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

We’ve got you and your drinks covered. Literally. Just don’t tell anyone. 🤫

I am a staff writer on the BuzzFeed Shopping team who focuses primarily on practical and problem-solving products (although you can also catch me writing about cute, fun, and ~weird~ products, too!).

Promising review: "10,000,000 stars. This thing has saved my life as a single mom with two small boys. I took this thing down through the thickest of sands, and it was an absolute breeze. This is the best thing I’ve bought myself in a while 😂. Don’t even think about the price; I would’ve paid $500 had I known how much use I’d get out of it." —Kora

Get it from Amazon for $89.99+ (available in two patterns).

Promising review: "Got these for use at beaches and places it's not fashionable to hold yourself a cold one on a hot sunny day. They pass the test. Use responsibly." —Kyle Severson

Get it from Amazon for $16.99 (available in two styles).

Promising review: "This Turkish towel has quickly become our go-to for family outings. It’s surprisingly large — big enough for the whole family to sit on at the beach or park — but still incredibly lightweight and compact. It folds up small and doesn’t take up much space in our bag, which is a huge win when you’re packing for kids! The material is soft, dries quickly, and feels high-quality. It’s also stylish enough to use as a throw or picnic blanket, and easy to shake out and clean. If you’re looking for a versatile, easy-to-carry towel that works for the whole family, this one checks all the boxes. We’ll definitely be grabbing more!" —Sarah's Selections

Get an 88-inch-by-82-inch towel from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in two smaller sizes and in 23 styles).

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! And if you're not quite sure how to use stick sunscreen (yes, there's a "right" way), you can read about proper application here.

Promising review: "NO WHITE CAST! I've been looking for a stick sunscreen, and this was just exactly what was needed!! I'm a medium-toned black woman, and looking for something without a white cast is always a challenge. I have applied it on my bare skin, and there isn't a white cast at all! It's a 'soft matte' finish, for sure, and looks like natural skin; like you're not wearing anything at all." —Martina

Get it from Amazon for $16.33 (available in two formulas). 

Promising review: "I'm bummed I didn't buy it sooner! It's very universal, sturdy, and a great place to put stuff while we are in the pool. It's also easy to clean, and I like that the little spots have holes in them so the water can drain, just in case. Should be a staple for anyone with a pool!" —Lizzy

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

Promising review: "These beach accessories are fantastic! They’re lightweight, easy to use, and make beach trips so much more enjoyable. The quality is great, and they hold up well in the sand and wind. I love how compact and portable they are — perfect for travel and quick setup. Definitely a great addition to any beach day. Highly recommend! 🏖" —Shelby

Promising reviews: "These are so much fun to have when playing poolside. Don't have to worry about them getting ruined." —Crumb

"I bought these cards because I have young children at home and I prefer durable products. They're also great for adults, especially since game nights often involve food and drinks, and accidents can happen. These cards are perfect! They don’t stain or get dirty, and you can take them anywhere." —MBM

Promising review: "I’m happy to say this product works! I purchased this product due to my inability to provide my skin with appropriate sun protection one day this summer. I proceeded to spend a night wishing that I could safely freeze myself into an ice cube. Midnight discomfort led me to this product. The initial use was a day or two after the day of regret, but it eased the discomfort and moisturized my reddened skin, helping to soften the leather layer I had started to form. Of course, this review would not be complete without me faulting myself a second time. Two times in one summer, I proved my inability to adult well. I applied this lotion the MINUTE I realized that I had experienced another exposure to the sun for too long a period. To my absolute joy, this product relieved my discomfort. It left a layer that stayed cool for a few hours (at which time I reapplied it), it was a little tacky to the touch (not sticky or oily), and my skin did not experience the crocodile and subsequent peeling experience it had earlier in the season. The scent is soft and not overpowering. I have experienced skin sensitivity in the past to products, but I had no issues with Burt’s Bees products. Thank you for providing me with such a helpful product." —Meghan 

Promising review: "I'm not sure what I can say about this cooler that has not already been said, but I'll try. First off, it's the perfect size for a two-night camping trip or a day at the park with some friends. It's a little on the heavy side, but as with all gear, that is the tradeoff for the near indestructible durability. It holds ice for days, the basket is good for keeping things out of the water and ice, the tie-downs make it easy to secure in the bed of a truck or roof basket, and it's the perfect height to sit on. Just stop thinking about how much it costs and buy one, you won't regret it." —green vaccine

Get it from Amazon for $325+ (available in 14 colors) or from REI for $325+ (available in nine colors).

Promising reviews: "I like this as a beach/outdoor chair. It is more comfortable and lighter than regular beach chairs. Overall, I am very happy with this chair!" —Catherine Schaefer

"I love my son's baseball games, but I don't like the stadium seating. This is the perfect seat! It's lightweight, cute, and easy to haul around. Got tons of compliments on it." —Catherine

Get it from Amazon for $43.49+ (available in four colors).

Shakalo is a small business based in San Diego.

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 1–2 times a week. I even use it on my dog's paws and bellies to make sure they're taken care of, too. I will definitely be buying the refill and another bag to have exclusively in the car." —Gabbs Uresti

Get it from Amazon for $19.98+ (available in packs of three).

Promising review: "I'm multiracial with tan skin. I burn when [the sun is] intense, but I get a great tan otherwise. My 9-month-old is fair, fair, fair. Blue eyes and porcelain skin fair. I reapply my own SPF 50 after a few hours, but I'm not consistent. I've never been great about sunscreen, but I was not going to let my daughter get burned. We live in South Florida, and just walking or park time is a potential burning hazard. This is a great visual for me to reapply her sunscreen or make sure she gets in the shade. They're an absolute essential for parents, especially the 'sun goddess' type." —FlightLife

Get 16 stickers from Amazon for $16.49 (also available in packs of 32 and 48).

Promising review: "Last-minute purchase for a trip to Jamaica. So happy I bought them. They always kept our towels on the chairs correctly. It was also easy to tell our chairs apart from others on the resort. Will definitely be recommending them to others." —Rose's Favorite Finds

Get a four-pack from Amazon for $11.99 (available in four colors).

Promising review: "If you like to wear your hair down in a part, if you have a middle part when you wear your hair up, if you have thinner hair, this is the right product for you. No more sunburn scalp nightmares. We all hate when our scalp gets sunburnt and, as it heals, gets flakes on our scalp or hairline peeling. Fret no more and buy this product. It doesn’t make your hair greasy and is perfect for spraying your hairline, scalp, part, etc. I do this with my child’s hair a lot because the sun just seems to stream right through her hair. She hates wearing hats to the pool, so I take this every time I go to avoid her scalp getting sunburnt. Some of the other scalp sprays are grittier and greasier. This is not. It’s a little pricey but well worth the money!" —Kaylee E Agin

Just be sure to measure your phone before ordering! The medium can fit the iPhone 17, Samsung Galaxy S23, or smaller phones without case. The large can fit the iPhone 17 Pro Max, Samsung Galaxy Ultra, or smaller phones that are inside of OtterBox and LifeProof cases.

Promising review: "This case works great outdoors or on the water. It keeps your phone from overheating and shutting down. It fits my iPhone Pro Max perfectly." —Fran O

Get it from Amazon for $39.99 (available in two sizes and five colors/patterns).

Promising review: "I threw these in my bag last minute for a trip to a resort in Cancun, and we absolutely loved them! They take up no room, and I easily fit two pillows in my carry-on bag to have for the beach. Made the beach chairs so much more relaxing by being able to be comfortable. They blew up so easily. It just took four big breaths for each pillow. Loved that I could either use the straps or sand to hold them in place. I also liked the idea of traveling with them in my carry-on in case we had a delayed flight and I had enough time for an airport nap. I'll be bringing these on all vacations." —Nikki Miller

Get it from Amazon for $36.95+ (available in 18 colors).

Promising reviews: "Very durable and easy to refill. Kept ice frozen even on the beach all day. I love it!" —Amazon Customer

"The build quality is solid and durable, and it keeps my drinks cold for hours —even in the Texas heat. The size is perfect for staying hydrated throughout the day without constant refills, and the design is sleek and easy to carry. No leaks, no weird metallic taste, and it fits well in my daily routine whether I’m working, traveling, or outdoors. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a reliable, high-quality water bottle." —donaldt75

Get it from Amazon for $20.99+ (available in four sizes and 11 colors/patterns).

Psst — it's also gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free! FYI, depending on your situation, water may be enough to rehydrate you! Read more about electrolyte-enhanced drinks and hydration at Cleveland Clinic.

BuzzFeed writer Elizabeth Lilly swears by these:

"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: "I’m a tile setter in South Texas, and Liquid I.V. has made a significant difference in my ability to stay hydrated in these 100+ degree summer days." —Colton F.

Get a pack of 16 from Amazon for $20.40+ (available in 19 flavors; also available in sugar-free flavors). 

You'll get 12 buckets, two standard balls, and two beach balls.

Promising review: "The quality of the cups and balls is impressive; they're sturdy and built to last. Setting up the game was a breeze, and we were able to jump right into the action. It's perfect for those sunny afternoons in the backyard or a day out at the park with friends and family." —Antonio

Promising review: "I felt very confident in it. Great butt coverage, nice colors, no issues with wearing it many times over a week. Love the wrap detail." —Amy Crawford

Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in women's sizes S–3XL and in 10 colors).

Promising reviews: "I used to sweat and be so uncomfortable in my singing practice room. This fan was so helpful to keep me comfortable. The different speeds are great, and it's pretty powerful for such a small fan. Love the color and sleekness too. It saved my life." —Danielle

"One of my absolute must-haves as a chronically ill and nauseous girl. My fan seriously comes with me everywhere and is amazing for travel. I can even use it as a sleep fan if needed. Amazing for airplanes and train rides, amazing for walking through hot and crowded places, too. It’s quiet, super powerful with up to five speeds, cute and lightweight, and fits in small bags." —Haley

Get it from Amazon for $17.59+ (available in two sizes and four colors).

Promising review: "This was amazing to have on my trip to the beach. The sand just fell right out while all my belongings were safe inside. It's a stretchy material, so you really can fit many things inside. There's even an extra safe pocket for your phone or wallet." —tim hart

Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in six colors).

Promising review: "This bag is perfect for the beach! Easy to carry and easy to wipe off. The inside cloth insert is removable, which I really like. I've even used this as a regular handbag. I would definitely buy again." —Nate

Promising review: "A little room for comfort. I know this hat will be perfect for a sunny day at the beach. I love the fabric, not too stiff or floppy. Reversible too. Perfecto." —Desiree Burchfiel

Get it from Amazon for $13.52+ (available in unisex sizes XS–3XL and in 29 styles).

UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) is a measure of how much UV radiation reaches your skin through a fabric. UPF 50 means it's designed to block 98% of the sun's rays.

Promising review: "We overnighted this for our beach trip this weekend after reading a ton of reviews, and I’m so glad we did. 

"Pros: It’s lightweight, no rusting, and sturdy even on a windy day (it’s the beach, of course, it’s windy). It was soooo easy to take down and pack up, and it has great coverage!!

"Cons: It took more time (lots of sand digging) to set up than a regular canopy. I watched the videos beforehand, and once we figured it out, it was very easy. We’ve been here for five-plus hours, and it hasn’t moved! Would definitely recommend! We’ve been through so many canopies in the past, and I’m hopeful this one will last a long while!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $89.95+ (available in three sizes and four colors).

Promising review: "What an amazing product! I needed this to go to the beach on a hot day (almost 100 degrees) for some shade. It is easy to put it up. On that hot day, it kept us from burning under the sun for four hours. We opened the windows for ventilation, and it worked fine." —Georgina

Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in four sizes and eight colors).

UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) is a measure of how much UV radiation reaches your skin through a fabric. UPF 50 means it's designed to block 98% of the sun's rays.

Promising review: "Keeps the bugs out! Baby loved having the space to roam and enjoy the sunshine. Very easy to set up — literally just pops open! Comes with stakes to secure into the ground or sand. Also comes with a top attachment for extra shade. I was worried it might get muggy inside the tent, but there was great ventilation, and the baby stayed cool as a cucumber. This thing is going to be great for the beach and all the sunny days ahead. I was tempted to buy two: one for home and another for travel. Highly recommend." —Sam

Get it from Amazon for $129.97+ (available in two colors).

Promising review: "It's super lightweight and easy to hold in your hands. I love how it doesn't have that annoying page refresh every time I turn the page. If you like the warm light feature, you have it on this, and it's also water-resistant. I'm super happy with this, and you will be, too!" —Fire Customer

Get it from Amazon for $159.99 (available in three colors).

Promising review: "These sunglasses are so great. I love them. They are super lightweight, and they look amazing. The shape and fit are perfect, and they are very comfortable. They are great because they are so inexpensive, you don't have to worry about them, but they are also well-made and of good quality. Highly recommend if you want a nice pair of sunglasses that don't cost a fortune." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $15.99 (available in 21 colors). 

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.

The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.