We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
1. A set of DEET-free handy mosquito-repelling bracelets in case the thought of putting something else on your skin besides SPF (like smelly bug repellent) sounds like a total nightmare.
Check out a TikTok of the mosquito-repelling bracelets in action.
Promising review: "I moved last year from Southern California to North Carolina. Bugs of all types have always been attracted to me but the amount of bites I got last summer was WILD. Someone gave me one of these types of bracelets to use one day and it seemed to work SOOOOOO I decided to buy myself an arsenal to prepare for this summer. I read the reviews and about 99% of them had great results. I've only used this bracelet twice but both times I was outside and un-touched. Delivery was very quick so that was a plus. I'm not fond of the smell, I'm hyper sensitive to smells, but I'd rather have the odor than being chewed alive." —Tracey Agopian
Get a 10-pack from Amazon for $8.49.
2. And a Thermacell mosquito repellant that also serves as a light source so you can squeeze in more hours on the patio without getting eaten alive by bugs. It works for a 20-foot zone!
Promising review: "I live near water and have animals = I get bugs. With one of these placed at each of my doors or windows outside = I get no flying bugs inside. Finally. During winter, truly no flies inside. During summer, an occasional fly/mosquito slips through the circumference. Overall, it saved me one summer when we were getting 10 mosquito bites a day. After I started using this, no mosquito bites! (Dogs do not even notice its existence)." —Christine D.
Get it from Amazon for $44.44.
3. A standing weeder (with zero chemicals!) to help improve your view of your yard. You're not the only one who has trouble enjoying weed-filled scenery. And hey, while you're weeding with this there's no bending over! Your back will thank you so you can get out of the heat even faster back to your shady deck with a glass of cold lemonade waiting for ya.
Made with a bamboo handle and powder-coated steel, it uses a simple lever system to made weeding easy. Also, Grampa's Weeder is a small business!
Promising review: "Oh my god, I friggin' love this tool. I bought this on a whim given we bought our first house and know nothing about caring for a yard. Boy has it come in handy. Our new house had a ton of weeds in the front yard and this tool helped me get most of them out in no time. In fact, the process of yanking out the weed was strangely satisfying! I don't think anyone can say that weeding is fun but this tool made it as close to fun as you can get, especially when you see a long root along with the weed you pulled." —JG
Get it on Amazon for $39.99.
4. A sand removal bag filled with talc-free, reef-friendly powder that'll help you brush off the scratchy stuff that you don't mind on the beach but would *like* to leave on the beach where you found it.
See it in action on TikTok.
Shakalo is a San Diego-based small business started to figure out a way to help people, especially parents remove sand before leaving the beach. The soft fabric pouch allows the powder to remove the sand without scattering everywhere.
Promising review: "We recently moved to a beach area, and we are constantly there. This item has changed our entire lives! It lasts decently long (depending on how much you use it), it smells super good (not at all like baby powder), and it's super effective. It has saved me from vacuuming my car at least 1x–2x a week. I even use it on my dogs paws and bellies to make sure they're taken care of. I will definitely be buying the refill and another bag to have exclusively in the car." —Gabbs Uresti
Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in two sizes).
5. Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray to stave off frizz and give you a glass-like sheen thanks to its anti-humidity powers. Even in the nastiest of weather. AND it's formulated for its effects to last through several washes. (Something to which I can attest.)
Promising review (for pic on the left): "LOVE this product sooooo much! I’m obsessed! I am of mixed race and have very curly frizzy hair naturally. Even with relaxer my hair has always had dry looking frizzy ends. I have tried so many different products but nothing else compares. Best by far!" —Amazon Customer
Promising review (for pic on the right): "I NEEDED to try this product after all the positive hype. It certainly did live up to my expectations. I went from balayage to a medium brown color with my hair. The bottom part of my hair was still very porous from the bleaching. After blow drying my hair where the blonde was it was never smooth. Not anymore! My hair is so smooth and healthy looking. I absolutely love this product and I highly recommend it. It has completely transformed my hair." —Lori
Get it from Amazon for $26.60 (sulfate-, gluten-, alcohol-, and paraben-free).
6. A pair of Thigh Society cooling shorts WITH a built-in pocket can save your inner thighs during that sunset walk on the beach.
Promising review: "These are perfect for under dresses, even in the hot, humid summer. The pocket is perfect to slip my phone in so I can be hands-free. Great quality! I have two pairs, one black and one beige." —Amanda Martinez
Get it from Thigh Society for $39+ (available in women's sizes XS–4XL, four lengths, and in nine colors).
7. And a stick of Gold Bond Friction Defense to stop chafing caused by sweat before it even starts. It's sooo good and better than any other competitor in the thigh-saving category. Toss this in your bag and apply before you go on that long, lovely beach stroll.
My former colleague Ciera Velarde is a huge fan! Here's what she has to say:
"I've used it for about 12 years now and it's the only thing that I can trust to prevent that dreaded chafing after a sweaty day of walking around. It glides on perfectly, it's unscented, and it doesn't melt away when you start to sweat. If it's a particularly hot day out, it can start to fade after a few hours, so just make sure to bring it with you to reapply. In addition to preventing chafing between my thighs, I've also applied it on my arms where my sports bra rubs against them when I run and it works like a charm!"
Promising review: "Whoooo sometimes I feel as if a fire is going to start between my fat thighs, but with this stuff they just glide right on by each other, it has been a summer life saver. Only thing is you have to pack it on and reapply maybe 4 hours in, so bring it along for the ride. I will be buying again." —Ash
Get it from Amazon for $6.
8. A pack of clinical-strength SweatBlock wipes could come in handy for hyperhidrosis, nervous sweating, and hormonal sweating any time of the year. But if summer really makes all that rear its ugly head, it's worth a try. You can apply it to your pits for bed and it's made to work for up to seven days.
This stuff is STRONG so make sure you do a spot test first — especially if you have sensitive skin.
Promising review: "For anyone who might be skeptical, please allow me to put you at ease. If you have hyperhidrosis, meaning it can be 9 degrees outside and you're still sweating under your arms, this product has the potential to change your life. I would sweat THROUGH a sport coat before noon. Enter the Sweat Block product. I've had it for three weeks and it is life changing. I DO NOT sweat under my arms anymore. I'm still on the original box that I bought three weeks ago. I had to write a review after I was cleaning the garage today in 85-degree heat. I was sweating through my shirt on my back — BUT NOT MY UNDERARMS. It is amazing!" —Frosty McGee
Get a pack of eight from Amazon for $19.99.
9. Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eye Primer can keep that complicated smoky eye look you copied from an MUA's TikTok intact long into the night. Because the last thing you want is to look back at professional photographer's pics from your cousin's wedding and see your eye makeup a mess. (Though we can't say the same for your dancefloor moves.)
Promising review: "So let me start by saying I have used nearly every eyeshadow primer available. From high-end to low — MAC, Lorac, Urban Decay...they don't hold a candle to Thank Me Later. I have very oily skin. I use this primer and my shadow lasts a full eight hours or more. I could get maybe five or six out of the other brands, if I'm lucky. I got this as a sample in my Ipsy bag, and I had to buy the full-size product straight away! I couldn't be happier with my purchase. Thank you Elizabeth Mott for finally making a primer that lasts! I love this stuff!" —Melissa Mae
Get it from Amazon for $11.99.
10. And Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer (with SPF 30) has reviewers gushing over it for plenty of good reasons. They say it absorbed well, foundation glided over it, and it made their full face stand up to summer heat! Plus, it comes in four problem-solving formulas.
Promising review (for the mattifying): "I’m a makeup artist and makeup obsessed. I have combination skin with a super oily T zone. I. Am. Impressed. After applying (very smoothly, btw), I let it dry for a few minutes, and my foundation applied over it beautifully. I wear a long-wearing matte foundation, and this primer wears like a dream. I was outside at an event in 95-degree weather (directly in the sun), sweating profusely for hours, and my makeup still looks flawless after eight hours, no blotting!! This stuff is legit better than any other expensive prestige brand I’ve ever tried. It’s totally worth a try and I’ll be telling everyone I know about it." —Baller3
Get it from Amazon for $16.05 (available in blurring, mattifying, illuminating, and color-correcting formulas).
11. ONE/SIZE by Patrick Starr 'Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray in case you have a lot of requirements for your made-up look. Like, you wanna actually dip in the pool but stay looking matte while you lounge poolside beforehand.
I'm in the early stages of testing this stuff and at about only a week in, I'm super impressed and get why it keeps selling out at Sephora and on TikTok Shop.
Promising review: "This setting spray locks my makeup in. Great for menopausal women too because the makeup doesn't fade off. I sweat on my forehead and nose area, and my makeup stays on all day." —shelop
Get it from Sephora for $17+ (available in two sizes; vegan and cruelty-free).
12. A pair of seamless Nippies silicone pasties if it's so hot out that you can't even THINK about wearing a regular bra. These will give you coverage on even the sweatiest days 'til you can build up your closet of bra tops and dresses.
Promising review: "I’ve tried so many nipple covers over the years and these are just in a league of their own! They stick and don’t move (sweat, clothes, moisturizer etc — nothing budges them) but then they also peel off so easily. It’s magic. They are completely seamless and my husband (without prompting) said they looked like a second skin on. I’ve got quite 'triangular' boobs and they completely mold to the shape and look like I just have no nipples lol. Only when I’m suuuuuper cold do any level of nipple start to show through and even then it’s minimal. They’re more pricey than others I’ve bought before but so worth it. The others were one and done — these have held up through several wears and are still in perfect condition. Will repurchase as soon as they wear out without a doubt! No more bras!" —Alison
Get a set from Amazon for $18.88+ (available in five shades, a lifting option, and two sizes: one that fits cups A–C and one that fits cups D+).
13. An I Dew Care "Tap Secret" mattifying powder shampoo to tackle greasy roots without the aerosol formula. AND it now comes in brown, too!
Promising review: "I was looking for a dry shampoo that would be easy to use on the go for a trip I was taking. I had no issues taking this through TSA and it was so easy to use on the go. You literally just pat the poof on your scalp and then rub the powder in. I do have black hair so dry shampoo is usually very visible in my hair, but I didn't have any harder time than usual rubbing this powder in. It did a really good job of soaking up all the oil and giving my hair volume. I'm not a fan of the price for the amount that you get, but it is lasting longer than I thought it would. I would definitely recommend and will purchase again." —Teresa
Get it from Amazon for $18.
14. A BruMate insulated can cooler to technically cover up what you're drinking on the beach if alcohol isn't allowed (MUHAHAHAHA). Even better it'll keep your drink 20 times colder than a Koozie. So feel free to go and hunt some seashells without worrying about chugging that Claw before leaving your beach chair.
Promising review: "Like to keep your beer cold? Get this. Slow drinker but don't want to let your friends on to how slow you're drinking? Get this. Want your White Claw/Truly to stay as cold as it was when you took it out of your fridge? Get this. I kid you not, this thing keeps drinks cold like that's its job (because it is). Once I got mine and saw how effective it was, I decided all of my cold beverage loving friends and family will be getting one also. With most of my friends being Michelob Ultra and White Claw drinkers, this seems to be the perfect fit. So hard to find a can koozie that holds those slim cans! Love this product and definitely recommend!" —Brooke Stull
Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in 31 colors).
15. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Moisturizing Face SPF 60 Serum, which reviewers ADORE as a priming moisturizer. Because sometimes, when you're doing a full face and your SPF isn't built into another product, even the BEST sunscreen users can forget it! Oh, and there's zero white cast!
Promising review: "I have been searching for a sunscreen like this for a long time. I really dislike putting anything heavy on my face and prefer a gel-like consistency. I am a big fan of the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid serum and the texture of this sunscreen feels pretty close to that. I have tried much more expensive 'serum' sunscreens and find this one my favorite and for a much better price point." —JHoch
Get it from Amazon for $13.99 (fragrance- and oxybenzone-free).
16. A reviewer-beloved, spacious beach tent with UPF 50+ protection (the maximum sun protective rating achievable for fabrics) to give you ALL the shade at the beach because the beach CAN be great. You just gotta be prepared!
Promising review: "I got this for a week-long beach trip, and it did not disappoint. This thing is super easy to put up and has plenty of space for the littles to play in the shade. I didn’t worry even once about the wind snatching this thing up. It was super sturdy with the sandbags filled. 10/10." —Madison H.
Get it from Amazon for $129.95+ (available in two sizes and four colors).
17. A UPF 50 quick-dry long-sleeve swim top if your shoulders always ALWAYS get fried on beach vacations. Pull on this cute top and it won't be an issue!
HDE is a small biz specializing in fashion and accessories.
Promising review: "Loved this swim top. Shorter than most but not too short. Awesome colors, dries quickly, size is accurate. Always excited to wear it." —Julia
Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes 1X–3X and 10 patterns/styles).
18. And if you prefer a little more coverage, some UPF 50+ swim capris built to help you jump some waves and engage in some serious seashell-hunting activities.
UV SKINZ is a small biz specializing in beach- and sun-wear.
Promising review: "I used these pants for kayaking, at the beach, and just walking around midday. They are cute, comfortable, dry fast, and keep me cool on hot days. I love the teal color that goes with so many of my fitness tops as well as bathing suit tankinis and sunshirts. Was kind of expensive, but I expect them to last through many summers." —GrannyGear
Get them from Amazon for $65.95+ (available in sizes XS–4XL and eight colors/prints).
19. Burt's Bees after-sun soothing lotion because sometimes you get sunburned even when you think you're being great about reapplying sunblock. Or maybe you just recruited your laziest friend to help you reapply on your back. Both are highly possible!
It doesn't contain any parabens, phthalates, petrolatum or SLS.
Promising review: "Whenever someone I know has a sunburn, I become that super annoying product-pusher friend. I tell everyone about the sun soother! Really, Burt’s Bees should pay me. It rubs into skin like lotion so you don’t feel greasy and can immediately put on clothes after application. A little goes a long way! It smells good without being overpowering (and I’m picky about scents!). Most importantly, it works! I’ve had everything from slight burn to looks-like-a-lobster-feels-like-fire and this sun soother has eliminated the pain/itch and drastically reduced the eventual peel. Highly recommend!" —jlgentr3
Get it from Amazon or $13.33.
20. A bug bite suction tool that'll help you out with existing bites to remove the irritating venom, and help reduce itchiness, pain, and swollenness. Plus it works on other insect stings. Think about all the scratching you could've saved yourself!
Promising review: "I am a magnet for bites of all kinds and carry topical and medicines with me at all times — so I figured this would be a good product to see if it really works. It arrived on Monday and on Tuesday morning I woke up with a bug bite on my arm. I used this little tool (3x per the instructions) and documented with photos. Immediately after using, it stopped itching! And less than 24 hours later the bump/bite was gone! There is a very faint red mark from using the thing but a small price to pay IMO. Bottom line: it’s awesome. I’m carrying it with me everywhere!" —Rebecca
Get it from Amazon for $9.95.
21. A *tasteful* sunshade triangle rather than a canopy you can rig up over the patio or the kids' sandbox to block up to 95% of UV rays and keep things a bit cooler while you lounge in the shade.
Promising review: "My pool is awesome when it gets into the hundreds of degrees here in California. We decided to grab a 20x20x20 triangle and holy cow does it do a number on the backyard! Not only does it keep my pool better-shaded, but it also keeps the sun off of my back patio during the hottest part of the day." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $26.98+ (available in 6 sizes and 13 colors).
22. A CurlCap backless adjustable cap with plenty of room for your natural hair or updos while giving your face some extra shade when you walk to the water every hour or so to dip your toes in it and confirm that, yep, the ocean is still there.
CurlCap is a Black-owned apparel company founded by Britney Sade that specializes in caps designed for natural hair with an open back and flexible scrunchie design.
Promising review: "This hat is comfortable, well made, and cute! It is now my go-to hat for casual days when I put my hair in a ponytail. I have also worn it playing tennis and found that it's more comfortable than wearing a visor. The back elastic really keeps the hat secure without feeling too tight. I have the black twill, and would love to see it in other colors in this fabric for walking, running, and tennis. Love." —Me
Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in 11 styles).
23. A five-piece table set just begging to be paired with a chic umbrella because maybe you're ready to emerge from the air-conditioned outdoors. But you'd like to remain in the shade.
Promising review: "FINALLY, a low-cost outdoor set that is good quality, super easy to assemble, and looks even better than the pictures. It can definitely fit four people with plates and glasses, but it gets a little tight with anything else on the table (for two people, it's awesome, with plenty of room for everything). I think this set is comfortable enough for eating or sitting for a bit, but I probably would not choose it if I could only purchase one set for my yard (to accommodate eating, lounging, sitting, etc.). It doesn't change my review; I just want to be fair about my satisfaction in the context of how I'm using it. So, in summary, as someone who has unfortunately had to return several junk quality things from Amazon (including some other furniture), I give this 5 stars! Great value, great set!" —Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $370.49.
24. Or a 15-foot lighted umbrella that'll tilt (literally) to your whims and give you the right amount of shade and light when/where you want it.
Note that this includes just the umbrella, not the table!
Promising review: "This patio umbrella is very beautiful. It has many very nice colors for you to choose from. It's made from 100% polyester material that is very durable. The solar lights make it very unique, it is perfect for my backyard. The size is pretty big and can cover a large area to provide enough shade. It's great for you to enjoy the sunny days without worrying about sunburn. It is very easy to set it up. It is not very heavy and very stable with a sturdy base. I am very happy with this purchase." —yimin wang
Get it from Amazon for $71.99 (available in 11 color combos).
25. Plus, a net for your patio umbrella as an ~extra layer~ so you can sit and survey your kingdom, even if mosquitoes have infested it. Let's get more use out of the deck!
This fits umbrellas as large as 9 feet.
Promising review: "Easy to set up and works GREAT! Finally can sit on our deck in the afternoon/evening again and not get eaten alive!!!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $30.99.
26. A rechargeable handheld fan for hot times spent outside your car's AC — it might just make you think about all those times you said "I wish I had a fan." Well now you will. Just be prepared to buy one for each kid.
It has three speed settings and folds up by the handle for easy carrying. It also operates on a 2600mAh battery which comes with the fan.
Promising review: "It's very useful and portable anywhere at any time. The battery is good and the air is cool. It is very handy and lightweight. I love it. Summer days and nights have become so easy now. Plus, it comes with a charger!" —Sammi
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in five colors).
27. Plus a hands-free portable neck fan for those sweltering days on the beach when you just seem to be pouring sweat — even in the shade of the umbrella. Just be sure to charge it with the USB before you pack your beach bag!
It has three speeds to choose from and also lights up, making you more visible at night. Reviewers note that you should definitely put your hair in a ponytail (but that it's easy to unsnag if it gets caught).
Promising review: "Took this to an all day, HOT day to a theme park. Charged it fully the night before and lasted through the whole day. Felt so cool. Plus at night you got the cool colors." —Paula
Get it from Amazon for $14.99 (available in two colors).
28. Plus, an outdoor fan just begging to be mounted in the corner of your porch to keep a breeze going because even if your porch has ceiling fans, sometimes that isn't enough in mid-July. Also, circulating air will decrease the number of bugs that bother you.
This weatherproof fan has a fully sealed and permanently lubricated industrial motor to protect it against wetness.
Promising review: "Great fan at a good price! I bought this fan for my backyard to help circulate the air in hot days and to help deter mosquitoes at night around the fire pit. This fan worked perfectly. It has three speeds, the highest of which is super strong. The fan at high speed is a bit noisy, but nothing unexpected of a powerful fan. It is also 100% waterproof, which is a must. My only minor issues would be 1) it would be nice if the fan came with a cover for when it’s not used (I bought 20-inch tire storage covers to do the job), and 2) the fan is only adjustable up and down not side to side — if they could make it oscillate that would be great. Having said that, I would recommend this fan for sure and would not hesitate to buy it again." —Bigdad
Get it from Amazon for $99.95+ (available in three sizes).
29. A Coty Airspun Loose Face Powder in case setting sprays aren't your thing but you need something to keep the sweat off the beautiful masterpiece of your face.
I own, use, and love this. Plus, it's in a HUGE container and lasts for what feels like forever.
Promising review: "Great for baking (setting) under eye concealer (or concealer anywhere). Also, if I start sweating during my foundation application, I lightly dust this powder on my skin and the sweating not only stops then, but it will pretty much keep it at bay for the rest of the day.
The powder does have a slight scent to it which doesn’t bother me however no one has told me that I smell like something different or powdery since I’ve been wearing it." —jillianmaxmillian
Get it from Amazon for $4.49+ (available in six shades).
30. A splurge-worthy above-ground pool can help you clock soooo much cool time in your backyard without having to do construction. Cheers to floating in a cool body of water.
Promising review: "We are so happy with our purchase so far. This pool is plenty big for our purposes and was well within our budget. It took more than 60 minutes to set it up but it wasn't terrible. There were four of us working. We are fortunate to have a flat concrete slab in the back yard that was just large enough for this pool so I can't comment on leveling dirt, etc. The concrete is pitted though so we bought an extra pad to put under it to make it a bit softer against any potential sharp edges. The sand filter is nice. We've used traditional filters in the past on a much smaller pool and this seems like it will be easier to maintain in the long run." —Mad Cassandra
Get it from Amazon for $789.69+ (available in seven sizes and with or without a sand filter pump).
31. Or an inflatable lounge pool will make less of an impact of your budget and you can set up solo.
It's also got a bench and cup holders!
Promising review: "I have had this pool for about two weeks now and I LOVE IT!!! Was simple to set up, I got a little electric pump and it took about 10 minutes to inflate, then about half an hour to fill with water. Pay attention to making sure you set it up on level ground or it will be lopsided. It is probably good for two adults, maybe one adult and a couple of kids. The built-in seat and headrest are really quite comfy and relaxing. I will definitely buy this same pool again if it springs a leak and can't be fixed, if I could give it a 10 stars I would. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it!!!" —kathryn j.
Get it from Amazon for $50.10.
32. A set of Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier packets, an electrolyte drink mix infused with potassium and vitamin C you can stir into a bottle of water to help speed up your hydration. After all, in the summer you aren't so good at drinking water. So this is a great preventative measure. (I also personally love these for travel and hangovers, and hangovers while you're traveling.)
Psst — it's also gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free!
I always ALWAYS pack this stuff for trips. I recently visited Vegas for ~48 hours for an outdoor music festival. I drank one in the morning before boarding my flight, then once I got checked into my hotel, then the next morning before the music festival where I was outside and guzzling tall boys of beer. And I felt great when I woke up the next day! Drinking Liquid IV also meant I didn't have to guzzle plain water (and then stand in line for the bathroom a ton) to stay hydrated for the 12+-hour festival.
Promising review: "This stuff seriously works. Took on a five-day cruise when we had the unlimited drink package, and these Liquid I.V.s saved my life several times. Wouldn’t have made it to dinner/gotten off the ship the next morning without them." —Laura Bales
Get a pack of 16 from Amazon for $23.45 (also available in sugar-free flavors). I'm also quite partial to the newer grapefruit flavor.
33. A flexible adjustable mister if the reason you haven't been reading on your deck is because of, simply, the heat. And because it's easily adjustable, you can take it with you as you move positions to avoid the sun. (Or embrace it?)
The mister will cool the surrounding area by 20 degrees, and it comes with an interchangeable flower-shaped misting head for a fun, whimsy detail.
Promising review: "Works exactly how I want it to. Provides a fine, cool mist on the patio, allowing us to enjoy the backyard until sunset without breaking a sweat. Easy to set up. It was out of the box and cooling us off within minutes." —Debra L. Kusek
Get it from Amazon for $19.99.
34. A cooling towel you can soak in water and wring out to bring some chill to that outdoor run... or just stroll! Just walking outside or doing some low-key gardening can make you sweat like a racehorse.
Promising review: "I am so in love with these, mostly use them for running, etc. I use them at night a lot because I’m going through menopause. It has been a miracle for me, I’ve tried all kinds of supplements they help but this actually works better for me. Also had a virus and used one to cool me down and help with fever. So they have so many uses, I suggest that everyone get these!" —Annette Looper
Get a four-pack from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in four color combos).
35. A Revlon volcanic stone face roller to remove oil and shine from your face. And unlike oil-blotting sheets, the ball can be popped out and washed so you can use this over and over and over again.
Promising review: "First off, if you have extremely oily skin, this. is. it. I was so tired of getting blotting powder/wipes. It felt wasteful and always left residue on my face. I saw this on TikTok and NEEDED it. Not only is it affordable, but it's also washable, which helps you save money and be less wasteful. It felt like the holy grail had been delivered to my front doorstep. After my first use, I was in love. Now, it doesn't pick up everything but it does make it more matte and gives you a natural look. I am so excited this product exists and I already feel more confident." —Kelsey B.
Get it from Amazon for $8.88.
36. A pressure-activated cooling pad to keep in a spot right inside your door so your dog has a place to go for a quick cool down when they ask to come inside. It's 5–10 degrees cooler than room temp and reviewers say it also provides some relief for pets with joint pain.
Promising review: "I have a pug and a toy fox terrier/Chihuahua mix and they absolutely love this thing. I just leave it sitting on the living room floor and they gravitate towards it whenever they need to cool down (they sometimes even fight over it). Both fit simultaneously if they are in the mood for sharing the space. The mat is tough, too! I don't think their nails can penetrate it." —E Marsh
Get it from Amazon for $34.05+ (available in two colors).
37. A self-sealing magnetic screen door that'll let dogs help themselves out or in the house — so you won't have to peel yourself up from the hammock or stagger near the sun.
Promising review: "This is a great product. I wish I had ordered one sooner. I have it installed in front of a French door that leads from my house to the backyard. My Labrador can now go in and out as she pleases while I’m home instead of constantly interrupting me while I try to work. The best of all is that no more bugs are coming inside when I leave the door open — not even the tiny mosquitos plaguing us in Southern California all year. Finally, this installed in like five minutes with the sticky tape and is very sturdy." —jessrubia
Get it from Amazon for $27.99.
38. A Step2 water table that, according to my colleague Heather Braga, is THE hottest thing for toddlers. Simply put it on your patio, fill it with water, and let your little one go to town with buckets, spinners, and a waterfall.
Promising review: "Purchased for my grandson who loves to play in the water. Perfect height for a 2-year-old. Easy to put together, sturdy and lots of different things to do. The top part is like a waterfall, it has lots of little holes for the water to come through." —dd
Get it from Amazon for $79.99.
39. A set of sunscreen reminder stickers to pair with your body sunscreen so there's someone besides you and your pal who're wading in the waves to remind you that, uh, yes, you do need to reapply! Oh and they last for 12 hours. Once a sticker turns colors, it's time to reapply.
Check out a TikTok of the sunscreen stickers in action.
Promising review: "Just used this product on a recent trip to Florida. I made sure to wash my skin before application and it lasted about two days on my skin without coming off. When out of the sun or behind UV glass, like in a car, the spot turns clear. As soon as you step into the sun it turns purple. If you use a sunblock it starts to become clear or semi clear. After being on the beach and having gone into the water a few times the spot started seeing purple and I applied sunblock again. In a minute the spot was clear again. So this is very effective In alerting me when to reapply." —RGTorque
Get two 16-counts from Amazon for $25.99+ (also available as a 48-count).
40. A mesh beach bag with a cooler zip-off portion at the bottom so you can feed two birds with one scone whether you're making your way to the park or trudging onto the beach with kids in tow and could use a free hand.
Promising review: "This is a great tote! The cooler on the bottom is unexpected each time someone sees it and is a great little bonus. We had more than enough room to pack four Gatorades and squeezable applesauce packs — you probably can’t pack a lunch and drinks for more than two or three people, but we only had two so it served us great!" —MasonDixon
Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in five colors).
41. Waterproof Uno cards will withstand some tense games at the beach, pool, lake, boat, wherever! What a great option for when everyone gets tired out from beach games and come under the umbrella for some respite from the sun.
Promising review: "These are great to use at the pool, lakeside, or the beach. They can get wet!!!!! My kids love these! I actually want to buy a set for the house because the cards don't bend easily and they stay in mint condition. Would purchase again and again!" —LuluLoves
Get them from Amazon for $10.99.
42. A *solid* Neutrogena SPF 50 sunscreen that really sticks to your skin on your tropical (or just plain sweaty) vacation. Oh, and because it's a solid, it's carry-on–friendly!
I first bought this for a weeklong Croatian vacation two years ago when I did carry-on, and as long as you are *thoroughly* reapplying, this stuff stays on pretty well. On a beach club afternoon, I did haphazardly reapply and missed a strip on one arm, but I tend to do that with spray-on or lotion sunscreen, too. Since then, I've packed this for any trip I've been on, including a two-day Disneyland trip where I toted this around in my bag and shared with friends. I sometimes carry it with me in my purse on my everyday adventures because I know it's so easy to apply. Also worth mentioning...I am about the palest lady you've ever seen and swear by daily application of sunscreen. But when on a beach trip, I'm constantly swimming in the water and sweating. So yeah, this stuff works.
And if you're a bit hesitant about jumping on the solid sunscreen bandwagon, you can pack a stick of this, knowing you have enough sun protection to get you through to finding some spray-on or lotion SPF at your destination.
Get it from Amazon for $8.89.
43. A Hairbrella that'll easily fold up and be ready for those days when you look like you have GREAT weather. Then, all of a sudden the sky opens up and starts pouring, ruining your perfect hair day.
Hairbrella is a Black-owned small business that has been creating fashionable hats that protect hair from all kinds of weather since 2016.
Promising review: "If you have natural hair that you wear in a silk press… you need the Hairbrella! If you have natural hair that you wear curly… you need the hairbrella! If you have relaxed hair… you need the hairbrella! Basically after losing my umbrella and resorting to the dreaded grocery bag over my head… I found Hairbrella on Amazon and I bought one for myself and two other relatives. We chose not to chemically straighten our hair, so humid or rainy days can be a choice to return to our beautiful curls if an umbrella is not handy. So imagine our excitement to find a stylish, lined waterproof rainbonnet that won’t have me looking crazy with a grocery bag on my head as I enter buildings.
Buy this…. You won’t be disappointed!" —Sherry
"Would definitely buy again. It worked wonderfully." —Latrice B.
Get it from Amazon for $34.99 (available in nine colors).
44. A clinical-strength antiperspirant if you've tried just about everything to stop sweating but you haven't found your holy grail yet. It has 12% aluminum chloride, which blocks sweat for up to 72(!!) dry hours.
Promising review: "Just got inside from 80-degree weather. I CANNOT believe I have no sweat marks. To be dramatic, this is life-changing. To be modest, this is life changing. Haha. I was always so embarrassed going anywhere! No matter the weather I was always dripping sweat from under my arms. I was always so self-conscious, leaving parties early, known as the sweater! No more! I’m seriously so excited about this." —Liz
Get it from Amazon for $5.67.
45. A chic tank and wide-leg pants set that'll make you look like a fancy jetsetter, even if you're just making a Target run midday to drink up the DELICIOUS frigid air down the ice cream aisle.
46. Some “bust dust” anti-boob-sweat powder with soothing lavender and chamomile in a sprayable, talc-free formula to fight dampness and discomfort.
47. A packable floppy hat with a wide brim that'll provide some extra shade from those harsh rays.
Promising review: "Honey, this hat was giving me everything I needed it to give! I felt Gone With The Wind fabulous in this hat for my cruise vacation. It provided the adequate shade for my face and shoulders while allowing me to shade myself from people I didn’t want to talk to! Bay-bay! It was EVERYTHING I needed it to be AND the size XL fit over my braids. So my girls with protective styles or just big hair, this is the hat for you! 🎉" —1922blue
Get it from Amazon for $24.69+ (available in sizes M–XL and in eight colors).
48. Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 beloved by reviewers with melanated skin for good reason. It rubs in (like, actually rubs in) and doesn't leave any ashy white effect.
Black Girl Sunscreen is a Black woman-owned business whose sunscreen is designed not to leave a white cast on melanated skin. It's ultra sheer, water-resistant, and super nourishing thanks to its all-natural ingredients. Plus, it's cruelty-free! They also make sunscreen for kids with SPF 50.
Promising review: "I’ve tried many, many sunscreens that claim to blend and not leave a white cast when applied. This was so much better than I expected. A nickel-size amount goes a long way and blends into a smooth, dewy finish. I also didn’t notice a scent so there was no worries of walking around smelling like sunscreen." —Target Customer
Get it from Target for $15.99 or from Black Girl Sunscreen for $18.99 (cruelty-, fragrance-, oxybenzone-, octinoxate-, silicone- and aluminum-free, and vegan).
49. A reversible bucket hat because, well, EVERYONE looks great in a bucket hat. You just haven't found one that suits you yet. WELP, I just found it for you. Keeping the sun outta your face has never looked so cute.
50. A universal phone shade will help shade your face plus help you better see your phone screen so you can show your friends a backlog of TikToks.
Shadey Attachments is a UK-based small business that came up with this idea after seeing people struggle to view their phone while lounging in the sun. The shades attaches to most mobile devices by suction and fans out to protect your face from UV rays.
Promising review: "I ordered this last-minute for Christmas holiday, and I can honestly say, I now can’t use my phone in the sun without it! It took a second to get going and to realize you have to point it at the sun to put your face in the shade (also better for the wrinkles). It's literally the best thing ever for the sun." —Hayley Place
Get it from Shadey Attachments on Etsy for $17.73 (available in six colors).
51. Some flowy shorts could be the minimum (but adequate) amount of fabric to wear when it feels like summer has hit its peak, only for you to be unpleasantly surprised the next week when the heat index is about 10 degrees hotter.
Promising review: "These shorts are so light and airy! They are so comfortable. The only downside is that they do run small, I would size up by one size. I wore them to the beach and they were perfect for hanging out when I didn’t plan on getting in the water!" —Reese Elder
Get them from Amazon for $13.50+ (available in sizes S–XXL and in 29 colors).
52. An anti-blister balm that's carry-on friendly *and* old dogs friendly. No more blisters from walking around all day seeing sites and getting in line for your favorite theme park rides.
Promising review: "I LOVED THIS!! We always vacation in the summertime and every time i walk in sandals my feet always blister. Just got back from a six-day cruise and no blisters!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $8.
53. Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 comes in a two-pack so you can know you'll be covered without FEELING like you're covered in greasy sun protection.
Promising review: "My kids will only use spray-on sunscreen (for their bodies and the stick for face and neck). This spray is easy to use and protects their delicate skin from harmful UVB rays. It's waterproof and sweat-proof, which is a big plus. Would highly recommend!" —S. Pme
Get it from Amazon for $14.41.
54. A low-profile chair at a height that'll let you really dig your toes into the sand. It also has a cup holder and towel sleeve on the back to keep your dry-off companion clean.
Promising review: "These are our new favorite folding chairs. We’ve used them at the beach, at the park, and in the backyard. My young children even used it to watch a movie in the living room (it allowed them to stretch their legs comfortably and recline). They are relatively light and easy to unfold. Folding it back is difficult the first time but once you got technique, its easy. The back pocket is where we usually store the bag and is still big enough to fit towels, phones, or tablets. The feet sink a little bit in the sand, but so does any chair. It is just more noticeable because the seat is close to the ground like a beach chair should be. I also love that it has cup holders that can rotate in and be hidden if you don’t need it. All in all, its an excellent and well-made beach chair." —K Fernandez
Get it from Amazon for $36.88.
55. And finally, a utility wagon that'll contain all that stuff you're taking to the beach or park in the heat. I see families on the subway in NYC with this all the time on the way home from a beach day. Now *that's* how you do the beach without a car. But! It'll also come in handy for folks who can drive to the beach.
And there are LOTS more uses for this than just a beach day!
Promising review: "This wagon is a must have!!!! I love how compact it is when folded up (it also comes with a nice carrying back making it easy to move around!), this feature is important to me as trunk space is limited when packing the family up for a day trip to the beach or park. We found this wagon to be very easy to set up. Simply pull out of the bag and unclip and fold out! Simple as that, its now ready to use!!! I found the cargo area to be large enough to carry all of our items easily, it holds a lot and a good amount of weight, too. The wheels are great quality, easy to pull on pavement, grass even a dirt path. The front wheels swivel making it easy to maneuver. Overall, we are very impressed with the make, quality, and durability of this wagon. We highly recommend it and would purchase it again!" —Jess & Craig
Get it from Amazon for $96.59 (available in five colors).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.