What to Wear on an Everglades Airboat Ride

Wear comfortable outdoor clothing, secure footwear and sun protection on an Everglades airboat ride. Bring insect repellent and a light layer suited to your departure time, and keep phones, cameras and hats secure. Last updated September 2026.

Start with clothes that let you move comfortably

Choose an outfit you can sit in comfortably and move in when boarding. Lightweight clothing is a practical starting point for a warm forecast; longer sleeves and trousers give you more coverage when you want it. Check the weather for the hours you will actually be outside, including your return, rather than choosing clothes from the afternoon high alone. You do not need a special outfit to enjoy a private sightseeing ride. Think about comfort, coverage and keeping loose items under control. Flip-flops are fine; wear whatever you're comfortable stepping on and off a boat in. Discuss any boarding or mobility questions with us before reserving so your groups needs are understood.

Sun protection and insect repellent

Pack sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat that stays secure in moving air. Keep these essentials together in a small bag you can manage easily. Bring insect repellent and follow its label directions. Apply personal products where you can do so without spraying other guests or equipment. The National Park Service recommends water, sunscreen, insect repellent and suitable clothing for outdoor activities in the Everglades. Its regional preparation guidance also notes that mosquitoes can be more noticeable around dusk and dawn. Use that guidance alongside the forecast and your captain’s instructions for your particular trip.

What to bring, and what we provide

Complimentary water and ear protection are provided for airboat guests. Bring extra drinking water if your party would like it, along with your own sun protection and insect repellent. Keep your booking details and confirmed meeting instructions available on your phone or in a form you can access easily. For a family outing, give each child an outfit and an extra layer suited to the conditions. Pack the personal items your family needs for the length of the tour. Tell us the children’s ages when booking; questions about particular equipment or accommodations are best resolved before arrival.

Daytime, sunset and night packing

During a daytime ride, plan for daylight and check how much sun coverage your clothes provide. Choose a hat that can be secured and organize your belongings before boarding. You will enjoy the scenery more easily if you are not continually looking for a loose phone, sunglasses or booking message. For sunset or night, check the evening forecast and bring a layer if temperatures warrant it. Put essentials where you can find them as the light changes. Ask your captain before using bright lights or flash around wildlife. Compare our sunset airboat tours and night tours when choosing a departure.

Cameras and things to leave behind

A phone or camera can be a useful part of your visit, provided you can keep it secure. Charge it beforehand and check available storage. A protective case and an organized bag help you keep track of personal items. Tell us in advance if you want to bring larger photography equipment. Leave unnecessary valuables and bulky items somewhere suitable before your outing. Avoid loose accessories that are difficult to secure. Tell us about suitcases or large equipment before your trip.

Your final check before leaving

Our standard airboat meeting point is 5334 FL-90, Miami, FL 33185. Arrive 15 minutes early; free onsite parking is available. Follow your confirmed instructions if a specialty trip has a different location. Check road conditions and your route separately from the tour duration. If you have arranged transportation, use the pickup and directions page and your confirmed pickup instructions. Compare the private airboat tour options and prices before deciding how long to be outdoors. Wildlife and conditions vary, so follow the captain’s guidance throughout your visit.

Packing questions

What shoes should I wear on an airboat?

Flip-flops are fine, and so are sneakers or sandals. Wear whatever you're comfortable stepping on and off a boat in, and pick shoes you don't mind getting a little wet or muddy. If anyone in your group is unsteady on their feet, shoes with some grip make boarding easier.

Is it cold on an airboat?

It can feel cooler than you'd expect. Moving air cools you down, especially on winter mornings and after dark, so bring a light layer for sunrise, sunset and night tours. In summer the breeze feels great, but the sun is strong, so sunscreen and a secure hat matter more than a jacket.

Do we need bug spray?

Yes, especially for sunset, sunrise and night tours. The National Park Service notes that mosquitoes are most noticeable around dawn and dusk in the Everglades. Put repellent on before you board, following the label, rather than spraying it on the boat where it can drift onto other guests or equipment.

How do I keep my hat and sunglasses from blowing away?

Use a hat with a chin strap, or tuck a cap into your pocket once the boat is moving. Sunglasses with a strap or snug fit are best. Keep phones in a zipped pocket or on a lanyard. Anything loose can fly off at speed, and we can't always turn back for it.