Shopping·11 min read

19 Essentials to Help You Make the Most of Summer

Everything you'll need for summer 2022
Design: theSkimm | Photos: Amazon
July 12, 2023

This post was originally published in June 2021 and has been updated.

Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.

Summer, is that you? The season of bright sunshine, late sunsets, and warm weather is officially here, so we rounded up everything you’ll need to make the most of it. We’ve got stuff for trips to the pool or beach, things for the park days that turn into nights, and essentials to use at home. Time to enjoy the sunny days ahead.

Meridian Grooming

A waterproof trimmer that works all over your body…

It’s the time of the year where you may be thinking about shaving and waxing just a hair more. That’s why we love Meridian Grooming’s waterproof trimmer. You can use it on wet or dry skin, and it’s even gentle enough for your bikini line thanks to the ceramic blade. ($76.50+, Meridian Grooming)

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Megababe thigh chafe stick
Ulta

A rescue stick that’ll prevent thigh chafing...

Because soaring temps = actual trouble for our thighs (IYKYK). This nontoxic one from Megababe works like a deodorant...but for your legs. Just glide it on, let it melt into your skin, and voilà. It’ll create a frictionless barrier so your thighs will stay cool and irritation-free. It has all the good stuff you’d want in a beauty product too, like aloe, vitamin E, pomegranate seed extract, and grapeseed oil. Sweet relief, coming right up. ($14, Ulta)

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Astr

A dreamy cowl-neck dress that comes in over a dozen floral patterns… 

We love the asymmetrical silhouette of this silky midi dress — and the six vintage-esque patterns it comes in. Reviewers say it’s true to size and a flattering option for curvy bodies. You can dress this one up for a semiformal wedding and then swap the heels for sneakers and get some additional wears out. Party on. ($98, Astr)

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Insulated cooler
Amazon

An insulated cooler that’s cute enough to rock as a purse...

This one can hold up to 20 cans and is made with a microfiber lining that’ll keep your stuff chilled. The shoulder straps allow for comfy transport — a major win, since rolling coolers just don’t work on sand. It’s also perfect for your next rooftop hang or backyard BBQ. Throw in your ice pack and carry it around like it’s the hottest handbag of the moment. ($32.95, Amazon)

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Ice cream maker
Amazon

An ice cream maker for when you want an afternoon delight...

Ice cream? For summer? Groundbreaking. This Cuisinart device can make frozen yogurt, ice cream, or sorbet in 20 minutes or less. There’s a double-insulated freezer bowl so you won’t need to add ice. And it has a big spout that makes mixing in ingredients easy and mess-free. I scream, you scream, we all scream for DIY ice cream. ($65, Amazon)

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Warby Parker sunglasses
Warby Parker

Sunglasses to block out all the haters (read: the sun)...

These shades from Warby Parker come in readers, single-vision, progressives, and nonprescription options. And you can choose from multiple color and width options. Bonus: The lenses are scratch-resistant and block 100% of UV rays. We love to see it. PS: Check out all our sunglasses faves here. ($95+, Warby Parker)

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Cupshe

A one-piece with mesh detail…

Turn heads in this classic black one-piece that features wrap-around fabric over mesh to keep you supported while showing a little skin. It has removable padded cups, comes in another printed option, and is available in sizes XXS–XL. ($14.99+, Cupshe)

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Mini fan
Amazon

A three-in-one mini fan to take on the go…

This hand-held fan can run for hours and fit in your pocket or bag. It has a flashlight (hi, summer camping trips), doesn’t make a lot of noise, and has a USB output port so you can charge your phone on it in a bind. PS: The blades are soft, but if you happen to touch them while they’re on they’ll automatically stop to keep you safe. ($14.39+, Amazon)

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Water bottle
Amazon

A 1-gallon time-marker water bottle to keep you hydrated…

This BPA-free option will measure your daily H2O intake and make it easy to remember to drink enough throughout the day. It has a strap and leak-proof lid with a locking feature so it’s a breeze to carry to the pool, gym, or just around your house. The wide-mouth opening makes cleaning it and adding ice cubes super easy. Plus, its size means you won’t have to constantly refill it. Hydrated-girl summer, here you come. ($17+, Amazon)

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Towel scrunchies
Amazon

Towel scrunchies to add to your pool bag…

This two-pack of microfiber scrunchies can absorb water and look cute on your wrist. Just pop one on after a swim (or a shower) and they’ll help your hair dry quicker. The super-soft accessories will be gentle and have great elasticity. ($11.97+ Amazon)

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La Roche-Posay
Amazon

A mineral SPF that’ll melt right into your skin…

Because sunscreen = a necessity. This dual face and body option from La Roche-Posay has broad spectrum protection — so it’ll protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. It’s also oil-free, fragrance-free, water resistant, and works for all skin types (sensitive skin included). Plus, it’s fast absorbing, non-comedogenic, and dermatologist recommended. Don’t miss it. ($24.99+, Amazon)

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SPF hat
Anthropologie

A breathable hat to take your sun protection to the next level...

This lightweight cotton hat is the perfect addition to your SPF routine. It has a UPF of 50 (an ultraviolet protection factor…which is a good thing) and an inner drawstring for a custom fit. Rock it on your morning dog walk, during your beach trip, or just while running errands to keep your face protected. Yes-PF, please. ($36, Anthropologie)

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Bug bite tool
Amazon

A suction tool to help relieve those itchy mosquito bites...

Bug bites, be gone. This genius option works to remove the irritant left underneath your skin that causes itchiness and redness. You’ll be able to stop a reaction in its tracks, leaving the bite visibly smaller. You can even try it on bee and wasp stings. The true MVP of the summer. ($9.95, Amazon)

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Urban Outfitters

An underwater camera that’ll capture the moments you don’t want to forget…

Like catching the perfect wave or that sandcastle you spent hours building. You can take photos in the water. Plus, it has a wrist strap so you won’t lose it once you hit the waves. Say cheese. ($32, Urban Outfitters)

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Tevas
Teva

Tevas to rock at the beach, on a hike, and everywhere in between…

These truly comfy sandals have it all. They’re made from recycled plastic and feature quick-dry webbing, a rubber sole for traction, and a molded midsole that’ll provide arch support. Whoa. The hook-and-loop closure makes 'em easy to take on and off. Plus, you can get them as tight or as loose as you want. Your feet? They’re happy as can be. ($31.63+, Amazon)

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Amazon

A natural deodorant that’ll keep B.O. at bay…

This unscented, aluminum-free option has activated charcoal that’ll absorb moisture while keeping your underarms odor-free. The probiotics in it help keep the bad bacteria at bay. And you won’t have to reapply throughout the day. The natural deodorant should work for all skin types too. Swipe, swipe. PS: Read up on our full review. ($28.99/2 pack, Amazon)

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Instant drink chiller
Amazon

An instant drink chiller for when you forget to throw your wine in the fridge...

All you’ll have to do is pour your beverage of choice into the carafe, and 60 seconds later it’ll be chilled to perfection. It works for wine and coffee (our two essential food groups for summer), and more. It’s dishwasher safe so it makes for easy cleanup. Cheers. ($23.99+, Amazon)

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Pool floats
Funboy

A float for your weeknight pool party...

This inflatable swim tube works for the whole family, kids included. Pick from tie dye, stripes, and tons of other fun prints. (And they’re made of high-quality material that shouldn’t smell weird.) ($39, Funboy)

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Kiddie pool
Amazon

A kiddie pool for your little ones...

This inflatable one is perfect for when your kids want a quick dip in the backyard. You can use a pump or your mouth to inflate it. It doubles as the perfect vessel for a ball pit or sandbox if swimming isn’t their thing. It also comes in ice cream– and hamburger-themed designs. Fun in the sun, but make it BBQ-festive. ($19.98+, Amazon)

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