To create this list, we rigorously tested 15 mosquito repellents, assessing them on key factors like effectiveness, ease of application, scent, coverage, and overall value. From this testing, we selected seven standout products and added two additional options that were thoroughly researched using the same criteria. These top picks ensure you can step outside with confidence and comfort.

01| Best Overall

Off! Active Insect Repellent

Perfect For

• Outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers
• Families enjoying backyard activities
• Anyone seeking a reliable, non-greasy bug repellent

Off! Active Insect Repellent stands out as a top choice for anyone seeking a dependable and user-friendly bug repellent. Its aerosol spray ensures effortless and even application, while its sweat-resistant formula keeps you protected during outdoor adventures. Whether you’re working out, lounging on your patio, or exploring nature, this repellent provides up to 6 hours of uninterrupted protection against a wide range of pests.

What sets it apart is its lightweight, non-greasy texture that absorbs seamlessly into the skin, leaving no sticky residue or white marks. Plus, its affordable price point and long-lasting effectiveness make it a must-have for summer or any outdoor season.

• Type: Aerosol Spray | Active Ingredient: DEET
• Protection Duration: Up to 6 hours | Size: 6 oz
• EPA-Registered: Yes

02| Best DEET Free

EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes Travel Size Insect Repellent

Perfect For

• Individuals sensitive to DEET
• Those seeking a gentle, effective insect repellent
• Families looking for a safe option for children

EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes Insect Repellent is the ideal choice for anyone who prefers a DEET-free alternative. Formulated with picaridin, this EPA-registered repellent offers effectiveness comparable to DEET but with a lighter, less greasy feel. It’s perfect for those who value odor-free products that are gentle on sensitive skin.

The spray nozzle provides a wide and even distribution, while the moisturizing formula absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Notably, this repellent boasts one of the longest-lasting protections on our list, offering up to 14 hours against mosquitoes and ticks, and 8 hours against biting flies, gnats, and chiggers.

Although labeled as water-resistant, it is not waterproof, making it less suitable for use around pools, beaches, or while gardening. According to the brand, it is safe for children, but applying it on kids may require some extra care.

Type: Spray | Active Ingredient: Picaridin

Protection Duration: 8–14 hours (depending on pest) | Size: 4 oz

EPA Registered: Yes

03| Best Non-Greasy

Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent VIII

Perfect For

• Outdoor enthusiasts who dislike greasy products
• Individuals with oily skin
• Those seeking effective protection against various insects

Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent VIII is a standout choice for those who want a non-greasy mosquito repellent. Unlike many traditional repellents, this formula absorbs completely into the skin, leaving no residue or visible cast, and finishes with a powder-like texture. For optimal results, we recommend applying a light layer of moisturizer or sunscreen before using this repellent.

As an aerosol product, it offers easy application and ensures even coverage on both skin and clothing. While it is safe for use on cotton, wool, and nylon, it should be avoided on acetate, leather, plastic, and similar materials. This non-greasy formula is particularly beneficial for individuals with naturally oily skin or those who anticipate sweating during outdoor activities.

Type: Aerosol | Active Ingredient: DEET

Protection Duration: Up to 8 hours | Size: 4 oz per bottle

EPA Registered: Yes

04| Best Long Lasting

Sawyer Controlled Release Insect Repellent

Perfect For

• Campers and outdoor enthusiasts
• Yard work and gardening
• Barbecues and outdoor gatherings

Sawyer Controlled Release Insect Repellent is our top choice for long-lasting mosquito protection, offering an impressive 11 hours of effectiveness. Ideal for a variety of outdoor activities, this repellent ensures you stay protected whether you're camping, doing yard work, or hosting a barbecue.

Unlike standard repellents that require frequent reapplication, this controlled-release formula gradually disperses the active ingredient, DEET, over an extended period, providing sustained protection. We were particularly impressed by its spreadability; just a pea-sized amount of lotion was sufficient to cover both arms evenly during our testing.

While the label claims it is “odorless,” we did notice a mild astringent scent that diminished over time and did not linger on clothing. Like many mosquito repellent lotions, it may feel slightly oily upon application, but this is a minor trade-off for its long-lasting effectiveness against mosquitoes and ticks. Additionally, it is sweat-resistant and compatible with sunscreen, making it perfect for all-day outdoor adventures.

Type: Lotion | Active Ingredient: DEET

Protection Duration: Up to 11 hours | Size: 4 oz

EPA Registered: Yes

05| Best Lotion

Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent

Perfect For

• Individuals seeking thorough coverage on exposed skin
• Outdoor enthusiasts needing a portable repellent
• Those who prefer a lotion format for easy application

Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent is an excellent choice for those who favor mosquito repellent lotions. This product allows for even application, making it easy to spot any missed areas on your skin. We appreciated its sweat-resistant formula and how evenly it coated our skin during testing. Although it initially felt slightly oily and had a subtle citrus scent, both characteristics faded within minutes as it absorbed completely. However, be aware that it may leave a white cast similar to that of sunscreens or other lotions.

With picaridin as its active ingredient, this repellent effectively wards off biting flies, ticks, chiggers, and, of course, mosquitoes, along with other insects. Unlike many mosquito repellents that can damage certain fabrics, this lotion is safe to use around most 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 oz

EPA Registered: Yes

06| Easiest Application

Coleman SkinSmart Insect Repellent

Perfect For

• Those seeking a convenient and efficient application method
• Outdoor enthusiasts needing reliable protection
• Individuals who prefer a non-greasy formula

Coleman SkinSmart Insect Repellent is our top recommendation for the easiest application. This product excels in providing even coverage for comprehensive protection, making it a breeze to use. During our testing, we were impressed by the aerosol nozzle's ability to disperse the repellent evenly, and how effortlessly it rubbed into the skin without leaving a white cast or sticky residue.

Offering up to eight hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks, this repellent features IR3535 as its active ingredient, which is also EPA-registered. While the bottle is slightly larger and bulkier than some travel-friendly options, it comes with a rust-resistant design and a locking switch to prevent leaks. Overall, this effective and easy-to-apply mosquito repellent is perfect for any outdoor activity.

Type: Aerosol | Active Ingredient: IR3535

Longevity: 6–8 hours | Size: 6 oz

EPA Registered: Yes

07| Best With SPF

Bullfrog Sunscreen and Insect Repellent

Perfect For

• Outdoor enthusiasts enjoying sunny weather
• Those seeking dual protection from sun and insects
• Swimmers looking for a reef-safe option

Bullfrog Mosquito Coast Insect Repellent is the ultimate two-in-one solution for sunny days, combining effective sun protection with insect repellent. This product features an impressive SPF 50, making it an ideal companion for hot summer outings. In addition to shielding against UVA and UVB rays, this waterproof spray provides insect protection for up to eight hours.

We appreciate the inclusion of aloe vera and vitamin E, which help keep your skin moisturized without a greasy or slick feel. Importantly, this formula is free from DEET and oxybenzone, making it safe for coral reefs when you take a dip. However, it’s essential to note that this mosquito repellent is only water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so frequent reapplication is necessary for optimal protection.

Type: Aerosol | Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, octyl methoxycinnamate, octisalate

Longevity: Up to 8 hours | Size: 4.7 oz

EPA Registered: Yes