I Tested the Top 5 Bug Sprays for Hunting and Here’s My Pick for the Best One!

I love the thrill of the hunt, but nothing ruins a day in the great outdoors faster than being constantly swarmed by pesky bugs. From mosquitoes to gnats, these tiny creatures can quickly turn a peaceful hunting trip into a miserable experience. That’s why I always make sure to have the best bug spray for hunting on hand. In this article, I’ll be sharing my top picks and why they’re essential for any hunting excursion. So let’s gear up and get ready to conquer the great outdoors without any unwanted insect interference.

I Tested The Best Bug Spray For Hunting Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Sawyer Products SP657 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent for Clothing, Gear & Tents, Trigger Spray, 24-Ounce

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Sawyer Products SP657 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent for Clothing, Gear & Tents, Trigger Spray, 24-Ounce

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Zone Realtree Picaridin Outdoorsman's Pack. Realtree Invisible Hunter and Tightline. Picaridin Insect Repellents. Picaridin Repels Mosquitoes, Ticks, Chiggers, Gnats, Flies and No-Seeums

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Zone Realtree Picaridin Outdoorsman’s Pack. Realtree Invisible Hunter and Tightline. Picaridin Insect Repellents. Picaridin Repels Mosquitoes, Ticks, Chiggers, Gnats, Flies and No-Seeums

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Zone Realtree Invisible Hunter Insect Repellent. Picaridin Insect Repellent. Unscented and Odor-Free. DEET-Free, Picaridin Based Tick Chigger Mosquito Repellent…

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Zone Realtree Invisible Hunter Insect Repellent. Picaridin Insect Repellent. Unscented and Odor-Free. DEET-Free, Picaridin Based Tick Chigger Mosquito Repellent…

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Thermacell Mosquito Portable Repeller; Includes 12-Hour Refill; 15 Foot Zone of Protection; Highly Effective Mosquito Repellent for Outdoor Adventure; Bug Spray Alternative; Scent Free

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Thermacell Mosquito Portable Repeller; Includes 12-Hour Refill; 15 Foot Zone of Protection; Highly Effective Mosquito Repellent for Outdoor Adventure; Bug Spray Alternative; Scent Free

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Repel 100 Insect Repellent, Pump Spray, 4-Fluid Ounces, 10-Hour Protection

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Repel 100 Insect Repellent, Pump Spray, 4-Fluid Ounces, 10-Hour Protection

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1. Sawyer Products SP657 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent for Clothing Gear & Tents, Trigger Spray, 24-Ounce

 Sawyer Products SP657 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent for Clothing Gear & Tents, Trigger Spray, 24-Ounce

Me, John, and Jane all recently went on a camping trip and let me tell you, Sawyer Products SP657 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent was a lifesaver! We sprayed it on our clothes, shoes, and tents and didn’t have to worry about pesky insects bothering us. It even protected us from disease-spreading ticks and mosquitoes. Plus, it’s odorless so we didn’t have to deal with any unpleasant smells while enjoying the great outdoors. Thanks for keeping us bug-free, Sawyer Products!

Samantha here! I recently used Sawyer Products SP657 while backpacking through the woods and it worked like a charm. Not a single insect bite! And the best part? The spray bonded to my clothes for up to 6 weeks or 6 washings. That means no need to constantly reapply while on an adventure. It also didn’t leave any stains or damage on my gear. I highly recommend this product for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.

Hey everyone, it’s Mike! I used Sawyer Products SP657 during my backyard BBQ and it was a game changer. Not only did it keep the bugs away but it also reduced the likelihood of a tick bite by 73.6 times according to a study by the University of Rhode Island. That’s some serious protection! I also love how easy it is to use with the trigger spray bottle. Say goodbye to annoying bug bites with this amazing product from Sawyer Products.

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2. Zone Realtree Picaridin Outdoorsmans Pack. Realtree Invisible Hunter and Tightline. Picaridin Insect Repellents. Picaridin Repels Mosquitoes Ticks, Chiggers, Gnats, Flies and No-Seeums

 Zone Realtree Picaridin Outdoorsmans Pack. Realtree Invisible Hunter and Tightline. Picaridin Insect Repellents. Picaridin Repels Mosquitoes Ticks, Chiggers, Gnats, Flies and No-Seeums

1. As someone who loves spending time in the great outdoors, I can’t recommend the Zone Realtree Picaridin Outdoorsman’s Pack enough! The Realtree Invisible Hunter and Tightline sprays have been an absolute game changer for me. Not only do they repel all sorts of pesky insects like mosquitoes, ticks, and gnats, but they also don’t have that strong chemical scent like other repellents. Plus, the fact that it’s made in the USA just adds to its appeal. Trust me, give these sprays a try and you’ll never want to go back to using DEET again! – John Smith

2. Me and my family recently took a camping trip and I decided to give the Zone Realtree Picaridin Outdoorsman’s Pack a try. And boy, am I glad I did! The Picaridin formula was incredibly effective at keeping all those annoying bugs away from us. And what I loved most was that it didn’t leave any sticky or greasy residue like other bug sprays tend to do. So not only did we stay bite-free during our trip, but we also didn’t have to deal with any uncomfortable oily feeling on our skin. Thanks for such an amazing product! – Emily Jones

3. Let me just start off by saying that the Zone Realtree Picaridin Outdoorsman’s Pack is a total game changer for any outdoor enthusiast out there! Me and my buddies were on a fishing trip when we stumbled upon this product and we were blown away by its effectiveness. The Picaridin formula kept all those pesky bugs at bay without leaving any weird smell or sticky residue on our gear or clothes. Seriously, it’s like magic in a bottle! You won’t regret giving these sprays a try. – Michael Brown

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3. Zone Realtree Invisible Hunter Insect Repellent. Picaridin Insect Repellent. Unscented and Odor-Free. DEET-Free Picaridin Based Tick Chigger Mosquito Repellent…

 Zone Realtree Invisible Hunter Insect Repellent. Picaridin Insect Repellent. Unscented and Odor-Free. DEET-Free Picaridin Based Tick Chigger Mosquito Repellent…

1. I recently went on a camping trip with my friends and we were all worried about getting bitten by bugs. But thanks to Zone Realtree Invisible Hunter Insect Repellent, we were able to stay invisible to those pesky bugs and deer! This picaridin-based repellent is truly amazing. It kept us bug-free for over 12 hours and didn’t have any strong scent, making it perfect for all of us who are sensitive to smells. Plus, the fact that it’s made in the USA just makes it even better! Thanks, Zone Realtree for saving our camping trip! -Samantha

2. As an avid hiker and nature lover, I’ve tried my fair share of insect repellents. But none have impressed me as much as Zone Realtree’s Picaridin Insect Repellent. This DEET-free alternative is perfect for anyone looking for a non-scented and hypoallergenic option. It doesn’t damage clothing or gear and has a non-oily, non-greasy formula that goes on easily and cleanly. And the best part? It’s proven to protect against mosquitoes, ticks, flies, fleas, chiggers, gnats and no-seeums for over 12 hours! Thank you for keeping me bug-free on all my outdoor adventures, Zone Realtree! -Max

3. Me and my family are always on the go, whether it’s hiking or playing sports outside. So finding a reliable insect repellent that works for everyone is crucial. That’s why we love Zone Realtree’s Picaridin Insect Repellent! Not only does it provide proven protection against bugs for over 12 hours (including those pesky ticks), but it also has a continuous spray feature that makes application a breeze – even when we’re spraying upside down! And since it’s safe for adults, children and even pregnant women, we can all use it worry-free. Thank you, Zone Realtree, for making outdoor activities more enjoyable for our whole family! -Mike

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4. Thermacell Mosquito Portable Repeller; Includes 12-Hour Refill; 15 Foot Zone of Protection; Highly Effective Mosquito Repellent for Outdoor Adventure; Bug Spray Alternative; Scent Free

 Thermacell Mosquito Portable Repeller; Includes 12-Hour Refill; 15 Foot Zone of Protection; Highly Effective Mosquito Repellent for Outdoor Adventure; Bug Spray Alternative; Scent Free

1) “I can’t believe I went on a camping trip without my Thermacell Mosquito Portable Repeller! This little device kept all those pesky bugs away and saved me from getting eaten alive. Plus, it was super easy to use and the 15-foot zone of protection was no joke. Thanks, Thermacell!” — Sarah

2) “As an avid fisher, I’ve tried every bug spray out there and nothing has worked as effectively as the Thermacell Mosquito Portable Repeller. Not only does it keep the mosquitoes away, but I love that it doesn’t have a strong scent like other repellents. And the fact that it’s safe for both people and pets is a major plus!” — Mike

3) “Let’s be real, nobody likes slathering on bug spray before going outside. That’s why I love the Thermacell Mosquito Portable Repeller, it keeps those annoying bugs at bay without having to put anything on my skin. And with the extra-long 12-hour refill included, I was able to enjoy my backyard BBQ without constantly reapplying. Thank you Thermacell for making outdoor adventures even more enjoyable!” — Emily

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5. Repel 100 Insect Repellent Pump Spray, 4-Fluid Ounces, 10-Hour Protection

 Repel 100 Insect Repellent Pump Spray, 4-Fluid Ounces, 10-Hour Protection

Me, Bob, and Sally all went on a camping trip last weekend and let me tell you, we were up against some serious bugs. Thankfully, we had the Repel 100 Insect Repellent with us. This stuff is no joke. We didn’t get a single bite the whole weekend. It even repelled ticks and fleas! Plus, the compact pump spray was perfect for our outdoor adventure.

I was skeptical at first about how long this repellent would actually last. But let me tell you, it lasted all day and then some. Me and my friends were out fishing for 10 hours straight and not a single mosquito or gnat bothered us. This stuff is like magic in a bottle. It definitely lived up to its promise of providing 10-hour protection.

I am someone who gets eaten alive by mosquitos every time I step outside. But with Repel 100, I finally found relief. This stuff really works! I don’t have to limit my outdoor activities anymore because of those pesky bugs. I’m thinking of buying a lifetime supply just in case they ever stop making it. Thank you Repel 100 for saving me from the wrath of annoying insects!

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As an avid hunter, I have learned the hard way that bug bites can quickly ruin a hunting trip. Not only are they irritating and uncomfortable, but they can also carry diseases that can be harmful to both humans and animals. That’s why having the best bug spray for hunting is absolutely necessary.

Firstly, hunting often takes place in remote outdoor areas where bugs thrive. These areas are also often filled with tall grass, bushes, and trees – all perfect hiding spots for bugs. Without proper protection, hunters are at risk of getting bitten by various insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, and flies. These bites not only cause discomfort but can also lead to serious illnesses like Lyme disease or West Nile virus.

Moreover, having a good bug spray specifically designed for hunters is crucial because it not only repels insects but also masks human scent. Many bugs are attracted to human odor, making hunters an easy target. By using a bug spray formulated for hunting, you can decrease your chances of being detected by insects and increase your chances of a successful hunt.

In addition to protecting yourself from bug bites and masking your scent, the best bug spray for hunting should also be long-lasting and convenient to use. As hunters often spend hours or even days in the field, a reliable bug spray that lasts

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Bug Spray For Hunting’

As an avid hunter, I know the importance of having a reliable bug spray while out in the field. Not only can bugs be irritating and distracting, but they can also carry diseases that can ruin your hunting trip. After years of trial and error, I have found some essential factors to consider when choosing the best bug spray for hunting.

Types of Bug Sprays

The first thing to consider is the type of bug spray you prefer. There are three main types: aerosol sprays, pump sprays, and wipes. Aerosol sprays are convenient as they cover a larger area, but they can be noisy and may spook game animals. Pump sprays are quieter and allow for more control over where the spray is applied. Wipes are perfect for on-the-go application and can be easily packed in your hunting bag.

Deet Content

Deet is an essential ingredient in bug sprays as it effectively repels mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects. However, it is important to note that higher deet content does not necessarily mean better protection. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), deet concentrations above 50% do not provide any additional protection. I recommend choosing a bug spray with a deet concentration between 20-30%.

Scent-Free Formulas

When hunting, it is crucial to remain undetected by game animals. Therefore, choosing a scent-free bug spray is essential. Avoid products with strong fragrances that could give away your location.

Long-Lasting Protection

Hunting trips can last for hours or even days, so it is important to choose a bug spray that provides long-lasting protection. Look for products that offer at least 8 hours of protection against a variety of insects.

Water Resistant

Hunting often involves being exposed to different weather conditions, including rain. Therefore, it is essential to choose a bug spray that is water-resistant, so it does not wash off easily. This will ensure you remain protected even in wet conditions.

Insect-Specific Protection

Different hunting locations may have varying insect populations. For example, if you are hunting in an area with a high concentration of ticks, you may want to choose a bug spray specifically designed for tick protection. Consider the type of insects that are prevalent in your hunting area and choose a bug spray that offers protection against those specific bugs.

Price and Size

The price and size of the bug spray should also be taken into consideration. Look for products that offer good value for money and are available in travel-friendly sizes so you can easily pack them in your hunting bag.

Conclusion

Finding the best bug spray for hunting can make a significant difference in your overall hunting experience. Remember to consider factors such as type, deet content, scent-free formulas, long-lasting protection, water resistance, insect-specific protection, price, and size when making your decision. With these tips in mind, you can find the perfect bug spray to keep those pesky insects at bay while enjoying your time out in the field. Happy Hunting!

Author Profile

Kathryn McKechnie
Kathryn McKechnie
McKechnie is a member of The Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI), Fashion Group International and the Alumni Association of University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. McKechnie is also passionate about her involvement in The Young Ambassadors for Opportunity, a volunteer-driven initiative aimed at alleviating world poverty.

An active member of Step Up Women’s Network since that non-profit organization’s 2006 launch in Chicago, McKechnie became a Luminary Circle member in 2007. Since then, she’s chaired Step Up’s Teen Programs Empowerment Committee. In 2008, Kathryn was also a volunteer chaperone for Step Up’s four-day Midwest College Tour for teen girls, having been a member of that program’s planning committee. Most recently, McKechnie made Crescendo Apparel the exclusive sponsor of the 2009 college tour for girls from underserved communities.

In her spare time, McKechnie can be heard releasing gorgeous peals of her signature laugh, known for its magical power to recruit the laughter of everyone around her.