For a convenient, on-the-go natural bug repellent, we recommend Badger Anti-Bug Balm. It's made with certified organic rosemary and citronella, and comes housed in a tin that's easy to throw into your purse or overnight bag. Because it's a balm instead of a spray, that also means you're less apt to deal with messy leaks and spills.
Want to make your own DEET-free, all natural insect repellant? Naturopathic doctor, Gabrielle Francis, says to combine 20 drops of eucalyptus and cedarwood essential oils, and 10 drops of both tea tree and geranium oils. Add all the above to two ounces of your choice carrier oil, such as jojoba or almond. Place in a 4-ounce container and apply as needed throughout the summer. Francis also notes that light-colored clothing and taking B-Complex vitamins will help keep bugs away.
For a slightly stronger, non-DEET natural repellant, reach for Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent Spray -- a Consumer Reports pick. The active ingredient, lemon eucalyptus, has been chemically synthesized, and has therefore been registered with the EPA as an insect repellant (unlike essential or pure oils). It boasts a 30 percent concentration and is effective for up to six hours.
If all-natural mosquito repellants aren't cutting it for you, but you still want to steer clear of DEET, try Natrapel's 8-Hour Wipes. This product contains 20 percent picaridin, an effective alternative to DEET that's approved for kids and adults. Bonus: these wipes are individually wrapped, making them easy to throw in your bag without having to tote around the whole bottle.
Tell mosquitoes and ticks to bug off with Sawyer's Picaridin Insect Repellent, which has been dubbed the "Fisherman's Formula" for good reason. It keeps blood-hungry pests away all day long, without any need to reapply, thanks to a 20 percent concentration of picardin. It conveniently comes in both a lotion and spray, and is available in sizes ranging from a half-ounce spray tube to a gallon jug. Note that the lotion is effective for up to 14 hours and the spray is effective for up to 12 hours.
