Costco is one of the best places to stock up on summer essentials—especially the kind you’ll use year after year. Many of these items are not only practical but also built to last. They are smart, one-time purchases that pay off in repeat use, making them great investments. Here are some of the best Costco summer buys you’ll use every year and wish you bought sooner.
Tommy Bahama Beach Chair
The Tommy Bahama Beach Chair is a Costco summer staple for a reason: it features multiple reclining positions, a built-in cupholder, a padded headrest, and even a storage pouch for your sunscreen or snacks. Best of all, the backpack-style straps make it super easy to carry from the car to the sand. It’s lightweight, folds flat and is built to last through countless summers of beach lounging, lake days, or concerts in the park.
Backyard Games
Love hosting summer parties? Then you’ll want to stock up on fun backyard games at Costco. From giant Connect 4 and oversized Plinko to inflatable axe-throwing sets, these aren’t your average lawn games—they’re statement pieces that turn ordinary gatherings into unforgettable fun. Sturdy, easy to set up, and built to last, they’re a great investment for family BBQs, and even neighborhood block parties that you’ll enjoy again and again, summer after summer.
Bug Repelling Fans
Nothing ruins an outdoor dinner faster than swarming flies and mosquitoes.That’s why a bug-repelling fan is a must. It’s a genius little gadget that creates a fly-free zone without harsh chemicals. Costco sells them in convenient multipacks at great prices, making it easy to keep one on every patio table. This is one of those summer purchases you’ll be grateful for every single year, especially during sunset dinners and backyard parties.
Inflatable Waterslide
Want to become the ultimate summer party host? A Costco inflatable waterslide turns your backyard into a splash zone that kids (and parents) will never forget. These oversized slides are built tough—made from durable materials that can withstand season after season of water play. With setups that include climbing walls, splash pools, and slides, it’s not just a toy, it’s a backyard event waiting to happen and a perennial favorite once the temps rise.
Life Vests
A Coast Guard-approved life vest is one of those non-negotiable summer items that you’ll need when boating and kayaking. Costco makes it easy to gear up for the whole family, with a variety of life vests for adults and kids at great prices. Buy it once, use it every summer.
Kids Outdoor Playhouse
A backyard playhouse might feel like a splurge—but if you have young kids, it’s one of the smartest summer investments you can make. Costco regularly sells high quality playhouses at great prices that spark hours of imaginative outdoor play. This is one item that will earn its keep summer after summer. Don’t pay full price, keep an eye out for sales.
Pool Inflatables
If you have a pool—or access to one—you know the value of a good pool inflatable. Costco sells a wide variety, from sturdy float loungers and water hammocks to classic pool noodles. They’re well-made, generously sized, and perfect for lazy afternoons in the water. Buy a few now, and you’ll be set for summers to come.
Igloo Insulated Beverage Tote
This isn’t your average cooler bag. The Igloo Insulated Beverage Tote is a chic, reusable carrier. With a vegan leather exterior, a roomy insulated interior that fits two wine bottles, and a crossbody strap for easy transport, this tote screams “luxury.” Ideal for beach days, summer concerts, outdoor date nights, or even a day at the polo field, it’s one of those smart summer buys you’ll use again and again—for years.
Tommy Bahama Beach Umbrella
The Tommy Bahama Beach Umbrella is a summertime staple. Lightweight and quick to set up, this umbrella offers generous coverage and reliable sun protection wherever you go—beach, park, or backyard. Designed with durability in mind, it’s the kind of buy you’ll be glad you made when you’re still using it season after season.
Beach Wagon
If you’ve ever tried to haul towels, chairs, snacks, and beach toys across a stretch of hot sand, you know the magic of a beach wagon. Costco’s versions are roomy, foldable, and built with extra-large wheels that make navigating sand, grass, or gravel easy. No more juggling armfuls of gear—just load it all up and roll. It’s lightweight, easy to store, and one of those smart buys you’ll use every summer, whether you’re headed to the beach, park, or a family picnic.
Insulated Shopping Bags
Insulated shopping bags are one of the most practical summer purchases you can make. Costco’s large, durable insulated totes keep your groceries and perishables cool while you run errands—especially important when your car turns into an oven during the hotter months. Perfect for hauling groceries and bringing chilled snacks to a picnic, these bags are built to last and come in handy year after year.
Beach Towels
Costco is a go-to for high quality beach towels at great prices. You’ll want to buy a few. From kid-sized beach towels to oversized beach blankets that comfortably fit two, these towels are perfect for beach trips, pool days, or picnics in the park. They wash beautifully, dry quickly, and hold up for years—earning their place as one of those quiet summer purchases you’ll never regret buying.
Sun Hats
Costco is a surprisingly great place to buy high-quality sun hats at consistently affordable prices. Look out for trusted brands like Sunday Afternoons, known for their comfort, breathability, and serious sun protection. Whether you’re gardening, hiking, lounging at the beach, or walking the dog, a good sun hat is a summer essential you’ll reach for again and again. It’s one of those small purchases that pays off year after year.
Kayak
Costco is one of the best places to buy a kayak, from hard-shell models to compact, inflatable kayaks that are easy to store and transport. Don’t pay full price, wait for the sale. It’s an investment you’ll enjoy year after year.
Badminton Set
If you’ve ever set up a cheap backyard game set only to have it fall apart after one use, you’ll appreciate this Costco-grade Badminton Set. Designed for durability and portability, it comes with quality rackets, shuttlecocks, and a foldable net system that fits into a compact carrying case. Whether it’s an impromptu game at the beach, a family BBQ, or an annual Fourth of July showdown, this set is one you’ll reach for summer after summer.
Boogie Board
Costco is also a great place to buy a boogie board for beach days. Whether you’re catching waves or just floating around, it’s a fun, easy way to get kids (and adults) in the water. These boards are lightweight, durable, and designed to last through multiple beach seasons. It’s one of those low-cost summer staples that you’ll be glad you have year after year.
Bunch O Balloons Reusable Water Balloons
No more plastic balloon waste with Bunch O Balloons Reusable Water Balloons. These are colorful, soft, and self-sealing; they refill in seconds and can be used over and over again. No more picking up tiny balloon pieces after the fun ends. Kids love them, and parents will appreciate how eco-friendly and mess-free they are. You’ll be pulling these out every summer. Check out 26 Things I Never Pay Full Price at Costco
Outdoor Toys
Costco is a great place to go for outdoor toys that keep kids active, creative, and entertained all summer long. Like this Stanley Jr. Garden Tool Set—a playset that includes child-sized garden power tools. All perfectly scaled for little hands and big imaginations. These durable sets are built to last through multiple summers of outdoor play. Check out 17 Costco Meals Cheaper than Restaurant Take Out to Save You Money
Fan
A good fan is a summer essential you’ll use year after year—and Costco always has a wide selection to choose from. Whether you’re cooling down a covered patio, boosting airflow in your home, or creating a breeze for outdoor dinners, a quality fan makes all the difference. Look out for seasonal sales, especially on powerful oscillating or tower fans from trusted brands. It’s a smart buy that brings comfort all summer long, year after year. Check out 28 Things I Always Buy at Costco
Coolers
Summer and coolers go hand in hand, and Costco’s cooler aisle never disappoints. From heavy-duty Igloo models built for full-day outings to zipperless Titan coolers perfect for on-the-go picnics or tailgates, there’s something for every kind of summer outing. These coolers are made to withstand heat, travel, and time, meaning you’ll be hauling cold drinks and snacks in them year after year. Wait for the seasonal markdowns to get the best value. Check out 10 Costco Shopping Mistakes that Waste Money for Couples and Small Families
Pickleball Set
Pickleball is here to stay—and Costco has some of the best value sets around. This all-in-one pickleball bundle includes two paddles, multiple pickleballs, and a convenient carrying case, so you can head straight to the court without any extra gear hunting. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned players alike and built to last through many sunny seasons of rallies and fun. Check out 24 Best Kirkland Products I Always Buy at Costco
Sprinkler Pad
If you’ve got little ones, a sprinkler pad is a backyard lifesaver. Costco often stocks affordable, high-quality versions that are perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, offering hours of splashy fun without the need for a full pool setup. Just hook it up to your hose and let the cooling chaos begin. Great for everyday play, birthday parties, or playdates—and durable enough to pull out again next summer. Check out 21 Best Bulk Buys from Costco that Will Last You All Year (and Save You Money)
Bubble Machine
Nothing lights up a backyard playdate quite like a bubble machine, and Costco has some of the best deals. Like the popular Gazillion Bubble Machine, which is easy to use and endlessly entertaining, pumping out a steady stream of bubbles that turns any ordinary afternoon into a mini celebration. It’s a summer staple for families that gets used again and again, year after year. Check out 23 Costco Items that are a Total Waste of Money for Small Households
River Tube
A river tube is one of those summer purchases that pays off in fun, season after season. Costco’s river tubes are durable, often come with handles or cupholders, and are priced well below what you’d find elsewhere. Perfect for floating down a lazy river, relaxing at the lake, or using it in your backyard pool. It’s the kind of gear you’ll be glad you have that you’ll use year after year. Check out Costco vs Sam’s Club: 14 Major Differences You Should Know About
Stand-Up Paddle Board
A stand-up paddleboard (SUP) is one of those summer splurges that is actually a good investment. Costco regularly stocks high-quality paddle boards—both hard and inflatable options—at prices that beat specialty retailers. Buy it once, and you’ll use it again and again for summers to come. Make sure to wait for a sale to save. Check out I Spend $1000 a Month at Costco, here are 22 Costco Pantry Items I Buy Again and Again
Above Ground Pool
If you’ve been dreaming of turning your backyard into a summer oasis, an above ground pool from Costco is a smart place to start. You can feel confident knowing you’re getting a high-quality pool at a competitive price. Costco often carries durable steel-frame models that are easy to install, built to last, and spacious enough for the whole family to enjoy. It’s a one-time purchase that brings endless summer fun, year after year. Check out What I Buy at Costco But Never at Sam’s Club (and Vice Versa)