Hi KG,
It is very hot and humis here in the summer, so we always use some form of electrolyte replacement if we are out more than 60 mins. I hated gels at first, but they are the fastest easiest way for me to the job done. Keep trying, you may get one that suits. I use Hammer products also. No simple sugar.

I always gel 20 mins before any race. I am doing a sprint today that I think will take 90 mins. I plan electroltye drink for the bike and I am going to leave a gel in transition. I normally either tape it to my bike frame or stick it under the leg of my shorts. During the last sprint I did not feel like I needed a second gel, but better to have and not need.

Keep trying, you will get it dialed in, and good luck on race day!

Ruth