Cheap things that make your backyard so much more impressive
Party in the back.

With the arrival of warm, sunny days, the backyard is likely where you’ll spend a good chunk of your time. If it could use a little sprucing up, though, you’ve landed at the right place. I’ve gathered a selection of affordable items that, despite their low price tags, make your backyard look so much more impressive. Whether you fancy chic lighting, statement-making statues, or even a supersized game of outdoor checkers, keep scrolling.
01An inflatable cooler with space for up to 100 cans
Not only does this inflatable cooler look like a tropical palm tree, but the base is also large enough that it can hold up to 100 standard-sized cans. It’s made from thick PVC that’s designed to last, though each order does come with a repair patch — just in case. One reviewer also wrote that it’s “perfect for any summer party and it stays inflated throughout the day.”
02This giant game of checkers & tic-tac-toe
You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to make your backyard fun. Enter: this giant game of checkers made for outdoor play. And if you flip it over, you’ll discover two tic-tac-toe boards: one traditional, as well as a second supersized board that requires you to line up four pieces in a row instead of just three.
03An LED rope light that’s suitable for indoor & outdoor use
If you’re looking for clever ways to brighten up your backyard, search no further than this LED rope light. It’s so flexible that you can install it nearly anywhere, including underneath steps, awnings, or even wrapped around poles. And since you can connect up to 22 strands together, you shouldn’t have any trouble covering large spaces.
04The deck of cards that’s 100% waterproof
There’s no need to worry about getting this deck of cards wet, as each card is made from sturdy, waterproof plastic. They’re also flexible enough for easy shuffling — and the vibrant gold printing makes them look like they cost way more than they do.
05These battery-powered fairy lights that stay lit for more than 72 hours
Whether you’re making DIY decor or looking for fun ways to light up your backyard, these LED fairy lights are worth a look. Each one comes with batteries included — and they’ll keep them powered for more than 72 hours before you’ll need to change them out. One reviewer also wrote that they’re “the perfect length and size to make beautiful decor.”
06An umbrella light that’s completely cordless
Not only does this umbrella pole light make it so much easier to dine outside at night, but it’s also powered using just four AA batteries (which are not included) — so there’s no need to plug it into an outlet. The best part? A built-in clamp also makes installation a total breeze.
07This UV-blocking sun shade that comes in dozens of sizes
With dozens of sizes to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding this sun shade in a shape that suits your backyard. It’s made from high-density polyethylene material that blocks up to 95% of the sun’s harsh rays — but unlike some materials, it still allows water to pass through so that you don’t have to empty it out after heavy rain.
08A portable hammock that can hold up to 660 pounds
With a weight limit of up to 660 pounds, you shouldn’t have any trouble fitting up to two people on this hammock. It folds down into a drawstring bag when not in use, making it easy to take with you when camping — though it’s sure to work just as well strung between two trees in your backyard. You have 11 different vibrant colors to choose from including green, orange, blue, and more.
09A compact garden sprinkler that’s great for small yards
A large sprinkler isn’t necessary if your yard is on the smaller side. Enter: this compact sprinkler that takes up very little space. Eight adjustable spray patterns give you options when deciding how you want to water your lawn or garden. Plus, the heavy duty base helps keep it secured down to the ground when running.
10These color-changing deck lights that are powered by the sun
There’s no hardwiring required when installing these deck lights, as each one features a solar panel built into the top that keeps them lit through the night. They also feature two lighting modes: warm white, or color changing. And since they’re weather-resistant, there’s no need to worry about how they’ll fare come rain or shine.
11These battery-operated table lamps that cast a warm, inviting glow
Add a touch of elegance to any picnic table with these lamps. Each one only needs three AA batteries (which are not included) in order to stay lit for hours — and a built-in timer automatically turns them off after six hours to help preserve the batteries.
12The reusable ice packs that stay cold for up to 48 hours
Unlike the crummy ice packs you’ve may have been using, these ones can stay cold for up to 48 hours, making them great for parties, packing lunches, and more. They also boast over 20,000 perfect five-star ratings — one satisfied reviewer shared, “[...] What impressed me the most is how well they retain their coldness. Even when they thaw to a gel state, they continue to cool effectively [...] This reliability means I no longer have to worry about buying bags of ice every time I go on a trip or have a picnic.”
13These inflatable coolers that are easy to reach from the pool
Though they can be deployed anywhere, these inflatable bars really sing when placed poolside, as their short walls make it easy to reach drinks without having to hop out of the pool. A water drainage plug in the bottom of each one makes it easy to empty them out. And unlike some inflatables, these ones are also BPA-free.
14An electrified racket that zaps flying pests
Flying pests are no match for this electrified racket. Simply press the button on the handle, and 4,000 volts of electricity will surge through the metal netting, eliminating bugs upon contact. The battery lasts for up to 10,000 zaps before it needs to be recharged — and the indicator light lets you know that the netting is electrified, making it less likely that you’ll accidentally zap yourself or others.
15This 150-inch projection screen that won’t break the bank
Hosting outdoor movie nights is a great way to get the family together, and this projection screen makes it a real event. It’s made from sturdy polyester that won’t crease when folded — so there’s no need to worry about how it’ll fare in storage. Plus, loops around the edge make it easy to hang up wherever you like. The low price is icing on the cake.
16These aluminum wind chimes that come in 11 colors
Green, red, blue, gold — with 11 different colors to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding these wind chimes in a style that suits your backyard. The tubes are made from thick aluminum, while the top hanger and base pendant are made from crack-resistant pine wood. Many reviewers also wrote about how they “sound beautiful.”
17These solar-powered tiki torches that flicker just like the real thing
Traditional tiki torches need to be constantly refilled with lighter fuel, which can quickly add up. That makes these solar-powered versions a cost-effective alternative. The LEDs flicker just like real flames, giving them an ultra-realistic look — even up close. Plus, installation is as easy as pressing the stakes down in to the ground, then waiting for the sun to charge them up.
18The waterproof picnic blanket that’s easy to take with you
Sitting down on damp ground is no way to have a picnic. Instead, spread out this blanket. Its waterproof underlayer helps keep you high and dry, regardless of how damp the ground may be. Each order also comes with ground stakes — just in case it’s a bit breezy outside. And once you’ve finished your picnic, you can fold it up into the included travel pack for easy transport.
19These reusable water balls that splash just like water balloons
Cleaning up the remains of exploded water balloons all over your yard can be a pain. Instead, use these water balls. Not only are they reusable, but they also deliver a big splash upon contact — just like water balloons. And since they’re made from soft cotton, they won’t hurt on impact.
20A wind chime that looks like a rustic bird’s nest
If you can’t quite figure out what your backyard is missing, the answer could be something as simple as hanging up this wind chime. Not only is the top designed to look like a bird’s nest, but the 12 bells underneath are also made from sturdy copper that’s made to last. And while some wind chimes can be a bit too loud, one reviewer described the sound this one makes as “gentle and musical.”
21This infrared thermometer that measures temperature from a safe distance
Grills, pizza ovens, campfires — this infrared thermometer is great for measuring the temperature of all sorts of hot surfaces from a safe distance. It can register temperatures as cold as -58 degrees all the way up to 1,112 degrees Fahrenheit. And unlike some thermometers, this one comes with two AAA batteries included.
22A set of gardening tools made from rust-resistant stainless steel
A quality set of tools is essential if you want to get your garden looking as lush as possible — and this set is currently available for less than $35. Each order comes with three tools: one cultivator, transplanter, as well as a trowel, all of which are made from rust-resistant stainless steel. Their ergonomic design allows for comfortable use regardless of whether you’re left- or right-handed.
23A chic plant stand made from eucalyptus wood
Setting potted plants directly on your floor can take up a ton of space. Instead, put them on this stand. Seven tiers give you ample room for all sorts of plants, and the frame is even made from genuine eucalyptus wood — not plastic. “Was super simple to put together and faster than I thought,” wrote one reviewer. “Perfect to condense plants in a nice display.”
24These mosquito-repellent bracelets made without any DEET
You don’t have to rely on harsh sprays if you want to keep your backyard bug-free. Instead, wear one of these bracelets. They’re made with geraniol, lemongrass, and citronella oil, all of which work together to help keep mosquitos as bay — no DEET necessary. Plus, the waterproof design means you don’t have to take them off when swimming.
25These insect traps that attract wasps, carpenter bees, & more
If your backyard has too many pests flying around to be enjoyable, consider taking a look at these traps. The vibrant colors attract wasps, mud daubers, carpenter bees, and more — all without relying on any harsh chemicals or odors. Plus, each trap is made right in the United States.
26A scratch-resistant deck box made from durable resin
Not only is this deck box great for storing throw blankets, cushions, games, and more, but it’s also made from scratch-resistant resin. The exterior is designed to look like real wood — even up close. And unlike some boxes, this one only takes a few minutes to put together without using any tools.
27A bird feeder that squirrels can’t climb up
Tired of squirrels eating all your bird seed? Then this bird feeder is worth a look. When a squirrel tries to climb up, the weight-activateed cage will drop down, blocking their access to the feeding ports. And with enough space inside for up to 2 pounds of seed, you won’t be stuck having to constantly fill it up.
28These citronella candles made with eco-friendly soy wax
These citronella candles are a clever and decorative way to help rid your backyard of pests. The printed tins are undeniably cute — and the soy wax is eco-friendly as well as less likely to produce soot or smoke while burning. Each candle has a burn time of up to 75 hours.
29A kinetic wind spinner that adds movement & whimsy
This kinetic wind spinner is a silent alternative to wind chimes that looks just as good hanging in any backyard. It’s made from electroplated steel that’s weather-resistant — and the swiveling S-shaped hook at the top makes it easy to hang up wherever you like. Choose from a variety of shapes and colors.
30A motion sensor light that’s powered by the sun
Add security to your backyard with this motion sensor light. A solar panel built into the top powers it throughout the night — so there’s no need for any complicated hardwiring during installation. Plus, the weather-resistant design helps keep it in good working order from season to season.
31The garden sprinkler that does all the watering for you
If you’ve got a thumb that’s more black than green, it’s not a problem when you have this sprinkler. Not only does it do all the watering for you, but its rotating arms can also cover up to 3,600 square feet of space, making it suitable for large gardens or yards. Plus, metal weights in the base help keep it sitting stable and flat.
32These mystical flame packets that add colors to campfires
Toss a few of these mystical flame packets into your campfire or fire pit, and they’ll cause the flames to light up in gorgeous shades of blue, purple, green, and more. The colors last for up to a full hour before they begin to fade.
33The little Bluetooth speaker with a retro vibe
Get the party started with this mini Bluetooth speaker. Not only does the battery last for up to six hours before it needs to be recharged, but the retro vibe is a fun addition to any backyard or living room. Plus, with a wireless range of up to 32 feet, there’s no need to stay glued to its side when streaming music from your phone.
34These marshmallow roasting sticks with telescopic necks
Unlike some marshmallow roasting sticks, these ones feature telescopic necks that extend out to 32 inches, making it easy to sit at a safe distance and still get a good toast on your marshmallow. The handles are also made from smooth, finished wood — not plastic. And since each order includes a canvas bag, keeping them packaged together in storage is no trouble at all.
35An LED beer pong set that’s perfect for nighttime play
If you enjoy playing beer pong, this LED set is right up your alley. A bulb at the bottom of each cup lights them up so that they’re easy to see in the dark — and the batteries that come included last for up to 24 hours before they’ll need to be changed. Plus, the balls also glow in the dark for added fun.
36The wall thermometer with big, easy-to-read numbers
Not only does this wall thermometer feature big, bold numbers that are easy to read from a distance, but the lens is also shatterproof — just in case it happens to fall. It can measure temperatures from -60 all the way up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Plus, a built-in hanger makes it easy to secure on practically any wall.
37The outdoor pathway lights that look like little mushrooms
Give your backyard a touch of whimsy with these mushroom lights. A wired solar panel keeps them lit for up to 12 hours at night, while a dusk-to-dawn sensor prevents them from turning on when it’s still light out. Installation is as easy as pressing them down into the ground, then pointing the solar panel towards the sun.
38These glow-in-the-dark rocks that spruce up gardens & pathways
If your backyard is on the shady side, these colorful rocks only need two hours of sunlight in order to give off a nice glow. They’re great for lining pathways, adding pops of color to potted plants, or even just scattering throughout your garden. Choose from six colors: multi, white, green, pink, aqua, or blue.
39A colorful mosaic ball that lights up at night
If your backyard is looking a little dull, add this mosaic ball to give it a fun pop of color. A solar panel built into the top keeps it lit for hours at night, while its weatherproof design helps keep it in good working order come rain or shine. Choose from three colors: purple, red, or disco.
40This Bluetooth speaker that’s so, so waterproof
There’s no need to worry about this Bluetooth speaker falling into the bathtub or pool, as it’s so waterproof that you can submerge it in water without it short circuiting. The battery lasts for up to 35 hours before you’ll need to recharge it. Plus, it even doubles as an external battery so that you can charge your devices in a pinch.
41A potent stain remover spray that’s effective on mildew
When no amount of scrubbing seems to get rid of those mildew stains, it may be time to give this spray a try. It’s suitable for use on a variety of surfaces, including vinyl upholstery, outdoor acrylic fabrics, plastic, and more. “Easy to use, no scrubbing required,” wrote one reviewer. “Simply spray on, wait a few minutes, and hose off.”
42This vegetable garden starter kit that comes with unique seeds
If you have space for a vegetable garden, this kit is a clever way to get it jump-started. Each order comes with growing pots, peat blocks, plant markers, as well as five different types of vegetable seeds: lemon crystal cucumber, red lettuce, golden beets, purple salad onions, and rainbow radishes. Though if you aren’t into vegetables, you can also grab it as a Bonsai tree starter kit.
43This tiki toss ring game that’s fun for the whole family
Whether you’re five or 55, this tiki toss ring game is fun for people of all ages. The rules are simple: take a few steps away from the backboard, then try to swing the ring so that it lands on the hook. And since the backboard is made from sturdy bamboo, you can just as easily install it outside as you can inside.
44The fiery tiki torch with a weather-resistant finish
If you like to go old school with your decor, this real flame tiki torch is a classic. It has a weather-resistant finish to help keep it looking good from season to season. The twist-and-pour system makes it easy to fill it up without making a mess — and you even have the choice of two colors: gunmetal or silver.
45This metal bird statue that adds a pop of color to dull backyards
If your backyard is lacking greenery or decor, this bird statue is a clever way to add a fun pop of color. It’s made from sturdy metal — not plastic — and comes with screws so that you can secure it down to the ground. The weather-resistant paint is unlikely to fade over time, keeping them vibrant and playful for years to come.