My father-in-law loves to tell the story about how, as kids, he and his brother used to run behind a crop-dusting tractor because they loved feeling the cool mist (read: DDT) on their faces. Horrifying, yes, but also slightly nostalgic; after all, nothing says summertime like bugs and bug spray. Fortunately for us, there are cleaner, safer, and more natural options on the market these days to keep mosquitoes, flies, no-see-ums, and other critters at bay. Here are five to add to the shopping list.

Bye-Bye Black Fly: Repels black flies, deer flies, green flies, horse flies, fleas, and ticks

Cold Spring Apothecary Spray: All-natural bug spray made with essential oils


Travel Citronella Candle: Carry along for a picnic in the park or camping along the trails



Outscent: Spray directly on skin or a kerchief to tie around your head or neck



No, No Mosquito: Repels chiggers, minges, mosquitoes, no-see-ums, and ticks