Summer is my favorite season for all the obvious reasons—I love a good hike, camping, pool time, and cookouts. But I often pay a very itchy price for spending most of my time outside in the summer. Mosquitoes love me, and I leave most outdoor outings this time of year with red welts from bites. Thankfully, I've found some relief that doesn't involve dousing myself in greasy, smelly bug sprays. These traps are different from repellents or zappers. These handy devices work by attracting mosquitoes through combinations of heat, scent, and light, drawing them in and capturing them. Unlike traditional bug zappers or chemical repellents, these traps get rid of mosquitoes in a tidier, often more effective way. They not only reduce the irritation of bites and buzzing but can also help lower the chances of mosquito-borne illnesses, like the Zika virus.Once dusk rolls in and mosquitoes begin to swarm, a mosquito trap can offer some much-needed relief. Below, we’ve gathered a list of top-rated traps to help you reclaim your summer nights. Say goodbye to the swatting and scratching.Best Mosquito TrapsWhat to ConsiderCoverage AreaDetermine the size of the area you need to protect from mosquitoes. Are you dealing with mosquitoes in your residential backyard? Is this for a large outdoor or commercial space, like a golf course or private event venue? Will you use the trap at a campground or on vacation?Some traps are designed for smaller residential yards, while others are suitable for larger outdoor spaces or commercial use. Make sure to choose a trap with adequate coverage for your specific needs.Type of TrapThere are different types of mosquito traps available, including CO2 traps, UV light traps, propane traps, and electric traps. Each type works on a different principle, so consider which one aligns best with your preferences and the mosquito species in your area.Mosquito traps often use various attractants such as CO2, heat, light, and scents to lure mosquitoes. One train of thought is to choose a trap that uses multiple attractants to maximize its effectiveness. Another approach is to choose one that you’re most comfortable with. For example, if you prefer not to use a chemical-based trap, opt for a trap that uses fans or natural, safe, and non-toxic attractants like essential oils, sugar and yeast, and herbs like citronella, lavender, lemon balm, basil, and mint.PortabilityPlanning to bring your trap along on outdoor adventures? If so, portability is key. Compact, lightweight models are ideal for travel, whether you're headed to a campground, a picnic, or just moving the trap between your front and backyard. Some larger traps can weigh over 10 pounds and may be less convenient to relocate.MaintenanceUpkeep can vary widely depending on the trap design. Be sure to review what’s involved—whether it's emptying a container, changing attractant cartridges, recharging batteries, or giving the unit a regular clean. Choose one with maintenance demands you're comfortable with to ensure smooth, consistent performance.How We SelectedTo compile this list, I conducted thorough research into the current mosquito traps available across different price ranges and use cases. My choices were based on a blend of product features, customer feedback, and expert reviews from reputable outlets. I was also able to reference my own personal experiences with mosquito traps, as I have tried everything from sprays to candles to fan traps to minimize the number of bites I will get.