The Travel Expert Reviews The Top 10 Mosquito Repellents and Remedies

Nothing spoils a holiday faster than getting bitten by mosquitoes! So I’ve done the research and rounded up the best mosquito repellents to help you stay protected on your next trip away.

Mosquito bites can be incredibly frustrating – especially when you’re trying to relax on holiday. I’m often asked how to avoid mosquito bites, and while I can’t guarantee these mosquito repellents will work for everyone, many of these have been tried and test and should hopefully help you avoid the itch (or soothe it if it strikes).

Myself and Kaitlin have put together a list of 10 effective insect repellents and bite-soothing products. From classic sprays and lotions to high-tech gadgets like plug-ins and zappers, everything is listed and linked below to help you keep mosquitos at bay as much as possible.

1. Mosquito Repellent & Bug Sprays

For quick and easy protection, aerosol mosquito repellent sprays remain a popular choice among users. Look for one with 20–30% DEET based products or 20% Picaridin. Both are proven to be highly effective.

Try the Jungle Formula Maximum Strength Insect Repellent Aerosol Spray, which offers up to 9 hours of long-lasting protection, has a 4.6 star rating out of 5 on Amazon and is good value. I’ve used it before and found it effective.

The brand Lifesystems Insect Repellent Expedition has also been mentioned to me a few times, I’m yet to try but it has loads of excellent reviews.

While not technically a repellent, many people also swear by Avon Skin So Soft Dry Oil. It’s been widely used and has surprisingly helped keep mosquitoes away for lots of travellers.

TOP TIP: Pick up a local mosquito spray when you arrive at your destination as it’s often much stronger and more effective than what you can get at home.

2. Mosquito Repellent Cream

Mosquito repellent lotions provide the best protection and are often a better option for people with sensitive skin. Applying a lotion before heading out from your hotel can significantly reduce mosquito bites. Just be sure to let it dry completely before putting on sunscreen.

Incognito Bug Repellent Lotion is highly rated and has up to 7 hours protection.

3. Mosquito Repellents Bands/ Bracelets

These type of bands were a big hit with my kids a few years ago, they are very comfortable to wear and come in various colours. Suitable for both kids & adults, the stretchy, one size fits all holiday must have can be worn on your ankle or wrist. Individually wrapped, resealable packaging makes it easy to toss into your pocket and rewear.

4. Plug-ins

Plug-in mosquito repellents emit vapors or ultrasonic waves, offering continuous protection for indoor spaces.
They are harmless to humans but kill mosquitoes, insects or bugs! As many species of mosquito bite at dusk and dawn, the plug-ins are generally most effective when used during the night.

5. Bite pen – Tried and Tested

While not a prevention, the bite pen is one of the best remedies I have found, it is extremely helpful after any bites. This might be one of the best travel purchases I’ve ever made. I’m usually a magnet for bites – my legs were absolutely covered in them in Asia, and not just from mosquitoes but sand flies too. ( Kaitlin )

No matter what repellent I used or tablets I took, I always end up getting bitten (maybe it’s my blood type). But the moment I spot a bite or feel the itch, I always use this bite relief pen, and it instantly takes away the sting, itch and any skin irritation.

Or, consider trying a similar, tried and tested gadget called Heat It. It’s a compact, mobile heat device much like the Bite Pen that connects via an iPhone charging port and helps relieve the sting and itch of insect bites. I have used this and found it great – it does burn for a few seconds but then the itch goes away! ( Sarah )

6. Bite Patches/Stickers

Bite patches are another popular choice and offer quick relief of itching after you have been bittne. Use the ‘Don’t Bite Me’ mosquito patch and stick directly to the mosquito bite without scratching beforehand. The patches are ideal for outdoor activities and fit in any handbag. NATPAT mosquito stickers have also been recommended by others.

7. Antihistamines

Antihistamines are a good all rounder to bring with you on holiday. They help with heat rash, hay fever or any sun related allergies, as well as helping with the itching and relief of mosquito bites. Antihistamines help with any swelling and itching and can calm the redness.

You can choose tablets or a cream – whichever will work best for you. A few people have advised taking antihistamines with vitamin B which also helps to keep the bites away.

8. Vitamins or Supplements

Vitamin B1/ B complex – While there’s no evidence on vitamin B preventing insect bites, a lot of people believe it helps them. The advice is to start taking them 1-2 weeks before your holiday.

Brewers yeast – Brewer’s yeast tablets are often suggested for reducing the itching and inflammation caused by mosquito bites, but they don’t prevent bites or make your body repellent to mosquitoes. I’ve tried these myself and can say I definitely noticed a difference.

Garlic tablets – Mosquitos apparently hate the taste and smell of garlic, so eating lots of garlic or taking garlic tablets can help keep the bites at bay.

9. Essential Oils/ Natural Repellents

Oil of lemon eucalyptus is a natural option (not for kids under 3). Murphy’s Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Repellent is a natural alternative that’s DEET free, offering up to 6 hours of protection. It’s ideal for those seeking plant-based solutions.

Applying Citronella Oil to the skin can help prevent mosquito bites for a short period of time (up to 3 hours)

Peppermint Oil naturally contains a lot of menthol. This can produce a cooling effect on your skin that feels nice in the heat. It can also repel mosquitoes so can be a handy 2 in 1 solution.

Vicks vapour rub: I have been told that mosquitos hate the smell of Vicks Vapour Rub, and that it helps to relieve the itch.

10. Traps or Zappers

Traps are an old remedy for flies but they can prevent mosquitos too. An electric mosquito zapper trap or DIY sugar and yeast trap in a plastic bottle is the most effective. Try a handheld zapper or trap for travel to save space in your luggage.

Other top tips to prevent mosquito bites

Wear Protective Clothing The less exposed skin the better. Long sleeves, pants, and socks. light coloured, loose-fitting clothes deter mosquitoes.

Use Mosquito Nets Especially in areas with a high mosquito population. Mostly in Africa, Asia and South America.

Window & Door Screens Keeps mosquitoes out without needing chemicals.

Use Fans or Stay in Windy Areas Mosquitoes are weak fliers. A fan can literally blow them away.

Avoid Peak Mosquito Hours Dawn and dusk are when they are most active.

DON’T wear floral or fruity scents Perfumes, scented lotions, and shampoos can attract them.

I hope this article helps you avoid mosquito bites or at least makes dealing with them a little easier. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, descriptions are subject to change. Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a purchase is made, but at no additional cost to you.