22 Essentials to Help You Make the Most of Summer

White sneakers are the LBDs of summer, and these classic sneakers from Dr. Scholl’s are one of our top choices. The platform sole keeps your feet supported, but doesn’t look or feel too clunky. Plus, the water-resistant lining keeps your shoes looking fresher and newer for longer. PS: Read our full review of these TikTok-famous sneakers here. ($69.96, DSW) 

The proof is in the 120,000+ customer reviews. It’s lightweight and battery-operated so you can take it anywhere, and customers say it has an unbeatable sound thanks to its bass-boosting technology. The bright colorways don’t hurt either. Throw this in your tote for your next park hang or BBQ event. ($44.99, Amazon) 

These crayons are handmade with 100% pure New Zealand beeswax and soy wax that are bright and easy to wipe clean once bath time is over. They're nontoxic, just in case they end up in someone's mouth (on accident, of course). Plus, they come in a few sizes to accommodate different ages and stages. ($23.95, Honeysticks) 

We added this onesie to our list of must-have clothes if you’re a chronic sweater, and we’re including it here too. This onesie is slouchy, flowy, and the best thing to wear after a long day at the beach. It comes in 10 colors and features two deep front pockets, so you can go for a purse-free walk. We rec wearing it over your favorite sports bra, tank, or even a bathing suit or bikini top for a summery lounge look. ($70, Free People) 

This trendy mesh tote is large but super lightweight, which makes it easy to hold things like towels and clunky sunscreen bottles. It also has an interior pocket for storing valuables. But we especially love the variety of bright colors it comes in — and the fact that it’s under $15. ($12.90, Amazon)

Weddings, picnics, long walks…to the couch. Whatever you have coming up this weekend, this sleeveless dress has got you covered. Add a pair of chunky earrings and your favorite flip-flops (or sandals…or sneakers) and you’ll be ready to go. And no, we won’t tell anyone if you end up buying more than one color. ($36.99, Amazon)

Your search for your next go-to sunglasses ends with these retro-style sunnies. They’re slightly oversized for a more dramatic vibe, but sit comfortably on your nose and ears. The anti-glare lenses offer UV400 protection, so you know your eyes will be as safe as they are chic. ($15.99, Amazon) 

This cooler isn’t just cute, it’s also extremely functional. It has a pocket for bottles, valuables, cutlery, tissues, and snacks, plus two insulated compartments to keep warm meals warm and cool foods — you get it. It’s roomy yet stays relatively compact for easy portability, and has padded back and straps that keep it comfortable on your shoulders even after a long day in the sun. ($28.89, Amazon) 

Our favorite thing about this one-piece bathing suit (besides its overall comfort) is the fact that you could wear it as a top under shorts or loose pants to take it from day to night (yes, we still believe in those). Its stretchy mesh-spandex material offers a bit of compression, without feeling suffocating. We also give it extra points for the under-$40 price tag. ($33.99, Cupshe) 

Don’t underestimate the power of feel-good quotes on a half-gallon water bottle to help you start your day. These colorful ones from Amazon keep track of your hourly water intake from 9 am to 9 pm — with a short, sweet message at every hour to remind you of your goals and progress. The leak-proof lid has a removable straw and a handle, which makes carrying it a (summer’s) breeze. ($13.99, Amazon) 

This stick from Megababe works like a deodorant, but for your legs. Just glide it on, let it melt into your skin, and 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. ($14, Ulta)

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. ($69.95, Amazon)

This handheld fan can run for hours and fit in your pocket or bag. It has a flashlight, 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)

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. They’re super gentle and have great elasticity. ($13.99+ Amazon)

This dual face and body sunscreen 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, including sensitive skin. Plus, dermatologist-recommended. Don’t miss it. ($25.99+, Amazon)

This lightweight cotton hat is the perfect addition to your SPF routine. It has UPF 50 sun protection and an inner drawstring for a custom fit. Wear it on your morning dog walk, during your beach trip, or just while running errands to keep your face protected. ($38, Anthropologie)

Bug bites, begone. 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. And if that doesn’t help, check out our fast-relief products for bites, rashes, and burns. ($9.95+, Amazon)

Have you heard the good news? Tevas are cool now. This classic version is made from recycled plastic and feature quick-dry webbing, a rubber sole for traction, and a molded midsole that’ll provide arch support. The hook-and-loop closure makes them easy to take on and off. Plus, you can get them as tight or as loose as you want. ($54.95, Amazon)

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 it actually lasts throughout the day. The irritant-free formula should work for all skin types, too. PS: Read up on our full review. ($16+, Amazon)

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 for easy cleanup. Cheers. ($17.49+, Amazon)

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 won’t smell weird.) ($29, Funboy)

This inflatable pool 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 festive. ($22.99, Amazon)