10 Best Tick Repellents 2026 in the United States

The Repel 100 Insect Repellent is a powerful option for those needing robust protection against ticks and other biting insects. Its main strength lies in its active ingredient, DEET, with a concentration of 98.11%, which is highly effective in severe insect conditions. This high level of DEET ensures the repellent provides up to 10 hours of protection, making it suitable for long outdoor activities without frequent reapplication.

The product's compact, travel-size pump spray design is convenient for carrying during various outdoor adventures, adding to its practicality. However, the strong DEET concentration might be too intense for some users, especially children, or for those with sensitive skin. The repellent is unscented, which is a plus for those who dislike the typical chemical smell of insect repellents.

Despite its effectiveness, users should exercise caution when applying it to children and follow the guidelines for safe use. The pack of six 1-ounce bottles offers good value, ensuring you have plenty of repellent for multiple outings.

The Sawyer Products SP565 Premium Insect Repellent is an effective option for those seeking long-lasting protection against ticks and other pests. It uses 20% Picaridin as its active ingredient, which is known for its effectiveness in repelling various insects, including ticks that can carry diseases like Lyme and encephalitis. This repellent offers up to 14 hours of protection against ticks and mosquitoes, making it suitable for extended outdoor activities.

The lotion form is easy to apply and dries quickly, without leaving a greasy residue, which enhances comfort during use. Additionally, it's fragrance-free and odorless, making it pleasant to wear and safe for use on clothing and gear without causing damage. It's suitable for all age groups, ensuring that the entire family can use it safely.

However, the 1-quart lotion pump dispenser might be bulky for travel and storage compared to smaller, more portable options. While it is very effective in deterring a wide range of pests, it might require reapplication to maintain protection against flies and gnats after about 8 hours. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this repellent is recommended by sources like WireCutter/New York Times.

Repel 100 Insect Repellent stands out for its very high DEET concentration (98.11%), which makes it particularly effective in heavily infested areas with ticks, mosquitoes, and other biting insects. This strong active ingredient provides up to 10 hours of continuous protection, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities without frequent reapplication. The product comes in a convenient 4-ounce pump spray form, which is easy to apply and travel-friendly.

It effectively repels a wide variety of pests including ticks, mosquitoes (some carrying viruses like Zika and West Nile), gnats, biting flies, chiggers, and fleas, making it a versatile choice for serious outdoor use. However, the high DEET percentage means it should be used with caution, especially around children and sensitive skin, as it can sometimes cause irritation. It is advisable to follow general guidelines for DEET use, which usually recommend against applying such strong formulas to young children. The unscented formula is a plus for those sensitive to fragrances.

The pack contains six bottles, offering good value if you spend a lot of time outdoors or want to keep some on hand. This repellent is well suited for adults and older children who need strong, long-lasting protection in areas with heavy insect presence, but it may be too potent for very young kids or those seeking a milder option.