Several bottles of insect repellent from multiple brands on the ground
Several bottles of insect repellent from multiple brands on the ground

Bug Control Gear That Actually Works

In an industry rife with bogus products, these are the repellents and traps that experts agree can effectively keep bugs away.

Essentials

These items are your first line of defense against the types of things you want to go away.

Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Premium Insect Repellent

If you use only one item on this list, make it bug repellent—this should be your first line of defense, and a regular necessity anytime you head into the swarm. This EPA-approved picaridin formula is safe and effective, and it comes in a bottle that’s better than competitors at spraying evenly and accurately.

Continue reading Harry Sawyers's Wirecutter article here.

Medya Mansyone

Why use a plastic bag when you can simply screw on this end cap, specifically designed for Sawyer water filters?

Zooe Pòtay
Editor at Backpacker

Medya Mansyone

In future, I’ll use gravity when I can, and squeeze when I have to.

Richard, aka "LowRange
montè mòn

Medya Mansyone

For longer hikes, it’s convenient to carry a small backcountry water filter, such as a Sawyer Mini or Micro, which allows you to replenish your water from natural sources like streams or ponds.

Philip Werner
Author and Backpacker