12 Best Mosquito Repellents to Keep the Bugs Away

These bug sprays do it all!

Nothing ruins a lovely cookout, hike, or camping trip like a swarm of mosquitoes. Without a proper line of defense and an arsenal of the best mosquito repellents, those pesky pests can drive you indoors, preventing you from enjoying some solid time in nature.

Fortunately, experts have come up with all sorts of solutions: planting dragonfly-attracting plants (dragonflies are natural predators of mosquitoes, consuming up to 100 a day!), creating bug-resistant mesh pants that fit over your favorite pair of summer shorts, and of course all manner of repellents, including candles, sprays for both your body and yard, and more.

When it comes to choosing the best mosquito repellant, it’s best to take a three-pronged approach: Spray your yards and gardens with a lawn spray, replace the spring and easter candles on your patio with some mosquito repellent lanterns and citronella candles, and apply insect repellent on yourself and your clothing. This list includes mosquito repellents that’ll help you cover all the bases and offers smart options for the spray-averse, including wipes, bracelets, balms, and lotions you use on your body. Take your pick, then make sure to set your outdoor space up for success by tipping over and emptying anything in your yard that holds water and could potentially host mosquito larvae. Then all that's left is to enjoy a bite-free summer!

Explore the complete list of best mosquito repellents, written by Carol Lee here.