Summer is almost over, and I’m not ready to think about going back to school or cooler weather yet. So, here’s a list of the things that have helped me and my family get through the summer and get ready for the hot days in style and with a purpose.
Big River Dry Bags and RUX Collapsible Tote
When you’re out on the water in a kayak and it’s raining or the waves are rough, it’s nice to have a dry bag with a change of clothes and electronics in case you get wet. The Sea to the Top Big River Dry Bags are tough and waterproof, but they are also easy to carry or strap to your boat or back. I also use them to pack my car, where I pair them with the RUX Collapsible Tote, which is just as useful and tough. This thing is just as useful as a cardboard box, but it’s 10 times stronger and will last 10 times longer. It also folds up so you can keep it in your car for trips to the beach or grocery store.
Yeti Chair at the Trailhead
Most beach chairs are too low or too flimsy for me, and carrying them is a good way to practice balance and tensile strength. Because of this, the Yeti Trailhead Chair changes the game. It folds up into its own carrying case and sets up as quickly as any other chair, but it’s sturdy and comfortable on the beach, at a campsite, or by the fire pit. If you don’t mind standing up sometimes to share drinks, any of Yeti’s amazing Tundra hard coolers can also be used as seats when you’re in a pinch.
Bogg Bags
In the same way, I love and hate beach bags. I like to keep my stuff in order, but I also want it to be easy to clean if sand gets in. It needs to be big enough to hold the towels, water bottles, extra clothes, and phones and Kindles, but not too heavy. I started to see Bogg Bags around, and now I swear by them. The rubber is tough and stiff, but it is also easy to carry and light. They don’t let sand or water in and can be brushed off easily. They also have a waterproof pocket inside for your phone and other important items. Get one for your things and one for the beach. Kids love the bag as much as what’s in it.
Gallon Water Bottle
Put a gallon-sized water bottle in your carry-on so you can stay hydrated on the go. Bring it to the beach, on a hike, or to your favorite theme parks. The gallon water bottle is the best way to keep yourself hydrated. These big containers can hold 128 ounces of liquid and are great for warm beach days, backcountry hikes, and sweaty gym sessions. They have also become popular recently as a way to get people to drink more water every day. If your typical 40-ounce water bottle isn’t enough, a gallon bottle will make sure you never get thirsty again.
River Tube RTIC
There are lots of cheap but fun pool inflatables, like pizza slices, unicorns, and even a pug face. But classics are classics for a reason, and RTIC’s Tough River Tube is a big improvement on the simple innertube. It is made of PVC plastic and has a woven cover to keep it safe in the woods or in the backyard. It also has a backrest and a cup holder to make it more comfortable. It also has rope anchors so you can connect to other floaters and make a lazy river wherever you are.
Tupelo Zephyr Flyer Swing for Trees
My kids begged me for a tire swing this summer (they must have seen one on an episode of Bluey), but I remembered a wasp nest forming in the one at our playground when I was a kid and knew there had to be a better option. Tupelo Goods makes sturdy and aesthetically pleasing versions of classics like wagons, outdoor furniture, and cornhole. They also make the Zephyr Flyer, which is an amazing tree swing. It’s easy to set up, has been tested for safety, and looks both modern and old-fashioned, making your front yard look like a dream.
PK 300AF Grill & Smoker
I used to preach the gospel of the kettle grill, but now I’m here to tell you that the PK 300AF is my new favorite outdoor cooking tool. The PK300AF builds on the 70-year history of the PK grill and the well-known legacy of pitmaster Aaron Franklin. It is both a grill and a smoker and has excellent heat retention and tightly controlled air flow for both direct and indirect cooking. It gives your setup a retro look and lets you smoke brisket slowly or sear steaks quickly on high heat with less charcoal than any other grill.
Breeo Smokeless Fire Pit X Series
Fire pits are all the rage right now, and the Breeo X Series is not only one of the most high-end, but it also started the trend of smokeless fires, so you get the most comfortable and easy-to-maintain blaze all night. It’s the best-looking pit on the block, whether you buy it on its own or build it into your outdoor stone set-up. And with a lot of cooking attachments, like a kettle and hook for stews, a searplate griddle for chops, and a fully adjustable grill, you can cook for everyone enjoying your open, smokeless flame from summer to fall. Don’t forget to get a Pit Command multi-tool stoker as well, so you can move those logs around safely for the perfect slow burn.
Ten Thousand Lightweight Shirt
I promised myself that I would spend a lot of time outside this summer to make up for all the tequila and grilled meat. That means I sweat a lot, so my go-to shirt for hikes, runs, and yoga has been the Ten Thousand Lightweight shirt. With their waterproof Set shorts, I can jump in the ocean or pool after a workout and be dry enough to drive home in just a few minutes.
Portable Fan
The portable fan not only keeps people cool in the scorching heat, but it also keeps them from getting sick. As the temperature goes up, people are more likely to get sick or die from dehydration and heat stroke. On the other hand, the portable fan cools by using the sweat beads that form on the skin. When a breeze blows over sweat beads, it cools them, which helps cool the body. In the summer, portable misting fans are often used to keep people cool in businesses and commercial buildings. Portable misting fans are used to keep people cool at theme parks, hotels, stadiums, and golf courses when there are events or activities outside.
Shibumi Shade
I have tried almost every kind of beach shade there is, and it seemed like a Sisyphean task. All of that changed with the Shibumi Shade. With a single, extendable aluminum pole and a sheet of light, UPF30-rated ripstop polyester, you can set up a wind-powered sun shelter for yourself, your gear, and up to five other people, or for a group of kids sleeping after a long morning. This takes only four minutes. Also, it rolls up into a carrying case about the size and weight of a beach towel. All you need is a breeze of 2 mph, which is very common in the ocean, and you’re set for the day.
