A bottle of Cutter Backwoods on a table.
A bottle of Cutter Backwoods on a table.

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.

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Medya Mansyone

The permethrin-treated baby wraps reduced malaria cases in infants by 66%.

Nancy Lapid
Reporter and Editor

Medya Mansyone

While friends swatted around the campfire and during outdoor dinners, those who used this spray didn't get a single bite.

Alesandra Dubin
Writer and Editor

Medya Mansyone

The Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system includes a rugged Cnoc Premium 2-liter bladder for fast, easy water refills on any backpacking adventure.

Philip Werner
Author and Backpacker