These clever things make spending time outside way better

Make the great outdoors even greater.

These clever things make spending time outside way better
Amazon
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ByRachel Bar-Gadda
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Whether it’s in your own backyard or out on a remote trail, spending time in the great outdoors can be a true joy or a true nightmare (think: biting bugs and extreme temperatures). Thankfully there are plenty of clever things out there that make spending time outside way better. When you’re pulled to be outdoors, browse the list below for ingenious ideas of how to make every second as sweet as possible.

01

A pop-up privacy tent to comfortably change or shower outdoors

If changing clothes means an awkward struggle with a towel at the beach or squirming uncomfortably in your camping tent, you will be obsessed with this ingenious pop-up privacy tent. It provides an entirely private changing area made of waterproof, UV-protected material and is tall enough to mean you won’t have to stoop to get into it. There’s a convenient zippered window on the side and one on top if you want to use it with an outdoor shower. The best feature might be that it folds down into a small size, fitting into a convenient carrying case for easy portability.

02

This large beach towel made of quick-drying microfiber

Not only is this beach towel oversize and comfortable, but it’s also made of absorbent microfiber that dries quickly despite all that extra moisture. The material is soft and lightweight with a stylish striped design that comes in blue, green, or gray. An attached loop allows you to hang it anywhere to dry and can be wrapped around the towel itself for compact storage.

03

A stylish outdoor rug that’s totally waterproof

Lend your patio or RV campsite a touch of functional style with this UV-protected outdoor rug. It’s constructed of recycled plastic straws that are tightly woven to provide a totally waterproof surface that feels soft on your feet. Available in four sizes and four neutral colors, the rug can be folded up and stowed away in an included bag.

04

These chemical-free fly fans to keep bugs away from your food

There’s no need for harsh chemical deterrents to keep bugs away from your al fresco dinner — all you need are these clever fly fans. They require two AA batteries that power two soft, flexible blades made with reflective stickers to disorient flies. The blades rotate quickly, generating airflow that prevents flies from landing on your food, but will stop the moment a hand makes contact, causing no pain thanks to their gentle construction.

05

A cooling performance hat to keep you comfortable in hot temperatures

Cooling down your head can be one of the most effective ways of handling high temperatures while outside. Enter this cooling performance hat that will instantly offer relief thanks to water-activated material that offers UPF 50 protection from the sun. Simply wet the cap, wring it dry, and place it on your head to enjoy up to 30 degrees of cooling that lasts up to two hours. Choose from seven colors.

06

This phone pouch that keeps your device safe from cold & heat

If you’ve ever been devastated by your phone’s dwindling battery power in freezing or sweltering temperatures, you will appreciate this innovative phone pouch. Constructed from the same design principles used for space suits, the pouch protects and insulates your phone from extreme heat or cold, prevents damage from drops, and allows it to float in water. Plus, it comes in shiny silver or gold for futuristic style.

07

A pair of meat claws you’ll want at every barbecue

These popular meat claws with over 6,000 ratings and 4.6 stars will soon become a mainstay in your barbecue toolkit as they shred brisket, pork, or chicken with ease. Made of durable plastic, they feature a comfortable handle that’s easy to grip and sharp tines that’ll have you never turning to a fork again. Use them to transfer meat from grill to plate while keeping hands mess-free.

08

This clever wine dispenser that functions just like a canvas purse

Cheekily tote up to two bottles of your favorite chilled chardonnay or Beaujolais using this wine purse that features a hidden, built-in dispenser. Fill the thermally insulated pouch with up to 1.5 liters of your drink of choice and place it in the canvas bag to subtly pour delicious liquid straight into awaiting glasses. Available in eight shades, the bag doubles as a stylish tote making it useful even when not purveying wine.

09

A tabletop fire pit for everyday s’mores

If you have limited outdoor space, you can still enjoy s’mores and cozy evenings with the help of this tabletop fire pit. Featuring a minimalist design made with thick concrete, it features three layers of insulation and burns without smoke or odor when used with easily obtained ethyl or isopropyl alcohol. A fire extinguishing piece is included as are two telescoping marshmallow roasting sticks.

10

An insulated & buoyant can cooler shaped like a life vest

Drift away in a pool or lake, sipping from a delightfully chilled brewski, with the help of this can cooler that can float along next to you. Made of thermally insulated material, it’s shaped just like a classic life vest with safety straps and the buoyancy to match. Choose from five colors including apricot, flag red, and party pink to keep your 12-ounce beverage cool for hours.

11

This silicone griddle mat to keep your BBQ tools handy

Place this silicone griddle mat on the side platform of your barbecue to keep your tongs, spatulas, or cast iron presses conveniently accessible. Made of heat-resistant and nonslip material, the mat contains eight slots to neatly organize tools and features a grooved base to catch any messy drips. Two compartments at the top are also handy for storing your salt, pepper, and additional seasonings.

12

An anti-friction stick to make any workout supremely comfortable

With over 27,000 five-star ratings, this popular anti-friction stick is the perfect outdoor workout friend as it keeps your skin feeling soothed and moisturized. It features a non-greasy formula that makes any kind of athletic activity that much more comfortable and contains aloe to calm irritated or rough skin. Made without any fragrance, the stick is safe to apply copiously anywhere that’s needed.

13

This cooling towel that can be reactivated with just water

Outside on a hot day, you’ll be thankful for this cooling towel that only needs water to bring your body temperature down. It’s made of hyper-evaporative microfiber material that’s breathable and lightweight and can be used in numerous ways such as wrapped around your neck or worn around the forehead. To reactivate its cooling properties, just soak it in water and ring it out to feel instantly more comfortable.

14

A sunscreen lip balm with SPF 15 protection

When it comes to the lips, you may forget that those, too, need protection from the sun. Enter this well-reviewed sunscreen lip balm made with SPF 15 protection. Available in a pack of four, it features moisturizing ingredients such as organic beeswax, coconut oil, and vitamin E, with the creamy coconut flavor leaving a hint of the tropics when applied.

15

This dry bag you’ll be glad to have on water-based adventures

There’s nothing like slipping into bone-dry clothing after a day spent on the kayak or hiking through rainy conditions. This dry bag makes it all possible thanks to being made of ripstop, woven, and coated polyester that’s fully water, sand, and snow-proof. Choose from three sizes (5, 10, or 20-liter) and simply roll the top down, creating a seal secured by the durable clip. Use the D-ring to attach it wherever is convenient for easy portability.

16

A sunscreen mist that protects your scalp & hair

Add this scalp and hair sunscreen mist to your beach bag to keep your exposed strands and skin free from harmful rays. It’s easy to apply with a push of the pump and coats your head with SPF 30 protection in a lightweight and non-greasy formula. Swim the day away knowing this sunscreen is reef-safe and packed with nourishing ingredients such as sea kelp and algae.

17

This backpack cooler that can keep drinks chilled for 24 hours

Perfect for outdoor picnics or cookouts, this backpack cooler can be filled with ice and up to 24 cans that will remain chilled for hours and hours. The PEVA nylon material is reinforced by thick thermal material with a built-in air valve to adjust the insulation level. Seal the bag by rolling down and securing the top (similar to a dry bag) and slip your arms into the straps to easily carry it to wherever the party’s at.

18

A glass drink dispenser that comes with its own ornate stand

Designed in a classic mason jar shape with characteristic embossing, this stylish glass drink dispenser is the ideal way to serve lemonade, iced tea, and batched cocktails for your outdoor events. Able to hold up to 1 gallon, it comes with an included metal base featuring elegant curves to elevate the jar for easy dispensing. The lid screws on to keep your beverages fresh with a non-drip spigot ensuring a mess-free experience.

19

This mosquito net canopy for serene outdoor naps

When warm temperatures and humidity hit, it can mean those blissful outdoor naps have come to an end courtesy of buzzing and biting bugs. So, you’ll be happy to know that all you need is this mosquito net canopy to continue dozing on your hammock or patio furniture no matter the wildlife. It’s made of fine netting that can keep out even the smallest mosquitos and hangs easily from the top via an attached rope.

20

A scoop ball set to amp up the fun of outdoor hangs

Take playing catch to another level with this scoop ball set. It comes with two scoops and a softball, all made of lightweight plastic. The handles are comfortable to hold, requiring movements similar to those in lacrosse, and the game encourages the development of hand-eye coordination. It’s a great game for all ages and will be sure to make any time spent outdoors that much more enjoyable.

21

This foldable sun hat with a breathable mesh panel

Stay cool and shaded as you hike or relax outdoors with this versatile sun hat. Not only does it feature a wide brim, but it also includes a built-in mesh panel to increase breathability and keep your head comfortably cool. Additionally, there’s a cutout in the back to accommodate those with ponytails, and buttons on either side allow you to snap up the edges for a cowboy-style look.

22

A set of solar string lights to add outdoor ambiance

Create a magical atmosphere outside with the help of these solar string lights. Warm LEDs line the flexible copper wiring which can be wrapped around different shapes and surfaces. The included remote allows you to adjust brightness, set timers, or switch between lighting modes while the solar panel charges the lights by the sun during the day.

23

This solar lantern that can collapse down into a puck

Feel safer knowing this solar lantern provides a steady light source while you’re on the trail. It won’t take up extra room in your pack as it can collapse down into a puck while you’re en route and expand into a full lantern at the campsite. It takes four hours to charge via the solar panel and can even be used as an additional power source to charge your devices if needed.

24

A rechargeable mosquito repellant that covers a 20-foot area

Enjoy over five relaxing hours outside with this mosquito repellant that creates a 20-foot mosquito-free zone. It’s powered by a USB-rechargeable battery and uses a proprietary, DEET-free repellant cartridge to keep away those biting bugs that can truly ruin an evening. It leaves no fragrance and each repellant cartridge is built to last 12 hours.

25

This inflatable serving bar to keep drinks cool & food fresh

Create your very own snack bar complemented by chilled drinks, all kept fresh on a bed of ice with the help of these inflatable serving bars. They come in a set of two with each including a drain plug to quickly get rid of accumulated water or melted ice. Alternatively, set them to float in your pool to add serious luxury to any summer party.

26

A splash pad with a fun spray function

Kids and dogs alike will live for this fun splash pad that gives them a chance to cool off during warm days. Not only does it fill with just the right amount of water for lots of splashing, but it also has a spray feature whose direction and water pressure can be easily adjusted. The nonslip bottom provides extra safety with the thick material preventing any leaks.

27

These vinyl siding hangers to easily mount stylish decor

These clever hangers are proof that you don’t need to destroy your vinyl siding with adhesive or drilled holes to mount decor such as wreaths, planters, or lights. They hook underneath any seam in the siding to provide a stable hanging surface that can bear up to 12 pounds of weight. Available in a pack of four, they’re made of sleek stainless steel that won’t rust in the elements.

28

A set of silicone soda can lids that save carbonation

Crack that can without feeling the pressure to finish the whole thing when you have these ingenious silicone soda lids at your disposal. They slip snugly over the top of a can to provide an actual airtight seal, preserving carbonation for fizzy sips days later. Available in a pack of six, they come in a range of colors and are great for saving leftover mixers after your backyard party.

29

This plant-based balm to instantly soothe insect bites

For evenings when you pay for the joy of being outside with itchy insect-delivered welts, this bite-relief balm is here for you. It’s made with sustainably sourced, plant-based ingredients such as beeswax, tea tree, chamomile, lavender, eucalyptus, and andiroba oil to quickly soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation. It’s easy to apply and even comes in a recyclable tin container.

30

A set of starfish-shaped coasters that keep your beach beverages sand-free

When relaxing at the beach, place your beer or iced latte in one of these starfish coasters to keep it free from sand and easily accessible. The coasters are designed to sit above the sand while securely holding beverages, sunglasses, snacks, and sunscreen. They come in a colorful pack of four and nest for easy storage and transport within an included mesh bag.

31

These solar pathway lights that cast an inviting light through all seasons

Illuminate garden pathways with a warm, inviting glow using these solar lights. They’re completely waterproof and can be used throughout the seasons, with three lighting modes (low, high, and gradual) available. Choose between four height options to suit your space and, best of all, simply stick them in the ground — no wiring required — for them to turn automatically on at dusk.

32

A set of highly rated grilling trays to prep & serve food

With over 6,000 ratings and a near-perfect 4.8 stars, these popular grilling trays will prove extremely useful to your barbecuing game. They come in a set of two, with the red tray ideal for prepping and transporting raw meats or vegetables and the black one for serving the finished product. Made of shatter-resistant melamine, the trays neatly nest underneath one another and can go in the dishwasher for easy cleaning.

33

This magnetic screen door to keep bugs out & breezes flowing

Enjoy those fresh breezes blowing through without having to swat a bunch of mosquitoes or flies at night when you mount this magnetic screen door. Made of fine mesh polyester, it attaches to your door using hook and loop tape with push pins included for extra grip. Strong magnets line the center seam, allowing kids, pets, and yourself to pass through easily, closing up securely behind you.

34

A daily sunscreen that leaves skin glowing & protected

Apply this daily sunscreen to your skin, knowing it will leave a glowing finish with no white cast. It’s earned over 5,700 ratings and 4.7 stars for its lightweight formula that nourishes skin with ingredients such as green tea, sunflower seed oil, and cica. It offers SPF 36 protection that sits invisibly on its own or under makeup.

35

These grill lights that mount magnetically

Easily pop these grill lights onto your barbecue thanks to their convenient magnetic bases so you can keep that cookout going all night long. They use three AAA batteries each to operate and feature flexible gooseneck lights to get the light precisely where you need it. There’s even a handy carrying case to store them when not needed.

36

A cheese & charcuterie board with a built-in knife set

Seriously impress guests when you serve up bountiful amounts of cheese and charcuterie on this bamboo board with a 4.8-star rating. In addition to featuring side grooves for fruit, crackers, and nuts, it includes a built-in four-piece knife set to easily slice and serve items. The bamboo material looks stylish and naturally resists odors and stains to last for many backyard happy hours to come.

37

This large sports water bottle with a neoprene sleeve

Hit the gym knowing you’ll stay well-hydrated with this large sports water bottle that can hold 2.2 liters. It comes with a custom-fit neoprene sleeve to keep your water cool and prevent condensation. Choose from 12 colors and patterns such as tie-dye or cargo green with the built-in handle and pop-cap lid allowing for easy transporting and sipping.

38

A lightweight & portable neck fan with 3 speeds

Keep a cool head as you go about your day with this portable neck fan. It features a choice between three speeds, yet remains quiet enough for you to easily have a conversation on the phone. It’s available in five neutral shades such as black or green and will give your whole head a 360-degree cooling experience that will be sure to make the difference on high-temperature days.

39

This solar fountain with 7 nozzles for different spray patterns

Place this solar fountain in your bird bath to enjoy a joyfully bubbling water feature with no outlet required. It comes with seven nozzles to create different spray patterns and operates in sunny and cloudy conditions. A built-in filter prevents blockages and can be cleaned for easy maintenance.

40

A sunshade sail to efficiently block heat & UV rays

Transform your exposed deck or patio into a cool spot for relaxing with this sunshade sail that blocks both UV rays and heat. It mounts using the included hardware and D-rings with the curved design allowing it to be stretched tightly. Choose from 12 color options to best match your outdoor area such as sand, rust red, or turquoise blue, to create a shady spot that requires only a small investment.

41

This griddle accessories kit to cook up literally anything

This 18-piece griddle accessories kit comes with everything you need to cook up the feast of your dreams. In addition to a cast iron press, there are stainless steel spatulas, burger turners, and egg rings. Season your food with a silicone basting brush, two squeeze bottles, and salt and pepper shakers. And once you’ve finished cooking, use the included cleaning brush and place everything in the accompanying storage bag.

42

A long sleeve shirt with UV-blocking capabilities

No matter if you’re sailing, hiking, fishing, or running, this long-sleeved sun protection shirt will keep you free from burns and chafing. It’s made of lightweight, UPF 50+ material that blocks UVA and UVB rays and wicks moisture away from the skin. Available in tons of color options, it dries quickly to keep you comfortable as you sweat and can be conveniently machine-washed.

  • Available sizes: Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 26

43

These mosquito repellent bracelets infused with essential oils

If you hate dousing yourself in bug sprays, opt instead for these mosquito-repellent bracelets that utilize essential oils. They come in a pack of 10 and are individually wrapped in resealable bags. Slip them over your wrists or ankles as ingredients such as geranium oil, lemongrass oil, and citronella oil naturally keep those pesky mosquitoes away so you can enjoy your time outside.

44

An adjustable umbrella that can clamp to anything

Whether it’s a cooler, a golf bag, or a beach chair, this adjustable umbrella can attach to it via a universal clamp and provide relief from the sun. It features a UPF-coated underside to block up to 99.5% of UVA and UVB rays and includes multiple adjustable hinges to get the angle of your umbrella just where you need it. Fold it up to be stored compactly in an accompanying case.

45

This stadium seat with a padded back & comfy cushion

If you love supporting your team but your butt is falling asleep and your back is screaming — there’s a better way. Remain just as devoted a fan, but comfortably this time, using this portable stadium seat that comes complete with a thick cushioned seat and padded back. A flap below contains a storage pocket and convenient cup holder with the whole thing folding up to be carried via an attached shoulder strap.

46

An LED rope light that’s flexible & bendable

Easily wrap this LED rope light around pillars, stairs, tree trunks, and more to give your yard a touch of warm accent lighting. It measures 24 feet and can be extended by connecting it to other strands. Made with UV-resistant and waterproof material, it can cast a warm white glow throughout the entire year no matter the temperature or weather.

47

This electric candle lighter that uses flameless technology

Light candles no matter how strong the breeze using this electric lighter that requires no flame. Instead, it generates a spark and can be recharged easily via USB with a battery indicator directly on the handle. Choose from seven available colors and use the flexible gooseneck to easily light wicks at any awkward angle.

48

A pair of quick-dry running shorts with a side zipper pocket

Hit the track feeling easy-breezy with these running shorts that are made of quick-drying polyester and spandex material. They feature a side zipper pocket to carry your phone, cards, or keys, and include a convenient underwear liner as well. Lastly, a large, stretchy waistband and side slits keep you feeling both comfortable and secure with plenty of freedom of movement.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 19

49

This outdoor smart plug that lets you remotely control lighting

Control every facet of your front or backyard lighting with this outdoor smart plug that gives you remote control. Featuring weatherproof covers and a waterproof design, it’s built with three outlets and includes an app to set schedules, timers, or away modes for each individual light. The plug is even compatible with your smart home devices, allowing you to use voice-activated control.

50

A doormat that traps dirt & debris

Enjoy the outside world thoroughly without tracking it inside the house by using this doormat. It traps dirt, debris, and moisture and includes a rubber backing to stay securely in place. Available in nine sizes, it features a low-pile surface and can be easily cleaned with a simple rinse. Choose from five neutral shades such as gray or blue to look great in any outdoor space or entryway.