By Brian Dohrn / Insect Repellents
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Insect Repellents Guide
Let’s be real: some of us are mosquito magnets—and I’m definitely one of them! If there’s a no-see-um or bloodthirsty mosquito within a mile radius, it’s heading straight for my ankles. 🦟
If you’re anything like me and love being outdoors—whether it’s hiking through the woods, grilling in the backyard, or casting a line at your favorite fishing hole—you know the battle with mosquitoes is real. Over the years, I’ve tested a whole lineup of repellents. Some worked great, some smelled awful, and some were sticky. And others… well, they just didn’t work at all.
So, I put together this honest, field-tested guide with my go-to mosquito repellents—the ones that actually keep the bugs away without making you feel like a walking citronella candle. Whether you prefer natural products or you’re okay with DEET for deep woods protection, I’ve got you covered.
Jump To:
Bug Soother Original Insect Repellents
Why I love it:
This is my go-to when I’m heading out for a walk on the Douglas Trail or out fishing. It’s light, natural, and perfect for low-bug areas. I often throw it in my daypack when I’m hiking or heading to the park.
Effectiveness:
This one works really well against gnats, black flies, no-see-ums, and light mosquito activity. The key with natural repellents is reapplication—you’ll want to re-spray every 1–3 hours, especially if you’re sweating or near water.
Scent:
The lemongrass-vanilla blend is pleasant. And it leaves no greasy residue on your skin.
Best For:
Excellent for outdoor activities with low to moderate bug pressure, including gardening, camping, hiking, walking, golfing, and grilling. Also, safe for kids, pets, and sensitive skin.
Bug Soother Candle, 8 oz. + 1 oz. Spray Pack
Bonus pick!
I originally bought this 3-pack for the candle, but I ended up loving the tiny 1oz. spray bottle that came with it.
The candle:
It has a soft lemongrass aroma that’s perfect for patios or porch sittin’.
The small spray bottle?
Game-changer. It fits in my pocket without bouncing around on hikes and it’s refillable too. No longer carrying the bulky 6–8oz. bottles on hikes!
Buggins Original Insect Repellents
Great for trout fishing to ward off gnats and for low to moderate insect pressure.
Effectiveness:
Works well against gnats, no-see-ums, and mosquitoes. Like to Bug Soother, it works best when reapplied every couple of hours.
Scent:
Subtle vanilla that’s not overpowering. Plus, it is non-greasy.
Best For:
Low to moderate bug pressure. Ideal for fishing, gardening, walking trails, and outdoor picnics. Also, it’s a great choice if you’re trying to avoid strong chemicals.
Sawyer 20% Picaridin Spray
When I know I’m heading into thick woods or swampy areas, I switch to Sawyer Insect Repellant. It’s DEET-free but packs a punch.
Effectiveness:
Up to 12 hours of mosquito/tick protection; up to 8 hours for biting flies, chiggers, and sand flies. Also, the main ingredient, Picaridin, (from black pepper) outperforms DEET with biting flies.
Scent:
It’s fragrance-free and non-greasy.
Best For:
Backpacking, camping, hiking, fishing, or any high-risk bug zones. Also safe for kids (6+ months) and won’t ruin gear or plastics.
Sawyer 20% Picaridin Lotion
Similarly, it has the same powerful protection as the spray, but in lotion form. I find this works great for applying to exposed skin like hands, neck, and arms. It absorbs quickly, doesn’t feel greasy, and stays put.
Sawyer Permethrin Fabric Treatment
For added protection before a big trip and if you’re heading into mosquito haven, this is your pre-trip prep tool.
Use:
Spray it on clothes, tents, and gear—not your skin! Let it dry completely. Once dry, it’s odorless and protects for up to 6 weeks or 6 washings.
Effectiveness:
It provides an extra barrier that makes your whole setup mosquito-resistant. Plus, it won’t stain or damage synthetic materials.
Buggins Performance Insect Repellent (25% DEET)
When all else fails… this is my backup plan. This is when I need serious, long-lasting protection from relentless mosquitoes—and when I’m okay with DEET—this is what I bring.
Effectiveness:
This DEET-based spray keeps mosquitoes, ticks, and no-see-ums at bay for hours.
Scent:
It has a light vanilla scent and isn’t as offensive as most DEET products. Slightly oily but manageable.
Best For:
Heavy woods, humid areas, swampy areas, hunting, long hiking days or camping in buggy areas.
Summary
When you love the outdoors as much as I do, finding a mosquito repellent that actually works is essential—not optional. The best insect repellents for you depends on what you’re doing and how buggy it’s likely to be.
Need something light and natural?
Bug Soother and Buggins Original are perfect for everyday use.
Heading into deep woods or serious bug zones?
Reach for Sawyer Picaridin spray or Buggins DEET. They’ve never let me down when the bugs are at their worst.
Want extra protection?
Pre-treating clothes with Sawyer Permethrin gives you a smart, long-lasting edge.
Whether you’re fishing, hiking, grilling, or just trying to enjoy your backyard—hopefully, this list helps you stay bite-free and enjoy the outdoors more!