RELATED: How to eliminate Mosquitoes from Outside Your House

mosquito bite repellent

We have tested 15 insect repellents to compile this list, evaluating them based on factors including efficacy, coverage, fragrance, convenience of use, and overall value. After conducting extensive study, we added two additional goods and chose six exceptional ones. These top picks have components like lemon eucalyptus oil, which the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends, and help reduce bites and stings from female mosquitoes. We also took into account how well they work with post-bite care products like calamine lotion or an ice pack for further comfort. You may confidently enjoy the outdoors if you have these necessities.

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

RELATED: Ultimate Guide to Preventing and Eliminating Basement Insect Infestations

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 Long Lasting

Sawyer Controlled Release Insect Repellent

Perfect For

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

With an amazing 11 hours of efficacy, Sawyer Controlled Release Insect Repellent is our number one pick for durable mosquito protection. Whether you're camping, working in the yard, or having a cookout, this repellant is perfect for a range of outdoor activities and will keep you safe.

In contrast to conventional repellents that need to be reapplied often, this controlled-release formulation offers long-lasting protection by distributing the active component, DEET, gradually over time. Its spreadability also pleased us; during our tests, a pea-sized amount of lotion was enough to evenly cover both arms.

Although the label states that it is "odorless," we did detect a slight astringent smell that went away with time and did not stick to clothes. It may feel a little greasy when applied, like many lotions that repel mosquitoes and ticks, but this is a little price to pay for its long-lasting protection. It is ideal for all-day outdoor adventures because it is sweat-resistant and works well with sunscreen.

Type: Lotion | Active Ingredient: DEET

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

EPA Registered: Yes

04| 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 Goods For people who prefer lotions that repel mosquitoes, 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent is a great option. Because this product applies evenly, it's simple to identify any regions of your skin that were overlooked. During testing, we liked how evenly it covered our skin and how sweat-resistant its formula was. It smelled faintly of citrus and felt a little oily at first, but these qualities vanished in a matter of minutes as it absorbed fully. But be warned that it might leave a white cast like other lotions or sunscreens.

This repellent works well against biting flies, ticks, chiggers, and, of course, mosquitoes, among other insects, thanks to its primary ingredient, picaridin. This lotion is safe to use on most clothing, backpacks, watches, sunglasses, fishing lines, and more, unlike many insect repellents that can harm particular textiles.

Type: Lotion | Active Ingredient: Picaridin

Protection Duration: 8–14 hours (depending on pest) | Size: 2 or 4 oz

EPA Registered: Yes

05| 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

Our number one pick for the simplest application is Coleman SkinSmart Insect Repellent. In addition to being easy to use, this product excels at offering uniform covering for complete protection. When we tested it, we were pleased with how well the spray nozzle spread the repellent and how easily it rubbed into the skin without leaving any sticky residue or white cast.

The key ingredient in this repellent, IR3535, is EPA-registered and provides up to eight hours of protection against ticks and mosquitoes. It has a locking button to stop leaks and a rust-resistant build, although it is a little bigger and bulkier than some travel-friendly solutions. All things considered, this simple and efficient insect repellent is ideal for any outdoor activity.

Type: Aerosol | Active Ingredient: IR3535

Longevity: 6–8 hours | Size: 6 oz

EPA Registered: Yes

06| 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

The best two-in-one remedy for sunny days is Bullfrog Mosquito Coast bug Repellent, which combines bug repellent and great sun protection. With its remarkable SPF 50, this product is the perfect partner for hot summer excursions. This waterproof spray not only protects against UVA and UVB radiation but also offers up to eight hours of bug protection.

We like that vitamin E and aloe vera are included since they keep your skin hydrated without feeling oily or slippery. Crucially, when you dip in this product, it won't harm coral reefs because it doesn't include oxybenzone or DEET. It's important to remember, though, that this repellant only holds water for 80 minutes, so regular reapplication is required for the best protection.

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

Longevity: Up to 8 hours | Size: 4.7 oz

EPA Registered: Yes