You’ve planned the perfect getaway—Greek islands, Caribbean shores, or a Tuscan vineyard retreat. Your sunhat’s packed, you’ve triple-checked the hotel booking, and your passport’s safely tucked away in a sensible-but-stylish crossbody bag. And then they show up.
Not the handsome locals. No. We’re talking about the winged demons of dusk: mosquitoes.
For some of us, no matter how chicly we swan about with a glass of wine or how gracefully we lounge under a sun umbrella, we get eaten alive while our travel companions remain unbothered, sipping Aperol Spritzes with smug, unbitten ankles.
So, why are some people a mosquito magnet, and what can we do about it—especially as mature solo travellers who’ve earned a bite-free beach holiday?
Let’s dig in (not like a mosquito, obviously).
The Bloody Truth: Why Do Mosquitoes Love You?
First, it’s not your imagination. Some people really are more attractive to mosquitoes. And unfortunately, it’s not because you’re irresistible in a sultry, Mediterranean way—it’s because of biology.
Here are the main culprits:
- Your Scent (Not the Chanel No.5)
Mosquitoes are odour-obsessed. They’re drawn to carbon dioxide (which we all exhale), but some of us emit more than others. If you breathe heavily—say, after climbing all 347 steps to that scenic lookout—or you just naturally produce more CO₂, you’re essentially ringing the dinner bell.
They’re also into body odour. Certain people produce more lactic acid, ammonia, or fatty acids on their skin. Lovely.
- Your Blood Type
Studies suggest that people with Type O blood get bitten more often than those with Type A. So if you’re Type O, congratulations—you’re a five-star restaurant in the mozzie world.
- Your Temperature
Mosquitoes are heat-seeking missiles. If you run hot, you’re easier for them to find. If you’ve hit menopause and you’re still having hot flushes, well… they’ll spot you from space.
- Your Clothes
They love dark colours. Black, navy, and deep reds make you stand out, especially in low light. So if your holiday wardrobe is heavy on dramatic, brooding hues—perhaps rethink that gothic kaftan.
- Perfume and Scented Products
Florals attract bugs. If you’ve doused yourself in jasmine-scented body lotion, you might as well carry a sign that says “All You Can Eat.”
So, What Can You Do About It?
Now that we know the little blighters are judging us based on our scent, style, and general body chemistry, let’s talk prevention. Because nothing ruins a solo travel experience like scratching your legs through a flamenco class in Seville.
- Dress Smart (Literally and Fashionably)
- Go Light: Light-coloured clothing is less attractive to mosquitoes. Beige might not scream “holiday glam”, but your ankles will thank you.
- Cover Up (but Make it Chic): Linen trousers, long sleeves, and flowy maxi dresses not only protect you but also scream “sophisticated woman of mystery.”
- Mesh It Up: If you’re headed somewhere especially buggy (hello, the Amazon!), consider a mosquito net scarf or hat. You’ll look like an off-duty entomologist, but you’ll be itch-free.
- Choose Your Repellent Like You Choose Your Wine—Wisely
Not all repellents are created equal. Look for these proven ingredients:
- DEET (good, but a bit harsh on sensitive skin)
- Picaridin (less smelly, just as effective)
- Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (a more natural option that actually works)
Avoid anything that smells too lovely—again, we’re going for “mosquito-off-putting” rather than “aphrodisiac.”
Top tip: If you’re wearing sunscreen and repellent, apply the sunscreen first. Otherwise, you’ll bake in a layer of citronella oil.
- Watch the Clock
Mozzies are crepuscular. That means they party at dawn and dusk—just like a group of retirees on a cruise. Avoid sitting outside during these times if you’re in a high-risk area, or at least bring your trusty repellent and a fan.
- Keep it Breezy
Mosquitoes are rubbish flyers. Sitting in front of a fan can reduce bites significantly. This trick works especially well on hotel balconies—plus it makes your scarf flutter dramatically in the breeze.
- Avoid Certain Foods (Yes, Really)
There’s some debate about this, but anecdotal evidence suggests that eating salty or potassium-rich foods (like bananas) can increase your attractiveness to mosquitoes. You don’t have to skip your morning banana entirely, but maybe not when hiking through a Thai jungle.
Garlic and vitamin B1 are sometimes touted as repellents. The science is patchy, but if nothing else, you’ll repel something.
- Tech to the Rescue
There are gadgets that emit ultrasonic waves, wearable repellent patches, and even apps that claim to keep mozzies at bay. Reviews are mixed, but they’re worth a try if you like a gadget and a giggle.
What If You Do Get Bitten?
Despite your best efforts, the little swines may still sneak through. So what now?
– Don’t Scratch!
Yes, it’s satisfying. But it makes things worse. Try gently slapping the area (strangely effective) or applying a cold spoon. I know—glamorous.
– Use a Bite Soother
Pack a little roll-on antihistamine, hydrocortisone cream, or after-bite stick. Aloe vera gel straight from the fridge also feels heavenly.
– Antihistamines Help
A non-drowsy antihistamine (like loratadine) can reduce swelling and itching. Essential if you react badly—or want to avoid looking like you’ve got a rogue chickenpox outbreak.
Destination Danger: Where Are the Worst Places for Bites?
Some places are practically mosquito-free (hurray, Iceland!), while others are notorious.
Mozzie Hotspots:
- The Tropics: Think Thailand, Bali, the Caribbean, Brazil.
- Wetlands & Rainforests: Obvious reasons—water is their breeding ground.
- Anywhere After Heavy Rain: Even if it’s not usually buggy, a sudden tropical downpour can lead to a population boom.
Check your destination’s risk for mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, malaria, or Zika. Your GP or a travel clinic can advise on whether you need vaccinations or prophylactics. This is not the kind of souvenir you want.
Embracing the Itch-Free Life
So, what’s the bottom line?
Mosquitoes might have a taste for you, but you don’t have to roll over and offer them a three-course meal. With a bit of preparation, the right products, and some seriously stylish (but practical) wardrobe choices, you can reduce your bite count and get back to the important business of sipping wine at sunset, worry-free.
After all, solo travel is about freedom—not frantically slapping your shins every ten seconds while trying to look nonchalant.
So, the next time you pack for that dreamy destination, toss in your repellent, your antihistamines, and a fan—and sashay off into the (bite-free) sunset, darling.
Final Packing List for the Mosquito Magnet Traveller:
- Light-coloured, long-sleeved clothing
- A reputable insect repellent (DEET, Picaridin, or natural alternative)
- After-bite treatment
- Antihistamines
- A small fan (handheld or clip-on)
- Mosquito netting for beds in rural destinations
- Your sense of humour (critical when you’ve been bitten on the bum)
