✨ DEET Wipes: Portable Tick Protection
October 21, 2025 • 5 min read • 3,800+ reviews
Individually wrapped, portable, and recommended by Consumer Reports—these wipes make DEET application foolproof. No more liquid leaks, no TSA hassles, and no messy spray applications.
Why DEET Wipes Are Game-Changers
Traditional DEET sprays have drawbacks:
- Liquids leak in backpacks and luggage
- Aerosol cans aren't TSA-approved for air travel
- Spraying is messy and can get on gear
- Hard to apply evenly to face and neck
Ben's DEET wipes eliminate these issues while delivering the same powerful 30% DEET protection.
Ben's 30% DEET Wipes - 24 Pack
Ben's 30% DEET Wipes - 24 Pack
Key Features:
- 30% DEET active ingredient
- Individually wrapped (no spills)
- 8 hours of effective protection
- Easy, controlled application
- Water-based formula
- 24 wipes per pack
- Perfect for backpacking
- TSA-compliant for air travel
- Recommended by Consumer Reports
- Can be saved if you fold after opening
How to Use DEET Wipes
- Open individual wrapper
- Wipe exposed skin (arms, legs, neck, ears)
- Make sure to wipe like you're cleaning—rub thoroughly
- One wipe can cover entire exposed body if done carefully
- Wash hands after application (don't touch face/eyes)
- Allow to dry before getting dressed
- For air travel, fold the open wrapper to keep unused portion moist for later use
DEET Wipes vs. Spray
- Coverage: Wipes provide better, more even coverage than spray
- Control: You control exactly where the DEET goes
- Mess: No overspray or waste; wipes are targeted
- Travel: TSA-approved in carry-on luggage
- Cost per use: Roughly equivalent to spray
- Convenience: Wipes are easier for solo application (especially face/neck)
Perfect For...
- Backpacking: Individual wipes take minimal pack space
- Day hikes: Fit easily in pockets or day packs
- Air travel: TSA-approved (can't bring spray on planes)
- Fishing trips: Keep bug-free without messy sprays
- Outdoor work: Quick application during breaks
- Family outings: Easy for parents to apply to kids
- Emergency preparedness: Grab a few for your car or go-bag
Quantity Planning
A 24-pack gives you flexibility:
- Weekend trip (2 days): 2-3 wipes (reapply as needed)
- Week-long backpacking trip: 4-6 wipes (reapply mid-trip)
- Multiple family trips: 1-2 packs for summer season
- Keep in your car: 2-3 wipes for unexpected outdoor time
Consumer Reports Recognition
Ben's DEET wipes are recommended by Consumer Reports, one of the most trusted testing organizations. They evaluated DEET repellents based on:
- Effectiveness against mosquitoes and ticks
- Duration of protection
- Safety profile
- User experience and convenience
- Value for money
Ben's wipes scored highly across all categories, making them Consumer Reports' top portable tick repellent option.
Hudson Valley Hiking & DEET Wipes
For Hudson Valley outdoor adventures, DEET wipes are ideal:
- Appalachian Trail sections: Take a few wipes for day hikes
- Local parks and nature preserves: Quick protection for short outings
- Storm King State Park: Easy to apply between activity
- Scenic overlooks and viewpoints: Protect before exploring
- Fishing at local spots: Keep in your tackle box
Combining with Other Protections
DEET wipes work best as part of comprehensive tick defense:
- Permethrin-treated clothing: Kills ticks on contact
- Leg gaiters: Stops ticks at ankle level
- Ben's DEET wipes: Protects exposed skin (8 hours)
- Tick checks: Daily full-body inspection for attached ticks
DEET Wipes for the Whole Family
- Adults: Use as directed
- Children 3+: Safe when applied by adults
- Infants: Avoid DEET; use permethrin-treated clothing instead
- Pregnant/Nursing: 30% DEET is considered safe by CDC
The key is parental supervision and proper application—don't apply to children's hands (they may put hands in mouths).
Storage and Shelf Life
- Store in cool, dry place
- Keep away from direct sunlight
- Unopened wipes remain effective for several years
- After opening, fold the wrapper to preserve unused wipe for next use
- Perfect for keeping in cars, backpacks, or go-bags year-round
Conclusion
Ben's 30% DEET wipes represent the perfect balance of protection and convenience. They're not better than spray DEET—they're just more practical for real-world outdoor use.