Sawyer Products SP5432 Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray, 20%, Pump, 3-Ounce, Twin Pack

Did some research and this was suggested over spays containing deet. Used by myself and partner during two weeks in Costa Rica. Seemed to be very effective. We only had a couple of bites each while others using things like Jungle Formula had many more. It doesn't damage clothes or equipment, not sticky and no bad smell. One application lasts hours. Definitely recommend

TLDR: Sawyer's 20% Picaridin spray is a highly effective, non-greasy, and virtually odorless DEET alternative. It provides up to 12 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks, is safe for clothing and gear, and comes in a convenient, travel-friendly 3-ounce pump bottle. I purchased the Sawyer Picaridin spray for an extended backpacking trip, specifically because I wanted a highly effective repellent that would not damage my synthetic gear or have the harsh odor of DEET. The 20% Picaridin formula is the star here. It's a synthetic replica of a natural compound found in pepper plants and is widely recognized as one of the best alternatives to DEET. The performance against mosquitoes was excellent; they seemed to simply avoid landing on my skin. The protection is advertised to last up to 12 hours against mosquitoes and ticks and up to 8 hours against biting flies and gnats. While heavy sweating might necessitate a lighter reapplication after several hours, I found the initial spray held up remarkably well throughout the day's hiking. The spray is non-greasy and has a virtually unnoticeable, mild citrus scent that quickly evaporates. This makes it far more comfortable to wear than oily, strong-smelling traditional repellents. Crucially, it is safe for use on all clothing and gear, including synthetic fabrics, backpacks, and plastics, eliminating the worry of damaging expensive equipment. The 3-ounce pump bottle is TSA-friendly for travel and easy to pack. Pros Long-Lasting Protection: Effective for up to 12 hours against mosquitoes and ticks, and 8 hours against biting flies, gnats, and chiggers. Gear-Safe Formula: Will not damage plastics, synthetic fabrics, or other outdoor equipment like DEET can. Comfortable Wear: Non-greasy and has a very mild, virtually odorless scent that quickly dissipates. Highly Effective: 20% Picaridin is a top-rated, proven ingredient comparable to DEET in efficacy against a wide range of pests. Travel-Friendly Size: The 3-ounce pump bottle is ideal for carry-on luggage and is easy to store. Cons Reapplication in Heat: Heavy sweating may require reapplication sooner than the stated 12 hours. Tick Efficacy: While effective against ticks, some users prefer to pair it with Permethrin for clothing for maximum tick defense. Verdict This is a clear 5-star winner for outdoor enthusiasts. The Sawyer 20% Picaridin spray offers superior protection without the drawbacks of traditional repellents—no harsh smell, no greasy feel, and no damage to gear. It’s perfect for long days on the trail, fishing, or camping, and the twin pack of 3-ounce bottles makes it excellent for travel and ensuring you always have a backup. It is the definitive modern choice for insect defense.

This was highly recommended and lives up to the hype. never been bitten by a bug when i have it on, and we have a lot of mosquitoes with a creek in our back yard. Have to be conscious of orientation as it is a pump spray bottle, not an aerosol bottle, but I will never choose another bug spray over this stuff.

This is my go-to against sand fleas when traveling to the Caribbean. Works!!!

I swear by this stuff. Never been bit when i use it even as others around me are. I swim outdoors where mosquitos and no-see-ums are prevalent. Deet based products stink, are greasy, and damage synthetic materials such as those in bathing suits. This product avoids all those criticisms. I keep a bottle at my front door (having been assaulted on the way to my mailbox), a bottle in my car (will apply before even opening my car door prior to a hike), and a bottle in my swim bag. This is more than just preventing itchy bites; the risk of a mosquito borne illness is real. West Nile virus is transmitted by mosquitos and not uncommon in my mid-atlantic states locale. It also repels ticks which can carry a multitude of illnesses including Lyme disease (which i had and suffered dearly due to the difficulty of getting accurately tested).