various mosquito repellent options
various mosquito repellent options

An expert shares the best bug and mosquito repellents for summer 2022

Written by By Victoria Giardina and Ruby McAuliffe

Let’s be honest — the saying “you’re a pest” likely originated from the influx of bug bites (we blame you, mosquitos and other bite-causers) that land on our bodies throughout the warmer months.

Some proclaim, “oh, you get bites because you’re so sweet!” and “I can play connect-the-dots with all of my bites!” but, in all honesty, they’re not cute nor wanted. (Related: best bug zappers).

“While bug repellent sprays are generally non-specific to the insects they repel, keep in mind the target pests are biting insects such as mosquitoes and ticks while outside playing, hiking, hunting, or boating,” Jamie Haberman, medical and veterinary entomologist and owner of A Ablaze Pest Control in New Jersey — with 41 years in the industry — told the New York Post.

Luckily, we spoke to Haberman to give us the 411 on what ingredients to look for in a good bug spray or mosquito repellent. We listed the best ones below for you to shop, along with an FAQ section for a detailed overview of what to keep in mind when using them.

Let’s be honest — the saying “you’re a pest” likely originated from the influx of bug bites (we blame you, mosquitos and other bite-causers) that land on our bodies throughout the warmer months.

Some proclaim, “oh, you get bites because you’re so sweet!” and “I can play connect-the-dots with all of my bites!” but, in all honesty, they’re not cute nor wanted. (Related: best bug zappers).

“While bug repellent sprays are generally non-specific to the insects they repel, keep in mind the target pests are biting insects such as mosquitoes and ticks while outside playing, hiking, hunting, or boating,” Jamie Haberman, medical and veterinary entomologist and owner of A Ablaze Pest Control in New Jersey — with 41 years in the industry — told the New York Post.

Luckily, we spoke to Haberman to give us the 411 on what ingredients to look for in a good bug spray or mosquito repellent. We listed the best ones below for you to shop, along with an FAQ section for a detailed overview of what to keep in mind when using them.

Find the full article here.

Media Mentions

Why use a plastic bag when you can simply screw on this end cap, specifically designed for Sawyer water filters?

Zoe Gates
Editor at Backpacker

Media Mentions

In future, I’ll use gravity when I can, and squeeze when I have to.

Richard, aka "LowRange
Hiker

Media Mentions

For longer hikes, it’s convenient to carry a small backcountry water filter, such as a Sawyer Mini or Micro, which allows you to replenish your water from natural sources like streams or ponds.

Philip Werner
Author and Backpacker