How to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Thailand?

Are you coming to Thailand with the glum knowledge that you’re a walking mosquito magnet? Don’t sweat it. These pesky biters, packing risks like dengue, malaria, and Zika, don’t stand a chance with the right moves. Our local tricks (and what to bring with you) will keep you bite-free from Bangkok’s night markets, Chiang Mai’s Mountain landscape, or Koh Samui’s shores. Here’s how to keep mosquitoes off your travel playlist in Thailand!

*Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on the author's personal experience and feedback from travelers in Thailand. Product effectiveness may vary from person to person. We do not receive any affiliate commission from the mosquito protection products mentioned in this article.

Written by Huan NGUYENUpdated on 17-05-2025

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Table of contents

1. Should you worry about mosquitoes in Thailand?
2. When Are Mosquitoes Most Active?
3. Types of Mosquitoes
4. Top The Best Mosquito Repellent I've Ever Used in Thailand
5. How to Keep Mosquitoes Away in Thailand – No Cream Needed!

1. Should you worry about mosquitoes in Thailand?

There’s no need to worry, but it’s best to stay cautious. Thailand’s tropical climate naturally brings mosquitoes, especially during the rainy season, mainly from May to September.

That said, traveling in Thailand can be safe and enjoyable if you understand the risks and take simple precautions to protect yourself.

2. When Are Mosquitoes Most Active?

Mosquitoes tend to be more numerous during and just after the rainy season (June to October), as standing water provides ideal places for them to breed. They are most active around sunrise (5:30 am to 7:00 am) and sunset (5:00 pm to 6:30 pm), though bites can occasionally occur during the day.

In northern Thailand, in places like Chiang Mai, Nan, and Udon Thani, mosquitoes may be a bit more common due to the humid, forested landscape. This is why jungle and mountain areas often have more mosquito activity compared to the southern islands.

3. Types of Mosquitoes

The four common types of mosquitoes in Thailand include Aedes aegypt, Anopheles, Culex, and Culicidae. Each type carries a different virus, so you must pay attention to prevent and treat them promptly.

Aedes aegypti: Dengue Fever, Chikungunya, Zika, Yellow Fever
Anopheles: Malaria, Japanese Encephalitis.
Culex: Japanese Encephalitis

4. Top The Best Mosquito Repellent I've Ever Used in Thailand

There are thousands of products on the market to treat and prevent mosquitoes. However, which ones are really effective when you cannot spend time trying each one to see which is suitable and effective? So, we have compiled the best mosquito repellents for Thailand, drawn from my personal experience and our customers at Kampa Tour during their trip to Thailand.

4.1 Best Repellent Sprays & Lotions

Alright, let’s keep those Thai mosquitoes from turning you into their buffet! We’ve rounded up the best sprays and lotions to tackle Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex mosquitoes, the culprits behind Dengue, Malaria, Zika, Chikungunya, and Japanese Encephalitis. These picks are traveler-approved for effectiveness, safety, and easy access, so you can roam Thailand itch-free.

1. Incognito Anti-Mosquito Spray: This UK star is DEET-free, blending citronella and eucalyptus to send Thai mosquitoes packing. It’s eco-conscious (solar-powered production, cruelty-free) and perfect for adventures like Bangkok canal tours. Spray post-shower, reapply every 4–6 hours.

*Rated 4.3 stars from 3,823 ratings on Amazon

2. Sawyer Picaridin 20%: A DEET-free champ with up to 14 hours of protection. Odorless, non-greasy, and safe for kids over 1, it’s great for hiking or camping in Chiang Rai. Rub it in evenly for best results.

3. Murphy’s Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Spray: Plant-based with 30% lemon eucalyptus oil, this one offers 6 hours of protection with a fresh scent. Safe for kids over 3, ideal for Bangkok city strolls.

*Rated 4.4 stars from 13,773 ratings on Amazon

4. California Baby Natural Bug Spray: DEET-free with cedar and lemongrass, it’s gentle for babies and sensitive skin. Gives 3–4 hours of protection, perfect for quick temple visits. Its 2oz bottle slips into carry-ons.

*Rated 4.5 stars from 1773 ratings on Amazon

5. Soffell: Thailand’s go-to lotion, with 13% DEET and a smell that won’t scare your friends. Cheap and found at every 7-Eleven, it lasts 4–6 hours. Locals love it for rural trips, dab it on and you’re set.

6. OFF! Deep Woods: Packing 25% DEET, this aerosol delivers 8–11 hours of protection for high-risk spots like border jungles. Non-greasy but skip spraying near plastics.

*Rated 4.6 stars from 33,093 ratings on Amazon

>>> Note: The first 4 products are not available in Thailand, so you have to order them through Amazon or Shopee Thailand. As for Soffell and OFF! Deep Woods, they are two popular local products in Thailand, so you can easily find them in any pharmacy or 7-Eleven in Thailand.

4.2 Wipes, Roll-ons, Patches & Balms

1. Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Repellent Wipes: The perfect pick for little ones or anyone who hates sprays. These DEET-free wipes are loaded with lemongrass, citronella, and rosemary oils, keeping mosquitoes at bay for about 1 hour per wipe. They’re gentle, non-sticky, and safe for kids over 3.

*Rated 4.0 stars from 442 ratings on Amazon

2. Incognito Anti-Mosquito Roll-on: This pocket-sized DEET-free roll-on is a travel MVP, packing citronella and eucalyptus oils to shoo away Thai mosquitoes for 4–6 hours. Its 50ml stick slides into any carry-on. Glide it over wrists, ankles, and neck after a shower. It’s like armor for your skin. Plus, it’s eco-friendly (no animal testing, green production).

*Rated 4.0 stars from 442 ratings on Amazon

3. RiptGear Patches: These DEET-free citronella stickers are a no-fuss win for kids and adults. Stick them on clothes, hats, or stroller straps for up to 12 hours of protection. Great for hiking. They’re not foolproof but cut down bites big time. Use a few (shirt, socks, bag) for max effect.

*Rated 4.0 stars from 442 ratings on Amazon

4. PARA’KITO Clip-on: A slick clip with a natural oil pellet (citronella, peppermint) that repels bugs for 15 days without touching skin. Safe for babies, pregnant folks, and sensitive types. It’s perfect for rural Thai homestays. Clip it to your belt or backpack and forget it.

*Rated 4.0 stars from 238 ratings on Amazon

5. Murphy’s Naturals Balm: This DEET-free 0.5oz stick smells like lemons (thanks to castor, lemongrass, and rosemary oils) and keeps mosquitoes away for 2 hours. Non-greasy and safe for kids over 3 (adult-applied). It’s a cinch to rub on for city strolls or jungle jaunts. Its tiny size fits pockets or purses.

*Rated 4.2 stars from 1965 ratings on Amazon

4.3 Travel-Friendly Gadgets & Room Protection

1. Insect Repellent Candles: Murphy’s Naturals & Citronella

Creates a mosquito-free zone for 10-30 hours. Murphy’s (9oz, rosemary-citronella) shields patios for outdoor dinners; citronella candles (local) work for short evenings. Reduces bites by 20-40%, perfect for relaxed nights.

*Rated 4.3 stars from 9411 ratings on Amazon

2. Plug-in: Mosqui-Go Duo

Repels mosquitoes in rooms up to 30 cubic meters for 8 hours per tablet (20 tablets = 20 nights). Plugs into Thai outlets, ensuring uninterrupted sleep without buzzing pests.

*Rated 4.3 stars from 9411 ratings on Ebay

3. Incognito Room Refresher

Emits citronella scent for 6 weeks, keeping enclosed rooms like guesthouses bite-free. Spill-proof, it offers hassle-free protection for restful stays.

4. Insect Repellent Bracelets

DEET-free bracelets (citronella-lemongrass) protect for 10-15 days. Waterproof plastic or soft fabric options fit kids and adults, reducing bites during park visits or beach play.

5. How to Keep Mosquitoes Away in Thailand – No Cream Needed!

Wear long, light-colored, breathable clothes to cover skin.
Skip perfumes or scented products that attract mosquitoes.
Stay cautious outdoors at dawn and dusk; peak biting times.
Choose air-conditioned rooms or use fans to deter mosquitoes.
Use mosquito nets in bungalows or homestays.
Set up plug-ins (e.g., Mosqui-Go Duo) or citronella candles for room protection.
Wash with citronella or eucalyptus soaps (e.g., Dr. Bronner’s Eucalyptus) to repel mosquitoes.
Shower after sweating to remove odors that draw bites.
Use Electric Mosquito Bat
B Vitamins: Marmite, Vegemite, or Thai curries deter bites.

Conclusion

Below are all the best products for mosquito prevention and treatment, please note that you should read the ingredients carefully or consult your doctor to see which type is most suitable for your body and skin condition so that you can have a trip to Thailand without worrying about these little enemies. Find out more useful information about traveling to Thailand below!