It may not currently be bug weather here in the UK, but the summer is coming (I promise) quicker than you think, and when you think of summer in the UK, you think of BBQs, lazy afternoons picnicking by water, and... oh yes, the incessant attacking midges, and if you try to escape Britain for hotter climes what do you get? Blood-sucking mozzies!!

The battle against these tiny bastar nasties is as British as queuing, and just as irritating. Enter the Thermacell MR300, a gadget promising to turn the tide in this never-ending war, but does it deliver? Let’s find out.

Simple to Use

The Thermacell MR300 is delightfully straightforward. No wires, no complicated setup – just pop in a butane cartridge, slide in a repellent mat, and you’re ready to go. Flick the switch, and in minutes (allow 10 to 15 minutes for it to reach maximum effectiveness), you’ve got a 15 foot bug-free zone around you. It's like having your very own force field, but without the sci-fi gibberish.

The beauty of the Thermacell MR300 is its sheer user-friendliness. Unlike sprays and lotions that leave you feeling sticky or smelling like a citronella candle, this nifty device is odourless and invisible in operation. Imagine this, you’re out in the wilds of the Lake District, with nothing but your tent and a campfire. Instead of flapping around like a demented windmill, trying to swat midges, you can sit back and actually enjoy nature. It’s a revelation.

Yes, I mentioned midges, and altough it is marketed as a mosquito defence, you can also buy Multi-Insect Repellent Refills - the first and only EPA registered area repellent for Black Flies and no-see-ums (commonly known as Biting Midges, Biting Gnats, Punkies or Sand Flies), though not for the common house fly (those irritating buggers are well ‘ard!).

Any Drawbacks?

In breezy conditions, the repellent’s effectiveness can be compromised, but in typical UK conditions the MR300 performs admirably.

If you are hoping to go bug free on holiday, unfortunately you can’t take Thermacell Fuel Cartridges on an plane. Thermacell suggest bringing your Repeller and the mats, but purchase the Fuel Cartridges at your destination as their products are sold all over the world.

Our Verdict

In the UK, we have our fair share of mosquito repellents. From sprays and creams to citronella candles, the market is awash with options. Traditional sprays like Jungle Formula or Avon’s Skin So Soft (a surprising contender) are effective, but they need constant reapplication, can be messy, and often leave you smelling like a chemical plant.

The Thermacell MR300, in contrast, offers a clean, convenient solution. No more sticky limbs or noxious fumes, just a pleasant, mosquito-free bubble. It’s also more effective over a larger area compared to candles, which can be hit or miss.

Overall it’s easy to use, highly effective, and a refreshing change from the usual sprays and lotions. While it’s not without its flaws, the convenience and bug-repelling power it offers make it a good investment if you like spending time outdoors.

prices: RRP £31.99

more at » www.thermacell.com/products/mr300-repeller

Buy in the UK - https://amzn.to/3BWNH3L