Stupid question about insects

Question

We’re coming to LA from the Midwest in a few days. I am trying to pack lightly. I have been to CA a few times, but not to SoCal. Are mosquitoes a thing there? Will I need to pack repellent? Thanks.

Answer

In general, mosquitoes are not a major problem in Los Angeles compared to many parts of the Midwest or the East Coast. The dry climate, especially in the fall and winter, keeps mosquito populations relatively low. You will rarely encounter large swarms in most urban and suburban areas.

That said, there are some situations where mosquitoes can appear:

Near ponds, lakes, or slow-moving water in parks or residential areas.
In areas with standing water after rare rains.
Early morning or dusk, particularly in shaded, vegetated areas.

For typical tourist activities in LA — walking around Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Griffith Park, or downtown — mosquitoes are usually not noticeable. If you plan on spending time near water bodies, hiking in shaded canyons, or visiting more natural areas, a small bottle of insect repellent may be useful but is not strictly necessary.

Additional tips:

Lightweight clothing with long sleeves can reduce any bites if you are sensitive.
Evening beach walks or park visits usually remain mosquito-free unless there’s recent rain.
For packing lightly, you could opt for a small travel-size repellent, just in case, without taking up much space.

Overall, for most standard Los Angeles tourist plans, you likely won’t need mosquito repellent, but having a small amount on hand can give peace of mind in more natural or water-adjacent spots.

Stupid question about insects

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