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.

Medya Mansyone

Clothing and gear can be treated with a 0.5% permethrin spray, sold under names including Sawyer, Insect Shield and Ranger Ready.

Bay Area News Group
News Group

Medya Mansyone

Sawyer’s picaridin lotion offers the longest protection windows on test — up to 14 hours against mosquitoes and ticks — and its creamy, low-odor formula goes on smooth and dries quickly.

Rachel Cavanaugh
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Medya Mansyone

The Sawyer Squeeze and Cnoc Vecto made hydration easy.

Josh King
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