Bug Control Gear That Actually Works

In an industry rife with bogus products, these are the repellents and traps that experts agree can effectively keep bugs away.

Essentials

These items are your first line of defense against the types of things you want to go away.

Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Premium Insect Repellent

If you use only one item on this list, make it bug repellent—this should be your first line of defense, and a regular necessity anytime you head into the swarm. This EPA-approved picaridin formula is safe and effective, and it comes in a bottle that’s better than competitors at spraying evenly and accurately.

Continue reading Harry Sawyers's Wirecutter article here.

Staff Writers

Wirecutter Staff

Staff picks for Wirecutter.

NYT Wirecutter: Bug Control Gear That Actually Works

Wirecutter Staff

Last updated:

October 21, 2025

| 5 min read

Bug Control Gear That Actually Works

In an industry rife with bogus products, these are the repellents and traps that experts agree can effectively keep bugs away.

Essentials

These items are your first line of defense against the types of things you want to go away.

Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Premium Insect Repellent

Continue reading Harry Sawyers's Wirecutter article here.

Staff Writers

Wirecutter Staff

Staff picks for Wirecutter.

Staff Writers

Wirecutter Staff

Staff picks for Wirecutter.

See author bio

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NYT Wirecutter: Bug Control Gear That Actually Works

Wirecutter Staff

Last updated:

September 16, 2021

| 5 min read

Bug Control Gear That Actually Works

In an industry rife with bogus products, these are the repellents and traps that experts agree can effectively keep bugs away.

Essentials

These items are your first line of defense against the types of things you want to go away.

Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Premium Insect Repellent

Continue reading Harry Sawyers's Wirecutter article here.

Staff Writers

Wirecutter Staff

Staff picks for Wirecutter.

Staff Writers

Wirecutter Staff

Staff picks for Wirecutter.

learn about the author

Conseils et guides

Campfire conversations with our community, from Squad MembersSquad Members and Ambassadors to Brand Partners and the Sawyer team.

We build products withindustry-leadingstandards and technology, designed to keep you outdoors for longer. Explore what others are saying about Sawyer.

News fromSawyer HQin Tampa Bay, FL, including product resources, updates in technology, and recent brand developments.

NewThere’s nothing like seeing hearing from those who are personally touched by the promise ofclean water. Explore their stories and lift your soul; you’ve made this work possible.

Stories and experiences encompassing a spread of outdoor enthusiasms, from theBackcountry to the Backyard^TM. What keeps you outdoors?

Trail tips and packing list guides for backcountry travel, gear choices.Trail guidesfor hiking, biking, thru-hiking and more.

Read aboutproduct reviewsfrom various media outlets, customers, community members, and outdoor gear websites.

browse all articles

Conseils et guides

November 25, 2025

6 Min