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The 9 Best Bug Sprays and Repellents, Tested and Reviewed

I took the best bug sprays and repellents camping and traveling from Wyoming to Maine to Senegal. These are my top picks.

Updated on October 26, 2026

Credit: Travel + Leisure

Bug spray is truly a must-have item to stash in your bag before every outdoor adventure. While serving in the Peace Corps in Indonesia, I took antimalarial medication every night for two years. I thought since I was taking that, I didn’t need to also apply bug spray. That was until I returned home and started feeling tired, achy, and feverish with headaches. I went to urgent care and was quickly informed that this pattern is malaria’s calling card.

Having malaria was one of the more frightening experiences I’ve ever had. Now, I make sure to apply bug spray everywhere I go.…