The Best Bug Sprays for 2023

Cutter, Proven, Natrapel and more: The best insect repellents for every outdoor need.

Whether you're adventuring in sweltering summer heat or raking up leaves in the fall, there are always parts of the world dealing with the one tag-a-long no one ever wants to deal with: bugs. I'm talking mosquitos, ticks, chiggers, gnats, biting flies and no-see-ums. Yuck. (And ouch and itch.)

I grew up in Louisiana and now I live in Florida, so I've spent a lifetime dousing my skin and clothes in insect repellent. Bug spray is a staple in the south, to say the least.

If you plan on spending any time outdoors fishing, hiking, or especially if you plan to go camping or visit any marshy areas, it's best to go prepared with insect repellent. But you don't want to waste money on bug repellent with minimal effectiveness. Here's a compiled list of some of the best bug sprays available right now, as determined by my testing of more than 20 products in the South Florida heat.

Soma maelezo zaidi juu ya dawa bora za mdudu zilizoandikwa na Amanda Capritto hapa.

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

Sawyer’s picaridin lotion lasts a long time, stores well in survival kits and cars, and doesn’t have the laundry-list poison control label like DEET sprays.

Sean Gold
Founder & Lead Writer

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

Secure a small loop of cord to a trekking pole to create a convenient place to hang a water bladder and filter water.

Nathan Pipenberg
Mwandishi

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

It contains 20 percent picaridin, a powerful insect repellent that will make nights around the campfire much more enjoyable.

Liz Provencher
Freelane Writer