Soak Up Summer With a Waterproof Phone Pouch, $10 Sandals, and More!

Summer’s here, and it’s calling us to the beach, the pool, and those spontaneous backyard sprinkler runs with the kids. But let’s be real—nothing puts a damper on the fun like a waterlogged phone or uncomfortable shoes. That’s why I’ve rounded up some must-have summer essentials that are practical, affordable, and let you dive into the season without a worry. From a waterproof phone pouch to $10 sandals that actually look good, here’s how to make the most of your sunny days.

Protect Your Phone with a Waterproof Pouch

View on Amazon

Picture this: you’re at the beach, snapping pics of your epic sandcastle or that perfect sunset, when a rogue wave crashes in. Your phone? Done for—unless you’ve got a waterproof phone pouch. I recently discovered the Case-Mate Waterproof Phone Pouch, and it’s a game-changer. It’s made of TPU material, floats on water, and has a clear window so you can still text, scroll, or take photos without risking your device. I learned this the hard way after my phone took a dip in the pool last summer—yep, not fun. This pouch is IP68-rated, meaning it can handle submersion up to one meter for 60 minutes, perfect for pool days, kayaking, or even a rainy hike. Plus, it comes with a lanyard to keep it secure around your neck. At around $25, it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.

Step Into Summer with $10 Sandals

View on Amazon

Sandals are the unofficial uniform of summer, but finding a pair that’s stylish, comfy, and won’t break the bank? That’s the dream. Enter these $10 slip-on sandals made of 100% EVA—lightweight, water-friendly, and perfect for everything from beach trips to running errands. Available in six colors and sizes 7-13, they’re versatile enough to pair with shorts, dresses, or even your gardening gear. I snagged a pair for a recent barbecue, and let me tell you, they’re as comfy as they are affordable. Thousands of five-star reviews agree, with one fan calling them “really inexpensive” and a “nice summer sandal.” Just a heads-up: they might need a quick rinse if they get sandy, but they dry fast and clean up like a breeze.

Cool Off with a Light-Up Sprinkler

View on Amazon

If you’ve got kids (or just love a good backyard party), a light-up sprinkler is your new best friend. I came across the Sun Squad Light-Up Sprinkler, currently up to 50% off at Target, and it’s a total hit. It shoots water through wriggling, spinning tubes and lights up for nighttime fun—perfect for birthdays, cookouts, or those “it’s too hot to do anything” afternoons. At just $7.50, it’s a budget-friendly way to keep everyone cool and entertained. I set one up for my nephew’s birthday, and the kids went wild chasing the water jets while the adults sipped lemonade in the shade. Easy to set up and safe for the lawn, it’s a summer must-have.

Stay Tuned In with Open-Ear Headphones

View on Amazon

Whether you’re jogging on the boardwalk or chilling by the pool, music or podcasts can make the moment. But traditional earbuds can block out your surroundings—not ideal when you’re dodging waves or keeping an eye on the kids. That’s where JLab open-ear headphones come in. They sit just outside your ears, so you can jam to your playlist while staying aware of what’s around you. They’re lightweight, sweat-resistant, and perfect for outdoor adventures. I wore mine on a recent hike, and I could hear both my favorite true-crime podcast and the birds chirping—the best of both worlds. They’re under $50, making them an affordable addition to your summer gear.

Sip Smart with a Filtered Water Bottle

View on Amazon

Hydration is non-negotiable when you’re soaking up the sun, but who wants to lug around a heavy cooler? I’m obsessed with this filtered water bottle that keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours. It has a built-in filter, so you can fill up from any tap and still get crisp, clean water. I took it on a beach trip last weekend, and it was a lifesaver—no more warm, plasticky-tasting water. It’s compact, fits in my tote, and at under $30, it’s a steal for something you’ll use all summer (and beyond).

Lounge in Style with a Popsicle Float

View on Amazon

Pool parties just got a major upgrade with the Sun Squad Popsicle Float. It’s 30% off right now, and at 9.1″ x 33.9″ x 71.3″, it’s big enough to lounge on comfortably. Made of durable PVC, it’s perfect for floating around with a drink in hand, and the popsicle design screams summer vibes. I got one for a Fourth of July party, and it was the star of the pool—everyone wanted a turn. There’s also a lobster and crab version if you’re feeling extra beachy. Trust me, this float will make your Instagram pop.

Keep Your Space Fresh with a Tabletop Air Purifier

View on Amazon

Not every summer day is spent outdoors, and for those indoor moments, a tabletop air purifier can keep your space feeling fresh. I found one that’s compact, quiet, and powerful enough to tackle pollen, dust, or that lingering sunscreen smell. It’s perfect for small spaces like a bedroom or home office, and at under $50, it won’t break the bank. I’ve been running mine during movie nights, and it’s made a noticeable difference in keeping the air clean and odor-free.

Why These Picks Make Summer Unforgettable

These essentials aren’t just about practicality—they’re about making every moment count. Whether you’re capturing memories with your phone (safely tucked in its waterproof pouch), strutting around in comfy sandals, or floating on a giant popsicle, these items let you embrace summer without the stress. They’re all budget-friendly, with nothing over $50, so you can stock up without emptying your wallet. Plus, they’re versatile enough to carry you from beach days to backyard barbecues and everything in between.

So, grab these goodies, crank up your summer playlist, and dive into the season. What’s your favorite way to soak up the sun? Let me know—I’m always on the hunt for more summer must-haves!