42 Summer Essentials: From Oreos to Tomato Lamps for a Perfect Season
42 Summer Essentials: Oreos to Tomato Lamps

Summer is upon us, and whether you're preparing to thrive during your favorite season or bracing yourself for the heat and sweat that it brings, there's no better time to snag a little seasonal pick-me-up for yourself. From a cute new swim top and some bronzing drops to give you that sun-kissed glow to a practical gadget like a bladeless neck fan, these summer-ready things will help you herald in the season and find even small reasons to celebrate it.

1. Firecracker Pop Oreos

A new limited-edition pack of Firecracker Pop–flavored Oreos that smell and taste exactly like everyone's favorite tricolor ice pop. You might want to add two or three packs to your cart, because they won't stick around for long once the entire family realizes they exist. Promising review: "I didn't think I'd like these but they're really good. If you've had the lemon Oreos, they're very similar but have additional fruit flavors (blue raspberry and cherry). These are basically double stuffed so if you like the extra cream, these are for you." Get a pack from Target for $5.89.

2. Mrs. Meyer's Multi-Surface Spray

Mrs. Meyer's multi-surface spray is a versatile paraben-free spray you'll want to add to your summer cleaning arsenal because it comes in seasonal scents. If you love the smell of freshly cut grass, dandelions, or tomato vine, now your kitchen can smell like it. Promising review (for tomato vine): "I buy a bottle of this every summer! Smells like summertime — exactly like a garden. The smell at first was like what am I smelling?? But it grew on me, and the scent lingers long after I've cleaned, so it has helped my apartment smell fresh and clean at all times." Get it from Amazon for $4.89 (available in three scents).

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3. Essence Drop of Sunshine Bronzing Drops

Essence's Drop of Sunshine Bronzing Drops are perfect because unlike the preteens at Sephora, you're not willing to splurge on the $39 Drunk Elephant version. Pro tip: Mix a few drops into your daily sunscreen (or foundation, if it's not too hot out for that) to look radiant and sun kissed. Promising review: "I love this, so I ordered a second for backup! Depending on my day, I will add no more than one or two drops to my moisturizer or my primer. Takes away the winter pallor of my face." Get it from Amazon for $5.99.

4. Cutout Scoop Bikini Top

A cutout scoop bikini top is ideal if you're looking for the perfect top to pair with the bottoms you already own. This sexy piece has removable padding, adjustable shoulder straps, and crisscross back ties. Also, no underwire! Reviewers with bigger boobs suggest sizing up (unless you want more of a cleavage-y look). Promising reviews: "I'm in love! I'm from Brazil and we manufacture the most amazing bikinis in the world. And this one came really close to that!" and "I'm a 34D and wanted to show my boobs off. Great coverage, no nip slips, good cleavage, no side boob." Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in women's sizes S–3XL and 18 styles).

5. Dr. Teal's Hawaiian Bliss Epsom Salt Soak

A limited edition Dr. Teal's Hawaiian Bliss Epsom salt soak that'll make you feel like you're lounging on the coast of Maui with its uplifting tropical scent and muscle-soothing formula containing hibiscus, papaya, and Alaea red sea salt. Promising review: "I bought this product hoping for a fresh, divine scent, and wow, it completely blew me away! Hawaiian Bliss is everything I hoped for and more. The scent is absolutely heavenly." Get it from Amazon for $5.87 (also available in spring rain or vanilla).

6. Flowy Athletic Shorts

Some flowy athletic shorts guaranteed to have you feeling so breezy and comfortable while hanging at the park and running errands. The wide elastic waistband is stretchy, and there's spandex underneath (with pockets!!) so you're covered even if the flowy part flies up with a gust of wind. Promising reviews: "I am 7.5 months pregnant and these are my favorite shorts. True to size and super cute and comfy." and "Tall girl here! 5'10 Absolutely IN LOVE!!! I've always had trouble finding actual high waisted shorts for my long torso." Get them from Amazon for $24.95 (available in women's sizes XS–XXL, two lengths, and 16 colors).

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7. Rechargeable Hands-Free Neck Fan

A rechargeable hands-free neck fan that might seem a little extra, but when everyone else's faces are red and covered in sweat, you'll be cool as a cucumber. It has three speed settings and lasts for up to nine hours on the lowest speed, or three hours on the highest. And because it's bladeless, your hair is safe from any tangles. Reviewers say it's especially great for people who work outside all day. Promising review: "This fan works so well! I was worried with how hot it is in the South that it wouldn't keep me cool when I go on walks in 90+ degree temps, but on the strongest wind setting it produces a nice blast of air!" Get it from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in three colors).

8. Gardening Tools Set

An adorable and good-quality gardening tools set as a little treat if your happy place is the garden, and maybe your old tools have seen better days. The 12-piece set comes with a hand weeder, a transplanter, a trowel, a cultivator, a hand rake, a watering can, twig shears, work gloves, a carrying case, and smaller versions of the trowel, hand rake, and transplanter. Promising review: "Just as described! Such great quality and each spot is stiff to stick items back in their place. The color is so beautiful in person. 10/10 purchase!" Get the set from Amazon for $25.64+ (available in four colors).

9. Sunflower and Wildflower Seeds

A variety of sunflower seeds that are easy to grow and low maintenance, with minimal watering required — or, from the same small business, a vibrant wildflower mix with 30,000 seeds. With a little time and patience, they'll grow strong into a beautiful flower patch that'll delight you and your local bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Seed Needs is a family-owned small business in Michigan. Promising review (for sunflowers): "Great seeds. I bought these a few years ago, and they were beautiful." Get them from Amazon: the sunflower mix for $5.79 and the wildflower mix for $8.99.

10. Short-Sleeve Satin PJ Set

An affordable short-sleeve satin PJ set, perfect if you love items that feel luxurious but don't break the bank. This silky button-down and its matching shorts will keep you cool as a cucumber instead of waking up in a hot sweat at night. Some reviewers recommend sizing up, particularly if you're on the curvier side. Promising review: "These PJs are fantastic! They are great fitting and so pretty. I especially like they are so cool on your skin. You won't need cooling sheets if you have these." Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in women's sizes S–XXL and 38 colors).

11. Polarized Aviator Sunglasses

A pair of polarized aviator sunglasses because squinting and shielding your eyes to see on a particularly sunny day is not great. These have a UV-protective coating to block harmful rays, and they come in super cute shades and actually stay on your nose, according to reviewers. Promising review: "These black aviator sunglasses are flawless! I was hesitant because I have a nonexistent nose bridge, but they stay on my nose!" Get them from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 12 colors and two-packs).

12. Laneige Neo Blurring Powder

Laneige's Neo Blurring Powder is so good at eliminating shine and blurring pores that it deserves all the gold stars. If you dread summer because you love wearing makeup but the heat and humidity leave it looking patchy, this'll lock it in with a smooth, semi-matte finish. One reviewer compares it to a $59 Givenchy powder. Promising review: "This is the secret for makeup in hot and humid climates! I am a sweaty person, but I love wearing makeup. While holidaying in Southeast Asia, this powder kept my foundation from separating or becoming patchy." Get it from Amazon for $25 (also available in a refill size).

13. Revlon Volcanic Face Roller

Or a Revlon volcanic face roller to keep excess oil at bay throughout the day, absorbing shine in seconds without messing up your makeup. If you have oily, acne-prone skin, this clever roller might be your new holy grail. It's reusable; just wash with mild soap and let air dry. Promising review: "This rolling device is like pure magic. You simply roll it around your oily areas and the oil magically vanishes." Get it from Amazon for $6.55.

14. UPF 50+ High Ponytail Running Cap

A UPF 50+ high ponytail running cap with adjustable X straps so you can rock a high or mid pony that stays out of your way during workouts. It's stretchy, breathable, and keeps the blazing sun off your face. Vimhue is an Arizona-based, woman-owned small business. Promising review: "I bought this for my half marathon training and I really like using it! I love being able to sport my high pony and feel a nice breeze on my neck." Get it from Vimhue on Etsy for $29.50.

15. Bogg-Like Rubber Kids' Tote

A Bogg-like rubber kids' tote if you're heading to the beach with any little ones this summer. This cute accessory doubles as a fun activity, coming with charms, beads, and pipe cleaners for kids to decorate. The tote includes a gold marker, silver marker, sticker stencil sheet, charms, beads, and more. Promising review: "This kid's beach tote bag is absolutely fantastic. The size is perfect for little ones, and the quality stands out. My granddaughters absolutely love it!" Get it from Amazon for $21.98.

16. Strappy Sandals

Some cute, strappy sandals in case a brand-new pair of Tevas isn't in the budget this year — these are a third of the price. The cushiony, yoga mat–style insole offers arch support, and the adjustable straps dry quickly for water wear. Promising review: "So cute and a perfect, cheaper alternative to the more expensive Teva. Got so many compliments and they held up great all summer!" Get them from Amazon for $23.99 (available in women's sizes 6–11 and 18 styles).

17. Birkenstock Nail Polish

A brand-new Birkenstock nail polish — yup, you read that right. The UO-exclusive collection includes five vegan, plant-based shades that pair beautifully with your favorite Birks. From a rich red to gorgeous neutrals like eggshell and rose, these high-shine shades complete any summer look. Get it from Urban Outfitters for $11.95 (available in five shades, plus a top and base coat).

18. Heyhae Gel Nail Wraps

Or some Heyhae gel nail wraps to spice things up with fun designs or elegant ombre shades. You just peel, stick, and file away the excess for a fresh, natural-looking result. No UV lamp needed — they cure under the sun. Reviewers say they stick on for weeks. Heyhae is a small business. Promising review: "I was skeptical, but they have been on for about two weeks and look good. Many size options and easy to apply." Get them from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 25 styles).

19. Mini Sprinkler Pool

A mini sprinkler pool so you can convert your backyard into a splash park during that brutal heat wave. It has an adorable ABCs design on the bottom for learning in between splashing. Several reviewers say it keeps kids engaged for hours, and even dogs enjoy it. Promising review: "My kids love this. So easy to plug the hose into and turn the water on for hours of fun." Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in five designs and two sizes).

20. Ruched Tulip-Hem Swim Skirt

A ruched tulip-hem swim skirt offering full coverage for your bum, even for those with some junk in the trunk. It has built-in briefs and little tassels for cuteness. Promising review: "I'm short and curvy and hardly like any bathing suit bottoms, but this one was great! I got so many compliments and it held me so well!" Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in women's sizes XS–3XL and 18 colors).

21. High-Waisted Knee-Length Swim Shorts

Or some high-waisted, knee-length swim shorts if you don't want to fuss with bikini bottoms and wish you could wear bike shorts in the water. This quick-drying, UPF 50+ fabric is stretchy and comfortable, with a built-in panty and two side pockets. Promising review: "I am a plus-size person and hate showing off my thighs. I love these. They come down to my knees and I feel so relaxed in them." Get them from Amazon for $26.99 (available in women's sizes S–4XL, two lengths, and 20 styles).

22. Bug Bite Suction Tool

A bug bite suction tool if mosquitoes are the bane of your existence. It works by suctioning out the venom, saliva, and other irritants causing the itch. Use caution as the suction can be strong. Promising review: "I woke up with a bug bite on my arm so I used this tool. Immediately after using, it stopped itching! And less than 24 hours later the bump was gone!" Get it from Amazon for $9.97 (available in six colors).

23. Sidewalk Chalk Pack

A massive 160-piece pack of sidewalk chalk as the perfect analog activity for any little ones, turning sidewalks into a beautiful canvas for creativity. Promising review: "If there's one thing kids love, it's drawing and unleashing their creativity! This chalk box is perfect for turning any sidewalk into a giant canvas. The colors are vibrant, and the chalks are durable." Get it from Amazon for $26.98.

24. Strawberry Jell-O Flavored Sunscreen Lip Balm

A three-pack of strawberry Jell-O–flavored sunscreen lip balm, because your lips need protection too. Made with coconut oil, cocoa butter, aloe vera, and vitamin E, it's SPF 30 and reef-safe. It's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and complies with the Hawaii Reef Compliant Act. Promising review: "It's hard to find a lip balm that's moisturizing and tastes nice. This stuff leaves my lips very soft. Smells and tastes great!" Get a three-pack from Amazon for $12.25.

25. Spooky Summer Adult Coloring Book

Spooky Summer, an adult coloring book for fall-loving souls who dream of Halloween even in July. Color a ghost chilling on an inflatable tube in the ocean. Happy Summerween! Promising review: "Celebrating Summerween has been a tradition for me and this book is perfect. The art style is beautiful, and I love the test color pages." Get it from Amazon for $9.99.

26. Tennis Skirt with Built-In Shorts

A tennis skirt with built-in shorts because skorts are all the rage. You can stock up without breaking the bank at Lululemon. The secret inner pockets are perfect for keys, phone, or tennis balls. Promising review: "I wear this going on walks or running errands. The side pocket fits my phone. Very comfortable, especially in spring/summer." Get it from Amazon for $29 (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 30 colors).

27. Longline Sports Bra

A soft, stretchy longline sports bra remarkably similar to a tank from the Lulu Align collection, so you can upgrade your athleisure wardrobe for less. The breathable, sweat-wicking fabric is perfect for summer outdoor activities. Promising review: "I wear a 32DD and was worried about support, but I'm obsessed. It covers my large chest perfectly and provides support without a uniboob." Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in women's sizes XS–3XL and 47 colors).

28. Béis x Poppi Reusable Shopping Tote

A darling new Béis x Poppi reusable shopping tote that folds up into a mango-shaped charm you can clip onto your main bag. Get it from Béis for $28.

29. Rainbow Flower Pots

A rainbow collection of flower pots to add color to your fences and railings. These cheery pots have draining holes and hooks for easy watering and hanging. Previously only in 4-inch size, now available in 6-inch. Promising review: "Because I rent, I can't put nails in the fence. I got the trellis and hung these colorful pots to brighten up the fence. They work great!" Get a set of 10 from Amazon for $27.99 (also available in all black or all white).

30. Solar-Powered Garden Lights

A two-pack of solar-powered garden lights that look like little fireflies, so you can enjoy your flowers at night. Promising review: "I am totally obsessed with these lights. They light up my flowers and azalea bushes beautifully with a lovely orange glow like little fireflies." Get a two-pack from Amazon for $11.98 (also available in larger packs).

31. Flexible Adjustable Mister

A flexible adjustable mister you can bend to point directly at yourself for a cool, fine mist. It cools the surrounding area by 20 degrees and comes with an interchangeable flower-shaped misting head. Promising review: "Works exactly how I want it to. Provides a fine, cool mist on the patio, allowing us to enjoy the backyard until sunset without breaking a sweat." Get it from Amazon for $21.82.

32. Watermelon Pool Ball

A watermelon pool ball that moves through water as easily as air, allowing for bouncing, dribbling, and endless games. The tough PVC material is durable. Note: It's heavier than other balls, so avoid throwing at heads. Promising review: "We have all kinds of pool toys, but this is the one thing they never get tired of. We love playing keep-away underwater. It's fun to see how it moves." Get it from Amazon for $14.98+ (available in two sizes and three colors, including glow-in-the-dark).

33. Flame Colorant

Some flame colorant to create green, blue, purple, and yellow flames on your bonfire. Add 1–3 packets for up to an hour of colorful flames. Promising review: "These fire color-changing packets are the backyard secret weapon you never knew you needed! They turn an ordinary fire into a mesmerizing spectacle." Get a 25-pack from Amazon for $19.97.

34. Nordic Ware Fish and Seafood Griller

A brand-new Nordic Ware fish and seafood griller that'll make any pescatarian's heart sing. This high-quality aluminum pan provides even heat distribution and has tall sides to prevent losing shrimp. It's grill, smoker, and oven safe up to 500 degrees F. Get it from Nordic Ware for $16.

35. Paraben-Free Self-Tanner

A paraben-free self-tanner for bronzed, sun-kissed skin in just one hour. This lightweight mousse applies evenly and leaves a golden hue without looking orange. It's vegan, cruelty-free, and made from recycled materials. Promising review: "Being glow-in-the-dark pale, most self-tanners look orange on me. This achieves a brown bronze tone without the orange hue. Two to three applications produce a good color that lasts 8–10 days." Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in eight styles).

36. Rechargeable Waterproof Cooler Light

A rechargeable, waterproof cooler light so people don't have to use phone flashlights for drinks. One charge lasts 55 hours for white light and 30 hours for red light. Promising review: "I bought this for my outdoorsy son. It's magnetic and can hook onto a vehicle. We used it to look into the cooler and walk around at night." Get it from Amazon for $27.99.

37. Tacodillo Taco Holders

A set of "Tacodillo" taco holders — armadillos that hold your tacos upright. Each holds two tacos at once. Reviewers say they work better for hard tacos. Promising review: "So fun for a family taco night! Great quality. I washed them in the dishwasher with no problems." Get a set of two from Amazon for $19.98.

38. Cutesy Juice Glass

A cutesy juice glass to stock up on whimsical, summery glassware without the Anthro price. Promising review: "These are a fantastic swap for the more expensive Anthro glasses. I have both, and this feels just as nice and 'heavy' as those ones." Get it from World Market for $12.99 each (available in nine styles, plus a stemless wineglass, pitcher, and tealight candle holder).

39. Ice Pop Molds

Ice pop molds to make homemade treats with any ingredients. They come with a drip tray to avoid sticky hands. The set includes a stand, six drip trays that double as sticks, a collapsible funnel, and a cleaning brush. Promising review: "Great purchase for summer. The molds hold a good amount and the little handles do a good job of pulling the pop out. The drip catch works great." Get them from Amazon for $12.99.

40. Glass Mosaic Bird Feeder

A glass mosaic bird feeder with a fly-through design for easy access. One reviewer even had a bird lay eggs in theirs. Promising review: "Beautiful design with fun colors, durable and stable cord, easy to clean. Perfect for smaller birds but attracts a lot." Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in eight designs).

41. Crocs Flip-Flops

Crocs flip-flops bringing the comfort and durability the brand is known for, minus the clunky clog style. Ultra-lightweight and perfect for lounging by the pool or ocean. Promising review: "Walking on cushiony clouds! I love Crocs but not the look with summer outfits. These were the jackpot! So cushiony and comfy!" Get them from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in sizes 4–11 and 14 colors).

42. Washable Flat Socks

A set of washable Flat Socks, no-show, moisture-wicking liners for flats that get sweaty. They create a barrier to keep shoes from becoming a swamp. They come in two sizes and can be trimmed. Promising review: "What a cool product! I throw shoes out because of the smell rather than wearing them out. These are great at preventing stinky shoes. Trim to size and toss in the washer when needed!" Get a set of two from Amazon for $8.54+ (available in two sizes and four styles).