You only get to utilize your backyard for a few months out of the year, so why not make it a retreat you want to spend time in? Patio sets and lawn games only go so far when furnishing your backyard. Fire pits, a backyard projection screen, unique coolers and hammocks and so many other elements are affordable purchases to help turn your yard into an outdoor oasis.
Check out our list for backyard must-haves.
Hammock swing bed
It used to be all you needed was a sheet and two trees to sway back and forth in the summer breeze. Now, hammocks are anything but simple, like this patio swing bed with a canopy. Protected by the sun and big enough to share with a buddy, the swing bed is a twist on the traditional hammock, and is comfortable and durable to suit your summer needs.
Available for $619 at Home Depot.
Cooler table
Don’t let bulky coolers and large patio furniture cramp your style. Summer is all about easy living and an all-in-one cooler table checks off most boxes when it comes to outdoor entertaining. Perfect for cocktail parties by the pool or backyard gatherings, this pedestal cooler table won’t take up space and eliminates high traffic areas so guests don’t have to make trips back and forth for drinks. Simply fill the bottom with ice and enjoy your beverage and snack on the table top, which can be collapsed as well. The Keter 7.5-Gal.
Cool Bar Rattan Style Outdoor Patio Pool Cooler Table is available on Amazon for $693.
Fire pit
Gather round the campfire. Fire pits are not only the solution to chilly summer nights, they are the perfect entertainment for a social circle. Roasting marshmallows and storytelling are great for the kids, but a cold beer or glass of wine and some music is even better for adults. Fire pits range in all different sizes and styles from a simple, small model (around $200) to intense architectural creations clocking in at around $3,000 or more. Of course, if you choose to customize your backyard patio area with an in-ground or raised fire pit, there are plenty of design options as well.
Outdoor lighting
A little light can go a long way when creating your slice of paradise. String lights (even Christmas lights) add an elegant ambiance and glow to your backyard. Hang strands around the perimeter of your deck, fence, line the shed or even up the umbrella to take the elements of the outdoors to another level. You can even drape a few lights over your bushes to create an enchanted evening garden. Clear and warm white lights are classy and the least expensive way to go, but a pop of color is always fun for summer.
Backyard projection screen
Creating your own drive-in movies has become quite popular lately. What better way to enjoy beautiful summer nights than in your own backyard with some popcorn and a movie? You can choose any movie you want and create a truly one-of-a kind experience for your friends and family. Depending on how big of a projector screen you want (this Camp Chef O.E.G. Indoor/Outdoor Movie Screen is available in 92” and 115” and is suitable for small groups), it is perfect for rainy nights in and cool nights out. Made of nylon reflection material for high resolution pictures, the screens are easy to assemble and easy to store.
The 92” screen is available at Target for $128.99.
