10 Best Insect Repellant For Travel 2025 in the United States

Ranger Ready Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray is designed to be a practical solution for travelers looking to protect themselves from a variety of insects. With a concentration of 20% Picaridin, this spray offers up to 12 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks, and up to 8 hours for other pests like gnats and biting flies. This level of efficacy is one of its key strengths, especially for outdoor enthusiasts or families venturing into nature.

One of the standout features is its family-friendly formula, which is safe for use on children aged one and older. This makes it a great choice for family trips, as it caters to the needs of different age groups without concerns about skin sensitivity.

The spray is also notable for being non-greasy and odorless. Unlike many traditional repellents that can leave a sticky residue or strong scent, Ranger Ready ensures a comfortable application, which is important during warm weather or for extended use. Another advantage is its DEET-free formulation, which means it won't stain or damage clothing or outdoor gear. This is particularly beneficial for travelers who want to protect their gear while still keeping insects at bay.

The Sawyer Products SP543 Premium Insect Repellent is a solid choice for travel with its active ingredient, 20% Picaridin, which is known for being effective against various pests such as mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and gnats. The pump spray formulation is non-greasy, quick-drying, and odorless, making it comfortable to wear without damaging plastics or synthetic materials.

It provides long-lasting protection, up to 12 hours against mosquitoes and ticks, and up to 8 hours against flies and gnats. This makes it suitable for various outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and fishing. It is also safe for the whole family, which is a significant advantage for those traveling with children. Additionally, it has been top-rated by sources like WireCutter/New York Times, adding to its credibility.

However, it lacks water resistance, which could be a drawback for those engaging in activities involving water. The repellent is also unscented, which is generally positive, although some users may prefer a slight scent. At 3 ounces, the bottle is travel-friendly but may not last long for extended trips. It's a reliable option for those looking for effective and family-friendly insect protection during travels.

Repel 100 Insect Repellent is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need robust protection in severe conditions. With a high concentration of 98% DEET, it offers up to 10 hours of defense against a range of pests, including mosquitoes, ticks, and gnats. This makes it a suitable choice for travelers who plan extended outdoor activities, such as hiking or camping in areas where insects are prevalent and may carry diseases.

One of the key strengths of this product is its effectiveness in repelling various insects, providing a strong layer of protection for those who enjoy nature. The unscented formulation is also appealing, ensuring that you won’t attract more bugs with a strong fragrance. However, while its high DEET concentration is a significant advantage, it can also be a drawback for some users. DEET is known to cause skin sensitivity in certain individuals, so it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with sensitive skin or allergies. Furthermore, the aerosol form may not be ideal for all travel situations, as it could be affected by the pressure changes during flights or might not comply with carry-on regulations depending on the airline.

Another consideration is the water resistance factor. While it provides excellent protection, if you're engaging in activities like swimming or heavy sweating, reapplication might be necessary. Also, the relatively small 4-ounce size, while convenient for travel, may require packing additional supplies for longer trips.