Insect repellents Which? recommends

Low-risk areas

In areas where there is a low risk – or no risk – of malaria or other insect-borne diseases (such as Singapore and Australia), you might prefer a gentler, DEET-free insect repellent, as these don't have the same strong smell as DEET.

Or you may prefer to use natural insect repellents. These insect repellents will have to be reapplied more regularly than our Best Buy insect repellents.

Jungle Formula Family

Score: Three stars

175ml, £6.99 (14p per application)

The family lotion from Jungle Formula has no strong odours and is remarkably good at repelling the mosquitoes.

If you want protection of an insect repellent, but want to avoid the chemical smells associated with other insect repellents, then this is a good choice.

For more information visit www.jungleformula.co.uk.

Superdrug Buzz Off Kids

Score: Three stars

100ml, £3.42 (15p per application)

This DEET-free insect repellent comes in a handy pump spray and will be perfect for you and your kids alike.

It gives excellent protection without a strong smell, but you will have to reapply the repellent fairly regularly every three to four hours.

For more information visit www.superdrug.com.

What the British Army uses

Soldiers, like everyone else, want to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes.

The insect repellent chosen by the Ministry of Defence for use by soldiers in the jungle is the Ultrathon Insect Repellent, which contains 34.34% DEET.

We found this insect repellent to be very effective, giving it our top five-star rating, though it isn’t a Best Buy, as it’s relatively expensive at 36p per application.

You can buy Ultrathon from www.raymears.com