10 Best Insect Repellant For Travel 2025 in the United States

The Sawyer SP5442 Picaridin Insect Repellent is a solid choice for travelers who want effective protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects. It contains 20% Picaridin, a proven ingredient preferred over DEET by many because it's less irritating, odorless, and doesn’t feel greasy on the skin. This repellent offers long-lasting protection—up to 12 hours against mosquitoes and ticks and around 8 hours for flies and gnats—making it convenient for extended outdoor activities like camping or hiking without needing frequent reapplication.

Being fragrance-free and quick-drying, it’s comfortable for sensitive skin and won’t damage plastic or synthetic gear, which is great if you want to use it on items like backpacks, sunglasses, or watches. The aerosol spray form ensures easy and even application, though some might prefer a pump spray for better control. While it is water-resistant to some extent, heavy sweating or swimming will reduce its effectiveness, so reapplication might be necessary after water exposure.

With high customer ratings and recognition from reputable sources, this repellent performs well as a travel insect repellent. It may not suit those specifically looking for a natural scent or a non-aerosol option, but it remains a reliable, family-safe repellent suited for travelers seeking strong, hassle-free insect protection in various outdoor environments.

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.