Best Overall & Most Accessible

Description: If you’ve been to Thailand, you know this smell. Soffell is the undisputed king of Thai mosquito repellents. It’s cheap, non-sticky, and sold literally everywhere. It comes in a spray or lotion, usually in two scents: Floral (Pink) and Fresh (Orange).

Active Ingredient: DEET 12-13%

Best For: Everyday use in cities, on beaches, and dining out.

Price: ~35 THB (30ml) / ~75 THB (80ml)

Where to Buy: 7-Eleven, Family Mart, Watsons, Boots, and every supermarket.

Verdict: It works for 6-7 hours and costs less than a coffee. This should be your daily go-to.

Best for Outdoor Activities

Description: While the standard Sketolene (Green/Citronella) is popular, the Sketolene Shield (Yellow) is the heavy hitter. It contains a higher concentration of DEET than Soffell and is formulated specifically for "Leeches and Insects." It has a slightly stronger chemical scent but offers superior protection for hiking or evening drinks by the river.

Active Ingredient: DEET 20%

Best For: Hiking, waterfalls, and areas with aggressive mosquitoes.

Price: ~70 - 90 THB

Where to Buy: Watsons, Boots, Big C, and some larger 7-Eleven.

Verdict: If you are leaving the city, upgrade from Soffell to this.

The Ultimate "After-Bite" Savior

Description: If the mosquitoes win (and sometimes they will), Zam-Buk is your best friend. This dark green herbal balm is a household staple in Thailand, found in almost every first-aid kit. It smells strongly of eucalyptus and camphor. It is famous for stopping the itch immediately and reducing the swelling of mosquito bites. It also works great on bruises and minor muscle pain.

Type: Herbal Ointment / Balm.

Active Ingredients: Eucalyptus Oil, Camphor, Thyme Oil.

Best For: TREATING mosquito bites (itching & swelling), bruises, and sprains. Do not use as a repellent.

Price: ~20 THB (Small tin) - 45 THB (Large tin).

Where to Buy: 7-Eleven (usually near the cashier), pharmacies, and supermarkets.

Verdict: Small enough to fit in your pocket. Buy a small tin as soon as you arrive; it stops you from scratching your skin raw.

Best "No-Spray" Option for Clothes

Description: For those who hate the sticky feeling of sprays or lotions, the Tiger Balm Patch is a game-changer. These are small, adhesive stickers infused with strong Citronella oil. The magic is that you don't put them on your skin, you stick them on your clothes, shorts, hats, or even your bedsheets. They create a "scent shield" around you. They are DEET-free and come in a box of 10 individually wrapped patches, keeping them fresh until you need them.

Active Ingredient: Natural Citronella Oil (DEET-Free).

Best For: Children, people with sensitive skin, or those who stick to strollers and tents.

Price: ~100 - 120 THB (Box of 10 patches).

Where to Buy: Watsons, Boots, Tops, Big C, and larger 7-Eleven.

Verdict: The perfect "add-on" protection. Stick one on your shoulder and one on your shorts for a chemical-free barrier. Great for sleeping without inhaling spray fumes.

The Best Hospital-Grade Herbal Repellent

Description: If you want to go natural but want something backed by science, this is the one. Produced by the famous Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital (Thailand’s leading center for traditional herbal medicine), this green spray is legendary among locals. It uses high-concentration Citronella oil rather than harsh chemicals. It smells incredibly fresh, like a spa, and doesn't leave that sticky chemical residue. It’s effective, supports Thai farmers, and comes from a trusted medical institution. 

Active Ingredient: Citronella Oil (DEET-Free).

Best For: People who love natural products, mild outdoor activities, and those who dislike the chemical smell of standard repellents.

Price: ~120 - 150 THB (120ml bottle). 

Where to Buy: 7-Eleven (Herb section), Big C, Tops Supermarket, Pure Pharmacy, and Lemon Farm.

Verdict: A fantastic, non-toxic option that smells great. It requires reapplication every 2-3 hours, but it feels much better on your skin than chemical sprays.