Unearth The Voyage
Nothing ruins a beautiful hike faster than swarms of mosquitoes and ticks. These tiny predators can turn a peaceful outdoor adventure into an itchy nightmare. The right bug spray makes all the difference between enjoying nature and becoming an all-you-can-eat buffet for insects. Here’s my tested lineup of the most effective mosquito repellents that will keep the bugs away while you enjoy the trails.
1. Sawyer 20% Picaridin (spray or lotion) — long protection, gentle on gear
Hikers treasure this repellent for its remarkable versatility in the backcountry. Unlike harsher alternatives, Sawyer’s Picaridin formula won’t melt your expensive sunglasses or damage your GPS screen when your hands are coated. The spray version delivers up to 12 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks, while the lotion formulation extends coverage to 14 hours—perfect for multi-day treks. The low-odor profile means you won’t be announcing your presence to wildlife or fellow hikers with a chemical cloud. Most impressively, it applies with a non-greasy finish that won’t leave you feeling sticky on hot, humid trails.
2. Ranger Ready 20% Picaridin (spray) — all-day picaridin with clear label claims
Conquering mountain trails requires reliable protection, and Ranger Ready delivers exactly that. The precisely calibrated 20% picaridin formula creates an invisible shield against bloodthirsty insects for up to 12 hours against mosquitoes and ticks. What separates this spray from competitors is its effectiveness against the truly persistent pests—biting flies and gnats—offering 8 hours of relief from these notorious trail nuisances. Frequent hikers appreciate the multiple scent options that break the monotony of smelling like bug spray day after day. The non-greasy application won’t leave residue on your expensive moisture-wicking fabrics or technical gear.
3. Natrapel 20% Picaridin (Eco-Spray or pump) — travel-friendly and widely available
Frequent travelers and backpackers rejoice! Natrapel’s smart packaging makes it a standout choice for those bouncing between airports and trailheads. The TSA-friendly sizes slip easily through security checkpoints without confiscation. Field testing reveals the spray mechanism delivers consistent, even coverage—no more over-saturated spots or missed areas that become mosquito landing zones. The 12-hour protection against ticks and mosquitoes means one morning application covers most day hikes completely. Found in outdoor shops nationwide, Natrapel’s widespread availability makes it a reliable last-minute purchase when you’ve forgotten your regular repellent at home.
4. OFF! Clean Feel (20% picaridin aerosol) — fragrance-free with an “8-hour” label
Sensitive noses will appreciate this fragrance-free formula that doesn’t announce itself to everyone within ten feet. The quick-drying aerosol disappears almost immediately, leaving behind protection without the typical sticky residue of other sprays. While the 8-hour protection window falls short of some competitors, it perfectly covers the average day hike without reapplication. The aerosol format allows for precise application around ankles and wrists—prime feeding zones for ticks lurking in tall grass. Biting flies, the scourge of summer trails, are also deterred by this formula, making it particularly valuable for lake-adjacent hikes where these pests thrive.
5. OFF! Deep Woods (25% DEET, “Dry” aerosol) — classic pick for dense, buggy forests
When facing the insect equivalent of the zombie apocalypse, veteran hikers reach for this heavyweight champion. The 25% DEET concentration creates an invisible force field that even the hungriest mosquitoes respect, especially valuable in humid, densely wooded areas where insects rule the ecosystem. The aerosol’s “Dry” formulation means you won’t feel like you’ve been dipped in oil after application. Eight hours of protection covers most day hikes without needing to carry extra weight for reapplication. Caution is warranted around gear—keep this spray away from your expensive sunglasses, watch faces, and synthetic clothing as DEET can damage these materials.
6. Ben’s 30% DEET (pump) — compact and widely stocked
Small but mighty describes this trail favorite perfectly. The compact pump bottle fits into the tiniest pack pockets or hip belt compartments, ensuring protection is always within reach without adding significant weight. The straightforward 30% DEET formula delivers approximately 7-8 hours of reliable protection without unnecessary additives or fragrances. Minimalists appreciate the no-frills approach—just effective bug protection in the smallest possible package. Found in virtually every outdoor store across the country, Ben’s has saved countless hikers who forgot their repellent at home or unexpectedly encountered bug-heavy sections of trail. The simple pump mechanism works even when the bottle is nearly empty—unlike aerosols that become useless before they’re fully depleted.
7. 3M Ultrathon Lotion (34% DEET, time-release) — top choice when you prefer lotion
Marathon hikers and ultra-distance trail runners swear by this specialized formula. The genius lies in the time-release technology that gradually dispenses protection over 12 hours instead of the quick evaporation common with sprays. Heavy sweaters particularly benefit from the lotion format, which maintains effectiveness even during strenuous uphill climbs in humid conditions. Strategic application around wrists, ankles, and neck creates protective barriers at key entry points where ticks and mosquitoes typically target. Military development origins explain the exceptional performance—this formula was created for troops operating in the world’s most insect-infested environments. The slightly higher DEET concentration provides an insurance policy when venturing into particularly buggy wilderness areas.
8. Repel Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE/PMD, DEET-free) — plant-based option that’s actually proven
The distinctive eucalyptus scent signals this repellent’s natural origins. Unlike many plant-based alternatives that fail in scientific testing, this formula earned EPA recognition for legitimate effectiveness against mosquitoes for up to 6 hours. The active ingredient, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), offers a compelling middle ground for hikers seeking natural options without sacrificing meaningful protection. The pleasant aroma provides a refreshing alternative to the chemical smell of conventional repellents. Parents of older children appreciate this DEET-free option for family hikes, though it’s not suitable for kids under 3 years old. While the protection window is shorter than synthetic alternatives, many hikers gladly trade a mid-hike reapplication for the plant-derived formula.
9. Sawyer Permethrin 0.5% (for clothing/gear, not skin) — add this if you hike in tick country
Smart hikers don’t just protect their skin—they create a defensive perimeter with this powerful clothing treatment. Unlike conventional repellents, permethrin actually kills ticks and mosquitoes that contact treated fabric, providing an additional layer of protection that lasts through multiple washings. The 6-week or 6-wash durability transforms regular hiking clothes into long-term insect armor. Treating socks, pants cuffs, shirt sleeves and even tent floors creates multiple barriers against ticks crawling up from the ground. This preparation step completed days before your hike pays dividends on the trail. Remember the golden rule: never apply directly to skin—this is strictly for fabric treatment only.
