7 Best Mosquito Repellents to Keep Bugs at Bay

These bug-banishing sprays, devices, and treatments will help you make the most of your time outdoors.

Nature is awesome. Until it starts biting. We're talking about mosquitos—those pesky, almost invisible creatures that may serve some equally unseen role in our ecosystem, but from our backyards, they simply exist to ruin the great outdoors.

I live in the Southern Appalachians, famous for its moonshine and vibrant mosquito population. I can tell you from vast experience that nothing ruins a camping trip, backyard cookout, or stroll in the woods like an onslaught of mosquito bites. And it might get worse.

Some research suggests that as temperatures continue to warm as a result of climate change, mosquito season will start earlier in spring and last later in fall.  

The solution? Be vigilant about mosquito repellent. You could stay inside all summer long and just watch Discovery documentaries to get your virtual nature fix, or you could arm yourself out there with the best products designed to repel the peskiest creature on the planet. We'll opt for the latter.

Read on for how to keep the bugs at bay, written by Graham Averill here.

LAST UPDATED

February 10, 2025

Written by
Photo thumbnail Blog Author

The Wenatchee World

Explore More Content

Media Mentions

This lightweight, 2-ounce filter removes bacteria, protozoa, cysts, sediment, and 100 per cent of microplastics.

Mia Wandl
Associate Producer

Media Mentions

Sawyer’s insect repellent is also very effective for ticks and biting flies, and it won’t damage gear or equipment.

Tori Peglar
Writer

Media Mentions

This repellent, made from 20% Picaridin, provides up to 14 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks, and up to 8 hours against biting flies, gnats, chiggers and sand flies.

Baby List
Media Mentions from Baby List