BuzzFeed and our publishing partners may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Read More

The difference between a good day outside and a ~great~ day outside is only a purchase away.

As a resident writer on the BuzzFeed Shopping team, I can't believe that I get to search the internet to help you find the best, most unique, life-changing products for my job.

It can hold up to 500 pounds and has anti-slip grooves on both sides to keep the rope from sliding side to side.

Promising review: "This is absolutely wonderful! Our whole family loves this swing chair. It is on our deck outside. The fabric is nice and sturdy, it feels wonderful, and it holds to the ceiling very well. My sister loved the chair so much that she bought one for herself." —Amazon Customer

Get from Amazon for $49.99+ (available in four colors).

Bonus: It also doubles as a pool float, and there are sizes big enough to fit you and your bestie! A large one, which is their smallest size, measures about 5.9 feet long and 4 feet wide.

Promising review: "I just got this summer essential, and I’m impressed! The built-in headrest and ribbed cushion make lounging ultra-comfy, and the cup holder is perfect for sipping while soaking up the sun. You can fill it with water to stay cool or use it as a dry float — it’s versatile and fun whether you have a pool or not! It has a durable build with thick, non‑phthalate vinyl that's easy to clean. It's a great size — spacious enough for lounging, with a 500-pound capacity. It's perfect for tanning, chilling with a drink, reading poolside — even if you don’t own a pool." —LS

Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in six colors and three sizes).

Heads up: As far as "natural" bug sprays go, the CDC only recommends formulas with oil of lemon eucalyptus so I don't recommend using this in super buggy areas. That said, based on the reviews, you should be covered for casual picnics and backyard hangs.

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

Get a 10-pack from Amazon for $9.99 (also available in packs of 25, 50, and 100). 

This product’s packaging says to avoid using it around open food, so keep your chip bags closed and hot dogs covered while you hang out. But it should be fine to pull out a hot dog and a handful of chips if you’re going to eat them right away. Read more about the low dosages of pesticides in products like this at the American Mosquito Control Association.

Promising review: "I really enjoyed using the Thermacell insect repeller in my yard this spring. I find the device to be very effective, and each pad usually lasts long enough for most evenings we spend outside. I also like that it has minimal smell and doesn't require spraying anything or having more heat. It's still pretty cost-effective and worth the price. Overall, I would highly recommend this for insect control." —Krash

Get it from Amazon for $18+ (available in seven colors and a pack of two).

Bonus: This projector effortlessly integrates with popular TV sticks like Fire TV Stick, Chromecast, and more. But you can also use your smartphone or a tablet with an HDMI cord and an adaptor (not included).

Promising review: "This is probably the best projector you can get for the price range. The picture quality is amazing. I mean, I was able to play some games, and I loved how it looked — truly a 1080p projector. The Bluetooth is another plus, as it allows for easy connectivity and a more convenient experience. I would say that for its size, it's pretty portable; I'll be taking it to my college dorm room for a summer program. I would definitely recommend this projector for anyone looking for something inexpensive and made with quality in mind." —Yadrel

Get it from Amazon for $84.94 (also available with a Google TV system).

And check out these glow-in-the-dark golf balls for some nighttime fun!

Promising review: "I'm not a golfer, but I like to putt. When I ordered it, I didn't think this not-so-little course would be so nice. It's well-made, unrolled flat with no wrinkles, and functions as anticipated. It can be set up to be challenging or easy. We have it incorporated into our landscaping in full Florida sun and weather (rain), and it's holding up very well (no fading yet and drains well). It's durable as our cat likes to use it to sharpen his claws." —Scott and Lisa

Get it from Amazon for $209.99+ (available in seven styles).

Promising review: "Had it for maybe 2 weeks but it is outstanding. I often cook just for me and my daughter and work full time. I’m an avid backyard BBQer but want to spend more time with kiddo than worrying about wind and charcoal. This makes it effortless and I was shocked at how close I got the ribs to my usual method on my Green Egg. If you’re considering this for the ease of use, go for it. On the weekends I still like to light the big boy up but this makes weeknight smoking a possibility." —Mike

Get it from Amazon for $499.99 (available in three colors).

It's 40 inches wide and crafted from thick, flexible nylon rope. So, it's built to handle all seasons!

Promising review: "We've had this swing hanging in our tree out back for two years now. Our kids, and their friends, LOVE it. I love that it's large enough to accommodate a number of kids/people, and that it's held up so well over time. Would totally recommend." —Krystal

Promising review: "Bought these in 2016, and with one application of teak oil per year, they still look great in 2023. They have been subjected to full weather for seven years and still look amazing. Lightly power wash them once a year to remove grime and re-oil — it takes about 30 minutes." —Z

Get a 10-tile-pack from Amazon for $77.48 (you can also get a single tile, end pieces, and corner pieces).

Each roll measures 4 by 6 feet and is held together by heavy-duty galvanized steel wires. This construction gives it great flexibility for curved walls.

Promising review: "First of all, it’s super sturdy and well put together. I ordered four more sections, and I have told other people about it. I zip-tied it to my neighbor's chain-link fence. What a difference! I zip-tied it in an uneven pattern and added the grape leaves — I know you can get that off Amazon. Couldn’t be happier. One section I use as a gate and has weathered a New York winter in a very windy area, with no signs — you can’t tell the difference from what I just put in a few weeks ago to last year's install. 👍🏽" —CG

These loungers are not only serving comfort with 2.3-inch thick sponge cushions, but they are serving angles, hunny — five different reclining angles, to be exact. If you look up versatility in the dictionary, you'll def see a photo of these chairs.

Promising reviews: "Very comfy and very nice looking. They look expensive. I have had them both out by the pool all last summer and through the winter. I did not use the covers like I should have, BUT they still look brand new! Material is nice and easy to clean. Thankfully, it is not the plastic feeling material." —Kindle Customer 

"Great price for two chairs. Simple instructions. Beware of the tray on the side! People complain about not being straight, which is a problem we had as well. You have to remove the original hinges on the lounge chair and turn them upside down. This will set the tray about 1 inch lower and flush with the body of the lounge chair. Now you can easily hook the metal hook under the tray, and the tray is straight." —michele ramos

Get it from Amazon for $299.99+ (available in three colors).

The brand was kind enough to send me one to experience for myself, and words just don't describe how beautiful it is in person. And it's funny because while I was ok with it being my cute outdoor chair, it's actually surprisingly comfortable and very accommodating for those of us with a lil' more junk in the trunk 🍑 or who like to sit criss-cross applesauce.

Promising review: "We have four of these chairs that we use for an outside upstairs deck. They are so comfortable and love the fact that do not need cushions. Also, sturdy so they will not shift on windy days." —Lisa D.

Promising review: "This thing is great and perfect to start off the spring/summer. We dumped a giant bag of ice in there and kept our drinks cold all afternoon. The swivel top is convenient and fun. Love that it’s a table and an aesthetically pleasing cooler." —Shana

Get it from Amazon for $107.99+ (available in four colors, with either a smooth or fluted surface and in a two-pack).

Promising review: "I’ve been meaning to get something like this for years. Our patio has no cover at all, especially in early spring when the leaves aren’t back. The sun is unbearable at times. We bought the install kit and used it to attach the two sides to the house, and used a ratchet strap to attach the other end to a tree on the other side of the patio. So far, it’s holding up well. We added lights, which make it super cozy at night and completely change the feel of our patio." —Kaitlyn Tugend

It can hold up to 156 gallons of water and is made from a durable vinyl, which means this baby was built to last.

Promising review: "Easy to manage and set up. Great size for relaxing and cooling off when it’s just so hot. The shape is nice, and the bench is what really made me want this. Game changer. It’s super comfortable and relaxing for bird watching in my backyard. Very happy with this pool and if you just want to relax and cool off, that’s what we use it for." —Sassy PantZ

Promising review: This pool is easy to set up and has stood the test of time! It's big enough to fit 4–5 kids and is a great value for summer fun! With the addition of a small pump, chlorine floater, and skimmer, it's easy to maintain the functionality of this pool." —Crystal

Get it from Amazon for $77.29 (also available in a round version).

Psst — This works for both above-ground and in-ground pools!

Promising reviews: "We tried another brand, but it didn't work well. So we looked carefully at the reviews, and this product stood out with high reviews. We highly recommend this product. Very easy to install. Took about five minutes. You can adjust the water pressure, giving you the amount and distance of water spray optimal for your pool. Sounds great, similar to a fountain. Build quality seems to be very good." —David LaDue

"Love this pool fountain! Our neighbor cut down a tree that shaded our above-ground pool in the mornings, so the water was getting too hot. We bought this fountain, attached it (easily), and turned it on. By the next afternoon, there was a noticeable difference in the pool temperature. It works great! Also, it keeps the water moving, which keeps my pool cleaner." —Robin Roberts

Promising review: "Very bright and work well! Really makes the pool fun at night with a light show. Color is great, and they last pretty darn long. Great value for the price." —Corey lavigne

Get a set of four from Amazon for $52.99 (also available in a set of one, two, and six).

BTW, this is perfect for using with pellets for that wood-fired taste, but it's also compatible with gas and electric burner attachments.

Promising review: "Great for my pool area. Pizzas are better fresh than bought. Fast, easy, and very, very hot! Love the style, and it's easy to use. Very Cool for BBQ people. We love it!" —Deanobambeano

Get it from Amazon for $139.99+ (available in five colors).

Promising review: "I love them. They can be used on a table, attach to a deck, or [be placed at] different heights. I put mine in pots on the patio. Very beautiful." —Linda J

Get a set of four from Amazon for $44.99+ (available in black or brown).

Just remember that these are NOT solar. If solar is more of your vibe, here are some cute solar mason jar lights to check out! And while these string lights are dimmable, a dimmer is not included — so, here's a dimmer for you to consider!

Promising review: "These string lights are beautiful! They were easy to set up and instantly created a warm, cozy atmosphere on my patio. I love that they’re waterproof and durable, so I don’t have to worry about the weather. The plastic bulbs look just like glass but are much safer and more practical outdoors. Also, having an extra spare bulb included was a nice touch." —Ysantiago

Get a 29-foot string from Amazon for $14.39+ (available in four colors and six lengths).

It also comes with a carrying case for storage or travel!

Champion Sports is a family-owned and operated small business that's been operating out of New Jersey since 1961. 

Promising review: "I bought this for the kids to play during cookouts. We have corn hole and other games as well, and I find myself playing this as much, if not more, than corn hole. Great quality, and it comes with a carrying bag to put away for easy storage and clean up." —Alan Rich 

Get it from Amazon for $119.99+ (available in two sizes).

Promising review: "Was looking for something to keep us busy and cool in our backyard. This is incredible, and my son (20 months) absolutely loves it! There's so much to keep us busy, from the ball toss to the misting slide. I even laid on it to sunbathe, and it was comfortable, lol. Really excited to use this for the summer and have people over to enjoy it with us!! If you’re on the fence, let this be your sign to buy! ☀️" —Ashley Edberg

Get it from Amazon for $55.13 (also available in 13 other styles).

Pop-A-Shot is a small biz that creates a variety of basketball arcade games for the home.

Promising review: "Holy moly — I’m not sure who uses this more, our 7-year-old or us parents trying to have a showdown. The kids absolutely love it, but so do we. It’s turned into a go-to for family competitions and friendly trash talk. There are 10 different game options, which is awesome because it works for everything from single-player practice to full-on family tournaments. It keeps our 7-year-old entertained, burns energy, and actually brings everyone together. We did go ahead and purchase more balls separately. It comes with four, but we bought three extra. Such a fun addition to our home and totally worth it!" —Kelly W

Get it from Amazon for $229.99 (available in black or blue).

Promising review: "The 8-foot artificial palm trees exceeded my expectations. Definitely worth the price for a set of two palm trees. They were extremely easy to assemble, and the palm fronds could be shaped for a realistic look. I placed them in large planters around my patio to give a Mediterranean vibe." —Kindle Customer

Get a 7-foot tree from Amazon for $66.41+ (available in six sizes and in packs of two). 

Promising review: "Absolutely love this! I set it up on my front porch. When I came out after it was dark, when it had absorbed the sun, it was beautiful, and cast the shapes of hummingbirds on the ground. It’s the perfect size, shape, and brightness. I think it would also look really nice mounted on a stand-out in the garden! I recommend setting it out in an area that gets at least six hours of sun for the best brightness and lasting light at nighttime." —Cassidy Low

Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in four designs and also in packs of two and four).

The blue fire glass is also included! But if that's not your style, make sure to check out all of your color options here.

Promising review: "My favorite purchase for our deck. I LOVE this fire table. It's a good size and great value compared to what is out there. Packaged nicely. My husband put it together alone in 30–45 minutes with no frustration and easy-to-follow directions. Puts out a decent amount of heat. Enough rocks to adequately cover. Just add your propane tank. I love that it has a lid as well. You will find sturdier fire tables, but not at this price. Excellent value." —MGF

Get it from Amazon for $199.49+ (available in three variations).

It's made of thick, durable steel and covered with rust-resistant, high-temperature paint.

Promising review: "Got this as part of our backyard renovation project. Shipping was super fast, received it earlier than expected. Large firepit, super easy to assemble. It’s a sturdy piece! I read the reviews and decided to take some precautions — we drilled three drain holes at the base, fast and easy to do. We also bought a cover just in case. Used it the same day during a chilly NC night to watch an outdoor movie with friends and blankets in the backyard. Worked amazingly and kept us toasty. Love the cutouts! Friends asked where we got it all night. Would recommend to anyone!" —Isabel

Get it from Amazon for $224.10+ (available in black or bronze and two sizes).

Promising review: "Wow. When I opened the box and pulled it out, I thought it was bit small and surely wouldn't be that loud... BOY, WAS I WRONG!! This FREAKING ROCKS!!! Seriously, don't hesitate — BUY ONE! The reviews were spot on! Perfect poolside! Best money I've ever spent on a Bluetooth speaker. The wife was skeptical, and then, I turned it on, and she was like, 'Wow, excellent purchase, way to go!'" —RIC78

Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in six colors and a small clip-on version).

Promising review: "We love this lounge chair!!! The price was fabulous!! (And just a note... If you take care of your things — i.e., cover up the swing with a tarp and bring the cushions in when not using it — It will stay like new. Sun and rain can age anything! Easy-peasy!!) This lounge swing is so comfortable and made very well!! It only took my hubby and me 25–30 minutes to put it together. Take my word for it... you are not going to find a nicer lounge swing at this price!!" —Marash

Get it from Amazon for $189.99+ (available in eight colors and with or without a reading light).

Swooc Games is a small business that specializes in unconventional, giant games for home and outdoor use. 

Promising review: "Our family loves Yahtzee, but Yardzee was so much more fun! It is like a giant life-size game. It was so much fun to play outside as a family. We had ages 7–65 playing and enjoying the game. As a homeschooler, I also love that it sneaks in math and writing." —The Waldock Way

Get them from Amazon for $79.99 (available in two dice sizes).

Tiki Toss is a small business that specializes in family-friendly games for home and outdoor use. 

Promising review: "We all love this game. Everyone who comes over cannot stop playing Tiki Toss. So simple and so fun. Quality and design of product is fantastic. Also makes a great gift." —jzek

Get it from Amazon for $14.99 (also available in a tiny size). 

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 on hot days and to help deter mosquitoes at night around the firepit. 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 for 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 $119+ (available in two sizes).

This kit contains a misting circle with five brass nozzles that you can attach using cable ties (not included). Once the circle is attached to your fan, all you have to do is connect the cable to a hose or water line, and voila!

Promising review: "I did a birthday party outside and the temp was triple digits. I attached this to several fans and they worked amazingly. The spray power was just right. My guests were soaking wet, but they were cool." —Jenn

Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in three lengths).

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 in this post have been edited for length and clarity.