Have you ever been deep in the woods, enjoying a perfect hunt, only to find a tiny, unwelcome guest clinging to your skin? Ticks are a real problem for hunters, and they can carry nasty diseases like Lyme disease. That’s why picking the right tick repellent is super important.
Choosing a tick repellent can be tricky. There are so many different sprays and lotions out there. Some work better than others, and some can even smell bad or feel sticky. You want something that keeps ticks away, but also keeps you comfortable and safe. It’s important to know what to look for.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about tick repellents for hunting. You’ll learn about the best ingredients, how to apply them, and how to stay safe from ticks in the field. Get ready to learn how to protect yourself and enjoy your next hunt without worrying about these tiny pests. Let’s get started and discover the best ways to keep ticks away!
Our Top 5 Tick Repellent For Hunting Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Tick Repellent For Hunting Detailed Reviews
1. Sawyer Products SP657 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent for Clothing
Rating: 9.3/10
Stay protected from pesky insects with the Sawyer Products SP657 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent. This spray treats your clothes and gear to keep bugs away. It’s perfect for outdoor adventures like camping, hiking, and even backyard fun. The spray bonds to fabric fibers to offer long-lasting protection. This repellent is designed to keep you safe from ticks, mosquitoes, and other biting insects.
What We Like:
- Protects against over 55 types of insects, including ticks, mosquitoes, and chiggers.
- The spray bonds to fabric for up to 6 weeks or 6 washes.
- It won’t stain or damage clothing or gear.
- Reduce your chance of a tick bite by a lot! A study showed it can be reduced by 73.6 times by treating shoes and socks.
- Ideal for many outdoor activities, like backpacking, hunting, and BBQs.
- It is fragrance-free.
What Could Be Improved:
- The spray degrades with UV exposure, so store it out of direct sunlight.
- You may need to reapply after a lot of washing.
Overall, the Sawyer Permethrin spray is a great way to protect yourself from insect bites. It’s easy to use and provides long-lasting defense. It’s a smart choice for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors.
2. Ben’s Hunting Formula – Tick & Mosquito Repellent for Up to 12 Hours of Protection – 20% Picaridin Bug Spray with Pump Spray – Sweat-Resistant – 3.4 oz (3 Pack)
Rating: 8.9/10
Ben’s Hunting Formula is your best friend in the great outdoors. This tick and mosquito repellent keeps bugs away for up to 12 hours. It uses 20% picaridin. The spray is sweat-resistant and comes in a convenient 3.4 oz bottle. You get a pack of three, perfect for all your adventures. It is great for hunting, fishing, or even just a hike. This formula is made to protect you from annoying bites.
What We Like:
- Long-lasting protection from ticks and mosquitoes for up to 12 hours.
- It is sweat-resistant, so it stays on while you are active.
- The scent-free formula won’t ruin your hunting trips.
- The travel-sized bottles are easy to pack and TSA-approved.
- Made and tested in New Hampshire, it’s built for tough conditions.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a different spray bottle design.
This Ben’s Hunting Formula is a great choice for anyone who loves the outdoors. The repellent is reliable and easy to use.
3. Ben’s Hunting Formula – Tick & Mosquito Repellent for Up to 12 Hours of Protection – 20% Picaridin Bug Spray with EcoSpray Fine Mist Sprayer – Sweat-Resistant – 6 oz (3 Pack)
Rating: 8.7/10
Ready to enjoy the outdoors without the worry of ticks and mosquitoes? Ben’s Hunting Formula is here to help! This bug spray gives you up to 12 hours of protection. It uses 20% picaridin to keep bugs away. The EcoSpray bottle sprays a fine mist. It even works upside down! This sweat-resistant spray is perfect for hunters, fishers, and anyone who loves the outdoors.
What We Like:
- Long-lasting protection for up to 12 hours.
- Sweat-resistant formula. This means it stays on even when you are active.
- Safe for your gear. It won’t damage your clothes or equipment.
- Scent-free. You won’t scare away animals while hunting or fishing.
- The EcoSpray bottle sprays at any angle. This makes it easy to cover yourself.
- Made and tested in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description doesn’t mention the price of the product.
Ben’s Hunting Formula is a great choice for anyone who spends time outside. It offers strong protection against bugs and is easy to use.
4. Zone Realtree Outfitters Permethrin Insecticide Spray and Refill Bundle – 32oz Spray and 32oz Refill
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to enjoy the outdoors without the worry of pesky bugs! The Zone Realtree Outfitters Permethrin Insecticide Spray and Refill Bundle is a must-have for hunters, campers, and anyone who loves spending time outside. This bundle includes a 32oz spray bottle and a 32oz refill, giving you plenty of insect protection. It’s specially designed to keep you safe from ticks, mosquitoes, chiggers, and other annoying insects.
What We Like:
- PERMETHRIN HUNTER’S FORMULA: This is the only permethrin endorsed by Realtree. It is perfect for outdoor adventures.
- SAFE FOR GEAR: You can spray it on your clothes, shoes, and gear. The permethrin lasts a long time and bonds to the fabric.
- EFFECTIVE PERMETHRIN: It kills and repels many bugs. This includes mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas.
- ODORLESS AFTER DRYING: The spray dries without a smell. This is important for hunters.
- MADE IN THE USA: The product is made in the USA. It is made by hunters for hunters.
- MONEY-SAVING REFILLS AVAILABLE: You can buy refills. This will save you money in the long run.
What Could Be Improved:
- None specified.
This Zone Realtree Outfitters Permethrin Insecticide Spray and Refill Bundle is a great way to protect yourself from insects. It’s a smart choice for anyone who spends time outdoors and wants to stay safe and comfortable.
5. Zone Protects Realtree Tick
Rating: 8.7/10
Zone Protects Realtree Tick, Chigger & Mosquito Repellent is a great way to keep bugs away. It uses Picaridin, not DEET. This bug spray is unscented and won’t leave your clothes or gear damaged. It offers up to 12 hours of protection from many types of bugs. This bug spray is made in the USA and is safe for the whole family, even pets!
What We Like:
- DEET-free formula is a safer choice.
- It is unscented, which is great for hunters and those with sensitivities.
- Protects you from many bugs for a long time.
- Won’t damage your hunting gear or clothing.
- It’s registered with the EPA and recommended by the CDC.
- It’s made in the USA!
What Could Be Improved:
- The price point may be a little high for some.
Overall, Zone Protects Realtree bug spray is a solid choice for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. It keeps bugs away and is safe for you and your gear.
Hunting for the Best Tick Repellent: A Buyer’s Guide
Hunting can be a lot of fun. But ticks can ruin a good time. They can bite and spread diseases. That is why you need good tick repellent. This guide will help you choose the best one for your hunting trips.
Key Features to Look For
You want a tick repellent that works well. Here are some important things to consider:
- Long-Lasting Protection: Look for repellents that protect you for hours. This means fewer applications and more hunting.
- Broad Spectrum: The best repellents keep away different kinds of ticks. This includes deer ticks, dog ticks, and lone star ticks.
- Easy Application: Sprays or lotions that are easy to use are a plus. You want to cover yourself quickly and easily.
- Odor: Some repellents have strong smells. Choose one with a scent you can tolerate. Or, look for an unscented option.
- Water Resistance: If you sweat a lot or hunt in wet conditions, choose a water-resistant repellent.
- Safe for Gear: Make sure the repellent won’t damage your hunting clothes or equipment.
Important Materials
Tick repellents use different ingredients to keep ticks away. Here are the common ones:
- DEET: This is a common and effective ingredient. It works well against many insects, including ticks. Be careful, it can melt some plastics.
- Picaridin: Picaridin is another good option. It is often less smelly than DEET. It’s also less likely to damage gear.
- Permethrin: Permethrin is for clothing and gear. You spray it on your clothes. It kills ticks that come in contact with it. Never apply Permethrin directly to your skin.
- Essential Oils: Some repellents use natural oils like citronella or eucalyptus. These are often less strong than DEET or Picaridin. They might need to be reapplied more often.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all tick repellents are created equal. Several things can affect how well they work:
- Concentration of Active Ingredients: Higher concentrations of DEET or Picaridin usually mean longer-lasting protection.
- Formulation: Sprays, lotions, and wipes all work differently. Sprays are easy to apply, but you might miss spots. Lotions can be more even. Wipes are good for quick touch-ups.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making good products. Read reviews to see what other hunters say.
- Shelf Life: Check the expiration date. A repellent that is old might not work as well.
- Proper Storage: Keep your repellent in a cool, dry place. This helps it last longer.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you hunt when picking a repellent.
- Type of Hunting: If you hunt in dense forests, you need strong protection. If you hunt in open fields, you might need less.
- Duration of Hunts: If you’re out all day, choose a long-lasting repellent. Reapply as needed.
- Your Skin Sensitivity: Some people are sensitive to certain ingredients. Test the repellent on a small area of skin first.
- Gear Protection: Always treat your clothes and gear with Permethrin, if possible. It provides an extra layer of protection.
- Post-Hunt Checks: After every hunt, check yourself, your clothes, and your gear for ticks. Remove any ticks you find.
Tick Repellent for Hunting: FAQs
Q: What is the best tick repellent for hunting?
A: The best repellent depends on your needs. DEET and Picaridin are both effective choices. Consider permethrin for your clothes and gear.
Q: How long does tick repellent last?
A: The length of time varies. Check the product label. Some repellents protect for several hours.
Q: Can I use tick repellent on my hunting clothes?
A: Yes, you should use Permethrin on your hunting clothes. It kills ticks that come in contact with your clothing.
Q: Is DEET safe?
A: DEET is safe when used as directed. Follow the instructions on the label. Avoid getting it in your eyes and mouth.
Q: What about natural tick repellents?
A: Some natural repellents use essential oils. They can be effective but often need to be reapplied more often.
Q: How do I apply tick repellent?
A: Apply repellent to exposed skin. Spray or apply lotion evenly. Don’t forget your neck, ankles, and wrists.
Q: What should I do if I find a tick on me?
A: Remove the tick carefully with tweezers. Grasp it close to your skin. Pull it straight out. Clean the bite area.
Q: Can tick repellent harm my hunting gear?
A: Some repellents can damage certain materials. Read the label. Test it on a hidden spot first.
Q: Is it safe to use tick repellent on children?
A: Yes, follow the label instructions. Some products are made for children. Always supervise application.
Q: Where can I buy tick repellent?
A: You can find tick repellent at most outdoor stores. You can also buy it online.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.