Warm weather essentials: 42 ways to make the most of the sunshine
We know better than to take good weather for granted, especially with a weekend approaching. So with the forecast set to fair, it's time to get outside (before it inevitably starts raining again).
The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more.
Whether you're planning a picnic in the park, an impromptu camping trip or a gardening session, we've rounded up some of our bestsellers and the warm weather essentials you've loved to help you make the most of the sunshine.
Spear & Jackson Razor Advantage bypass secateurs
£18.95 at Tooled Up£7.99 at Amazon
There's still plenty of time to get your garden ready for summer, and investing in a great pair of secateurs will help you make light work of any tough stems. Our gardening expert Matt Collins chose this Spear & Jackson pair as his favourite budget pick in his roundup of the best secateurs, finding them simply designed and hard-working.
Niwaki hori hori knife
£29.66 at Sarah Raven£32 at Burford Garden Co
Amateur and professional gardeners alike can't get enough of the Niwaki hori hori gardening knife. Whether you're digging, cutting, weeding or planting, this versatile tool was one of your favourites from our summer gardening guide.
The Cradley deluxe green watering can
£55 at Haws£58 at Amazon
Now that watering the plants is a daily activity, why not treat yourself to a beautiful new watering can? This classic style from Haws is an avid gardener's dream, with a long spout to help you reach deep into flower beds.
Summer wildflower collection, five packs of seeds
£4.99 at Suttons£3.89 at Amazon
Grass lawns get a bad rap, but it is possible to make them greener, as Matt Collins shows in his guide to creating a more eco-friendly lawn. Why not make your garden a haven for nature with a bee-friendly mini meadow? Lay down turf for an instant transformation or sow summer wildflowers into the bald patches of an existing lawn.
Bird watching book
£14.99 at the Guardian Bookshop£8.98 at Amazon
Next time you're sitting in the park or garden, take some time to appreciate all the wildlife that crosses your path. Birdwatching can be a great mindfulness activity, and this illustrated book will help you identify all the species you spot.
For more ways to clear your mind, check out our guide to screen-free activities
Kärcher K 2 Classic pressure washer
£90 at Argos£89 at Amazon
If your outdoor space is still looking a bit messy after winter, take advantage of the sunny weather by giving your patio, driveway or garden furniture a good clean with a pressure washer. The Kärcher K 2 Classic was rated the best budget buy in our expert reviewer Andy Shaw's roundup of the best pressure washers.
Outdoor LED table lamp
£75 at Burford Garden Co£79 at Heal's
Add a bit of ambience to warm summer nights in the garden with this rechargeable outdoor light. It has a nifty handle for hanging and three different light modes: neutral white, warm white and candle-style flickering.
For more, check out our guide to the space-saving tricks that make small spaces feel bigger
Octagonal tassel parasol
£149.99 at Daals
If you'd rather relax in the shade than catch some rays, this lovely boho-style parasol comes in various patterns, printed either on the top or underneath. This one has the print on the bottom, meaning the pattern shouldn't fade in the sun – plus, you can enjoy it while sitting underneath it.
Shade sail
£15 at B&Q
This shade sail is a versatile way to provide respite from the sun, even in the smallest of spaces.
Royalcraft Venice bistro garden table and chairs
£148.99 at Robert Dyas£199 at Marks & Spencer
Level up your alfresco dining with a classic bistro set. This lovely table and chairs, available in olive green or cream, would suit even small spaces because they can be folded and stored easily. Merchant & Found is also a great place to find vintage bistro sets.
Elevate your outdoor space with our pick of the best garden furniture
Belkin BoostCharge 10k with integrated cable
£24.99 at BelkinFrom £24.99 at Amazon
A warm weekend is the perfect time to schedule a last-minute camping trip. Keep all your battery-powered devices topped up with our expert reviewer Pete Wise's favourite budget pick from his roundup of the best battery packs.
Strawberry and pineapple kombucha
£4.25 for 4 x 330ml cans at Ocado£29.99 for 24 x 330ml cans at Hip Pop
Intune CBD drink
£6.25 for 4 x 250ml cans at Ocado£18.75 for 12 x 250ml cans at Amazon
Picnics in the park need not lead to a pounding head by 5pm. We've got plenty of alcohol-free options in our roundup of the best tinned drinks, from award-winning kombuchas to refreshingly fruity CBD sparkling drinks.
Recycled stainless-steel water bottle
From £35 at Ocean Bottle£35 at Ryman
Keep your drinks cool on the go with this insulated water bottle made from recycled stainless steel. And each sale of an Ocean Bottle funds the collection of 1,000 plastic bottles that would otherwise have been destined to end up in the ocean.
Sport Shield liquid roll-on chafing protection
£17.99 at Decathlon£19.99 at Amazon
Create a barrier between you and any unwanted friction burns with marathon pro Kieran Alger's go-to anti-chafe cream, whether you're going for a gruelling run or just walking to a picnic.
For more, check out our guide to marathon essentials
Boules set
£30.99 at John Lewis£31 at Argos
Get the kids outside and have some fun with this classic lawn game, which has been having something of a resurgence.
Paddling pool
£29.99 at B&Q£35 at Argos
When it's sweltering outside, a paddling pool can keep the whole family cool and happy. This 9ft rectangular pool is sure to keep the kids entertained.
Wooden quoits garden game
£25.26 at Amazon
Whether you're having a summer party, barbecue or a quiet weekend at home, this wholesome garden game is great fun for all the family. It's also easy to pack up and take to the park to keep the kids entertained for hours.
Lékué ice cube tray
£17.50 at John Lewis£19.99 at Lakeland
Treat yourself to an ice-cold drink with this handy ice cube tray. The lid doubles up as the ice tray, and the sleek design makes it great for entertaining. It was also a bestseller from our guide to gifts we buy on repeat, so it would make a lovely present for a loved one or yourself.
Rechargeable fan
£12 at John Lewis
Whether you want to keep cool while at home or on the go, this fan has you covered. It's small enough to be portable, and its handle doubles as a stand to make it a desk fan.
Monster ice lolly mould
£12.99 at John Lewis£12.99 at Lakeland
This lolly mould is a wholesome pastime and a fun way to keep cool. Get the kids involved with creating some inventive flavours, and reap the rewards after a few hours in the freezer.
Sandstone Red Pembroke stripe linen blend duvet cover
From £139 at Piglet in BedFrom £139 at John LewisPillowcases
£45 a pair at Piglet in Bed£45 for a pair at John LewisFitted sheet
From £89 at Piglet in BedFrom £109 at John Lewis
Sign up to The Filter
Get the best shopping advice from the Filter team straight to your inbox. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link.
after newsletter promotion
We asked experts for their advice on what to look for when buying bedding, and linen was recommended as great for hot sleepers. 'Linen wicks moisture away from your skin more effectively,' says textile expert Sarah Denise Cordery. This set from Piglet in Bed is not only beautiful, but also made from a linen and cotton blend that is breathable and will help you stay cool in the summer months.
Avène thermal spring water spray
£5.75 at Boots£5.75 at Look Fantastic
On a blistering day, there's nothing more refreshing than the feeling of sea spray against your skin. But if you're not near the coast, this cooling face mist from Avène is a close second best. Suitable for sensitive skin, this spring water spray is a soothing antidote for itchy or uncomfortable skin.
Pet shade bed
£16.99 in store at Aldi (available from 18 May)
Hot weather is even more taxing for pets, and they may need a helping hand to keep cool. This pet bed from Aldi is elevated off the hot ground and has a shade to protect them from the sun. It also comes with a travel case to keep your pet cool on outdoor ventures.
Winnie sunglasses
£30 at The White Company£29.95 at Amazon
In need of some new sunnies? This A Kjærbede pair is a timeless style. Jess Cartner-Morley selected these for her May style essentials after lusting after a similar pair worn by Chloe in the White Lotus series 3.
Ikesia sandals
£215 at Ancient Greek Sandals£215 at Next
These sandals are 'just the right balance of chic and practicality,' says Jess Cartner-Morley. Ancient Greek Sandals are made from soft leather in various styles and colours, so you can pick a pair that suits you.
For more, check out Jess Cartner-Morley's May style essentials
Butter yellow sandals
£74.95 at Salt-Water
'Butter yellow, we are told, is the colour of spring 2025,' says fashion writer Ellie Violet Bramley. These classic Salt-Water sandals are an easy way to embrace the trend. Vinted is also an excellent source for nabbing some secondhand Salt-Waters at a bargain price.
For more women's fashion updates, check out our guide to spring style essentials
Red linen-blend top
£47 at Nobody's Child
Red linen-blend trousers
£65 at Nobody's Child
This co-ord is so wearable, and the linen will keep you cool on hotter days. If you're yet to try the co-ord trend, Ellie Violet Bramley advises going for a block colour as it's a 'less intimidating gateway' than a kitsch print.
Uniqlo Airism dress
£34.90 at Uniqlo
Uniqlo's Airism range is known for its breathable qualities, perfect to keep you feeling fresh in the heat. This cotton dress comes with a built-in bra to give you full coverage without having the worry of bra straps showing.
Rainbow linen jacket
£180 at Boden£180 at John Lewis
'This jacket is an instant spring wardrobe shaker-upper,' says Ellie Violet Bramley. Add an instant injection of colour to your look with this fun and bright linen jacket.
Barrel leg trousers
£34.90 at Uniqlo
For those sunny days not quite warm enough for shorts, loose-fit trousers will be your best friend. This viral pair from Uniqlo is a dreamy combo of casual enough for every day and smart enough for the office.
Linen-blend light striped trousers
£24.99 at H&M
Pinstripe is definitely having a moment this season. This pair of linen-blend trousers would be a hard-working staple in your warm-weather wardrobe.
Antler overnight bag
£125 at John Lewis£125 at Antler
If you need a new bag for weekends away, this one from Antler is genius. A favourite of Jess Cartner-Morley's thanks to its handy strap that can be slotted over the handle of your suitcase. 'This keeps it sitting securely on top of your luggage without everything falling over in chaos,' she says. A great option for short stays or hand luggage for longer trips.
For more, check out Jess Cartner-Morley's March style edit
Simple white organic T-shirt
£14.90 for women's at Plain and Simple£14.90 for men's at Plain and Simple
You can't go wrong with a good-quality white tee. This one from Plain and Simple is affordable and made using ethical materials and practices.
White Stan Smith trainers
From £85 at AdidasFrom £75 at Pro Direct
White trainers are a style staple and none have stood the test of time quite like Adidas Stan Smiths. Menswear editor Helen Seamons rates them as one of the only 22 items you'll ever need in her men's capsule wardrobe edit.
Colourful standard swim shorts
£60 at Harvey Nichols
Whether you're hitting the lido or running errands, these easy-to-wear swim shorts come with an elasticated drawstring waist and are perfect for sunny days.
Jetty cord cap
£40 at Finisterre
Keep the sun at bay with a hat. This unisex cord baseball cap is a colourful twist on a classic style.
Floral cotton sun hat
£28 at Lucy & Yak
This cute hat from Lucy & Yak would make a fun statement piece for a festival, but also wouldn't look out of place for a picnic in the park or a day at the beach.
Altruist sunscreen SPF50
£22 at Victoria Health£19.99 at Amazon
I know you're probably sick of hearing it, but it's worth repeating – wearing sunscreen is not only important for your health, but is one of the most effective anti-ageing tools. Altruist is a brand founded by dermatologists, and its sunscreen is 'some of the best-value high-quality, broad-spectrum sunscreen on the market,' says beauty columnist Sali Hughes.
For more, check out Sali Hughes's guide to the best sunscreens for every need
Garnier Body Repair body lotion
£2.99 at Superdrug£2.99 at Amazon
Keep your skin looking hydrated with a nourishing moisturiser. Skincare expert Caroline Hirons says this Garnier body repair lotion is her 'most used skincare product of all time', even after trying hundreds of luxury and budget products. 'I cover myself in the stuff every morning, and it smooths and conditions my skin without any stickiness,' says Hirons.
For more, check out skin, hair and wellness essentials the experts can't live without
Natural gradual tan
£34.99 at Three Warriors£34.99 at Oxygen Boutique
Get that summer glow without having to roast in the sun for hours. Gradual tan is the safest way to get a tan, both because you avoid the harmful UV exposure that comes with a natural tan and it's less prone to disaster than overnight self-tanners. This one from Three Warriors is 'the creme de la creme of tan', says wellness writer Hayley Spencer.
For more, check out beauty treatments you can do at home – and the ones you really shouldn't, according to the experts
Nails Inc orange polish
£9 at Nails Inc£7.20 at Amazon
Add a pop of colour to your spring looks with some bright nails. This statement orange shade from Nails Inc will add cheer to any outfit.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Sun
3 hours ago
- The Sun
Aldi selling £7.99 gadget that will keep your garden free of bugs and pests throughout summer
ALDI is launching a budget-friendly gadget this weekend that promises to keep bugs and pests at bay throughout the warmer months. Available in stores across the UK from Sunday, June 8, the Zero In Bug Zapper Lantern is priced at just £7.99 — and it's already catching the attention of bargain hunters. The lantern kills nuisance flies and mosquitoes on contact, helping to create a bug-free zone ideal for BBQs, camping trips or even indoor use. It's designed for versatility, you can hang it up or stand it on any surface, and it works best in low-light conditions. The gadget also features four built-in LED lights and comes complete with a USB rechargeable battery pack and charging cable, making it easy to power up for evening use. Whether you're enjoying a quiet evening on the patio or hosting friends and family for a garden gathering, this simple tool could make all the difference. Aldi says the lantern is 'perfect for outdoor living,' especially for those who want to enjoy summer evenings without being pestered by insects. It's part of Aldi's wider push to offer low-cost garden essentials this season, with the budget supermarket regularly selling out of its Specialbuys aimed at outdoor living. Shoppers have already snapped up Aldi's £4.99 concrete citronella candle, which comes in a range of colours and shapes to suit any garden table. It doubles as a stylish decoration while helping to keep bugs at bay. Other garden deals from Aldi include anti-rust fencing panels, colourful planters, and solar-powered lighting, all priced to suit every pocket. If you're heading on a camping trip or caravan break this summer, the zapper's portable design and rechargeable battery make it easy to take on the go. And while most bug repellents rely on sprays or sticky traps, this zapper offers a cleaner alternative with no mess or harsh chemicals. Aldi's garden gadgets have built up a loyal fan base online, with shoppers often praising their affordability and ease of use. The Zero In Bug Zapper Lantern is expected to sell fast, so those hoping to grab one should head to stores from Sunday before stock disappears. It's not the only budget option on the high street either, rival stores like Home Bargains and B&M are also offering low-cost pest solutions, from citronella torches to portable fire pits. IF you want to ensure that your home is pest free this summer, here's what you need to know. here's what you need to know. Hornets and wasps - hate the smell of peppermint oil so spraying this liberally around your patio or balcony can help to keep them at bay. Moths - acidic household white vinegar is effective for deterring moths. Soak some kitchen roll in vinegar and leave it in your wardrobe as a deterrent. Flying ants - herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, mint, chilli pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cloves, or garlic act as deterrents. Mosquitoes - plants, herbs and essential oil fragrances can help deter mozzies inside and out. Try eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass. 3
Telegraph
4 hours ago
- Telegraph
How to wear white denim and not look naff, from £45
In this era of guilt-inducing consumption, it's good to find desirable items with proven longevity. White jeans, for instance. Liz Hurley was on to something all those years ago – although she was ridiculed because of her dedication to the white skinny denim cause. What's changed in the 30-plus-year interim to make them a bona fide classic? Not the fabrications, that's for sure. So how did they make the mighty journey from sartorially dodgy to Alexa Chung? When people say nothing changes in fashion, they're not digging deep enough. Sure, you could wear certain items from any decade in the past six or seven, and make them work. But they may operate in different ways, their connotations and subtext might be different. White handbags were once a quaint peccadillo of Princess Margaret. White shoes, especially in winter, were Bet Lynch territory. But then Kim Kardashian started appropriating some of Bet's looks and Made in Chelsea types borrowed from Kim and everyone got very confused about what is and isn't naff. There are quite a few white staples that were once no-go areas, like white nail varnish. Not everything white goes in the same positive direction, however. Ultra-white teeth were the preserve of clueless, rich Hollywood types. Not good. They still are but now they reek of one-colour-fits-all chain-store dentistry. Not any better. Where it all went right for white denim, I think, is with Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. Where Hurley and co's white denim dressing looked a bit effortful (always with heels, big hair and carefully applied make-up), CBK's was outdoorsy, carefree, effortless, peak Nantucket. If you feel the cold horribly, like me, white jeans mean you can carry on wearing jumpers, blazers, cropped tweed jackets and still give off vaguely summery vibes. You can wear all your favourite classics – monochromatic stripes, tan accessories (white with white is too much), button-down shirts – and provided your denim is reasonably loose and slouchy, especially on the legs, none of it will look old. But if you want to make things a little more interesting, try adding some tufty texture on top, or a fringe-trimmed bag; thread a scarf through the belt loops; throw on a cropped or lightweight khaki trench à la Chung, or some asymmetric or long shirting, finishing off with velvet Venetian slippers (in case you were thinking of splurging £1,100 on The Row's, may I suggest the real thing, from Piedaterre, in many colours, for around £120). As for the actual denim: there is so much good stuff, from barrel legs at DL1961, which use 100 times less water than the average in their production, to M&S's version (only available in store at the moment because of their computer flame-out). Wear your white denims for the next decade at least and keep them white by soaking them overnight in water and white vinegar, and the next time they need repairing, investigate the art of sashiko (Japanese darning). Ways to style your jeans... Look one: Look two: Look three: Look four: Lisa wears: Cropped linen utility jacket, £199, Jigsaw; Cropped fray-edge jeans, £265, Mother; Strappy shoes, £160, Sézane; Cellulose acetate sunglasses, £150, Cubitts; Silver plated earrings, £150, Soeur; Sterling-silver bangle, £250, Giovanni Raspini; Silk scarf, £90, Whistles; Leather bag, £420, Polene
The Sun
4 hours ago
- The Sun
Aldi drops new beauty product that costs just £2.99 and will be perfect for your summer holiday
ALDI has released a new beauty product that comes at a bargain price and will be perfect to pack for your holidays. The Lacura Facial Tanning Mist is in stores now as one of the discount supermarket's Specialbuys. It's a bargain £2.99, making it one of the cheapest facial tanning mists you can get. The beauty buy will be perfect for keeping your tan topped up over the summer and while you're on holiday. Its 100ml bottle also means you can pack it in your cabin luggage. The tanning mist comes in two versions, Day Glimmer and Night Shine, so you can choose whether you want it to develop during the day or overnight. Aldi says the mist is the 'perfect morning boost to revive your skin with a holiday glow'. It's enriched with glycerin and hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture, and also has rosemary oil. The description on the website says it will leave your skin looking 'radiantly sunkissed'. Remember that Aldi Specialbuys are only available while stocks last so you'll need to get in quick if you want it. The bargain buy appears to be a dupe for the Isle of Paradise Day Dew Gradual Face Mist. Isle of Paradise is popular with celebrities including Margot Robbie. I tried Aldi's new anti-aging skincare range But a 100ml bottle will set you back much more than the Lacura tanning mist. You can get it for £19.32 at Sephora, or the Night Glow version is cheaper at £11.02 at Cult Beauty. Another alternative is the St Tropez Self Tan Purity Face Mist, which comes in an 80ml bottle. It's currently £19.20 at LookFantastic. What other beauty buys does Aldi have right now? Aldi has just dropped a range of bargain beauty products in its Specialbuys aisle. The discount supermarket is known for releasing dupes of popular high-end beauty items and this drop is no exception. It currently has the Luminous Filter Glamour Foundation, which beauty bloggers say is a dupe for Charlotte Tilbury's Hollywood Flawless Filter. But at £4.99, it's much cheaper than the Charlotte Tilbury version which has a price tag of £39. Meanwhile the Tinted Lip Oil is said to be a dupe for Selena Gomez's Rare Beauty lip oils. The Aldi version is £3.99 while the Rare Beauty lip oils come in at £20. Another Aldi bargain is the Shimmer Setting Spray, which costs £4.49. Meanwhile the Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray costs £16.50 at John Lewis. What are the best Aldi beauty dupes? ALDI has become well-known for its affordable beauty dupes that often rival high-end brands in terms of quality and effectiveness. Here are some of the best Aldi beauty dupes that have garnered rave reviews: Lacura Healthy Glow Exfoliating Tonic Dupe for: Pixi Glow Tonic Price: £3.99 (compared to Pixi's £18) Description: This exfoliating tonic contains glycolic acid and works to gently exfoliate and brighten the skin. It's a fantastic, budget-friendly alternative to the popular Pixi Glow Tonic. Lacura Q10 Renew Anti-Wrinkle Day Cream Dupe for: Nivea Q10 Plus Anti-Wrinkle Day Cream Price: £1.45 (compared to Nivea's £10) Lacura Caviar Illumination Day Cream Dupe for: La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Cream Price: £6.99 (compared to La Prairie's £292) Lacura Hot Cloth Cleanser Dupe for: Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser Price: £3.99 (compared to Liz Earle's £17.50) Lacura Snapshot Ready Foundation Primer Dupe for: Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer Price: £5.99 (compared to Smashbox's £26) Lacura Miracle Cream Dupe for: Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Price: £3.99 (compared to Elizabeth Arden's £28) Lacura Ebony Rose Face Mask Dupe for: Fresh Rose Face Mask Price: £6.99 (compared to Fresh's £52) Lacura Charcoal Clearing Mudmask Dupe for: GlamGlow Supermud Clearing Treatment Price: £5.99 (compared to GlamGlow's £42) Lacura Velvet Touch Foundation Dupe for: Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation Price: £5.99 (compared to Estée Lauder's £34) Lacura Tinted Lip Oils Dupe for: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Oil Price: £3.99 (compared to Rare Beauty's £20)
