The best alternatives to bug spray that keep the bites away

Enjoy the great outdoors without pesky insects getting in your way.

July 14, 2021 10:32 a.m. EST

When it comes to enjoying the great outdoors, it’s always frustrating dealing with pesky, biting insects. If traditional ways of dealing with these little bugs have failed you, beauty expert Shari Koffman has some great alternatives that might be just perfect for you! From mosquito repellent fashion accessories to wear out on the patio to solar bug zappers, you’ll be protected all summer long.

Apparel and Accessories

Women and Men’s Tick and Mosquito Repellent Ball Cap and Rouched Bucket Hat

WindRiver has come out with apparel and accessories that are treated with a bonding application of permethrin, a material that is known to repel ticks and mosquitoes from the areas of the body covered by the treated garment. These products remain effective for up to 70 washes! WindRiver's line includes jackets, shirts, pants, shorts, hats and bandanas for both men and women and can be found at Mark’s.

Shop the WindRiver’s Women and Men’s Tick and Mosquito Repellent Ball Cap, $26.99, at Mark’s

Shop the WindRiver’s Women and Men’s Tick and Mosquito Repellent Ruched Bucket Hat, $36.00, at Mark’s

Ultra Sonic Mosquito Repellent Bracelet

This bracelet was invented by engineers who didn’t want to spread toxic chemicals around anymore. They wanted to rethink how we protect against annoying bugs and mosquitoes. Designed in an aluminum shell to survive life’s bangs and bumps, this stylish and modern bracelet uses specific sound frequencies to keep the bugs away. It’s safe for every age and has about a 70-80 per cent effectiveness rate when it comes to driving the bugs away. Plus, it has no refills, it’s mess-free and good for the environment. Wear this anytime, anywhere to keep yourself protected.

Shop the Ultra Sonic Mosquito Repellent Bracelet, $15.99 at Walmart

Technology for the Patio

Thermacell Radius Zone Mosquito Repellent

When citronella and torches don’t seem to be working, and sprays leave your body feeling icky, turn to the reliable Thermacell. The Thermacell Patio Shield surrounds you with a 15-foot zone of scent-free mosquito protection. It’s cordless, compact and lightweight, making it perfect for hosting patio parties, pool days and backyard BBQs. Its proven technology is used to fight mosquitoes in the toughest spots on Earth and uses a 12-hour fuel cartridge and blue-heat activated repellent maps to allow the vapours to travel upwards.

Shop the Thermacell Radius Zone Mosquito Repellent, $69.99 at Canadian Tire

Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repellent Halo Mini

This product is similar to the one above, but for smaller areas like a small porch or balcony. It stands 3 inches in height but packs a punch with a 6-hour charge and an 11” x 11” protective zone.

Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repellent Halo Mini, $34.99 at Canadian Tire

Off Backyard Mosquito Repellent Lamp

Off are the leaders in effective mosquito repellent products and they have finally come out with a 2 in 1 product. The Backyard Mosquito Repellent Lamp is a lantern and mosquito repellent all in one and can repel bugs in an area of 10 x 10 feet. Simply turn on the diffuser by lighting the candle, and the heat from the candle will activate the repellent from the diffuser. This is the perfect product to create a little bit of ambience while staying protected from those pesky bugs.

Shop the Off Backyard Mosquito Repellent Lamp, $19.99 at Canadian Tire

For Everyday Use

Premium Electronic Bug Racket

This product may look like a giant tennis racket, but it packs a ton of bug zapping power! With an 800 volt electrical grid, the Premium Electronic Bug Racket kills bugs on contact in a single swing of the racket.

Premium Electronic Bug Racket, $9.99 at Canadian Tire

FSD Solar Bug Zapper

FSD Solar Bug Zapper eliminates bugs by attracting them with a UV light and kills them instantly. This product is ideal for patios and decks and can be placed anywhere with its four suction cups on the back. It’s portable and wireless and easy to clean. And it even comes with a bottle opener on the bottom so you’ll be ready for the patio in more ways than one!