Your ultimate summer shopping guide: Grills, coolers, patio furniture, sunscreen ⛱️
From backyard cooking to sun protection, check out the summer essentials you'll want to add to your cart.
Whether you’re planning a big family vacation this summer and looking for the best sunscreens and bathing suits to pack in your carry-on, or getting your backyard patio ready for grilling season, preparing for the start of summer can help ensure you make the most of the warm weather.
We've curated the ultimate shopping guide with the top summer essentials to add to your shopping list so you're ready when the temperatures start to rise.
This list includes items for your backyard like patio furniture, grills, outdoor rugs and umbrellas, as well as fashion and beauty staples such as swimsuits, sunscreen, and, of course, bug spray.
Shop the top summer essentials
1. Grills
What is summertime without some grill action? Whether you’re prepping your patio for hangouts or looking for a fun activity for the family, get your grill situation squared away before summer starts. Right now is a great time to shop, too. With summer deals in full swing, you can save on a 4-Burner Gas Grill from Walmart, which was originally $500, but is now on sale for less than $130.
You can also switch things up this summer and grill with the Ooni Koda Pizza Oven, which you can use for meat, bread, and—of course—pizza. The outdoor pizza oven heats up to 950 degrees Fahrenheit in as little as 20 minutes and is designed to cook pies in just 60 seconds.
2. Outdoor umbrellas
Umbrellas are another summer essential to add to cart for the season—and you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a high-quality shade. The McDougal Tilt Market Umbrella is currently on sale at Wayfair for 40% off, bringing its $200 price tag down to under $120. The umbrella is constructed from a water-resistant polyester with UPF 30, tilt-adjustability and a simple crank lift.
Shop outdoor umbrellas at Wayfair
For something even more budget-friendly, consider the Blissun 9-Foot Outdoor Patio Umbrella from Amazon. This outdoor patio umbrella costs less than $60 and is constructed from a durable, waterproof, and UV-resistant polyester, so it can withstand the summer sun while also shielding you from its rays.
3. Patio furniture
Pre-summer sales are also the time to shop for patio furniture. Before it heats up, give your outdoor space a quick refresh with an affordable three-piece conversation set, like the Tangkula 3-Piece Rattan Conversation Furniture Set from Target for less than $200.
If you’re looking to splurge on something more substantial, the Sophia & William 4-Seat Wicker Patio Furniture Set is another good sale pick. This set features a gorgeous, vintage-inspired design and comes with a chaise lounge sofa and coffee table.
Shop outfoor furniture at Frontgate
4. Solar-powered lighting
Whether you have a small balcony or large patio space, solar-powered lighting can make a big impact in an outdoor space—and every outdoor hangout needs a strand (or two) of Solar String Lights. These budget-friendly lights start at $27 and come in several different lengths, so you can choose which one works best in your space. The lights also have three different modes—soft, bright and super bright—and are remote-controlled for ease of use.
While you’re at it, add some extra fence lighting to your deck or balcony with the SOLPEX Solar Deck Lights. These outdoor patio lights come in a set of 16 or 20 and offer a mix of function and ambiance.
Shop outdoor lighting at Wayfair
5. Outdoor rugs
Adding a rug to your outdoor space can not only create a cozier look but also help anchor your outdoor hangout space, too. Plus, if you live in a place with ultra-high temperatures, the rug can offer relief from the hot concrete. The Iris Totem Indoor/Outdoor Flatweave Rug from Rugs USA is on sale with prices starting at $35.
If you want to add a pop of color to your outdoor area, consider the Swedish Rag Handwoven Indoor/Outdoor Rug. This rug is UV, mold and mildew resistant and specifically designed for outdoor and high-traffic areas.
Shop washable rugs at Ruggable
6. Beach chairs
Beach chairs are another summer must-have. Before the season starts, give your beach gear a refresh with the Tangkula 2-Pack of Folding Beach Chair, which is currently on sale at Target. This set includes two chairs with five adjustable levels and a headrest for added comfort—plus they have backpack straps, making it even easier to carry to the coast.
The Praia Beach Chair is another good beach gear find, especially if you like that vintage look. This compact beach chair is constructed from durable materials yet is super lightweight, which is an absolute must.
7. Coolers
Make this summer the summer you finally invest in a high-quality cooler that fits with your lifestyle while keeping your cans cool. The Hydro Flask Carry Out Soft Cooler Pack is one of the best backpack coolers, thanks to its spacious design, durable construction, and comfortable wear. It also boasts lightweight insulation that can keep your drinks cool for up to 24 hours.
And if you need something bigger, the Igloo ECOCOOL Cooler is another top-rated option. This 52-quart cooler is constructed from a durable recycled resin material that can keep cans and food cold for up to three days.
8. Swimsuits
Swimsuits are another must-have summer essential to shop ahead of the season. If you’re looking for the best swimsuits for women, Summersalt has many good options, including The Perfect Wrap One-Piece. This one-piece swimwear is constructed from a blend of recycled polyamide and elastane with UPF 50+, and it’s durable enough to withstand sand, salt water, and chlorine without losing its integrity.
For high-quality men’s swim, Fair Harbor is a must. The Bungalow Trunk boasts a classic style constructed from recycled nylon with features such as four-way stretch, odor reduction, and water-draining technology.
Shop popular Cupshe bathing suits
9. Bug repellent
With the summer sun, unfortunately, comes the mosquitoes. Bug spray is the best way to shield yourself from their bites, but it also stinks. If you want a better-smelling bug spray that will ward off insects without the strong bug spray smell, try the Kinfield Golden Hour Natural DEET-Free Mosquito Repellent Spray. This natural bug spray is DEET-free and formulated with a fresh citronella scent.
The Kate McLeod Bug Balm Natural Insect Repellent & Moisture Stick is another natural bug repellent option, and it is conveniently packed in a solid stick that makes it easier to apply to the skin while traveling, camping or on the go.
10. Sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential year-round, but it’s especially important in the summertime. For the best sunscreen, Supergoop! has you covered. The PLAY Everyday Lotion is one of our favorites because it’s not only formulated with SPF 50 but also features skin-friendly ingredients like sunflower and rosemary leaf extract to nourish and protect the skin from environmental aggressors.
For a classic sunscreen perfect for the beach, go with the Vacation Lotion SPF. This SPF has that nostalgic sunscreen scent and is formulated with skincare ingredients, including coconut oil and hyaluronic acid, to keep the skin hydrated.