After a harsh winter, many of us are eager to spend as much time outdoors as possible this spring and summer. However, Mother Nature may not always cooperate. From relentless sun rays and bugs to hot spots and allergies, there are plenty of challenges. Here are 30 innovative products to help you enjoy the season to the fullest.
Mosquito and Bug Repellents
Plug-and-Repel Mosquito Repellent
This genius device screws into a standard socket in string lights, creating an odor-free repellent zone of up to 110 square feet. It comes with a remote and batteries, so you can activate it only when needed. A two-pack of refills is available for $19.99. One reviewer raves, "It was super easy to install... I love that I can just turn it on when we actually need it." Get it from Amazon for $24.99.
DEET-Free Mosquito-Repelling Bracelets
These handy bracelets offer a DEET-free alternative to traditional repellents. A 10-pack costs $8.49. A reviewer notes, "I've only used this bracelet twice but both times I was outside and un-touched."
Mosquito-Repelling Candle
This candle, made from clean ingredients, is effective even in peak mosquito season. A reviewer used it while camping in Texas and saw no mosquitoes while the candle burned. Get it from Amazon for $9.99.
Bug Bite Suction Tool
This tool removes venom from bites and stings, reducing itchiness and swelling. A reviewer says, "Immediately after using, it stopped itching! And less than 24 hours later the bump/bite was gone!" Available in six colors for $9.95.
Waterproof Itch-Relief Stickers
These stickers provide fast-acting relief and are so effective that even toddlers leave them alone. A 48-pack costs $7.75. One parent says, "Instantly stops the itch. My toddler left it on and didn't scratch at all!"
Electric Bug Zapper
Place this zapper near your fire pit or patio to keep bugs at bay. It costs $69.99 and is highly recommended for evening outdoor activities.
Off! Repellent Fogger
Pretreat your backyard with this fogger that covers up to 30x30 feet and lasts six hours. It repels flies, mosquitoes, gnats, and more. A two-pack is $18.98.
Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent
For wooded areas, this aerosol spray effectively guards against mosquitoes and ticks. A reviewer says, "My son and I get eaten alive by the mosquitoes. This is one of the sprays that work." Available from $6.49.
Bug Catcher
This gentle bristle catcher safely captures bugs for release outside. A reviewer says, "I've caught tons of those critters with this catcher... Highly recommend!" Available for $26.95.
Sunscreen and Skin Protection
Neutrogena Dry-Touch SPF 70 Sunscreen
This matte, quick-absorbing formula is suitable for face and body. A reviewer says, "I used it all summer and never got burnt." Available from $8.88.
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
Designed for melanated skin, this sunscreen rubs in without leaving a white cast. It's water-resistant and nourishing. Get it for $10.96.
Burt's Bees After-Sun Soothing Lotion
This lotion soothes sunburns without parabens, phthalates, or petrolatum. A reviewer says, "It works! I've had everything from slight burn to looks-like-a-lobster... and this sun soother has eliminated the pain/itch." Available for $13.33.
Solarcaine Aloe Sunburn Relief Spray
This lidocaine formula provides instant cooling relief for sunburns, scrapes, and bug bites. A reviewer says, "It provided instant cooling relief and took the sting out of my sunburn right away." Available for $7.99.
Cooling Patches
These patches soothe sunburns, bug bites, and poison ivy. They are TSA-friendly. A pack of 20 costs $14.99. One reviewer used them on a sunburn and says, "They were very soothing."
Hair and Body Care
Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum
This argan oil serum tames frizz without weighing hair down. A reviewer says, "A few drops... tame frizz instantly, leaving my hair smooth, shiny, and incredibly manageable." Available for $6.97.
Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray
This anti-humidity spray provides a glass-like sheen that lasts through several washes. A reviewer says, "It has completely transformed my hair." Available from $14.
Allergy and Congestion Relief
Soothing Saline Nasal Gel
Infused with aloe, this gel relieves dry nostrils from constant blowing. A reviewer says, "It's a lightweight, cool, soothing gel that moistens my nasal passages at night." Available for $3.62.
Mucinex Saline Nasal Spray
This 2-in-1 spray provides fast relief from congestion. A reviewer says, "Within 30 seconds I could breathe. Magic!" Available for $8.99.
Pill Organizer
This compact eight-compartment organizer helps you track allergy meds. A three-pack costs $9.97. A reviewer uses it for travel and says, "It has performed wonderfully."
Comfort and Cooling Gear
Seamless Bra Liners
These liners absorb sweat and cushion underwire. A reviewer says, "I won't put on a bra without one of these liners now." A three-pack is $15.99+.
Gold Bond Friction Defense Stick
This stick prevents chafing from sweat. A reviewer says, "With this stuff they just glide right on by each other, it has been a summer lifesaver." Available for $6.28.
Baleaf Compression Shorts
These shorts prevent thigh chafing and have pockets. Available in three inseams and 33 colors for $19.99.
Thigh Society Cooling Shorts
These thin shorts protect inner thighs under skirts or dresses. Available in sizes XS–2XL for $26.40+.
Portable Handheld Fan
This fan also functions as a power bank and flashlight. A reviewer uses it on planes and says, "I def got some jealous side-eyes." Available from $14.39.
Outdoor Fan
Mount this weatherproof fan on your porch to circulate air and deter bugs. Available from $119.97.
Sun and Weather Protection
UPF 50+ Beach Tent
This spacious tent provides maximum sun protection. A reviewer says, "Super easy to put up and has plenty of space." Available from $129.95.
UPF 50 Quick-Dry Swim Top
This cute top protects shoulders from sunburn. Available in sizes 1X–3X for $29.99+.
UPF 50+ Swim Capris
These capris offer more coverage for beach activities. Available in sizes XS–4XL for $65.95+.
Sunshade Triangle
Rig this triangle over your patio to block up to 95% of UV rays. Available in six sizes for $26.98+.
UV-Protective Mini Umbrella
This compact umbrella fits in a carrying case and is available in 19 colors for $10.77+.
Reusable Rain Poncho
This long, hooded poncho comes with a carrying case. A reviewer says, "Perfect for theme park visits!" Available in 31 colors for $19.99+.
Other Essentials
Sunscreen Reminder Stickers
These stickers change color when it's time to reapply sunscreen. A two-pack of 16 counts costs $25.99+.
Waterproof Phone Pouch
Protect your phone from water and sand while still using the touchscreen. Available in 14 colors for $7.99.
Sand Removal Bag
This bag uses talc-free powder to remove sand from skin. Available in two sizes for $24.99.
Fast-Acting Bug Trap
This plug-in trap lures and catches flies, moths, and gnats. A set with three devices and nine sticky pads costs $59.96.
Lanolips SPF 30 Lip Balm
This pineapple-flavored balm protects lips without tasting like sunscreen. Available for $7.
Briotech Spray
This hypochlorous acid spray soothes rosacea, eczema, and sunburns. Available in four sizes from $16.49+.
Lumify Eye Drops
These drops reduce redness and relieve dry eyes. A reviewer says, "Two drops in your eyes and all day, they look perfectly white and healthy." Available for $11.97.
Extendable Window Screens
These screens fit various window widths to keep bugs out while letting in fresh air. Available in three sizes from $35.89+.
Window Screen Tape
Repair tears in screens with this easy-to-use tape. Available in two colors for $9.99+.
Clear Sticky Bug Traps
Apply these traps to windows to catch flying insects. A 12-pack costs $9.49.
Patio Umbrella Net
Add a net to your umbrella for extra mosquito protection. Available for $29.99+.
Permethrin Spray
Spray this on clothes and gear to repel ticks, mosquitoes, and other insects. A three-pack costs $29.99.
