September Trip Questions

[u/Imaginary-Section864]

I'm heading to the island for a 7 night backpacking trip in mid-September. I'm planning to carry an extra day's worth of food in case of a ferry delay on the return, but given the recent two day delay I'm now wondering if I should take enough for two extra days, especially with the RH store closed during shoulder season.

Does anyone have any advice or experience or opinions on this? I was kind of hoping there would be a secret hikers' box stash of extra food for delayed ferry passengers, because I don't want to carry the extra weight, but I think this is probably just a fantasy.

On a more minor note, could anyone speak to the current bug situation? Can I leave the bug net hat at home and get away with a tiny bottle of DEET?

Any other recommendations for shoulder season, especially related to cold/rain gear?

[u/Slow-Addition6431]

I biked across it last year in mid September and I think there were only two bugs on the whole island. According to the “experienced” (not old) people I talked to on the ferry,it’s always pretty bug free in September. Good luck and have fun!