Permethrin is the basic defense against ticks. Spray your clothes, hat, boots, etc. even if you use bug suits. I also tuck my pants into my snake boots, which also helps.
I know guys are tired of me discussing the Alpha Gal allergy, but it is a nasty situation caused by ticks and sometimes by chiggers. The effect is that it makes you allergic to all mammalian meat and other products like soaps, clothing, perfumes, and even some medications that contain animal collagen. It can be very life threatening, and there is no cure. I have it, and it is bad stuff. My friends, please don't take any chances. Here in the South ticks are a threat all year long.