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Sawyer Premium Picaridin 20%
#1 — Best Skin Repellent

Sawyer Premium Picaridin 20% Review (2026)

8-12 hours tick protection, does not damage gear, $10 — the insect repellent the AT has standardized on

★★★★★
9.2/10
Reviewed by William • Updated May 2026 $10

Sawyer Premium Picaridin 20% is the insect repellent I carry on every AT trip. Twenty percent Picaridin provides 8-12 hours of tick and mosquito protection without DEET's greasy feel, plastic-dissolving properties, or strong smell. It does not damage synthetic fabrics, watch coatings, or sunglasses. CDC recommended and field proven across three AT seasons in Virginia and Maryland.

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$10 retail
TrailCraft Score

What I Liked

  • 8-12 hours tick and mosquito protection
  • Does not damage synthetic fabrics or plastics (DEET does)
  • Less greasy feel and milder smell than DEET
  • CDC recommended for Lyme disease prevention
  • $10 for 4oz — excellent value

Limitations

  • Less available at convenience stores than DEET
  • Reapply after very heavy rain

At a Glance

ActivePicaridin 20%
Duration8-12 hours
Format4oz pump spray
Fabric SafeYes
Damages PlasticsNo
CDC RecommendedYes
Age Safety2 months and older

Score Breakdown

Tick Protection
9.7
Mosquito Protection
9.4
Skin Comfort
9.2
Fabric/Gear Safety
9.9
Value for Money
9.6

Field Notes

Three consecutive AT seasons, May through October, Virginia and Maryland sections. Paired with Permethrin-treated clothing. Zero ticks attached over that period. Non-greasy formula applies cleanly over sunscreen. Apply to all exposed skin at the trailhead and reapply once mid-day on full days.

8-12 hour tick protection, does not dissolve gear, $10 — the repellent that replaced DEET in my pack

Who This Is For

Sawyer Picaridin 20% is right for: AT hikers in Lyme disease country, anyone who has damaged gear with DEET, and hikers who want strong protection with a more comfortable wear experience.

Note: Prices are current as of May 2026. Some links are affiliate links.

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Common Questions

Is Picaridin as effective as DEET?
At 20% concentration, equally effective to 30% DEET by the CDC. Same protection, fewer material downsides.
Safe for children?
CDC-recommended for children 2 months and older at the same concentration.