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    30 Things For Anyone Excited To Cook, Eat, And Drink Outdoors

    A delicious meal and a warm breeze — the ultimate pairing.

    1. A motion-activated adhesive cooler light that'll make it a lot easier to find that specific watermelon seltzer you want after dark.

    reviewer photo of light attached to open cooler lid
    close-up of round cooler light

    Promising review: "This little device was surprisingly WONDERFUL! My hubby hesitated to put it on his 'precious' Yeti cooler, but after putting it in, we both were astounded! We never thought about how much easier it would be on our tent camping trips to be able to easily see into the cooler after dark! This was a game changer for us! It works exactly as described. It comes on when opened and goes off when closed — just like your fridge!" —Suzyzzle

    Get it from Amazon for $11.91.

    2. And a chic insulated slim can cooler to keep those bevvies a whopping 20 times cooler than the neoprene cozies of yore so your first sip is just as delicious and refreshing as your last. 

    a reviewer holding up an iridescent purple can cooler in front of a fire
    Reviewer holding up a blue insulated can cooler at the beach

    This fits a standard 12-ounce slim can — think White Claw, Truly, Red Bull — and was designed to still be able to fit in car cup holders. Be sure to check out the rest of BruMate's options for different-sized cans, wines, cocktails, and more.

    Promising review: "Like to keep your beer cold? Get this. Slow drinker but don't want to let your friends on to how slow you're drinking? Get this. Want your White Claw/Truly to stay as cold as it was when you took it out of your fridge? Get this. I kid you not this thing keeps drinks cold like that's its job (because it is). Once I got mine and saw how effective it was, I decided all of my cold beverage–loving friends and family will be getting one also. With most of my friends being Michelob Ultra and White Claw drinkers, this seems to be the perfect fit. So hard to find a can cozy that holds those slim cans! Love this product and definitely recommend!" —Brooke Price

    Get it from Amazon for $15.48+ (available in 30 styles).

    3. An extra strong grill brush with a built-in scraper so you don't have to suffer through a laborious cleanup every time you get a hankering for some grilled grub. The rounded, triple brush design works faster than traditional brushes, effortlessly cleaning out every nook and cranny with just a couple quick wipes. 

    Promising review: "I thought grill brushes were all the same. My old brush wore down to the point of being useless, so I gave this one a try. This brush was a night and day difference with my old brush — it was ergonomic and got everything off in a few passes. Definitely recommend."  —teeth63a

    Get it from Amazon for $19.97

    4. A pair of magnetic grill lights if your grilling adventures often go late into the night. You're not about to let a silly thing like the sun get in the way of the best kabobs on the block. 

    Promising review: "I used these for the first time the other night and they were exactly what I wanted. I often tend to grill after dark and I can’t see what’s on the grill, but not anymore. These light up the entire grill surface area perfectly. Would definitely buy again." —Flossie DeGrave

    Get a pair from Amazon for $22.29

    5. A set of extendable skewers because neither storage space nor knuckle burns should get between you and the gourmet s'mores you've been dreaming up in the off-season.

    metal skewers with wood handles that each have a different color ring around them
    reviewers roasting marshmallows on the skewers over a fire

    Promising review: "OMG these are perfect. I wish I knew about them sooner! Ordered for son's 16th birthday because we were having a fire with s'mores. Perfect for keeping a good distance from the fire while safely roasting your marshmallow. Best way to clean is turn upside down in a cup or mason jar and let soak a bit to get that sticky mallow off, then cleaning is a breeze. Love that they are color coded too." —Kent Fernandez

    Get an eight-pack from Amazon for $11.98.

    6. And a hinged cast iron cooker for whipping up gooey pies and toasted sammies while sitting around the fire. Put a slice of bread on either side, pick your fillings, cook it in the coals, and enjoy! Personally, I recommend pizza fillings for dinner, and a mix of peanut butter, Nutella, and marshmallow for dessert. 

    These "Mountain Pie" makers (as my family calls them) are one of those things that were ubiquitous for me growing up, and then I moved away and realized most people had no idea what I was talking about. These should be a fire pit staple as much as s'mores, if you ask me. 

    Promising review: "I have never used one of these pie irons before, but it was easy, fun, and worked perfectly. I did preseason the cast iron twice before using and had no sticking problem at all. The rods/handles unscrew from the cast iron allowing seasoning in one's oven or gas grill at home before heading out to wilderness. I believe many of the other brands do not have this feature. The two halves come apart for easy cleaning. And the price is right!" —Lorraine 

    Get it from Amazon for $10.97

    7. A set of eight solar-powered jar lanterns filled with string lights that'll soak up sun during the day to power a dreamy nighttime glow that'll keep you and your dinner party from being plunged into darkness mid-meal. 

    a close-up of the jar lanterns
    a reviewer photo of the lanterns hanging from hooks on stakes in a backyard

    Promising review: "Very fun for garden decor. Have held up nicely through summer rain storms and continue to shine bright. Worked really well for a garden party." —Melissa 

    Get an eight-pack from Amazon for $38.99.

    8. A set of reusable soda can covers to keep flies, bees, and other sugar-hunting fiends from flying into your drink when you're sitting outside. Plus, these covers create an airtight seal so you can save half-used cans for later without worrying about your fizzy drink going flat. 

    the white plastic lid on a soda can
    the cover closed over the opening of a can tilted on its side to show that the cover is leakproof

    Promising review: "I was pleasantly surprised with this purchase! I originally purchased because I am afraid of bees getting into my soda can while I’m outside. I didn’t know that it would also keep my soda airtight and leak proof — such an awesome bonus! I love that it came in a six-pack. I keep one in my purse for on the go!" —Carley Lesinski

    Get a six-pack from Amazon for $12.55.

    9. Plus, a set of pop-up mesh food covers so you can defend the rest of your tasty treats from an insect infestation. The collapsible design makes them easy to transport and store, while being plenty big enough to cover a full dish (or two).  

    A lot of reviewers also use these in the gardens to keep pests out. 

    Promising review: "I like that they are collapsible so they are easily stored. They are easy to clean, just run under some water. They are functional yet elegant so doesn't give that harsh look of hard plastics. Larger than I thought so it can cover more than one dish. Pleased as punch with this purchase." —Amazon Customer 

    Get an eight-pack from Amazon for $14.99 (available in white and multicolor). 

    10. A water-resistant outdoor blanket with a carry handle if you've had too many picnics dampened by prickly grass and wet butts. The triple-layered design is comfy, spacious, easy to clean, and even has a built-in zip pocket for stashing small essentials. 

    a reviewer sitting on the blanket on the beach
    a reviewer holding the blanket folded up

    Promising review: "I’ve been looking for a thick beach blanket that can be used for beach or picnics and this is perfect! Love the zipper pocket so I can just bring the blanket and have a place for my phone and keys. Haven’t tested it out on wet grass yet but the material is thick and has an underside that looks like it might work well for water resistance! Also, since it’s so thick it’s much easier to fold than my previous beach blanket!" —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in three sizes and two colors). 

    11. An insulated picnic backpack for making sure you're always prepared for a park picnic, hike happy hour, or any type of outdoor dining. It comes with everything you might need for a picnic, including the blanket, an insulated main compartment for food, and a detachable bottle bag.

    a reviewer photo of someone walking on a trail wearing the backpack
    The open backpack showing the included wine glasses, plates, cutlery, and cutting board with a wine holder and picnic blanket strapped to each side

    This set includes everything necessary for a two or four person picnic (you decide at checkout): stainless steel flatware, napkins, plates, plastic wine glasses, a cutting board, corkscrew, cheese knife, refillable salt and pepper shakers, with an insulated (and detachable) wine/bottle cooler bag, and a rolled fleece picnic blanket.

    Promising review: "This thing is awesome. If you like having a picnic on a bike ride, hiking, around town, etc. this is a great little bag to have. Love the sturdy non-plastic cutlery and the ability to have dry storage, wet storage, and wine cooler. Blanket is a little small but not bad for two people. Highly recommend." —Mike A

    Get it from Amazon for $69.99+ (available in two sizes and in six colors).

    12. And a folding wooden picnic table because it'll really bring your park picnic or balcony hang to a luxurious new level. Four recesses along the outer edge safely house wine glasses, while four interior compartments neatly divide all the meats and cheeses that may or may not go well with this bottle of vino. Who really knows???

    a model holding the tray loaded up with food and wine glasses inserted on either side
    Wooden Stories / Etsy

    Wooden Stories is a Ukraine-based Etsy shop run by two friends who like working with wood, selling a gorgeous array of serving trays, cork holders, trivets, and more. 

    Promising review: "I bought this for my dad and he absolutely loved it. It's such a great personalized gift for wine lovers. My parents use it every day for snacking at the balcony. The store has amazing customer service too. I had a slight hiccup with the package and they assisted me throughout. Thanks again!" —Catherine Ma

    Get it from Wooden Stories on Etsy for $74.50+ (available with or without a bag, and with or without custom engraving). 

    13. A personal Lifestraw water filter that removes 99.999999% of waterborne bacteria if your desire to stay outside often outlives your clean water supply. 

    The straw's microfiltration membrane eliminates bacteria and parasites so you can drink from available water sources without worry. If you are immunocompromised, take care when using this product.

    Promising review: "I keep one of these in my pack when hiking or going anywhere remote, as well as in my fishing tackle box on the lake. I’ve had to use it several times on the lake where otherwise I would have been severely dehydrated. Filters great. Personally, I only drink from PUR water filters as I’m a bodybuilder and regulate my diet to this point. This filter does just as well and it’s direct. It is quite difficult to bring the water to the straw but I don’t mind knowing that my water is pure. A child most likely couldn’t use it...but it could save your life." —Zack Chavez

    Get it from Amazon for $17.47+ (available in blue and green).

    14. A stainless-steel closed grilling basket with three optional dividers to end any worrying about precious tasty morsels falling between the grates in the flipping process. 

    The handle is detachable so it's easier to pack for camping adventures and such. 

    Promising review: "Scallops, veggies, chicken tenders...no matter what, this basket is awesome for charcoal grilling. Saves the hassle of managing small items on the grill, and perfect for easy clean-up!!" —Cynthia S.

    Get it from Amazon for $22.99.

    15. And an open top grill basket so you can easily cook, stir, and season the kinds of finely chopped veggies and meat that would normally be relegated to makeshift foil packets. 

    Promising review: "Exactly what I wanted and it is very sturdy. Perfect for grilling veggies or other loose things on the grill without losing them in between the grates." —Aaron Sholl

    Get it from Amazon for $24.49+ (available in two sizes). 

    16. A stainless steel portable wood stove if you're tired of stoking a roaring campfire first thing in the morning just to boil some water for coffee. This genius contraption folds flat for easy transport and utilizes convection so you can get breakfast started with twigs instead of logs. 

    the stove with wood insert at the bottom and a pan resting on top over an open flame
    Camp Tidy USA / Etsy

    Camp Tidy USA is a Niagara Falls, New York-based Etsy shop creating wood-burning camp accessories to make cooking outside easier. 

    The diagonal grate offers a steady surface to place cups for easy reheating! 

    Promising review: "Very high quality, thick-walled steel. Super easy to put together and use. Totally exceeded my expectations. Already used it to boil some stew, and it was very efficient and saved me a lot of firewood." —Yevgeniy 

    Get it from Camp Tidy USA on Etsy for $46.99+ (with or without diagonal grate)

    17. A pack of silicone ice pop molds with reusable sticks for making *dino-mite* frozen treats all by yourself out of juice, smoothies, or yogurt in just a few simple steps. 

    reviewer's photo of a dinosaur popsicle they made
    a reviewer photo of the four-mold stand

    Promising review: "These are unbelievable. We have the dinosaur ones and they are absolutely adorable. The mold peels off beautifully, and the size is just right for my preschoolers. I'm making healthy smoothies (frozen spinach! Chia seeds! Ground flax!) and making ice pops with them, and my kids think they're eating a fun dessert. Brilliant. I'll be giving these as gifts for a good while." —IonaSky

    Get a pack of four from Amazon for $14.62+ (available in four styles).

    18. A portable steel caddy with a built-in paper towel holder because the dozen trips it takes to bring everyone's favorite condiments outside is an unnecessary time suck you shouldn't have to deal with anymore. Keep it loaded up all summer long so you're always ready to stop, drop, and grill! 

    Some reviewers also use this to organize cleaning supplies! 

    Promising review: "We've been carrying out things from the kitchen to the grill for 40 years — at least 10 trips per grilling. This puts it all together and all I have to do is carry this out and the steaks! Yeah!" —Bob Collins

    Get it from Amazon for $34.99

    19. A break-resistant dinnerware set that'll look a heck of a lot cuter on your picnic table than those paper plates from the dollar store. Plus, they're endlessly reusable, won't blow away, and (gloriously) are top-rack dishwasher safe for a quick cleanup. 

    a yellow plate, dessert plate, and a bowl
    a reviewer photo of the dinnerware in green set up in an RV

    Just don't stick them in the microwave! 

    Promising review: "Bought this for when we eat outside instead of paper plates. I love that they do well in the dishwasher, too! Exactly what I was looking for. if I do decide I want more, will definitely be buying these. No need to search for an other!" —Heather L. Proctor

    Get a 12-piece set (service for four) from Amazon for $37.99 (available in 15 styles). 

    20. A compact pop-up trash can to keep any garbage consolidated and help you and your fellow adventurers leave the park or campsite better than you found it.

    the green pop up trash can sitting in front of a picnic bench
    a gif of a model putting the folded up trash can in the trunk of a car, popping it out, and using a stake to secure it to the ground
    Amazon

    Promising review: "We camp a LOT. I had previously purchased a garbage bag stand thing with a lid that had to be assembled and unassembled every time we went and it was pain, as was getting the full bag out of it. This one is the perfect size for a standard (13-gallon) kitchen trash bag and stores easily and conveniently." —Jolie Turk

    Get it from Amazon for $22.44.

    21. A multipurpose patio cooler cosplaying as a side table or ottoman so you can keep the cold ones coming without constant trips to the kitchen.

    a woven ottoman with the lid askew and two bottles poking out
    a model placing a lid on the woven cube ottoman with ice and bottles inside
    Amazon

    This incognito cooler can hold up to (40) 12-ounce cans with ice.

    Promising review: "Love love the table cooler. It’s just the right size and great for cans and bottles. It's not too small, not too big. Great size also for a side table next to my wicker bench. It’s easy to move around and clean. Great price for this product." —Efrain Sostre

    Get it from Amazon for $73.56+ (available in two colors).

    22. A stainless-steel cocktail shaker kit if the only thing that could make your camping trip any better was a cocktail with more ingredients than just rum and coke. This compact set neatly nests together, yet still has everything you need to show off your mixology skills from anywhere! 

    The set includes a 30oz cocktail shaker, two stainless steel cups, a citrus reamer, and jigger cap all rolled into one. 

    Promising review: "I love the outdoors and spend a huge amount of time camping or working outside and this is by far one of our favorite products. Gone are the days of kicking back drinking beer or slapping together simple 'two item' drinks. We've been able to make camp mojitos, espresso martinis, and other fun cocktails while we rough it. Hey, just because you're pooping in the woods and not bathing doesn't mean you can't enjoy a nice cocktail...Also good for tailgates and the occasional picnic when you want to flex your mixing prowess to a crowd of outdoor yoga enthusiasts and labradoodle walkers." —dumbblonde

    Get it from Amazon for $40

    23. Or a pack of cocktail infusion sachets for a one-step way to take your favorite liquor from "meh" to "oh meh gosh this is good!" Like a tea bag, just plop this in a glass with ice and a two-ounce pour, then sit back and enjoy Old Fashioned flavors without all the fuss. 

    a filled rocks glass with a pack of the infusions sachets sitting next to it
    Hail M Cocktails / Etsy

    Hail M Cocktails is an LA-based Etsy shop selling small-batch bitters, cocktail garnishes, syrups, and bitters. Basically, anything you need to up your bar cart game. 

    Promising review: "Even with cheap whiskey, it makes the drink smooth and enjoyable. My first mix was with jack Daniel’s after letting it sit for a hot minute then adding ice and it was fantastic." —Karly Dey

    Get a five-pack from Hail M Cocktails on Etsy for $24.99 (available in eight flavors).

    24. A portable travel cutlery set because now you can enjoy a packed lunch or takeout meal from anywhere without messing with disposable straws, spoons, and forks that'll just end up in the landfill. Keep this sleek set in your bag so you're always prepped with the right (reusable) tools for the job. 

    a reviewer photo of the light gray traveling case
    a reviewer photo of the open case filled with the cutlery set

    Promising review: "Much better quality than anticipated! Utensils are sturdy and beautifully polished. I’ve been using these at work for the past few weeks and I love them! No aluminum/metallic taste at all like you would get with cheaper sets...I would buy again!" —Anonymous

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in nine styles).

    25. A practical 2-in-1 fireplace that's easy to assemble and can serve as a s'mores-cooking campfire or beverage cooler depending on whatever your backyard shindig has in store.

    The fire pit comes with a mesh screen lid, poke, rain cover, and assembly instructions. You can also use it to cook, if you get a compatible grill grate

    Promising review: "Excellent product for the price! A lot of screws to be placed but that’s it, assembly was easy and I did it alone in under 45 minutes. Had no problems with the threaded holes for the screws like some seem to have had. Great that it comes with spark screen, grill, long fork, and a rain cover (used it last night for several hours and it was perfect). Got the copper colored one, looks really nice, people are shocked by the price when they see it. Very pleased with purchase." —S. Bastura

    Get it from Amazon for $79.99+ (available in two sizes and three finishes). 

    26. A handy electric fire starter to quickly get your grill going or fire pit roaring without getting any matches or lighter fluid involved. Just plug it in, and let this chemical-free alternative take care of the rest. 

    a model starting a fire in a pit with the fire starter
    Amazon

    Promising review: "Purchased these for use with my barbecue grill after reading about this on another website. Had previously been using fire starters that had worked OK, but were unreliable and a bit of a hassle. Besides the slight inconvenience of having to plug it in nearby, it works so much faster than any other solution. Highly recommend!" —cooltech786

    Get it from Amazon for $49

    27. A high-voltage bug zapper so you don't get eaten alive by bugs while trying to enjoy your food and the weather. This little lantern offers top-notch protection from mosquitoes, gnats, flies, and moths in an area up to 1,500 square feet.

    reviewer holding the bug zapper from its handle
    reviewer photo of the bug zapper tray full of dead bugs

    Promising review: "You will not be disappointed. I just moved out to the country and have been working out in the garage late at night. With the weather getting warmer, I've had the garage doors opened and mosquitos, gnats, and everything else have been finding there way into my garage, so I had to do something about it. I bought this and hung it next to my garage door opener because there's an outlet there and it is way better than expected. I have dead bees, stink bugs, gnats, mosquitoes, and other bugs that I do not know what they are. My 8-year-old son keeps asking me to remove the bottom tray so he can see all of the dead bugs that got zapped. Again, you will not be disappointed, I'm extremely happy I bought this!" —Chris & Jenny

    Get it from Amazon for $27.74.

    28. A set of stake drink holders if you're tired of enlisting a third party to hold your drink while showing everyone who the real corn hole champ is around here. 

    Multi-colored yard drink holders each carrying a bottle of wine, a solo cup, and a Diet Coke bottle next to a woven blanket on the ground
    Amazon

    Promising review: "One of the best items I have ever bought for the beach and backyard! Whether playing corn hole or lounging in a chair, your drink is always clean and cold. No more sandy or dirty cans or bottles. It even holds your drink with a cozy on it!" —Iceman142

    Get a set of four from Amazon for $32.95 (also available in a pack of six).

    29. A dishwasher-safe beer can chicken stand for providing unexpected laughs and exceptionally good chicken. It'll be the star of your next backyard barbecue for more reason than one! 

    a chicken mounted on the motorcycle-shaped stand
    Toms Ridickulous Thing / Etsy

    Toms Ridickulous Thing is a Toronto-based Etsy shop started by a trained machinist who creates genius and hilarious beer can chicken stands for grill lovers. 

    Promising review: "Hubby loved this...the quality and packaging were awesome. I ordered another item immediately from this seller to add to the barbecue collection. Thanks!" —Samantha Bloch 

    Get it from Toms Ridickulous Thing on Etsy for $29.38+ (available in three styles and with additional add-ons). 

    30. A transforming 2-in-1 bench and table because your small patio doesn't have room for standard seating *and* a picnic table, but that doesn't mean you don't want both options! Raise a glass for those rare moments when you really can have it all. 

    a reviewer photo of a wooden bench
    a reviewer photo of the same piece of furniture folded out into a picnic table

    Promising review: "We have a small porch and yard and I needed something that wasn't bulky. Y'all I cannot stress how amazing this purchase has been for me. WE LOVE IT! It really is the cutest bench. The size is PERFECT and then we pull it out into the yard for a cute picnic table. I'm so obsessed and so is my daughter, she just thinks its the coolest ! Perfect for our small home and family and certainly worth the price." —Liza 

    Get it from Amazon for $159.99

    When someone suggests eating inside when there's a perfectly good patio right there: