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6 Best Bug Sprays of 2025 That Will Eradicate Insects

The Camping List Review Team
Written By The Camping List Review Team
Last updated: Jan 22, 2025, 03:06 AM
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A woman hiking sprays bug spray on her arm to protect herself from insects.

You toss and turn, try to swat the mosquito away, but the persistent buzz keeps coming back, louder each time

You’re just about to drift off to sleep when you hear that unmistakable high-pitched whine of a mosquito buzzing near your ear. It’s maddening and can turn a peaceful night into a restless one. Mosquitoes aren’t just annoying; they’re relentless. 

Some bug sprays are ineffective or leave you feeling sticky. Nobody wants that. The best spray is easy to apply, dries quickly, contains safe ingredients, and, most importantly, effectively keeps bugs away. Eighty percent of customers give OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent a 5-star rating. Also noteworthy, 20,000+ bottles sold this month alone! We ranked it the best overall bug spray on our list because it works quickly and lasts longer.

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Top Bug Sprays

6 Best Bug Sprays of 2025

OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent

Best Overall
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Have you ever wondered what makes one bug spray fly off the shelves while another collects dust? If a bug spray can keep mosquitoes at bay for 6+ hours, it’s going to be a winner. The OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent has a 4.6-star rating and 20,000+ packs were sold this month alone.

The popular spray comes in two 4-ounce cans and is perfect for when you’re at home and outdoors. Moreover, it contains 25 percent DEET, which means its powerful formula keeps mosquitoes and other pesky bugs away for up to 8 hours. A satisfied customer who gave it a 5-star rating wrote in a review: “It holds off the hungry mosquitoes!” As a bonus, you won’t even feel it on your skin because it’s not greasy or oily. If you want a bug spray that’s effective, smells great, and doesn’t make you feel sticky, this is the one to get. We voted it the best bug spray for its effectiveness, value for money, and happy customer reviews. 

Product Pros
  • Distinctive, fresh scent with a clean smell
  • Long-lasting protection up to 8 hours
  • Effective against multiple bugs
  • Non-greasy and lightweight
  • Easy aerosol application
  • Convenient two 4-ounce cans included
Product Cons
  • Some people don’t like to travel with an aerosol can

Repel 100 Insect Repellent

Runner-Up
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The Repel 100 Insect Repellent is also rated 4.6 stars and ranks as our runner-up, taking a strong second place. The spray contains 98 percent DEET, which means it can protect you from bugs for up to 10 hours. A happy customer shared the following review: “I can walk through clouds of mosquitoes and seem virtually invisible to them!”

Additionally, the 1-ounce bottle is small and easy to carry, making it perfect for long adventures like a full-day hike or fishing trip. Even though this bug spray costs a bit more than our best overall, it lasts longer and is stronger, making it ideal if you’re going to be in areas with lots of bugs. While the best overall is great for using indoors and outdoors, this spray may be better for more extreme bug situations and if you prefer to carry a smaller bottle in your bag instead of an aerosol can. Also noteworthy, the smell of this bug spray is labeled unscented, but there is a faint smell of cough drops mixed with citronella.

Product Pros
  • Labeled unscented
  • Extremely long-lasting, up to 10 hours
  • High 98% DEET concentration
  • Ideal for severe bug conditions
  • Compact 1-ounce size
  • Easy to carry (small bottle)
Product Cons
  • More expensive

Cutter Skinsations Insect Repellent

Budget-Friendly Pick
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Want the ultimate budget-friendly bug spray? The Cutter Skinsations Insect Repellent, rated 4.6 stars and bought by a whopping 7,000 people this month, is a good choice if you’re looking for something affordable and gentle. It contains 7 percent DEET and comes in a 6-ounce bottle. It’s perfect for casual outings like picnics or a day at the park. Regarding ingredients, it contains aloe and vitamin E, which means it softens your skin while keeping bugs away.

Of course, with only 7 percent DEET, this bug spray isn’t as strong or long-lasting as the best overall or the runner-up, but it’s non-greasy and has a nice scent. Choose this spray if you want something gentle and budget-friendly for shorter outdoor activities. It offers a balance of protection and skin care, making it great for family outings and kids.

Product Pros
  • Fresh, clean scent
  • Contains aloe and vitamin E
  • Gentle on skin
  • Non-greasy formula
  • Easy 360-degree pump spray
  • Affordable
Product Cons
  • Shorter protection duration

Ranger Ready Insect Repellent

Best for Backpackers
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Ranger Ready Insect Repellent, rated 4.5 stars with over 1,000 purchases this month, is made for your clothes and gear. It comes in a large 24-ounce bottle and uses 0.5 percent permethrin to repel and kill bugs on contact.

This spray is perfect for camping trips or when you need to treat your clothes and gear to keep bugs away. It lasts through multiple washes, making it more expensive but very effective for long-term use. If you’re planning to spend a lot of time outdoors and want to ensure your gear is bug-free, this is the spray to choose. Unlike the best overall and the runner-up, this spray is meant for treating clothing and gear, providing an added layer of protection for serious outdoor adventures.

Product Pros
  • Ideal for clothes and gear
  • Repels and kills on contact
  • Lasts through multiple washes
  • Large 24-ounce bottle
  • Odorless
Product Cons
  • Not for direct skin use

Coleman Insect Repellent

Honorable Mention
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Coleman Insect Repellent, rated 4.4 stars and bought by 4,000 people this month, is a heavy-duty spray with 98 percent DEET, similar to the runner-up. It provides up to 10 hours of protection, making it ideal for long outdoor adventures like hunting or multi-day camping trips.

Moreover, the spray has a low-odor formula, which is great for those who prefer less scent. Although it’s on the pricier side and the bottle size is small at 4 ounces, it’s excellent for those needing robust protection in harsh conditions. If you’re an outdoor adventurer who needs reliable and long-lasting protection, this is another popular choice. Compared to the best overall, it offers similar protection in a continuous spray form, making it convenient for covering large areas quickly.

Product Pros
  • Low-odor formula
  • High 98% DEET concentration
  • Long-lasting up to 10 hours
  • Ideal for harsh conditions
  • Continuous spray application
  • Small 4-ounce bottle
Product Cons
  • Higher price (yet popular)

Murphy’s Naturals Insect Repellent

Best Natural Pick
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Murphy’s Naturals Insect Repellent, rated 4.4 stars with 5,000 purchases this month, is a plant-based, DEET-free spray with lemon eucalyptus oil.

The spray provides up to 6 hours of mosquito protection and is gentle on skin and gear. So, if you’re looking for a natural alternative for shorter outings, this is a great choice. It doesn’t last as long as the best overall or runner-up, but it’s perfect for those who prefer natural ingredients and a pleasant scent. The 4-ounce bottle is great for family use and eco-conscious individuals. Unlike the best overall and the runner-up, the spray focuses on natural ingredients, making it a preferable choice for those who are sensitive to chemicals or prefer eco-friendly products.

Product Pros
  • Lemon eucalyptus scent
  • 6-hour protection
  • Plant-based ingredients
  • Gentle on skin and gear
  • DEET-free
  • Eco-friendly
Product Cons
  • Shorter duration protection

Choosing the Best Bug Spray: A User's Guide

The Only Thing Worse Than a Mosquito Bite Is the Relentless Buzzing That Comes Before It

You’re lying in your tent, finally drifting off after a long day. Then, just as you’re about to enter dreamland, it happens—the dreaded buzzing of a mosquito. That high-pitched whine is enough to make anyone cringe. And you know what’s coming next: the itchy, swollen bites.

Of course, mosquitoes aren’t just annoying. Depending on where you are in the world, they can carry diseases like West Nile Virus and Zika. So, it’s not just about avoiding the itch; it’s about protecting your health.

Investing in a quality, safe repellent ensures you can rest easy knowing you’re protected from both the discomfort of bites and the potential health risks mosquitoes pose.

Which Bug Spray Should You Get?

1. OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent

A Safe Bug Spray by a Trustworthy Brand:

OFF! Deep Woods Dry “Man Out Of Tent”

Best Bug Spray for: Outdoor Adventures and Extended Use. Great for Camping, Hiking, and Running

Why Choose It?

Its 25 percent DEET formula ensures long-lasting protection up to 8 hours. It’s non-greasy and easy to apply, making it ideal for covering the areas of your body that need it most.

Rating: 4.6 stars out of 5

2. Repel 100 Insect Repellent

Best Bug Spray for: Severe Bug Conditions and Extreme Outdoor Activities

Why Choose It?

With 98 percent DEET, it provides up to 10 hours of strong protection, making it perfect for intense outdoor adventures. Plus, its compact size is easy to carry for long hikes or fishing trips.

Rating: 4.6 stars out of 5

3. Cutter Skinsations Insect Repellent

Best Bug Spray for: The Budget Conscious

Why Choose It?

Ideal for those needing reliable protection at a lower cost. It contains 7 percent DEET and includes aloe and vitamin E to soften skin, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use in various weather conditions.

Rating: 4.6 stars out of 5

1. Ingredients Matters

First things first, let’s talk about the active ingredients. Of course, what’s inside the bottle matters.

Bug sprays come with a variety of ingredients, and knowing what they are can help you make a more informed choice.

  • DEET: This is the most common active ingredient in bug sprays. It’s effective against a wide range of insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, and flies. I find DEET-based sprays particularly useful when I’m in heavily wooded areas or places known for mosquitoes. For example, OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent and Repel 100 Insect Repellent both contain DEET and provide long-lasting protection.
  • Picaridin: This is a great alternative to DEET. It’s odorless and less greasy. It works well against mosquitoes, ticks, and flies. Personally, I prefer DEET for everyday use because I find it more effective. Though not listed among our top six, it’s a good ingredient to consider for those who want a DEET alternative.
  • Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE): If you’re looking for a natural option, OLE is a good choice. It’s derived from the lemon eucalyptus tree and is effective against mosquitoes and ticks. However, it might not last as long as DEET or picaridin, so you may need to reapply more often. I like to use this when I’m going to be outside for just a couple of hours. Murphy’s Naturals Insect Repellent is an excellent example of a bug spray using this natural ingredient.

2. Consider the Formulation

Bug sprays come in various formulations, and the best one for you depends on your personal preferences and needs.

  • Aerosol Sprays: These are easy to apply and great for covering large areas quickly. I usually opt for aerosols when I’m gearing up for a hike or a long day outside. OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent and Coleman Insect Repellent both come in aerosol forms, making them convenient for broad applications.
  • Pump Sprays: These give you more control over where you apply the spray. They’re perfect for when you need to target specific areas, like your ankles or the back of your neck. Repel 100 Insect Repellent and Cutter Skinsations Insect Repellent come in pump spray bottles, allowing precise application.
  • Lotions: If you have sensitive skin, lotions can be a gentler option. They also tend to last longer because they’re absorbed into the skin. While none of our top six are lotions, keep this in mind for future purchases, especially for children.

3. Duration of Protection

How long do you need protection? The duration can vary significantly between products.

For a quick trip outside, like walking the dog or checking the mail, a product with 2-4 hours of protection is usually sufficient. Murphy’s Naturals Insect Repellent is a good choice for short outings with up to 6 hours of protection.

If you’re planning a longer adventure, like hiking or camping, look for a spray that offers 6-8 hours of protection. OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent and Repel 100 Insect Repellent are ideal for such extended activities with their long-lasting formulas.

4. Water-Resistant Formula

When choosing a bug spray, consider anything else that might be important to you.

If you’re planning on swimming or sweating a lot, a water-resistant formula is a must. I always grab a water-resistant spray for beach days or intense hikes. Coleman Insect Repellent is noted for its effectiveness in harsh conditions.

5. How Does It Smell?

Some sprays have strong odors, while others are more pleasant or even odorless. If you’re sensitive to smells, look for a product that advertises a more pleasant scent or is labeled as odorless. Cutter Skinsations Insect Repellent has a pleasant scent and includes aloe and vitamin E for skin benefits.

Imagine a Night Without That Incessant Buzz

Your #1 Defense Against Mosquitoes, Flies, and Ticks

You’re out camping, setting up your tent under the stars. The fire’s crackling, and the smell of roasting marshmallows fills the air. But then, you hear it—the telltale hum of mosquitoes.

You don’t want to spend your camping trip constantly swatting at insects. My main defense when I camp? The best-selling repellent: OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent. Because it effectively repels not just mosquitoes but also ticks, flies, and other pesky insects, it ensures a bite-free night so that you can focus on what really matters… quality sleep.

Best Bug Spray FAQs

What attracts mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide from our breath, body heat, and sweat. They also prefer dark clothing and movement. Scents from perfumes, lotions, and even the bacteria on our skin can lure them. Standing water, where they lay eggs, and the ethanol in our breath after drinking alcohol are also big draws. Ultimately, knowing what attracts mosquitoes can help you avoid bites.

What can I do to deter mosquitoes?

To deter mosquitoes, start by using insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Make sure to apply it to all exposed skin and even your clothes for extra protection. Setting up camp away from standing water can help since that's where mosquitoes like to breed. You might also consider using mosquito-repellent candles or coils around your campsite, wearing long sleeves and pants, and setting up a mosquito net around your sleeping area for added protection. Additionally, drinking tonic water, which contains quinine, can help make you less attractive to mosquitoes.    

When would I choose Murphy’s Naturals over OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent?

You'd choose Murphy’s Naturals if you prefer using natural ingredients, as it's made with oil of lemon eucalyptus. It's also a good pick if you have sensitive skin and want to avoid DEET found in OFF! Deep Woods. Plus, it has a natural scent compared to DEET-based sprays.

Which is the best bug spray for home use?

For home use, OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent is the best overall choice due to its long-lasting protection and ease of application. It's effective against mosquitoes, ticks, flies, gnats, and chiggers, providing up to 8 hours of coverage without leaving a greasy residue. If you need even stronger protection for severe conditions, the runner-up, Repel 100 Insect Repellent, offers up to 10 hours of protection with its high 98 percent DEET formula.

Which bug spray smells the best?

Some people love the mild, distinctive scent of OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent, which is the best overall bug spray on our list. However, if you're looking for a natural smell, Murphy’s Naturals Insect Repellent is a great choice with its refreshing lemon eucalyptus scent.

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