After moving to Charleston, where mosquitos are on the hunt this time of year, we learned very quickly the importance of finding the best bug spray and remedies to keep the bugs away so we could enjoy evenings outside. After some trial and error, and a few too many bites, we came up with a list of products that we found really work at reducing our mosquito run-ins, while also offering quick relief when we do suffer a bite or two.

Repel Lemon Eucalyptus  – While I’d prefer to use more natural remedies as insect repellent, they rarely stand up when the mosquitoes are thick. This more natural Eucalyptus spray is the only thing we’ve found that works, with the added bonus of  smelling great.
Thermacell Portable Mosquito Repeller  – We’ve found these to work as advertised, creating an actual ‘bubble of space’ that mosquitoes don’t want to enter. Great for protecting multiple people. Not particularly effective in windy situations, however.
Avon Skin So Soft Insect Repellent + SPF  – There are two main reasons why we like this product. It goes on easily as a lotion, and it contains SPF. Great for a day spent with the mosquitoes in the sun.
Avon Skin So Soft Insect Repellent wipes– It’s nice to have wipes that can apply insect repellent which ensure full coverage without having to walk through a cloud of spray. Great to add to a summer emergency kit as well.
Sawyer Premium Repellent– Sometimes you just have to be prepared for worst case scenarios. After doing some research, we discovered this bug spray is definitely one that bugs can’t stand.

On top of all these great repellents, it’s likely I’ll still get bitten every now and then. And when I do, my favorite remedy for itch relief is Tea Tree Oil, which you should be able to find at any pharmacy.