Sawyer Products SP5432 Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray, 20%, Pump, 3-Ounce, (Pack of 2) (Packaging may vary)

Good use, and smell

Actually works and doesn’t have an unpleasant smell!

It does not work!

For the price that I paid I was expecting some results... but doesn't work.

Not working after spraying it I noticed some mosquitoes landing on my kid s skin

Veeeeery effective.

Did some research and this was suggested over spays containing deet. Used by myself and partner during two weeks in Costa Rica. Seemed to be very effective. We only had a couple of bites each while others using things like Jungle Formula had many more. It doesn't damage clothes or equipment, not sticky and no bad smell. One application lasts hours. Definitely recommend

Been using every day at work since we have mosquitoes and gnats. It works great. I've seen mosquitoes dance around my arms and legs but refuse to land because of the spray. I've even sprayed a mosquito with it and it instantly died. It doesn't dry down so there is a tacky and "wet oil" feel but I only spray parts of my body I won't touch during work and that's enough to keep them at bay. The smell initially is like almonds, and produces a fine mist to evenly cover.

Packaging is incredible. Two covers to prevent leaking; so easy to take with you. Not as effective as Deet, but extremely close and less ‘toxic’ for daily use. I did get bit by a couple of mosquitos while using - I own that I could have missed spots. This doesn’t affect my satisfaction with the product. The 4 pack is a convenient count allowing for locating where I’d use it. Definitely a high rating from me.

TLDR: Sawyer's 20% Picaridin spray is a highly effective, non-greasy, and virtually odorless DEET alternative. It provides up to 12 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks, is safe for clothing and gear, and comes in a convenient, travel-friendly 3-ounce pump bottle. I purchased the Sawyer Picaridin spray for an extended backpacking trip, specifically because I wanted a highly effective repellent that would not damage my synthetic gear or have the harsh odor of DEET. The 20% Picaridin formula is the star here. It's a synthetic replica of a natural compound found in pepper plants and is widely recognized as one of the best alternatives to DEET. The performance against mosquitoes was excellent; they seemed to simply avoid landing on my skin. The protection is advertised to last up to 12 hours against mosquitoes and ticks and up to 8 hours against biting flies and gnats. While heavy sweating might necessitate a lighter reapplication after several hours, I found the initial spray held up remarkably well throughout the day's hiking. The spray is non-greasy and has a virtually unnoticeable, mild citrus scent that quickly evaporates. This makes it far more comfortable to wear than oily, strong-smelling traditional repellents. Crucially, it is safe for use on all clothing and gear, including synthetic fabrics, backpacks, and plastics, eliminating the worry of damaging expensive equipment. The 3-ounce pump bottle is TSA-friendly for travel and easy to pack. Pros Long-Lasting Protection: Effective for up to 12 hours against mosquitoes and ticks, and 8 hours against biting flies, gnats, and chiggers. Gear-Safe Formula: Will not damage plastics, synthetic fabrics, or other outdoor equipment like DEET can. Comfortable Wear: Non-greasy and has a very mild, virtually odorless scent that quickly dissipates. Highly Effective: 20% Picaridin is a top-rated, proven ingredient comparable to DEET in efficacy against a wide range of pests. Travel-Friendly Size: The 3-ounce pump bottle is ideal for carry-on luggage and is easy to store. Cons Reapplication in Heat: Heavy sweating may require reapplication sooner than the stated 12 hours. Tick Efficacy: While effective against ticks, some users prefer to pair it with Permethrin for clothing for maximum tick defense. Verdict This is a clear 5-star winner for outdoor enthusiasts. The Sawyer 20% Picaridin spray offers superior protection without the drawbacks of traditional repellents—no harsh smell, no greasy feel, and no damage to gear. It’s perfect for long days on the trail, fishing, or camping, and the twin pack of 3-ounce bottles makes it excellent for travel and ensuring you always have a backup. It is the definitive modern choice for insect defense.

We purchased this for a trip to Africa because Picaridin is effective but safer for our clothes, phone, etc. We didn't encounter many bugs, so I can't attest to its efficacy, however, I would not purchase this product again because of the packaging. Luckily, I wrapped each bottle in paper towels and put each in it's own ziplock baggie for travel. When we arrived (no checked bags, so no pressure issues on airplanes), the paper towels were drenched and the baggie was wet inside. It was messy to clean each bottle and clean each baggie to keep the spray with us daily. I travelled with the screw top and cap on and inserted the sprayer when we arrived. I travelled home with the sprayer in and cap on, and it seemed to not leak. Buyer beware - wrap this product in a sealed bag if you want to protect your items from the leaky bottle.