Worried about mosquitos and other bugs while camping?
Check out our list of the best bug sprays and repellent devices to keep you safe from bites. We’ve got all the information you need to choose the right product for your needs.
Stay safe and bite-free while camping with the help of our list. No one wants to spend their vacation scratching mosquito bites!
Purchase a mosquito repellent today on Amazon!
How We Choose The Best Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitoes are a major annoyance when camping, and they can ruin your trip if you’re not prepared. This is why, it's essential to always bring with you insect repellents.
There are all sorts of mosquito repellents on the market, but which one is right for you? Do you need a DEET-based repellent? Or is the natural and Deet-free repellant your only choice for you and your family?
We’ve done the research for you and found DEET based mosquito repellents and natural ones. Read on to learn more about the different types of repellents available, and find the perfect one for your needs.
Products We Reviewed
Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller
Why We Love It
Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller an elegant and effective way to keep mosquitoes away from your patio or deck.
This mosquito repellent device features a sleek brushed metal finish, and emits a scent-free repellent that drives away mosquitoes, creating a 15-foot zone of protection.
The heat-activated technology is powered by a safe and compact 12-hour fuel cartridge, and the unscented repellent mats last up to 4 hours each, changing color when it's time to replace them.
What You Should Know
Thermacell mosquito repellent device is a plant-based repellent that uses allethrin, a synthetic version of a naturally occurring insecticide found in certain types of plants. It's been independently tested and EPA reviewed for safety and effectiveness, and it's people and pet friendly.
And best of all, it doesn't require any spray or lotion on your skin - just turn it on and enjoy max protection in 15 minutes.
No smoke, flames, or harsh odors like citronella. When it comes time to refill, it's easy to do - just grab a new fuel cartridge and three 4-hour repellent mats.
So if you're looking for an effective mosquito repellent device that doesn't require any spray or scent, Thermacell is a great option. Plus, they offer a 2-year guarantee - just register your product to extend your warranty (automatic 1-year warranty included).
Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Natural Mosquito Repellent
Why We Love It
This repellent keeps you and your family protected for up to 6 hours, so the fun doesn't have to end.
And, because it's free from deet, it leaves you with a cool, refreshing scent.
What You Should Know
This formula is made with oil of lemon eucalyptus, a plant-based ingredient that is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This repellent won't leave you greasy or sticky, making it a great spray-and-go option for busy weekends.
Repel mosquitos that may transmit the Zika, West Nile, Dengue and Chikungunya viruses without the DEET.
If you’re looking for an alternative that is free from deet to create a mosquito barrier, then Repel with lemon is a great option.
Repel keeps mosquitoes away for up to six hours. You can use oil of lemon eucalyptus-based products on children 3 years and older.
Repel 100 Insect Repellent, Pen-Size Pump Spray
Why We Love It
This pen-size pump spray is formulated with 98.11% DEET, making it ideal for repelling mosquitoes, ticks, gnats, biting flies, chiggers, and fleas - even in heavily infested conditions.
So whether you're spending time outdoors in your own backyard or hiking through the woods, Repel 100 will help keep you safe from harmful pests.
What You Should Know
It provides long-lasting protection against mosquitoes, ticks, gnats, chiggers, and fleas. Plus, it's easy to use – just pump it onto your skin or clothing and you're good to go.
And best of all, it comes in a handy pen-size spray bottle that's perfect for taking on the go.
OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent Aerosol
Why We Love It
OFF! Deep Woods is formulated with DEET, an effective active ingredient that repels mosquitoes in even the harshest conditions.
Whether you're camping, fishing, hiking, or hunting in heavily wooded areas, Deep Woods can help you enjoy your time outdoors without the hassle of pesky mosquitoes.
What You Should Know
This DEET mosquito repellent is formulated with 25% DEET and repels mosquitoes for up to 8 hours. It's also effective against ticks, biting flies, gnats and chiggers.
And best of all, it's a tick repellent that protects against ticks that may carry Lyme disease. The powder-dry insect repelling formula is not oily or greasy, so it won't leave your skin feeling icky.
So whether you're hiking in the woods or just spending time in your backyard, OFF! Deep Woods Aerosol will give you the long-lasting protection you need.
Murphy's Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent Spray
Why We Love It
Murphy's spray is a natural, free-from-Deet way to keep mosquitoes at bay.
This powerful, repellent uses oil from the lemon eucalyptus tree to create a barrier that will keep mosquitoes away for up to 6 hours.
And because it's made with all-natural ingredients, you can feel good about using it on your next camping trip or hike.
What You Should Know
This specially formulated spray provides protection against deer ticks for up to 4 hours, as well as lone star and brown dog ticks for up to 8 hours.
The key is in the ingredients - 30% oil of lemon eucalyptus, 70% distilled water and ethanol made from corn. This combination creates a powerful yet safe insect spray that doesn't harm your gear.
Plus, this repellent is free of dyes, synthetic fragrances and harsh chemicals, so you can feel good about using it.
Badger - Anti-Bug Shake & Spray
Why We Love It
If you're looking for a natural spray repellent, Badger - Anti-Bug Shake & Spray is your best best to repel insects.
Based on our popular Anti-Bug Balm formula, this Shake & Spray natural mosquito protection from biting insects has been independently lab tested for efficacy and contains no DEET, petroleum products, or synthetic chemicals.
The sturdy, lightweight aluminum bottle is also easily recyclable. So don't let bugs ruin your outdoor fun - grab a bottle of Badger Shake & Spray and enjoy your summer worry-free!
What You Should Know
This natural bug spray repels insects with the pleasant aroma of Citronella, Rosemary, and Lemongrass essential oils.
It doesn't contain synthetic chemicals, DEET, or petroleum products, and it's been tested to provide 3 hours of protection from mosquitos.
Plus, it's gluten free, cruelty free, and vegan. The aluminum bottle is sturdy, lightweight, easy to carry, and easy to recycle. Available in 4oz and 2.7oz TSA approved travel size.
All Terrain Herbal Armor Natural Insect Repellent
Why We Love It
This natural unique formula uses a blend of six essential oils to keep mosquitoes and other pests at bay, while being safe for both people and the environment.
DEET-free and made without any harmful chemicals or GMOs, Herbal Armor is perfect for those who are looking for a safe and natural option for keeping insects away.
What You Should Know
This oil-based repelling formula is DEET-free and GMO-free, making it safe for sensitive skin. It also won't spoil clothes or camping gear. Herbal Armor is environmentally friendly and non-irritating to skin, making it the perfect choice for the whole family.
Started by an outdoor enthusiast, All Terrain offers a broad line of safe and effective insect repellents, sunscreens, topical first aid, and itch relief products using natural ingredients.
Buyer's Guide
When you're looking for mosquito repellents for camping, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, you'll want to make sure that the repellent is effective against the types of insects that are prevalent in the area where you'll be camping.
Second, you'll want to choose a repellent that is safe to use around children and pets.
Finally, you'll want to select a repellent that is easy to apply and remove.
Below are some issues raised about mosquito repellents.
Issue No. 1: Aerosol Repellents Can Be Annoying to Use
Other options available are lantern or spray-pump repellents. Spray repellents are typically more affordable, have longer shelf life, easy to use and are less harmful than aerosol sprays.
Issue No. 2: Deet Is Harmful to Health
There is some concern that Deet, the active ingredient in many mosquito repellents, may be harmful to health.
However, there is no conclusive evidence that Deet is harmful. If you are concerned about using products containing Deet, there are plenty of effective alternatives available.
Many natural repellents contain citronella oil, which has been shown to be just as effective at repelling mosquitoes as products containing Deet.
Best Mosquito Repellent for Camping FAQ's
Mosquitoes can ruin a camping trip. They're not just annoying, they can also be dangerous carriers of disease.
Campers have been using ineffective methods to repel mosquitos for years. From spraying themselves with DEET to burning citronella candles, people will do anything to avoid getting bit.
Here are the frequently asked questions for mosquito repellents for camping.
What smell drives away mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale, as well as certain smells like sweat and perfume.
So the best way to avoid getting bit is to wear DEET repellents, natural bug repellent or avoid going outside during peak mosquito hours (at dawn and dusk).
Also, camping in a campground that uses campfire smoke to repel mosquitoes can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about getting bit!
Does Thermacell really work?
Yes, Thermacell really works! They're a chemical-free mosquito killers that uses a mat soaked in allethrin, a synthetic version of a natural repellent mat found in chrysanthemums.
When you light the mat, it heats up and vaporizes the allethrin, creating an invisible "mosquito barrier" around you that repels mosquitoes for up to 12 hours.
Do citronella candles actually work?
There is some scientific evidence that citronella candles can help to repel mosquitoes. One study found that when burned, citronella candles produced a smoke that was effective at repelling both tsetse flies and malaria-carrying mosquitoes.
In general, citronella candles work best when used in small enclosed spaces, such as porches or patios.
How do I stop getting bitten by mosquitoes?
One of the easiest ways to stop getting bitten by mosquitoes is to use a bug sprays or repellent lanterns. Having a bug zapper around is another effective way to keep pesky mosquitoes at bay.
Do coffee grounds repel mosquitoes?
Yes, coffee grounds do repel mosquitoes. In fact, they're a great natural bug repellent to use when camping or when you're outdoors. The key is to use fresh coffee grounds rather than used coffee grounds and simply sprinkle the grounds around your campsite or outdoor area.
Why do mosquitoes bite me and not my husband?
Mosquitoes are attracted to different types of blood, and sometimes they even prefer one type over another. For example, mosquitoes that carry malaria prefer to bite people with type O blood. Mosquitoes are also attracted to certain smells, and the smell of bug repellent can mask the smells that attract mosquitoes.
Can mosquitoes bite through clothes?
Mosquitoes can't bite through clothes, but they can bite through thin fabric. That's why it's important to use bug repellent when you're camping or hiking.
What are natural repellents for mosquitoes?
There are quite a few natural bug repellents out there that can be just as effective as the chemical-laden options. Some of the most popular include citronella oil, lavender oil, and eucalyptus oil.
Why do mosquitoes go for ankles?
First of all, mosquitoes aren't going for your ankles specifically. They're attracted to any exposed skin, whether it's your ankles, wrists, or face. One reason they seem to go for ankles more often is because they're often closer to the ground, making them easier for mosquitoes to reach.
Another reason mosquitoes are drawn to ankles is because of the many blood vessels in that area. When a mosquito bites, it punctures the skin and sucks out blood. The more blood vessels there are in an area, the more appealing it is to a mosquito.
How many times can a single mosquito bite a human within 8 hours?
Mosquitoes are attracted to humans by their carbon dioxide output and by their scent. One mosquito can bite a human multiple times, but typically no more than 3-4 times.
Does vanilla extract prevent mosquito bites?
There is some anecdotal evidence that vanilla extract can act as a mosquito repellent, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. In fact, most commercial bug repellents contain chemicals such as Deet or Picaridin that are proven to be more effective at repelling mosquitoes than vanilla extract.
Do mosquitoes like clean skin?
Mosquitoes definitely prefer clean skin, but not for the reasons you might think. Mosquitoes are actually drawn to the carbon dioxide that we exhale, and they can smell people from a long distance away.
So while a person's scent may not be inherently attractive to mosquitoes, factors like sweat and perfume will make you even more appealing.
The Best Mosquito Repellent for Camping
Mosquitoes can really put a damper on your outdoor fun, but with the right repellent, you can keep them at bay.
I’ve provided information on some of the best bug repellents for camping, so be sure to check it out.
And don’t forget to click the button to check the price!
Happy camping!
