The 6 Best Bug Sprays For 2026 After Real-World Outdoor Testing

Mosquitoes are enough to ruin any summer’s evening, but bug spray can help you avoid the maddening itch of being bitten. Whether you’re assembling your tent for a family camping trip in the woods or simply hanging out in the garden, these insect-repelling products will help keep the usual suspects (mosquitoes, ticks, sand flies) at bay. Not to mention protecting you from nasty potential diseases such as West Nile virus, Zika, and Lyme disease.

With so many options on the market, it is tricky to know which ones actually work and won’t leave you sticky or smelling like a science lab. Insect repellents also come in a wide range of application methods, including aerosols, pump sprays, lotions, and roll-ons, adding another layer to the decision-making process.

Continue reading to learn more about the best bug sprays, written by Rachel Cavanaugh.