You Got This is a series that spotlights the gear you need to improve one area of your life.
The dog days of summer have officially arrived — a period running from July 3 to August 11 which technically gets its name from the aligning of Sirius (the Dog Star) with the sun, but for most of us, it just translates to blazing hot days when we just want to kick back in the shade and take a nap. (Another fun fact? Sirius is the brightest star in the night sky.)
When just thinking of the weather outside makes you start sweating, reach for one of these easy solutions from Walmart to cool the heck down.
Lounge in an inflatable pool
Technically, this is a kiddie pool for tykes 2 years and older, which could serve as a ball pit in the off-season. But there’s no shame in turning it into a shallow lounge pool for you and your grown-up friends when it’s sweltering hot and you’re hanging in the yard with some cool drinks.
Whip up smoothies and frozen cocktails
Summer is unofficial smoothie season. With serious horsepower, this versatile blender looks retro chic in your kitchen and gets the job done with seven functions to blend fresh or frozen fruit and veggies — and crush ice — in seconds. It has an easy-to-use touchscreen and removable, dishwasher-safe parts.
Turn your backyard into a playground for the kiddos
Entertain the kiddos away from screens with this easy-to-assemble swing set. Along with swings, this mini playground has a high-rail wave slide, rock wall for climbing, spacious sandbox, and top-level clubhouse for kicking back and talking about kindergarten. There’s also a built-in chalkboard for when creativity strikes.
Set up a pet-friendly splash zone
Keep your pup cool with this durable pet pool you can set up in the backyard or at the beach (no inflation required). It has a marked waterline for easy-filling and an antiskid bottom to prevent slips. On a hot day, we say go ahead and jump in with them.
Cart your all your beach gear in a wagon
Streamline your schlep with a smooth-rolling beach wagon. Pile in beach bags, sunscreen, towels, umbrellas, cooler bags, and all the other gear you’ve assembled for your beach day. For max durability, it has a steel tube frame with powder coating.
Throw down a colorful towel
Made from super-soft, 100% cotton, this easy-to-spot towel is perfect for claiming your space on a crowded beach or having a laidback picnic in a park. The oversize design is also just right for throwing over a lounge chair by the pool.
Take your party to go
For ultra-portable refreshments, this roomy cooler tote bag accommodates up to 24 cans and ice. It has a front zipper pocket and side storage pockets for stashing other essentials like your wallet, keys, and phone, or a small portable speaker for really making your party mobile.
Keep iced drinks cool outside
Designed by a woman-owned company based in Austin, Texas, this double-walled, vacuum-insulated stainless-steel tumbler exudes positives vibes with its cheerful smiley faces. Stay hydrated out there!
