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Summer is great, but it’s indisputably better with a shaved ice maker and a holy grail $30 bodysuit.

As a Senior Shopping Writer at BuzzFeed, I specialize in a broad range of topics, including beauty, cleaning, fashion, personal care, home, fitness, and my beloved “TikTok made me buy it.” My work has been featured across lifestyle and writing publications during my ten years in the digital media space, including Bustle, HuffPost, HelloGiggles, and The Washington Post.

Promising review: "This matches the listing in style and flavor. I have a bunch of these, and this one is one of my favorites. The flavor is nice — noticeable without being too much and sweet without being sugary. I found it just as moisturizing as all the other Super Balms, and for the price (currently about $6), it's great compared to local stores." —Amanda

Promising review: "The scent smells AMAZING and fills up the whole bathroom while I shower. It leaves my skin feeling really soft and moisturized afterward instead of dry or tight like some body washes do. This body wash is a thick, creamy gel and lathers easily, and the scent actually lasts on my skin for a long time after showering, which I love. I also have pretty sensitive skin and usually react to heavily scented products, but this one hasn't caused any irritation or breakouts for me personally. Overall, I think it's a great product if you want something moisturizing with a strong, cozy scent that actually lasts." —paige elissa

Get it from Amazon for $9.98 (available in seven other scents). 

Promising review: "The smoky sea salt by Maldon is the best by far that I have found. I love the crunch and flavor. I put it on my steaks and on my vegetables and baked potatoes, and top my scrambled eggs with it. I suggest buying two boxes." —Kimberly Yarbrough

Promising review: "Love these! Very comfortable to wear all day long. They don't keep their head away from the headrest when driving, which is incredibly important. I even wore one underneath a hat to a dress-up function and was still comfortable. The clip spring is strong and holds even my very long, thin, fine, and straight hair — no pulling, a few hairs, and very little slipping down even after hours of wear. They don't hang up in your hair like some metal ones do. These are the best hair holders I've ever bought, bar none." —Paint Mare

Get a set of six from Amazon for $8.99 (available in 14 color sets). 

Promising review: "My favorite dry shampoo! It smells great and truly is sweat-activated. I wear it during some heavy workouts, and I can smell it, and it helps keep my hair from being greasy if I have plans after." —Marianna Stutts

Get it from Amazon for $9.98+ (available in two sizes). 

Cliganic is a small business that specializes in all-natural personal care products. 

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 number 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 untouched. 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

Promising review: "Was instantaneous results. Once the light came on, anything flying was immediately drawn to it. I only ran it for less than an hour and needed to clean the catcher bowl. Great product, especially in South Florida where mosquitoes are immune to every spray that's been created." —Glu Mobile

Note that the AAD recommends using at least SPF 30 and reapplying as needed for skin protection. You can read about sunscreen myths and facts from dermatologists for more information! 

Check out a TikTok of the collagen sunscreen in action. 

Promising review: "I am a skincare snob. I spend way too much money on products. But over the last couple of years, I’ve been trying to find a new moisturizer with SPF that doesn’t bankrupt me. I need something that can help my dry skin, protect from the sun, and not irritate my sensitive skin. I was skeptical about this product, never having heard of the brand, but I gave it a try. I am SO thrilled with the results. This moisturizer is BETTER than the $55 alternative I have been using. It moisturizes like a dream. It doesn’t pill. And my sensitive skin loves it. I am THRILLED with my purchase and will definitely be back for more!" —R. Berry

Promising review: "This product feels like whipped cream. So smooth and silky. Not greasy. Smells delicious and not oily. I applied it for the first time after a day at the pool, and it was just what my skin needed. Very happy with the product." —Aimee Brunson

Read more about how an Epsom salt soak or bath can help with stress and muscle relaxation at Cleveland Clinic.

Promising review: "I will keep buying this product!!!!! The scent is sooo nice, I love it. Even before you get into the bath, you feel relaxed." —samantha

You can check out Vaseline's radiant body oils and lotions for more options! 

Promising review: "Omg! It’s better than I thought. I am a black woman that suffers from dry skin in the winter season, but this oil is amazing, smooth, light, and smells good. This oil is great for helping skin glow with a light glimmer of glitter. I would say this is a must-buy for women of color. Yeah thank me later sis." —Amazon Customer

Popilush is a small business that specializes in activewear and shapewear. 

Promising review: "Run to get this! PURCHASE!! I ordered a large — I’m usually wearing an XL, however, it fit perfectly. It does not cut off my thighs, so so comfy! No bra needed, will be a staple this summer. It’s not overly thick, but it’s not cheap material. I’m obsessed!" —Andrea

Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in women's sizes S–XXL and eight colors). 

Promising review: "Cute, retro, and good quality. Perfect for summertime cuts and scrapes. Comes with three sizes in the box, each in a different pattern." —R&M 

Get a pack of 30 from Amazon for $3.79 (and check out the FIREWORKS✨ version here!) 

Promising review: "This cute phone umbrella is the best little find! It works so well! My phone did not get hot at the beach, and you can see your phone screen just fine, too! The magnet is strong, and I love the extra ring to hold on to. I’m ordering more for gifts because this is so cute and it’s awesome!" —Gina 

Get it from Amazon for $18.99 (available in nine colors). 

It fits any phone up to 100 mm x 170 mm (or about 3.9 inches x 6.7 inches). It's also a great fix for keeping out sand and dirt (and a great option for runners, if you're caught in the rain but still want to be able to toggle through your music options).

Promising review: "I purchased this case in July for an upcoming canoe trip with a friend, and as luck would have it, we flipped our canoe. I just assumed my phone would be discovered a thousand years from now and placed in a museum as an ancient artifact. Fast forward to this week. I was contacted via FB by an Alachua County Sheriff’s Office diver, and guess what he found? Yup, my phone case with all of the contents intact and dry as a bone! He had to cut the case open, but there was not one single drop of water in it, and he ended up purchasing a case for himself because he was just that impressed!" —Julie McDonald

Here's what BuzzFeeder Elizabeth Lilly has to say about this case: "With these, I find that they're good for about a day due to condensation. So, for a trip, I'll buy two to three. I've used this case to take underwater pics, on boat rides, and have worn it with the lanyard, jumping off a boat into water. So, I really trust these!"

Get it from Amazon for $6.99 (available in 14 colors).

Promising review: "Feels like you're walking on a cloud. I’ve had these for two years and they still feel the same as when I got them. The color is identical to the picture on your screen and they feel like heaven. The price can’t be beat." —The Unordinary Mom 

Get them from Amazon for $23.99 (available in sizes 4–15 and men's sizes 3–16 and 16 colors). 

 It requires four AA batteries to run (not included). 

Promising review: "This light is great!!! It has three settings to adjust the amount of brightness you need. The lowest level is great for just sitting around your patio table and having a couple of drinks with friends. The brightest setting is PERFECT for playing cards! We play cards a few times a month. There are two 70+-year-olds who did not complain that they couldn’t see. So, works great in my book! 😁" —Mandie Jordan

Check out a TikTok of the solar lights in action. 

Promising review: "To say I love these lights would be a understatement. They’re easy to hang, great looking, bright and they work amazingly!!! On a sunny days, these lights charge enough to stay on from sunset to sunrise. Yep! That’s right! They’re still on until sunrise. These are the only brand of solar lights that I’ve ever purchased that last that long (and I’ve gone through more than my share of solar light.). These are DEFINITELY worth the price. You won’t be disappointed!! Btw — this is the fourth set I purchased; I love them that much. The first set I purchased is over a year old and they’re still working as well as they did on day one." —Josie Elliot-Goforth

Get it from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in two lengths). 

You can also snag a two-pack of refills for $19.99! 

Promising review: "I recently added this plug to my outdoor string lights, and it’s such a simple but great upgrade. It was super easy to install, just plugged right into the lights. We love to host in the summer and frequently grill out and have fires, so having something attached right to the lights to help keep mosquitoes away without having to think about it has been great. Also, love the remote! I like that I can just turn it on when we actually need it and not have it running all the time or feel like it's being wasted when were not out there. Overall, it just makes hanging outside a lot more enjoyable without adding any extra effort." —Piper

Kuumba Made is a small business that specializes in luxury scents at affordable price points. 

Promising review: "This has become my favorite scent! It goes on with a coconut/vanilla scent that turns into a soft musky sweet sandalwood/amber scent. It’s a thicker oil consistency that lasts. I got the small roller bottle that is perfect to keep in my purse and for traveling. I’ll definitely buy again!" —Roberts0816

Get it from Amazon for $12.49+ (available in two sizes — check out other scents on Kuumba Made's landing page!).

Promising review: "I love these cards. Great for fun card games in the pool. Very durable and bright colors. I even order another deck! These dry off easily for storing." —Abbie Spencer

Psst — if your squad is feeling particularly chaotic, you can also snag waterproof Taco Goat Cheese Pizza on Amazon!! 

Promising review: "I am obsessed with this! I am a terrible adult and rarely finish my soda because it goes flat (EW). This has been used every day since I got it. Easy to put on and easy to remove. Cinch to clean! It cuts my waste so far down. It stays in place, even when knocked over. I am clumsy, I haven't figured out how to body most days. It does not leak when knocked over. Even violently. Get it! You won't regret it." —Rachael Ryon 

Get a set of four from Amazon for $14.99. 

Promising review: "I’ve been buying these for years. They replaced my Ray-Bans that look identical! Fit great and with the price point I don’t have to worry too much with my kids and being on the go!" —Jessica M

Here's what BuzzFeeder Heather Braga has to say about them: "I purchased these after my prescription changed (yet again) so I couldn't properly see out of my sunglasses. I needed a pair that I could wear to protect my eyes while going on walks with my kids (during which I don't need my prescription glasses). They're perfect! Affordable, get the job done, *and* look cute on my face." 

Get a pack of three from Amazon for $18.99+ (available in 16 sets, as well as two-packs and individual pairs). 

Sayso is a woman-owned small business that specializes in the first-ever cocktail tea bag, perfect for cocktails *and* mocktails. 

Promising review: "I was a bit skeptical when I purchased, but these are actually fantastic. The taste is great, and the bags make it incredibly easy to mix up what would otherwise be complex cocktails quickly and easily. I've had the spicy marg, espresso martini, and old-fashioned versions, and while they aren't exactly the same as the original they are wonderful for making yourself a cocktail at home. Highly recommend." —Meredith 

Get a pack of eight from Amazon for $16.99 (available in four other cocktail styles and larger packs). 

I've sworn by these for years — I can't shape my nails to save my life, so I get a manicure once a month and then trade out these colors every week or so in between. The colors are so vibrant and fun, the quick dry is NO joke, and what I love most is these tend to last a solid five to seven days without chipping (and are easily fixed with a touch-up). I am a very busy bean and incapable of sitting still for more than a minute, so these have been a GODSEND. 

Promising review: "This is the best nail polish I've ever used. I have bought it several times and will continue to buy it in the future. I have had my nails done for years at the salon, as well as using the gel polish with the light dry in the past — and now the past year have only used Sally Hansen instant dry nail polishes and am more pleased that I ever was with either of the other options." —J.L. Senn 

Get it from Amazon for $5.98+ (available in dozens of colors). 

Promising review: "I am absolutely loving this serum! It creates the smoothest shave I've ever had, leaving my skin feeling incredibly soft and hydrated. The serum glides on easily, providing a close shave without any irritation or nicks. My razor moves effortlessly, and I’m impressed by how nourished my skin feels afterward. The light, refreshing scent is an added bonus! It’s a must-have for anyone looking to upgrade their shaving routine and enjoy a comfortable, irritation-free experience. Highly recommend!" —Shay 

Get it from Amazon for $7.99 (available in three scents). 

Each set comes with one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. 

Promising reviews: "Feel like expensive high-end hotel sheets. I normally use flannel sheets year-round because it’s the only material I like, but these are my new favorite. Very soft and cooling. Fit our bed perfectly. I purchased both for our bed and our spare room and have only gotten compliments from guests. Great sheets without the huge sticker price." —Anna Greenlun

Get it from Amazon for $35.97+ (available in eight sizes, deep pocket versions, and 44 colors).

Here's what BuzzFeeder Elizabeth Lilly has to say about them: "I own several sets of these and even pack them when I travel because I never want to sleep on a cotton pillowcase again after getting used to these beauts." 

Promising review: "My hair has never been better! I got this because of TikTok and it has done wonders for my hair. My hair isn’t frizzy or dull-looking when I get up in the morning." —Aaron Key

"These are really nice — perfect price point too. There's no difference between these and the same pillowcases from Kitsch at three times the price." —Keri

Get a set of two from Amazon for $8.99 (available in 22 colors and four sizes).

Promising review: "I bought these shoes a couple of years ago before a river hike. UM THESE ARE AWESOME. These shoes feel like socks but with enough of a sole that you can walk on gravel with no problem. It really is like walking barefoot. Also, these are the only water shoes that I have worn that do NOT let a bunch of debris into the shoe, making you constantly have to take it off to empty it or just deal with the irritant. You can play on the beach with minimal sand stuck between your toes. Thoroughly impressed by that. So with that, I do recommend if you are a half size to size down so they are snug, otherwise the sock-like ability to keep stuff out might not work so well." —Samantha Lindsay

Get it from Amazon for $9.98+ (available in seven sizes and 44 colors).

Promising review: "I get so many compliments! It's so comfy! Perfect for walking and hiking or even running errands! I want to buy it in every color!!!" —Addison Dalton 

Get it from Amazon for $34.89 (available in women's sizes S–XL and ten colors). 

Solatec is a small business that specializes in solar-powered outdoor products. 

Promising review: "This is a fantastic little fountain with very good power. I shoots up to 12 inches in the air in direct sun. For $10 I cannot understand how it can be made and shipped." —Ben Phillips

Promising review: "Great little crusher. Perfect for summer drinks. Bits of ice are large enough that ice doesn’t melt right away after I filled the glass with cola, and the perfect size for those of us who like to eat crushed ice after the drink is gone." —Linda Stroupe

Get it from Amazon for $31.99 (clip the coupon on the product page for this price).  

Promising review: "It's cute, it's compact, it's intuitive, and it sounds great! You can believe all of the other reviews on those fronts. The reason this speaker gets a resounding 5 stars from me is because I've had it for three years now, and today I realized I hadn't seen it in a long time. I searched my yard and there it was, hanging on a fence post where I had left it ... last fall! That's right, my friends. This tough little speaker spent a winter (that included several snows) and much of a rainy spring outside. I brought it in, cleaned it up a little, plugged it into charge, and now I'm listening to it sound as good as ever. Frankly, I'm astonished." —Choirgirl21

Get it from Amazon for $29.95 (available in 14 styles). 

Promising review: "In July, my sister and I, aka The Grandmas, had a week that we were challenged to keep four kids between the ages of 5–11 busy and motivated. We wanted just a really fun time for little to no extra cost, hence the purchase of Twister Splash. Well, it lived up to the hype. Those kids could not wait to play. Hours spent in the sunshine screaming, laughing, and getting soaking wet while trying to reach the right color with the left foot. Hilarious! They wanted to play every day. It was economical, fun, and so easy to set up and take down!!" —Melissa Applewhite

Promising review: "Lovely top, the stretch is just right and not super duper spandex like some stretchy things. Getting it on and off was a cinch. The fabric is a nice weight, somewhere between heavy and lightweight. I liked that my bra was hidden by the straps and didn't stick out anywhere, and, it isn't too short — it doesn't show belly. It will be a sweet addition to my summer wardrobe! Highly recommend." —merkie moo

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XL and 19 styles). 

Promising review: "This was a great addition to our tent. It kept sand off our bags, cooler, and chairs. It’s lightweight and comes in its own bag that is easy to carry and put away. It’s worth the cost — the only thing I am going to get for our next beach trip is a little brush to wipe away the sand that gets on it when someone comes back from the beach with sand on their feet." —J. Crouch 

Get it from Amazon for $34.95 (available in six colors). 

Promising review: "This is a great product and gift for a beach lover. Works great and is a decent size for brushing away the sand after an amazing day at the beach! Going to buy it as a gift!! Easy to use and affordable!" —Sue Krauser 

BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.