Shop must-have essentials for your best warm-weather season yet

• Summer essentials include items for backyard activities, fashion, and beauty.
• Grills, outdoor umbrellas, and patio furniture are suggested for outdoor spaces.
• Solar-powered lighting and outdoor rugs can enhance outdoor ambiance.

Now that the weather is officially warming up for spring, we can all start looking forward to summer plans. Whether you’re organizing a big family vacation and need the best sunscreens and bathing suits to pack in your carry-on, or you're getting the backyard patio ready for grilling season, preparing for summer now ensures you make the most of the warm weather.

We’ve curated the ultimate guide to summer essentials, so you’re ready the moment temperatures start to climb. The list below features everything you need to upgrade your outdoor space—from patio furniture and grills to rugs and umbrellas—along with seasonal staples like swimsuits, sunscreen and, of course, bug spray.

Shop the top summer essentials 

1. Outdoor cooking

Score this 4-Burner Gas Grill at Walmart

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 peak spring deals in full swing, you can save on a 4-Burner Gas Grill from Walmart, which was originally $309.99, but is now on sale for less than $140.

4-Burner Gas Grill

This durable four-burner stainless steel grill delivers 40,000 BTU of power across a generous 436.5 sq. in. cooking area, featuring porcelain-coated grates, convenient mobile side tables and an easy-to-clean design perfect for outdoor gatherings. Save $173 at Walmart

Shop the popular Ooni Koda Pizza Oven at Ace Hardware

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. 

Ooni Koda Pizza Oven

Cook your own pizza in just 60 seconds with this popular pizza oven to make summer nights a unique experience. Save $100 at Ace Hardware

2. Outdoor umbrellas 

Grab this Tilt Market Umbrella for less at Wayfair

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 50% off. The umbrella is constructed from a water-resistant polyester with UPF 30, tilt-adjustability and a simple crank lift.

Zipcode Design McDougal Tilt Market Umbrella

This 11' water-resistant market umbrella features a rust-resistant aluminum pole with a crank-lift and push-button tilt for adjustable UV protection, making it an ideal addition to any patio or deck gathering. Save 50% at Wayfair

Shop this 9-Foot Outdoor Patio Umbrella at Amazon

For something even more budget-friendly, consider the Blissun 9-Foot Outdoor Patio Umbrella from Amazon. This outdoor patio umbrella costs less than $50 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. 

Blissun 9-Foot Outdoor Patio Umbrella

This durable 9-foot patio umbrella features a UV-resistant polyester canopy, a sturdy iron-ribbed frame and a convenient crank-and-tilt mechanism to keep your outdoor space shaded and stylish all summer long. Shop at Amazon

3. Patio furniture

Lounge on this Tangkula 3-Piece Rattan Set from Amazon

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 Amazon for less than $160.

Tangkula 3-Piece Patio Furniture Set

This weather-resistant PE rattan sofa set features ergonomic seating with thick cushions and a sleek tempered-glass coffee table, creating a durable and comfortable oasis for outdoor lounging. Shop at Amazon

Shop the highly-rated Isola 3-Piece Loveseat Set at Frontgate

If you’re looking to splurge on something more substantial, the Isola 3-Piece Loveseat Set is another good sale pick. The three-piece set features a loveseat and two lounge chairs crafted from durable, high-density polyethylene wicker in a stylish Driftwood finish.

Isola 3-Piece Loveseat Set in Natural Teak & Driftwood Wicker

The Isola collection combines reinforced premium teak frames with a breathable, handwoven wicker weave and a curved, ergonomic design for a lightweight yet durable seating experience perfect for any climate. Save $1,300 at Frontgate

4. Solar-powered lighting

Light your patio area with these solar string lights at Amazon

Whether you have a small balcony or a 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 $20 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.

Addlon 54-Foot Solar String Lights

These durable, shatterproof solar string lights offer dual USB and solar charging for up to 20 hours of eco-friendly illumination, providing a weather-resistant, cord-free glow backed by a three-year guarantee. Save 50% at Amazon

Keep your fenceline well-lit with these solar-powered LED lights at Wayfair

While you’re at it, add some extra fence lighting to your deck or balcony with the 16-Pack Solar Powered Integrated LED Lights. These outdoor patio lights come in a set of 16, so you can space them out on your fence or deck for a larger lighting coverage.

16-Pack Solar Powered Integrated LED Lights

Featuring an upgraded, larger solar panel for faster charging and a brighter 10-lumen output, these waterproof and heatproof lights provide up to 10 hours of reliable illumination for your decks, fences and pathways in any weather. Save 35% at Wayfair

5. Outdoor rugs 

Grab this Iris Totem Outdoor Flatweave Rug at Rugs USA

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 $34.

Iris Totem Outdoor Flatweave Rug

This versatile, pet-friendly rug features a modern tropical design and easy-to-clean fabric, making it the perfect piece to transform any indoor or outdoor space into a serene, stylish oasis. Save 43% at Rugs USA

Shop the Camellia Multicolor Outdoor Rug at Ruggable

If you want to add a pop of color to your outdoor area, consider the Camellia Multicolor Outdoor Rug. This rug is mold and mildew-resistant and specifically designed for outdoor and high-traffic areas.

Camellia Multicolor Outdoor Rug

Crafted with an ultra-durable, all-weather polyester weave, this machine-washable Ruggable rug is fade, mold and mildew-resistant, making it a versatile choice for high-traffic outdoor spaces. Shop at Ruggable

6. Beach chairs

Lounge in these Tangkula Folding Beach Chairs from Amazon

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 Chairs at Amazon. 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.

Tangkula 2-Pack of Folding Beach Chairs

These foldable beach chairs offer five adjustable positions and a breathable Oxford fabric design, complete with a soft headrest and built-in armrests for ultimate comfort, whether you're reading or relaxing. Shop at Amazon

Shop the retro Praia Beach Chair at Amazon

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.

The Praia Beach Chair

This lightweight, minimalistic chair features a durable powder-coated aluminum frame and high-quality nylon, offering a versatile and comfortable low-profile design with an adjustable strap for easy carrying. Shop at Amazon

7. Coolers

Take your food and drinks to go with the Hydro Flask Carryout Backpack

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 Carryout Backpack 22L 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 all day long.

Hydro Flask Carryout Backpack 22L

The new Carryout Cooler features a compression-molded body and customizable strap system for easy carrying, offering high-performance insulation and a sustainable, recycled fabric design perfect for keeping snacks cold all day. Shop at Hydro Flask

Grab the popular sturdy choice at Stanley

And if you need something more sturdy, the Easy Carry Outdoor Cooler is a top-rated option. This cooler is available in sizes up to 24-quart and is ruggedly lightweight, leakproof and boasts more than twice the foam insulation of a typical cooler. 

The Easy Carry Outdoor Cooler

This rugged, leakproof cooler features double the foam insulation to keep ice frozen for over a day, offering a lightweight, adventure-ready design with a built-in bungee system to secure your favorite bottle. Shop at Stanley

8. Swimsuits

Shop cute, trendy and budget-friendly swimsuits at Target

Swimsuits are another must-have summer essential to shop ahead of the season. If you’re looking for the best swimsuits for women, Target has many good options, including Shade & Shore Jacquard Knot-Front Keyhole Scoop Neck Full Coverage One-Piece Swimsuit. This one-piece swimwear is constructed from a mix of recycled polyester, nylon and spandex fabric, and it’s cute and stylish for a perfect day at the beach.

Shade & Shore Jacquard Knot-Front Keyhole One-Piece Swimsuit

This bright yellow swimsuit is perfect for a fun day on the water and it comes in sizes from XS to XL. Shop at Target

Shop popular swimsuits for me at Asos

For high-quality men’s swim, Pacsun is a must. The Pacsun Black Collegiate Swim Trunks have a drawstring waistband, side hand pockets, a single back pocket an small side slits for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Pacsun Black Collegiate Swim Trunks

These relaxed-fit swim trunks feature a classic 6.5-inch inseam and a comfortable mesh lining, complete with a drawstring waistband and a minimalist graphic for effortless poolside style. Save 25% at Pacsun

9. Bug repellent

Shop the perfect on-the-go bug repellent at Nordstrom

With the summer sun, unfortunately, come the mosquitoes. Bug spray is the best way to shield yourself from their bites, but it also stinks. The Kate McLeod Bug Balm Natural Insect Repellent & Moisture Stick is a 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.

Kate McLeod Bug Balm Natural Insect Repellent & Moisture Stick

This travel-ready, mess-free stick doubles as a DEET-free insect repellent and a deeply nourishing skin treatment, using cocoa butter, citronella and cedarwood to keep bugs away while locking in moisture. Shop at Nordstrom

Grab this top-rated scent-free bug repellent at Target

If you want a scent-free bug spray that will ward off insects without the strong bug spray smell, try the Grand Tongo DEET-Free Picaridin Insect Repellent. This natural bug spray is DEET-free and formulated with a light, almost water-like formula that dries quickly and leaves almost no residue.

Grand Tongo DEET-Free Picaridin Insect Repellent Family Formula

This fast-drying, water-like formula uses 20% Picaridin to provide 12 hours of powerful, non-greasy protection against mosquitoes, ticks and a wide variety of biting insects. Shop at Target

10. Sunscreen

Nourish and protect your skin with this popular Supergoop body mist

Sunscreen is essential year-round, but it’s especially important in the summertime. For the best sunscreen, Supergoop! has you covered. The Play Antioxidant Body Mist with Vitamin C is one of our favorites because it’s not only formulated with SPF 50 but features antioxidant protection and functions as a good source of omega fatty acids and vitamins A, C and E.

Play Antioxidant Body Mist with Vitamin C

This lightweight, antioxidant-rich mist provides broad-spectrum protection and a radiant glow with a water-resistant formula that makes head-to-toe application effortless. Shop at Supergoop

Shop a highly-rated sunscreen featuring that classic scent at Nordstrom

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.

Vacation Classic Lotion SPF 50 Sun Lotion Jug

This nutrient-rich formula combines coconut oil, aloe vera and vitamin E to deeply soothe and replenish sun-exposed skin with a tropical, hydrating touch. Shop at Nordstrom

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