effective and long-lasting protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs.

Whether you prefer lotions, sprays, or eco-friendly options, there is a travel-friendly bug repellent that will suit your needs. Stay safe and bug-free on your next adventure with the best travel insect repellents available.

What is the best travel insect repellent for trips ?

Our top picks for the best travel insect repellent include both DEET-based and picaridin-based options that offer effective and long-lasting protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs.

Which insect repellent is the best overall picaridin repellent?

The Off! Family Care Insect Repellent With Picaridin is our top pick for the best overall picaridin-based insect repellent. It offers effective protection against bugs, including mosquitoes, with a 5/5 rating for effectiveness and coverage .

What is the best overall DEET repellent?

The OFF! Active Insect Repellent I (15% DEET) is our top pick for the best overall DEET-based insect repellent. With a 15% DEET concentration, it provides five-hour protection against bugs.

Which insect repellent is the best unscented repellent?

The EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes Insect Repellent is our top pick for the best unscented insect repellent. It has a fragrance-free formula that feels moisturizing on the skin and is perfect for both kids and adults.

What is the best lotion repellent?

The Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent is our top pick for the best lotion-based insect repellent. It offers long-lasting protection against bugs, even in tall grass and near rivers.

Which insect repellent is the best heavy-duty DEET repellent?

The Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent VIII is our top pick for the best heavy-duty DEET-based insect repellent. It has a dryer, more powder-like formula that sprays easily and evenly.

What is the best heavy-duty Picaridin repellent?

The Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent is our top pick for the best heavy-duty picaridin-based insect repellent. It is made from 20% picaridin and offers long-lasting protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs.

Which insect repellent is the best with sun protection?

The Bullfrog Sunscreen and Insect Repellent is our top pick for the best insect repellent with sun protection. It is a combo sunscreen/bug spray formula that provides SPF 50 protection and repels insects for up to eight hours.

What is the best eco-friendly repellent?

The Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent is our top pick for the best eco-friendly insect repellent. It is made with 30% oil of lemon eucalyptus and repels insects for up to six hours.

Which insect repellent is the best for sensitive skin?

The Proven Insect Repellent Spray is our top pick for the best insect repellent for sensitive skin. It contains 20% picaridin and provides up to 14 hours of protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects.

What are the top-rated insect repellents?

Our top-rated insect repellents include the Off! Family Care Insect Repellent With Picaridin, OFF! Active Insect Repellent I (15% DEET), EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes Insect Repellent, Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent, Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent VIII, Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent, Bullfrog Sunscreen and Insect Repellent, Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent, and Proven Insect Repellent Spray.

Are these insect repellents safe and non-toxic?

Yes, all the insect repellents mentioned are safe to use and non-toxic when used as directed. They have been extensively tested and approved for use by regulatory authorities.

How long do these insect repellents last?

The duration of protection varies depending on the specific product. Most of the repellents offer protection for several hours, ranging from five to 14 hours, depending on the formula and concentration.

Source Links

• https://www.travelandleisure.com/style/travel-accessories/best-bug-sprays
• https://www.realsimple.com/best-mosquito-repellents-7507542
• https://www.consumerreports.org/health/insect-repellent/best-insect-repellents-for-you-and-your-family-a4042114470/

Hello! I'm Wise, a Filipina with a deep love for my country and a passion for sharing its beauty with the world. As a writer, blogger, and videographer, I capture the essence of the Philippines through my eyes, hoping to give foreign visitors a true taste of what makes these islands so special.

From the vibrant streets of Manila to the tranquil beaches of Palawan, my journey is about uncovering the hidden gems and everyday wonders that define the Filipino spirit. My articles and blogs are not just travel guides; they are invitations to explore, to feel, and to fall in love with the Philippines, just as I have.

Through my videos, I strive to bring the sights, sounds, and stories of my homeland to life. Whether it's the local cuisine, the colorful festivals, or the warm smiles of the people, I aim to prepare visitors for an authentic experience.

For those seeking more than just a vacation, the Philippines can be a place of discovery and, perhaps, even love. My goal is to be your guide, not just to the places you'll visit, but to the experiences and connections that await in this beautiful corner of the world. Welcome to the Philippines, through my eyes. Let's explore together!

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10 Best Mosquito Repellents to Keep Those Pesky Bugs Away

Say bye to all that buzzing!

Every item on this page was chosen by a The Pioneer Woman editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

As soon as the weather warms up, we're rushing outside to get a taste of that summer sun—and every year, we nearly forget that swarms of mosquitoes are waiting to get a taste of us. Nothing ruins a backyard cookout, hike, or camping trip like those pesky pests. Without a proper line of defense and an arsenal of the best mosquito repellents, they might even drive you indoors. And who wants to miss out on solid time in nature?

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Thermacell patio shield mosquito repeller.

Best Aerosol

Off familycare picaridin insect repellent aerosol viii.

Best Bracelet

Evergreen research superband mosquito repellent bracelet.

Ben's 30 Deet Mosquito Tick Insect & Bug Repellent Field Wipes

Best Lotion

Ultrathon insect repellent lotion.

Best Yard Spray

Wondercide flea and tick spray concentrate for yard and garden.

Best Lantern

Thermacell cambridge mosquito repellent patio shield lantern.

Best Candle

Off triple wick citronella candle.

Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent (Pack of 2)

Best for Fabrics

Sawyer products premium permethrin clothing insect repellent.

When it comes to choosing the best mosquito repellant, it’s best to take a three-pronged approach: Spray your yards and gardens with a lawn spray, replace the spring candles on your patio with some mosquito repellent lanterns and citronella candles, and apply insect repellent on yourself and your clothing. This list includes mosquito repellents that’ll help you cover all the bases and offers smart options for the spray-averse, including wipes, bracelets, and lotions. We've even included a viral mosquito repeller device that you can just set on your patio . Then all that's left is to enjoy a bite-free summer!

Stay pest free with these other ideas:

• Alex Drummond Says This Indoor Fly Trap Keeps Her Home Pest-Free
• These Popular Mesh Food Covers Are Only $10 on Amazon
• How to Get Rid of Gnats in Your Home for Good

Grab this nifty device and you'll be saying bye-bye to all those bugs! With a sleek design that offers powerful protection against mosquitoes within a 15-foot zone, it's no wonder the product has more than 27,000 five-star ratings. You don't even need cords or batteries. Heat-activated technology powered by a compact 12-hour fuel cartridge emits a scent-free synthetic allethrin repellent that reaches maximum protection in just 15 minutes. The repellent mats last up to four hours each and change color when it's time to replace them—which is done easily since the device is compatible with all mat and fuel refills. And don't worry, it's safe to use around kids and pets!

You know what they say: Prevention is the best protection! That's what makes this classic aerosol spray so great. Formulated with 10% picaridin and EvenSpray Technology, if you spray it on before heading out, it'll keep mosquitoes from even buzzing in your direction. The easy-to-apply spray can be used on the whole family and repels those critters without being oily or greasy—it won't damage fabrics or plastics either. Just head to an open area then hold the bottle 6 to 8 inches from skin and spray with a slow sweeping motion. For maximum protection, you can spread the product with your hands. You won't need to reapply for another 6 hours!

Pop on one of these one-size-fits-all bracelets from Evergreen for over 25o hours of protection. Each one in the pack of 25 is infused with insect-repelling geraniol oil, lemongrass oil, and citronella oil. They're water-resistant so you can enjoy your favorite outdoor activities without worry—and when you're done, slip the bracelet back in its individual resealable bag to keep it fresh. Bonus points: The superbands are 100% natural, DEET-free, and safe for adults, kids, and even pets to wear without leaving any oily residue on your skin (or fur).

Ben's 30 Deet Mosquito Tick Insect & Bug Repellent Field Wipes

These water-based wipes are a non-bulky alternative to personal bug sprays. Since you rub them directly to the skin, they’re super precise—not to mention, easier to apply on the kiddos. You'll still get the same long-lasting protection (up to eight hours) from mosquitoes, ticks, flies, fleas, chiggers, and other insects, but without any unpleasant odors or sticky and greasy residues. It's a good bang for your buck as well, since they come as two packs of 12 individually wrapped wipes that you can easily transport wherever you go.

This lotion wards off mosquitoes and other biting insects for up to 12 hours with 34.34% DEET, the most common insect repellent ingredient. And get this: It's designed with 3M Controlled Release Technology which traps the DEET and slowly releases it over the surface of your skin for continuous and powerful protection that is sure to last. The formula stays effective up to five years and even comes in a bottle that meets TSA requirements. So, whenever and wherever you need a repellent, just smooth it on like sunscreen and you’re good to go!

If you plan to spend a lot of time in your yard these next few months, you'll be so thankful for this spray. It uses cedar oil to repel and kill pests like mosquitoes, fleas, ants, ticks (and more) while also preventing insects in the egg, larvae, and pupae stages from developing further and hatching—and it's not harmful to beneficial insects. The eco-friendly formula is safe around kids and pets so you can spray it on lawns, gardens, playgrounds, patios, dog parks, and other outdoor spaces with no dry time required. Apply it with a hose end sprayer, trigger sprayer or even compression and pressure applicators.

Want to avoid the smell of citronella? This lantern is scent-free, silent, and offers hours of defense in a 15-foot area of protection by creating an invisible barrier wherever you click it on. Yep, there's no smoke, flames or cords needed for this one. It's powered by an internal and refillable 12-hour fuel cartridge that heats and activates the DEET-free repellents found in the mats that you'll place at the top of the lantern—for max protection in just 15 minutes. Included is one repeller, one 12-hour fuel cartridge, and three four-hour repellent mats. The lantern light works independently and takes four AA batteries that you'll need to purchase separately.

Sometimes keeping all those little pests away is as simple as lighting a candle—especially this candle. It's made with real citronella oil which works by masking the scents that attract insects. So, just set this 23-ounce triple-wick candle in an outdoor area and watch as it repels mosquitoes and other flying insects by creating a repellent barrier for up to 50 hours. You'll get best results within 3 feet, but can burn several candles to maximize the perimeter protection. Just make sure to place the candles at least 18 inches apart and keep them out of reach of children or pets.

Some bug sprays can have an unpleasant smell, but this best selling pick from Sawyer’s sure doesn’t! Instead, it has a light citrus scent that rapidly fades away while the picaridin-based formula works to keep mosquitoes, ticks, gnats, chiggers, fleas, and biting flies at bay for up to 12 hours. It's safe for use on the whole family and won't even feel icky thanks to its quick-drying, non-greasy protection. It won't damage plastic or synthetic coatings either, so after you spray it on yourself, you can also use it on clothing, backpacks, watches, sunglasses, fishing gear and more.

This pick is formulated specifically for clothing and other fabrics, such as hiking gear, camping tents, and sleeping bags. One application can last up to six washings or 42 days of UV and air exposure. Better yet, the insect repellent both repels and kills mosquitoes, chiggers, mites, ticks, and more. Here's how you'll do it: Spray the Permethrin directly onto your clothing and gear with a slow sweeping motion, keeping the bottle about six to eight inches away. Make sure to treat each side of the garment for about 30 seconds. The product will bond to fabric fibers (without harming them) then turn odorless once it dries.

Carol is the Associate Beauty E-Commerce Writer at ELLE.com , where she covers all things beauty. Before joining ELLE.com , she was an editor at Food Network Magazine and HGTV Magazine . She’s always on the hunt for the perfect lipstick and watches the same few comfort sitcoms ( Frasier , Cheers , Seinfeld , New Girl , etc.) over and over again. 

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Reuse These Kitchen Staples To Keep Bugs Away From Your Campsite

C amping is a summer tradition, but the presence of bugs can quickly turn an enjoyable trip into a buzzing nightmare. While bug sprays and repellents are effective, they contain harsh chemicals harmful to the environment and your health. For the environmentally friendly, health-conscious camper, there are several natural alternatives to keep bugs at bay.

From vinegar and garlic to coffee grounds and more, some common staples you could probably find in your kitchen can work wonders to repel insects. Even coconut oil has a knack for repelling flies and other bugs. These items will be kinder to the environment and ensure a more pleasant and healthier camping experience for you and your fellow campers, children, and pets.

Using natural ingredients to keep bugs away from your campsite is simple and cost-effective. A bug spray can cost an average of $5-$25, depending on the brand and size. Using kitchen staples is much more economical, as you likely have most of these items already in your pantry or can find them easily and for a better price.

Read more: The Best Methods For Securing Your Tent To Feel Safer While Camping

Use Coffee Grounds For Relief From Mosquitoes

Start your bug-busting journey with an item that's likely a staple in your daily routine — coffee grounds. The strong aroma of coffee grounds is generally disliked by bugs, making it an excellent natural repellent. Insects, particularly mosquitoes, are attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale, and the smell of coffee can mask that scent, making you less appealing to them. Sprinkling used coffee grounds around your campsite can create a barrier against ants and other insects.

Burnt coffee, in particular, creates an even stronger scent that bugs will avoid at all costs. However, according to the National Park Service, this pungent smell can be an attractor for wildlife, including bears, so be cautious. A metal bowl, ceramic dish, or foil plate can be used to burn dried coffee grounds. Adding a few drops of lighter fluid can help the grounds burn, too. Always exercise caution, pay attention to fire restrictions, and be mindful of wildlife populations before burning coffee grounds.

Boiling the grounds with water and spraying it around your campsite can also help prevent mosquitos and be a more convenient prevention method. Natural chlorogenic acid, found in higher amounts in dark roast coffee, can help prevent the larval development of some mosquito species. Spraying on tent fabrics, camping chairs, nets, and more can do the job and be safer for campers with pets, as they should never ingest coffee grounds.

Bugs Can't Stand The Scent Of Onions And Garlic

Although they may not be the most popular food option for everyone, onions are another natural insect repellent to add to your camping arsenal. Onions have a sulfur component that repels insects, making them less likely to come near your campsite. To use onions as a bug repellent, use an onion or two in your campfire cooking as a natural bug deterrent.

Add a few cloves of garlic if your recipe calls for it. Garlic contains the same bug-deterring sulfur as onions. If you're not particularly fond of onions and are worried about the smell around your campsite, avoid yellow onions — they have a higher sulfur content compared to white or red onions, thus creating a more pungent smell. On the other hand, if you're more concerned about repelling bugs, then go for the yellow onion. 

Like coffee grounds, you can create a natural spray by combining onion, garlic, and water. Spritz the mixture around your campsite for added protection against bugs. In addition to repelling insects, onions can help soothe insect bites, so keeping one on hand is helpful. If you get bitten, try rubbing a slice of onion on the affected area to relieve itching and inflammation.

Vinegar And Citrus Keep Ants Away

Ants are one of the most common pests you may encounter while camping. To keep them at bay, try using vinegar. The strong acidity of vinegar disrupts their scent trails and makes it difficult for them to navigate toward your food or campsite. Plus, vinegar poses no risk for those camping with pets.Mix equal parts water and white vinegar, or apple cider vinegar for a stronger solution, in a spray bottle and spritz around the areas where you want to keep ants away. You can also spray directly on any visible ants to deter them. The versatility of vinegar extends beyond a bug spray — it doubles as a multi-purpose cleaner perfect for wiping down picnic tables, clean dishes, or freshening your tent or RV.

In addition to white and apple cider vinegar, citrus fruits like lemons, grapefruit, and oranges can also help repel bugs. Citrus contains citronella oil, which is a natural insect repellent. Peeling citrus fruits like lemons or oranges and placing them around your campsite can create a strong scent that repels mosquitos, horseflies, ants, and other insects.

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The Thermacell Is the Best Mosquito Repellent I’ve Tried — Here's Why

Make mosquito bites a distant memory with this refillable repellent device.

Types of Thermacell Repellers

Thermacell mosquito repellent e-series rechargeable repeller, thermacell patio shield mosquito repeller, thermacell mosquito repellent lantern, thermacell mosquito repellent perimeter system, thermacell mr300 portable mosquito repeller, thermacell mosquito backpacker repeller, tips and tricks, shipping and warranty information, our expertise.

Food & Wine / Themacell

I live in the South, and mosquito season starts woefully early here. They can be brutal, and I've tried everything to get them to leave me alone. I am one of those people that mosquitoes are attracted to, and so is my daughter, who gets enormous welts when bitten. Since I also garden often, I've tried everything to keep the mosquitos away , including stinky chemical sprays, wearable sonic devices, stickers, wristbands, and more. It got to the point where we couldn't even enjoy the beautiful backyard we had worked so hard to create. We tried the best bug zapper s, which had its limitations. Mosquito spraying services do not work well, and I worry about the effect on pollinators. The only solution that's truly worked for us is Thermacell's mosquito repellers . 

I discovered Thermacell’s products a few years ago, and they've since become a staple whenever we are outdoors. Unlike other insect-repellent products, Thermacell doesn't require chemicals, sprays, or lotions, which makes it an excellent alternative for those who prefer a more plug-and-play solution. The active ingredient allethrin, a synthetic version of a naturally occurring mosquito repellent from chrysanthemum flowers, is sold in refillable cartridges .

There are various formats for the Thermacell, but all appliances use butane to heat a replaceable cartridge of scent-free mosquito repellent. The portable devices don't require cords or batteries once charged, so there is no worry about flames. Depending on the device, they recharge with a USB cord, lasting about 6-8 hours, and that's the perfect amount of time for any outdoor gathering . 

Each device has unique features and benefits, so choosing the one that best suits your needs and preferences is important. Whether you are looking for something you can place outside during your next party or something to take along on your next hike, these options can fit most needs.

The E-Series is the model I use the most. I create Venn diagram-like zones for protection with multiple units, which does the trick since each device covers 20 x 20 feet. I usually put them at floor level in key corners, which works better than sprays. Each cartridge has enough juice for 12 hours, and you can easily buy replacements (I keep them on subscribe and save). The E-Series is also easy to take to the beach or camping; we use them to keep our picnic spots mosquito-free.

"I have the rechargeable and the In-ground Radius Control," says Senior Commerce Editor Brierley Horton. " The in-ground is good, but I am obsessed with the rechargeable one. I hide it from my kids so they can’t break it or burn the battery down. I carry it in one hand and my wine glass in the other when I go out in the yard in the evening!"

The Patio Shield is designed for use on a deck or patio. It uses a rechargeable battery but a different cartridge than the E-Series. This model uses a mat containing synthetic insecticide to create a 15 x 15-foot mosquito-free zone around the device, providing up to 12 hours of mosquito protection per refill. Its range is limited, so this is a better option when it stays still. If you're hosting a backyard party or barbecue, a couple of these will do the trick.

This device is a combination camping lantern and mosquito repeller. It is a good choice for people who want to avoid charging their machine because it takes batteries (note: not included). The lantern uses a butane cartridge and a mat containing synthetic insecticide to create a 15 x 15-foot mosquito-free zone around the lantern. It provides up to 40 hours of mosquito protection per refill and is an excellent option for camping trips or outdoor events since it provides both light and insect protection.

This discrete Thermacell option comes in a two-pack, which you can mount in landscaping or on your deck. It has two perimeter multi-insect repellers and everything you need to install and refill it often. A two-pack provides about 30 feet of perimeter protection, which is a total of 450 square feet. You can flip these on 15 minutes before needed, and they will be effective once the orange light illuminates. Remember to switch them off when not in use to preserve the fuel. 

This unit is for outdoors lovers, always hiking, fishing, or camping. The handheld device creates a 15 x 15-foot (225 square feet) mosquito-free zone from wherever it's positioned, providing up to 12 hours of mosquito protection per refill. The repeller can clip to a belt, a backpack, or a boat for fishing or spending time on a lake. It requires no batteries and is powered by a compact 12-hour fuel cartridge, which is included. The repellent mats last up to 4 hours and change color when it's time to swap it out.

This Thermacell is lightweight and compact at just 4 ounces, perfect for backpacking and camping trips. It provides up to 90 hours of mosquito protection per refill and uses a backpacking stove fuel canister, which is sold separately. The heat activates a repellent mat and disperses the allethrin insect repellent.

• Thermacell recommends as best practice not to run Thermacell repellents directly next to uncovered food. Studies show the product leaves such a minimal amount of residue that it is practically untraceable on surfaces, but best to err on the side of caution. 
• Thermacell is safe for humans and pets, so there is no need to worry about that. 
• You need to charge the units before use, and you can only use batteries if you are camping. 
• Switch off the unit when not used to get the best life out of your cartridge and battery. 
• Thermacells are not for use indoors. Always follow the instructions for proper use. 

Thermacell devices are a good option for people who spend time outdoors, whether camping, hiking, or enjoying their backyard. When deciding whether to buy a Thermacell, it's essential to consider your needs and preferences. If you spend a lot of time outdoors and are bothered by mosquitoes and other flying insects, then a Thermacell can be an effective and convenient solution. It's also a good option for those sensitive to traditional insect-repellent products, as it doesn't require direct contact with the skin.

Most retailers ship for free since the units weigh little. Thermacell offers a 100% guarantee on its products. 

Jennifer Zyman is a Senior Commerce Writer for Food & Wine and a former restaurant critic with a culinary school degree and over 15 years of food writing experience. Her work has appeared in Atlanta Magazine, Bon Appetit, Eater Atlanta, The Kitchn, Local Palate, National Geographic, Simply Recipes, Southern Living, and Thrillist. She wrote this story using testing data and research.

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Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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Trains Moscow to Elektrostal: Times, Prices and Tickets

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Moscow to Elektrostal by train

The journey from Moscow to Elektrostal by train is 32.44 mi and takes 2 hr 7 min. There are 71 connections per day, with the first departure at 12:15 AM and the last at 11:46 PM. It is possible to travel from Moscow to Elektrostal by train for as little as or as much as . The best price for this journey is .

Get from Moscow to Elektrostal with Virail

Virail's search tool will provide you with the options you need when you want to go from Moscow to Elektrostal. All you need to do is enter the dates of your planned journey, and let us take care of everything else. Our engine does the hard work, searching through thousands of routes offered by our trusted travel partners to show you options for traveling by train, bus, plane, or carpool. You can filter the results to suit your needs. There are a number of filtering options, including price, one-way or round trip, departure or arrival time, duration of journey, or number of connections. Soon you'll find the best choice for your journey. When you're ready, Virail will transfer you to the provider's website to complete the booking. No matter where you're going, get there with Virail.

How can I find the cheapest train tickets to get from Moscow to Elektrostal?

Prices will vary when you travel from Moscow to Elektrostal. On average, though, you'll pay about for a train ticket. You can find train tickets for prices as low as , but it may require some flexibility with your travel plans. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper train tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest train tickets. Unfortunately, no price was found for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find price results. Prices will vary when you travel from Moscow to Elektrostal. On average, though, you'll pay about for a train ticket. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper train tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest train tickets.

How long does it take to get from Moscow to Elektrostal by train?

The journey between Moscow and Elektrostal by train is approximately 32.44 mi. It will take you more or less 2 hr 7 min to complete this journey. This average figure does not take into account any delays that might arise on your route in exceptional circumstances. If you are planning to make a connection or operating on a tight schedule, give yourself plenty of time. The distance between Moscow and Elektrostal is around 32.44 mi. Depending on the exact route and provider you travel with, your journey time can vary. On average, this journey will take approximately 2 hr 7 min. However, the fastest routes between Moscow and Elektrostal take 1 hr 3 min. If a fast journey is a priority for you when traveling, look out for express services that may get you there faster. Some flexibility may be necessary when booking. Often, these services only leave at particular times of day - or even on certain days of the week. You may also find a faster journey by taking an indirect route and connecting in another station along the way.

How many journeys from Moscow to Elektrostal are there every day?

On average, there are 71 daily departures from Moscow to Elektrostal. However, there may be more or less on different days. Providers' timetables can change on certain days of the week or public holidays, and many also vary at particular times of year. Some providers change their schedules during the summer season, for example. At very busy times, there may be up to departures each day. The providers that travel along this route include , and each operates according to their own specific schedules. As a traveler, you may prefer a direct journey, or you may not mind making changes and connections. If you have heavy suitcases, a direct journey could be best; otherwise, you might be able to save money and enjoy more flexibility by making a change along the way. Every day, there are an average of 18 departures from Moscow which travel directly to Elektrostal. There are 53 journeys with one change or more. Unfortunately, no connection was found for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find connections.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Moscow to Elektrostal.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Moscow to Elektrostal

The cheapest Moscow - Elektrostal train tickets can be found for as low as $35.01 if you’re lucky, or $54.00 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $77.49.

Find the best day to travel to Elektrostal by train

When travelling to Elektrostal by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Moscow to Elektrostal CO2 Emissions by Train

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Na Ulitse Yalagina 13B Apartments

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Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• History of Russian Scarfs and Shawls Museum
• Balashikha Arena
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Bykovo Manor
• Pekhorka Park
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Drama Theatre BOOM
• Likino Dulevo Museum of Local Lore
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center
• Pavlovsky Posad Museum of Art and History
• Saturn Stadium
• Fairy Tale Children's Model Puppet Theater
• Fifth House Gallery
• Church of Vladimir
• Malakhovka Museum of History and Culture
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall

Destinations in May

Destinations in 2024.

Please note prices are based on two persons sharing a twin/double room. Single room supplements may apply, please call check single availability/price.

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• Destinations
• Hotel Information
• Private hire
• Special offers / Late availability
• Travel Insurance
• Employment Opportunities

NEW CHRISTMAS TOUR 2024 - Bournemouth - Norfolk Royale Hotel - BROCHURE ADDITION . 2024 EUROPEAN HOLIDAYS - Early release - ITALY - Lake Garda / Alassio Click here to download our 2024 Brochure All Our Holidays Include In The Price: Free Door to Door Taxi ( Subject to Area ) ~ Luxury Coach Travel ~ Reserved Coach Seats . Personally Selected ...

www.kmchesterfield.co.uk

KM Travel of Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Request a brochure by: Calling: 01226 245564 email: [email protected] . download: click here to download the 2024 Tour Brochure.

KM Travel is in Chesterfield, KM Travel may offer holiday tours, sightseeing tours, and general city tours in Chesterfield. If you have used KM Travel before be sure to leave your own comment or rating on the city tour or holiday tour that you went on so other poeple wishing to use this company can read fair and honest reviews before the book ...

What people are saying. " HOLIDAY TO BLACKPOOL ". Oct 2023. Thanks to all at KM TRAVEL especially our driver courier Matt who made the trip more enjoyable and a credit to the co... " Lovely place enjoyed it clean need a bit of investment there ". Aug 2022. Stayed at ilfracombe Devon 14 to 20 Aug the coach was lovely our driver Tony was ...

Reviews, contact details and business hours of KM Travel Chesterfield at 27 Stephenson Place, Chesterfield, Derbyshire. Check out nearby places on a map. Write a review. Log in. ... 21:03 Tuesday, 23 April 2024: Business hours. Monday: 9:00 am - 4:30 pm: Tuesday: 9:00 am - 4:30 pm: Wednesday: 9:00 am - 4:30 pm: Thursday: 9:00 am - 4:30 ...

KM Travel of Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Tel: (01226) 245564 [email protected] . Home. Booking Guide Request Brochure Customer Information Contact Us. ... Our 2024 British Coach Holiday Brochure is now available to download and available shortly from our Market Street office in paper form.

5. £339. Nil. Please note prices are based on two persons sharing a twin/double room. Single room supplements may apply, please call check single availability/price. Price Includes: * Luxury Coach Travel * Local Departure Points. * En-suite bedrooms * Excursions. * Half Board Accommodation.

Page List. (Click on the page required to be linked with that page in the brochure) Page 1 - Front cover. Page 2 - Introduction. Page 3 - Contact information. Customer information. Page 4 - How to make a booking. Holiday index January to June. Page 5 - Holiday index June to December.

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Lovely holiday. Review of KM British & European Coach Holiday. Reviewed 9 December 2023. Just back from a T&T break at Exmouth. The hotel and food were brilliant, and the driver James was the best. However we had a bad start after waiting nearly one and a half hours in cold and rain at Ilkeston for the coach. I know there was traffic problems ...

Geeveetravelchesterfield, Chesterfield. 1,657 likes · 24 talking about this · 29 were here. DOOR TO DOOR COACH HOLIDAYS DAY TRIPS AND PRIVATE HIRE

Thankyou received our brochure in the post , I see you have new for 2024 Kynren weekend , we went last year and its the most amazing show I've seen well worth going recommended to everybody. 22w. Robert Lindley. Can I have a brochure please 9 monsal crescent Barnsley S71 3PY. 15w.

KM Travel of Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Tel: (01226) 245564 [email protected] . Home. Booking Guide Request Brochure Customer Information Contact Us. Skip to content. Request a brochure by: Calling: 01226 245564 . email: [email protected] download: ... Please note prices are based on two persons sharing a twin/double room ...

Central Air Force Museum The Central Air Force Museum, housed at Monino Airfield, 40 km east of Moscow, Russia, is one of the world's largest aviation museums, and the largest for Russian aircraft. 173 aircraft and 127 aircraft engines are on display, and the museum also features collections of weapons, instruments, uniforms (including captured U2 pilot Gary Powers' uniform), other Cold War ...

The journey from Moscow to Elektrostal by train is 32.44 mi and takes 2 hr 7 min. There are 71 connections per day, with the first departure at 12:15 AM and the last at 11:46 PM. It is possible to travel from Moscow to Elektrostal by train for as little as or as much as . The best price for this journey is . Journey Duration.

KM Travel of Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Tel: (01226) 245564 [email protected] . ... we guarantee excellent customer service and affordable prices. ... Winter/Spring 2024. Blackpool 2024 Potters Resorts 2024. Our booking office is located at: 52, ...

2022 Brochure . Page List ... All Our Holidays Include In The Price: Free Door to Door Taxi ( Subject to Area ) ~ Luxury Coach Travel ~ Reserved Coach Seats . Personally Selected Hotels ~ En-suite Bedrooms ~ Free Varied Excursions . Telephone: 01246 -556617 ...

Prices at Na Ulitse Yalagina 13B Apartments are subject to change according to dates, hotel policy, and other factors. To view prices, please search for the dates you wish to stay at the hotel. What are the check-in and check-out times at Na Ulitse Yalagina 13B Apartments? The check-in time is after 14:00 and the check-out time is before 12:00.

Cities near Elektrostal. Places of interest. Pavlovskiy Posad Noginsk. Travel guide resource for your visit to Elektrostal. Discover the best of Elektrostal so you can plan your trip right.