Mosquitoes…what do we really need ?

Question

I’m so confused on what we really should bring to repel these critters. 3 adults visiting Talkeetna, Seward & Homer. Planning to do some moderate hiking in each area as well as in Kachemak bay state park. What do we need? I’m hearing everything from thermocells, deet, picaridin, bracelets, head covers… any advice would be so helpful.

Thank you!

Answer

Mosquitoes can be quite persistent in Alaska, especially in areas like Talkeetna, Seward, Homer, and Kachemak Bay State Park during the summer months. Planning ahead for protection is key to enjoying your hikes and outdoor activities.

Repellent Options:

DEET-based repellents: Very effective against mosquitoes. Concentrations around 20–30% are sufficient for several hours of protection. Apply to exposed skin and reapply as needed.
Picaridin: Comparable to DEET, often preferred by those who want less oily residue and less odor. Works well for multiple hours.
Permethrin-treated clothing: Hiking pants, long sleeves, and socks treated with permethrin provide excellent protection, especially for legs and arms.
Head nets and hats: Lightweight, breathable nets can be invaluable when mosquitoes are heavy, particularly near water or in Kachemak Bay.
Thermacell or portable mosquito repellents: Small devices create a zone of protection and can be helpful when sitting at campsites or picnic areas, though they are less practical for continuous hiking.
Bracelets and wristbands: Generally provide minimal protection and are not recommended as primary defense.

Clothing Tips:

Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when mosquitoes are heavy.
Tuck pants into socks or boots if you are in wet or marshy areas.
Use breathable layers so you don’t overheat while still covering skin.

Practical Tips for Hiking:

Apply repellent before heading out and reapply if hiking for several hours.
Avoid heavily scented lotions or perfumes, which can attract mosquitoes.
Consider carrying a small tube of DEET or Picaridin in your pack for quick touch-ups.
Be especially vigilant around dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

In summary, the combination of DEET or Picaridin on skin, permethrin-treated clothing, and head/neck protection is the most effective strategy. Thermacells can be a nice bonus for stationary activities but aren’t necessary for hiking. Bracelets alone are insufficient. With these precautions, you should be able to enjoy your Alaskan hikes without being overwhelmed by mosquitoes.