10 Best Insect Repellents for Family Travel
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Note that I’m not a health or outdoor safety professional, so further research is advised. Your support keeps TravelHealthyBlog running—thank you! Read the full disclosure. Read the full disclosure here.
Insect bites can turn a fun family vacation into a miserable experience. Choosing effective insect repellents is essential to protect your loved ones from mosquitoes, ticks, and other pests. Travel-friendly, safe, and long-lasting repellents help moms keep their family comfortable and healthy while exploring new destinations.
DEET-Based Sprays
DEET offers strong, long-lasting protection against mosquitoes and ticks. OFF! FamilyCare Insect Repellent Spray provides reliable coverage for the whole family, making it ideal for outdoor excursions and tropical trips. Moms traveling with kids often trust DEET for its proven effectiveness.
- DEET mosquito repellent
- Tick repellent with powder-dry formula; not oily or greasy
- Repels mosquitoes that may carry the Zika or Dengue or West Nile viruses
Natural Ingredient Repellents
For sensitive skin or eco-conscious families, natural repellents are ideal. Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent uses plant-based ingredients, offering a gentle yet effective alternative for children and adults. Many moms prefer natural options for everyday travel use.
- REPELS MOSQUITOES: DEET-free formula repels mosquitoes, including those that may carry West Nile virus.
- WITH OIL OF LEMON EUCALYPTUS: The active ingredient in Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent is derived from the leav…
- REPELS MOSQUITOES THAT MAY CARRY WEST NILE VIRUS: Creates a barrier against annoying mosquitoes that can spoil the outdo…
Travel-Sized Sprays
Compact, TSA-friendly sprays are easy to pack. Repel Travel Size Insect Repellent fits neatly into carry-ons or backpacks, ensuring protection on flights, hikes, or city outings. Moms appreciate travel-sized options for convenience and portability.
- REPELS MOSQUITOES: Repels mosquitoes, including those that may transmit the Zika, West Nile, Dengue and Chikungunya viru…
- CONTAINS 98.11% DEET: Formulated for protection in severe insect conditions.
- PROTECTS FOR UP TO 10 HOURS: Provides long-lasting protection, so you don’t have to limit your family’s adventure becaus…
Lotion-Based Repellents
Lotion formulas are gentle on skin and easy to apply evenly. Avon Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard Plus Lotion provides long-lasting protection while moisturizing skin, perfect for family travel in warm climates. Moms often use lotions for a comfortable, mess-free application.
- 🛡️ Maximum Protection, Minimal Worry: Enjoy the outdoors without fear! Our Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus Picaridin in…
- 🌿 DEET-Free, Gentle on Skin: Feel confident and safe with our DEET-free Avon Skin So Soft mosquito repellent formula, pr…
- 🦟 Broad-Spectrum Defense for Peace of Mind: Repel a wide range of biting insects with ease using this versatile Avon Ski…
Wipes for Quick Application
Repellent wipes are perfect for on-the-go protection. Repel Insect Repellent Wipes allow moms to quickly cover children’s arms and legs during airport layovers or park visits. Many traveling families rely on wipes for their convenience and portability.
- PROTECTS FOR UP TO 10 HOURS: With 12% picaridin, these wipes repel mosquitoes & ticks for up to 10 hours.
- LIGHT FEEL, STRONG PROTECTION: Wipe evenly over exposed skin to protect against mosquitoes & ticks. Follow all label dir…
- PERFECT FOR TRAVEL: Convenient, ready-to-use wipes come in a resealable pouch.
Kid-Friendly Sprays
Sprays formulated for children minimize irritation and are safe for sensitive skin. Ben’s 30% DEET Kids Insect Repellent provides strong protection without harsh chemicals, ideal for toddlers and young children. Moms traveling with kids often prioritize gentle, effective options.
- Ben’s 30% DEET mosquito, tick and insect repellent offers the minimum DEET concentration recommended by the CDC for prot…
- Offers 8+ hours of protection against insect-transmitted diseases including Eastern Equine Encephalitis, Lyme Disease, a…
- Our DEET formula won’t absorb into your skin. The water-based formula stays on skin’s surface rather than being absorbed…
Wristbands and Wearables
Insect repellent wristbands offer non-messy, continuous protection. OFF! Clip-On Mosquito Repellent Band is easy to wear and works for several hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Moms like wearable options for fuss-free travel.
- No skin application neeeded, simply clips to your belt, waistband, purse, or next to you.
- Battery-powered repellent fan
- Up to 12 hours of head to toe protection, use each refill within 14 days of opening
Multi-Purpose Repellents
Some repellents work on skin, clothing, and gear. Cutter All-in-One Insect Repellent protects both the body and clothing, ensuring maximum coverage during hikes or outdoor excursions. Moms traveling with families often prefer multi-use products for convenience.
- REPELS MOSQUITOES: DEET-free formula repels mosquitoes, including those that may carry West Nile virus.
- WITH OIL OF LEMON EUCALYPTUS: The active ingredient in Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent is derived from the leav…
- REPELS MOSQUITOES THAT MAY CARRY WEST NILE VIRUS: Creates a barrier against annoying mosquitoes that can spoil the outdo…
Eco-Friendly Sprays
Eco-conscious options reduce chemical exposure and environmental impact. Murphy’s Naturals Insect Repellent uses essential oils like peppermint and rosemary to repel insects safely. Moms traveling with kids appreciate natural, environmentally friendly choices.
- WHAT IT IS – Powered by natural oil of lemon eucalyptus for long-lasting mosquito and tick protection for kids, adults a…
- HOW IT WORKS – Oil of lemon eucalyptus masks your scent, making you “invisible” to mosquitoes and ticks by hiding the ar…
- PROVEN & RELIABLE – Formulated with EPA-approved repellent oils for trusted protection
Long-Lasting Formulas
Long-lasting repellents reduce the need for frequent reapplication. Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent protects for up to 12 hours, making it ideal for full-day adventures. Many moms traveling for extended outdoor activities value long-lasting protection.
- Non-greasy, fragrance free, odorless; dries quickly and won’t damage plastics or synthetic coatings — safe for use on cl…
- Safe for use on the whole family, long-lasting insect and tick repellent spray deters a wide variety of pests — up to 12…
- Fragrance-free topical insect repellent with 20% Picaridin — more effective at repelling biting flies than DEET; repels …
Final Thoughts
Effective insect repellents are essential for worry-free family travel. Consider DEET, natural, or multi-purpose options that are travel-friendly, safe for children, and easy to apply. With the right repellent, moms can protect their families from bites, reduce discomfort, and fully enjoy their adventures without interruptions from pesky insects.







