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The 9 Best Bug Sprays We Tested While Camping, Hiking, and Enjoying the Great Outdoors

Nothing puts a damper on an outdoor activity like a swarm of insects — and the pesky bug bites that follow.

Whether camping or hiking, laying on the beach, or simply taking an evening stroll, having a reliable bug spray on hand is crucial for keeping mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and more at bay. But with the wide variety of options available, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming.

Continue reading to learn more about the best bug sprays, written by Avery Stone.

LAST UPDATED

September 23, 2024

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Avery Stone

Freelance Writer

Avery Stone has extensive expertise in the beauty and lifestyle space. She also has testing experience from her previous role as a commerce editorial director at Dotdash Meredith.

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Media Mentions

If covering up exposed skin is not possible, Tipton County Health Department officials also encourage residents to apply EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin...

Pharos-Tribune, Logansport, Ind.
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Sprays like Hot Shot Ant, Roach and Spider Killer and Sawyer Products Premium Insect Repellant—which uses the ingredient picaridin—are specifically designed to kill gnats.

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You can use [Sawyer Permethrin] to treat your clothing, hiking boots, hat, sleeping bag, tent, and backpack, Dr. Connally says.

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