Muskol comes in liquid and spray, with 30% DEET. Spray is probably more risky for your nylon gear and the liquid will penetrate more in the skin. Watkins contains 28% DEET and it's less absorbing because it's a lotion like sunscreen and you know where you put it since it's not transparent when you apply it.

Roll a $5 NiteIze headband around your flashlight if it fits so that you can free your hands...

Frankie