10 Best Outdoor Fly Repellents 2025 in the United States

The Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray is a natural, plant-based option ideal for those seeking a safer alternative to chemical insect repellents. Its main active ingredient is concentrated peppermint oil, which is known to repel spiders, ants, roaches, and other common bugs. The spray comes ready to use in a 16-ounce bottle, making it convenient for targeted applications around the home or outdoor areas like patios and entryways.

One of its biggest strengths is its family- and pet-friendly formula, which avoids harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, making it a good choice for households with kids, pets, or scent sensitivities. The fresh mint scent is pleasant and not overpowering, which adds to its appeal. While it can be used both indoors and outdoors, protection duration is not specified, so reapplication might be required more often than with some chemical repellents.

As a liquid spray requiring manual application, it may not cover very large outdoor areas as efficiently as automatic or larger-volume repellents. This product suits people who want a natural, easy-to-use solution for small to medium spaces around the home rather than extensive outdoor fly control. Mighty Mint provides a gentle yet effective approach for those prioritizing safety and natural ingredients, although frequent reapplication or alternative options might be necessary for broader outdoor coverage.

The Thermacell Patio Shield E90 Mosquito Repellent is an effective mosquito repeller that creates a 20-foot protection zone, making it suitable for outdoor areas like backyards, patios, and poolside. One of its major strengths is that it provides mosquito protection without the need for sprays, flames, or scents, which can be more convenient and comfortable for users. The device is portable, easy to use, and can be taken on airplanes, adding to its versatility.

It uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts for up to 9 hours, and includes a 12-hour repellent refill for extended use. The repellent formula is independently tested, EPA reviewed, and safe for people and pets, which is a significant plus for safety and sensitivity. However, a potential drawback is that the initial battery life might not be sufficient for longer outdoor activities without recharging. Additionally, while it is effective within its specified range, the protection zone may not cover larger outdoor spaces adequately.

This product is well-suited for anyone looking for a simple and effective mosquito repellent solution for smaller outdoor areas.

The Flowtron Bug Zapper is an electric insect trap designed for outdoor use, covering up to 1 acre, making it suitable for yards, patios, or small farms. Instead of chemical repellents, it uses a powerful 40-watt UV light and a 30-day octenol attractant cartridge that mimics animal breath to lure flying insects like mosquitoes, flies, and moths. The zapper's 5,600-volt grid delivers an instant kill, which is stronger than many competitors, ensuring even larger bugs are eliminated quickly without trapping them inside. This makes cleanup easier since dead insects just fall to the ground.

The unit is weatherproof and durable, built to handle all seasons without rust or damage, and is UL certified for safety. It requires minimal maintenance—mainly replacing the UV bulb and attractant cartridge occasionally—and uses no sprays or harmful chemicals, so it’s safer around children, pets, and wildlife.

One limitation is that it needs to be plugged in and hung outside, so it might not suit every outdoor space or situation. While it effectively attracts and kills a wide range of flying insects, it doesn’t repel bugs in the traditional sense but rather kills them after attraction. Additionally, some users might find occasional bulb and cartridge replacements to be an ongoing cost. This bug zapper is a solid choice for those looking for a chemical-free, low-maintenance insect control solution over a large outdoor area and is especially good for people wanting to reduce biting pests safely and effectively without sprays or sticky traps.