We are eagerly waiting for sun and fun! While the April showers mode continues, we’re actively putting together supplies for a summer filled with outings, laughter, and fun. Here’s a list of items with safety and protection at the forefront, so you can focus more on the fun part.

Sun protection is at the top of the list. Whenever you head out the door to spend any time in the sun, you should apply appropriate protection. The risk of skin cancer can be lessened by putting on an SPF lotion and monitoring your time before applying again. If you are looking for a more natural-based sun lotion, Burt’s Bees (for babies) and Green Goo offer an SPF 30 lotion. You’ll want to think about your lips, too. Try a Mast Store Mountain Mint lip balm, which has SPF 18 protection.

Of course, we realize that there are times when you forget to apply your sunscreen or the sun comes out unexpectedly. For those times, you need relief quickly. Try a sun soother from Burt’s Bees or Wounded Warrior (it’s like a medicine chest in a tube, so you’ll find lots of uses for it).

Hats are an excellent way to protect your head and face from the damaging rays of the sun. Tilley makes several different styles that create airflow to keep you cool, have a secret panel (perfect for squirreling away a few bills for at the beach), and are guaranteed for life not to wear out. They also have a UPF rating of 50+, which will help protect you from ultraviolet radiation. Another option for a hat that’s a little less structured is the Sombiolet from Outdoor Research. It has a wide brim and is packable and crushable, which makes it a super option when traveling.

Even underneath your clothes, your skin is exposed to ultraviolet light, which is harmful to your skin when you get too much of it. Fabric that has a UPF rating of 50 means it allows 1/50th of the sun’s UV radiation to pass through it. That translates into 98% UV block where the skin is protected by this fabric. If you plan on being out in the sun for long periods of time fishing, hiking, or enjoying other activities, you may want to investigate clothing with this treatment. Mast Store carries several products that have UPF ratings including travel clothing, hats, and more. 

While you’re out on your big adventure, there comes a time when a little rest will be welcomed. Eagles Nest Outfitters has a hammock in any or all of your favorite colors. Choose from a SingleNest (for one person) or a DoubleNest (the most popular, which is just the right size for two). Don’t forget the straps! And for a little bit of added comfort, particularly after dark, try a Bug Net that will foil our little biting foes.  

Bugs can certainly put a damper on summertime fun. Fortunately, there are several options to repel them that are safe for you, your children, and your pets. Whup-A-Bug was tested in some of the buggiest places on the planet and is made in the USA. It’ll help keep those pesky varmints away. Another option to keep mosquitos, chiggers, and other biting insects away is a BugsAway Bandana from ExOfficio. Just wear it around your neck, and it forms a shield that’s invisible and odorless. The bandana can be washed up to 70 times and still be effective.

Everybody loves bubbles, so we thought we’d end on a bubble thing … a Big Bubble Thing to be exact! These bubbles are almost big enough to get in and take a ride. Your kids (and you) will love it! 

Here’s to summer! We hope it’s here soon.