Insect Repellent & Bite Must-Haves
Six must-have insect repellents and bite relief tools that are smart, safe, and family-approved. Make bug season easier with these Pines-tested picks.
Bugs are part of the wild. But they don’t have to take over your trip.
These are our tried-and-true picks to keep your crew bite-free and comfortable, from sunrise hikes to campfire stories. Each one is family-safe, easy to pack, and something we actually use.
1. Sawyer Picaridin Spray (20%)
This is our go-to spray for everyday adventures. It’s DEET-free, kid-safe after 6 months old, and gives up to 12 hours of protection. Covers both mosquitoes and ticks.
2.Sawyer Picaridin Lotion (20%)
Same active ingredient, but in a lotion form that lasts even longer. Up to 14 hours of protection and gentle on sensitive skin. Great for all-day hikes or travel days.
3. Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Spray
Plant-based and DEET-free with a fresh citrus scent. Safe for kids over 3 and protects for up to 6 hours. This one’s a fan favorite for more natural-minded families.
4. Tick Removal Kit
If you're camping anywhere wooded or grassy, this belongs in your bag. These fine-tipped tools make it easy to remove ticks quickly and safely, without guessing.
5. OFF! FamilyCare Insect Repellent (7% DEET)
A lighter DEET option that still does the job. This one is safe for toddlers and gives about 2 hours of solid protection. Handy for evening walks or quick outings.
6. The Bug Bite Thing
This little suction tool pulls out irritants and helps calm bites or stings fast. It’s especially helpful for kids who react strongly to bug bites. Toss one in your first aid kit.
Let your kids roam, your food stay bug-free, and your nights stay itch-free. Being prepared helps everyone enjoy the wild a little more.
🩺 Paloma Pines Medical Picks Reminder:
The products shared here are recommendations based on general pediatric guidelines and personal experience as a family nurse practitioner. Always check with your child’s pediatrician for specific advice based on your child’s age, health history, and travel destination.
Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase—at no extra cost to you. I only share what I genuinely use and love for our family’s outdoor life. Thank you for supporting Paloma Pines.
5 Must-Haves for a Cozy Campsite
Five cozy campsite picks that make outdoor life simpler, softer, and more pulled together. Our go-to gear for calm mornings and fireside nights.
You don’t have to sacrifice comfort to enjoy camp.
These are five things that make our site feel cozy, pulled together, and a little more peaceful... especially after a long day on the trail or wrangling kids.
We’ve tested them, packed them, repacked them.
We’d bring them every time.
1. Collapsible Camp Tote
Doubles as a side table. Folds flat when not in use.
We toss in snacks, blankets, or use it as a coffee station.
2. Muslin Throw Blanket
Soft, breathable, and layered in cozy.
We keep two on hand. One always ends up in someone’s lap by the fire.
3. Retractable Camp Lights
Switches between warm glow and color mode. Packs small, glows big.
We string these across the awning or toss them inside the tent for bedtime magic.
4. S’more Stick box + Roasting Sticks
Color-coded roasting sticks in a clear utility box. No more gooey bags.
Kid-friendly, dishwasher-safe, and easier to pack.
5. Enamel Dish Set
Durable, cute, and better than disposable.
We use ours for everything... from chili to cinnamon rolls.
Save this post for your next packing session.
Follow @palomapines for real gear picks and campsite inspiration that actually work.
This post includes affiliate links. If you purchase through one of them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share what we use, love, and pack in our own bins.