Dress Smart: Cover Up

One of the best defenses against mosquitoes is your clothing. As Capt. Wil Christensen puts it, “Textiles have always been the best insect repellent. I recommend long sleeves, long pants, a hat, and a buff that can be pulled up around your neck and chin.”

Capt. Chris Crolley echoes this advice: “Long sleeves, long pants, hat and bandana are a must.” By covering your skin, you minimize the chances of getting bitten.

Geoff Caruso, our lead expedition guide, takes it a step further: “A base layer with a shell over the top that puts some space between your layers. If you just have on a tight-fitting base layer, they will bite you through the fabric. If I layer, it’s really not a problem.”

Keep Moving & Seek the Breeze

If you’re standing still in a humid, mosquito-heavy environment, you’re an easy target. Chris Crolley suggests, “Get to where there is a breeze, like the beach, or make your own by walking briskly. Mosquitoes are always going to be worse when you are standing still. And if all else fails, get on a boat.”

When kayaking or exploring waterways, a light wind can make all the difference in keeping mosquitoes at bay. If you’re inland, try to stay near open areas where the wind can help deter them.

A Surprising Trick: Drink Coffee

Wick Bouton, one of our experienced kayak guides, has an unconventional but time-tested tip: “Be a coffee drinker. They never bother me, but they get to people that don’t drink coffee.” While there’s no scientific proof behind this, plenty of outdoor enthusiasts swear by it. Caffeine might not be a true repellent, but if you already love coffee, it’s one more reason to enjoy a fresh brew before heading out.

Other Helpful Tips

• Use insect repellent: Look for one that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus for best results.
• Avoid peak mosquito hours: Dusk and dawn are when mosquitoes are most active. If possible, plan your adventures for mid-morning or early afternoon.
• Stay dry: Mosquitoes love humid environments, so avoiding excessive sweating or damp clothing can help.
• Choose your location wisely: Areas with standing water will have the most mosquitoes, so try to avoid boggy spots and stick to breezier, open areas.

Enjoy the Outdoors Without the Itch

While mosquitoes are a fact of life in South Carolina, they don’t have to ruin your time outside. With the right clothing, movement, and a few smart strategies, you can keep the bites to a minimum and focus on enjoying the beauty of the Lowcountry. Follow the advice of our experienced guides, and your next outdoor adventure will be a lot more comfortable!