Thermacell MR300 Portable Mosquito Repeller
Includes 12 Hours of Refills
By Craig Basset, Expert Reviewer for Repellent Guide
published: Mar 15, 2017 | updated: Aug 25, 2023
Review: Thermacell MR300 Portable Mosquito Repeller - A Shield Against Pesky Bloodsuckers
Having spent countless hours outdoors, whether it's for work in the yard or unwinding on a camping trip, there's one nuisance that never fails to ruin the experience - mosquitoes. Especially the zebra-striped ones. If you're fortunate enough not to have them in your area, consider yourself blessed. Those tiny monsters deliver bites that itch unlike anything else. Naturally, when several YouTubers I follow recommended the Thermacell MR300 Portable Mosquito Repeller, I was intrigued.
First Impressions: The Thermacell MR300 boasts of a sturdy design, made of a durable hard plastic. It feels rugged and designed to endure the typical rough and tumble of outdoor adventures. The simplicity in igniting the butane, as well as changing the pads and fuel, speaks volumes about user-friendliness. Turn the switch on, wait a moment, press the igniter, and you're set. The gentle orange glow assures you it's working its magic.
Performance: I was admittedly skeptical at first. How could this compact device ward off swarms of mosquitoes in an area as large as my backyard? But within minutes, it felt like I had a protective shield around me. My evening yard work sessions transformed from a battle against bugs to a peaceful chore. And the radius? Perfect for a solo task or a snug gathering of two.
Adventures Outdoors: Taking the Thermacell on a camping trip was the real test. Previously, evenings by the campfire demanded drenching oneself in DEET sprays. But with the Thermacell clipped to my belt (thanks to a separate clip I got), I had a bite-free experience, even when the air was thick with mosquitoes.
There was a memorable evening, lounging in my hammock, where I solely relied on the Thermacell without any additional repellent. Not a single bite. The device's effectiveness truly shone when I could bask in the warmth of the campfire, engrossed in conversations, without the constant slapping away of mosquitoes.
Pros & Cons: While the Thermacell MR300 is a formidable adversary against mosquitoes, it does have limitations. Its 15x15 ft protection area means those straying further away would lose the protective shield. And while it's relatively cost-effective, frequent use might see you buying replacement cartridges and repellent refills more often than you'd like. Travelers might also find sourcing these replacements a challenge in remote locations.
Final Thoughts: The Thermacell MR300 is a revelation for outdoor enthusiasts. It promises a near bug-free zone, and it delivers. Its simplicity, effectiveness, and ruggedness make it an essential tool, whether you're working in your yard or out in the wilderness. For those who value their evenings without incessant itching, this device is a game-changer. Highly recommended!
