Serving in a hot, humid mission

Mosquitoes come first

• Cover arms and legs where mosquitoes spread disease.
• Repellent is provided. The Church pays for permethrin (for clothing) and DEET repellent for every missionary.
• Avoid standing water around where you live.
• Slacks are an option for every Sister. Since 2019, Sisters in any mission may wear dress slacks for daily work. In mosquito-prone missions they’re encouraged to, especially in the rainy season. Where slacks aren’t accepted locally, ankle-length skirts help.

Sources: Church Newsroom, May 2016 · 2016 list of missions · Ensign, Feb 2019 · Newsroom: health and safety guidelines

Dress for the heat

• Skirts must cover the knee. Ankle-length is fine; floor-length isn’t.
• Shoes: flat or low heels that suit the climate.
• Sun: wide-brimmed hats and simple sunglasses are allowed.
• Bags: no backpacks for daily work. It’s often easiest to buy a bag in the field.

Sisters still wear a dress or skirt to the temple, Sunday meetings, conferences, baptisms and MTC devotionals. They can arrive in slacks and change.

Sources: Guidelines for Sisters · Dress and appearance

Packing ideas

Light, breathable fabrics that dry fast, extra socks, and an umbrella or rain jacket go a long way. Check the packing list from your mission first: it knows the local climate. See our packing list and vaccines by country.

Next steps