Are you camping or just hiking? When people have outdoor parties, we empty a couple of cans around the yard and the shrubs. (Aren't we a nuisance to the environment)
Still, it keeps the bugs away so you can play...for a while at least.
Yes, be careful with DEET. I think the % you need in the product is over 10% but under 35%. I don't use it since they aren't really attracted to me, just bees and wasps!