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Budget-Friendly Backyard Finds: 35 Ways To Add Some Fun To A Boring Outdoor Space

Taylor Gumm
Published May 24th, 2023 9:23PM EDT

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Summer is here, which means so much more time spent outside soaking up every last bit of sun (responsibly, of course). It also means taking stock of all the outdoor furniture and decor that might not have made it from last year. It’s amazing what a few extra touches can do for a space. Make sure your entertaining areas are in tip-top shape with these budget-friendly ideas that take a room from drab to fab in a weekend or less.

Have Drinks on Hand with This Rustic Beverage Cooler

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

This simple, wooden rustic outdoor beverage cooler even has an attached bottle opener. It’s the perfect BBQ party accessory to keep everyone hydrated and happy.

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This Swimming Pool is Easy to Set Up on a Hot Day

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Even if the backyard is small, there is always space for this compact swimming pool that can be set up and deconstructed all day. This is great for kiddos and dogs alike on a too-hot day.

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This Rope Swing is a Fun Addition

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Give kids something to play with in the backyard with this rope swing. It’s easy to set up over a tree branch and is sturdy enough to hold up to 120 pounds, so even big kids can play on it.

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Lights Powered by the Sun

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

These solar outdoor lights are a great, energy-efficient option for the backyard—no need for cords or flame to get that perfect mood lighting.

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Add in an Activity

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Tiki Toss is a simple game that is much harder than it looks. It’s almost maddening how hard it is. And it’s an excellent way to keep people occupied while the burgers finish cooking.

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Keep the Bugs Out with This Magnetic Screen Door

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

On a hot summer day, letting a breeze into the home can be a big relief, but open doors let bugs in. This magnetic screen door is easy to install and allows for movement in and out of the door, just not from bugs.

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Enjoy the Sun on This Pool Floatie

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

There’s something satisfying about lounging on a pool floatie for hours on end in the summer. And there is no reason to make these floaties boring; this pineapple floatie is much more aesthetically pleasing.

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A Rug That Can Go Inside or Out

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

It’s hard to find a good quality outdoor rug. The rug needs to be able to withstand all the different elements, from rain to direct sun. This low-maintenance area rug checks all the boxes.

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Add a New Wicker Patio Set

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Outdoor furniture is one of those things that gets worn down, so it’s not ideal to spend a bunch of money on it. This affordable wicker patio set is an excellent budget option that still looks nice.

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This Fire Pit Brings Camping to the Backyard

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

There’s something quintessentially summer about a bonfire smell, so it’s the perfect thing to add to the backyard. S’mores, hotdogs, and more can be made over this simple fire pit.

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Say No to Mosquito Bites with This Patio Umbrella Net

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

This handy umbrella mosquito net attaches directly to an umbrella to protect people under it from mosquitos. This is a must-have on those muggy days when bug spray doesn’t feel like enough.

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Add Light with This Battery Operated Umbrella Light

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

We often consider eating outdoors a strictly daytime activity, but that’s not necessarily the case. This battery-operated umbrella light makes it possible to have a well-lit meal even when the sun goes down.

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Water Your Plants in a Few Simple Steps

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

This automatic drip irrigation watering kit allows users to care for their plants with little thought after a simple setup. Caring for outdoor plants can be challenging, so take the guesswork out with this kit.

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Protect Yourself From Harmful UV Rays with This Sun Shade

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Create shade where it doesn’t exist with the sun shade. This is a great option to enjoy the outdoors and the sunshine without fear of getting skin damage.

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Plant Something Good with This Stackable Garden

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Even in yards with little space, this stackable garden can grow flowers, herbs, or veggies compactly. This summer project is fun to try growing and using different fresh veggies.

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These Hooks are Perfect for Lights and Plants

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Create more hanging space with these simple outdoor shepherd hooks. These are the perfect height for adding extra lighting in the backyard. It’s also a great spot for hanging bird feeders.

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These Solar Lights are Disguised as Flowers

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Lighting instantly sets the mood, and these unique floral lights also bring some whimsy to a space. The lights charge up on their own using sunlight, so no cords are required.

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Keep the Neighbors Out with This Artificial Ivy Privacy Fence

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Even if the neighbors are great, we all need privacy, especially with apartment living. This simple artificial ivy privacy fence does a great job blocking the view. This is also a great way to keep cats inside a patio space.

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These Wind Chimes are So Soothing

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

The dainty clinking sound of these shell wind chimes perfectly accompanies a beautiful summer day. It gives the feeling of walking into an oasis.

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Read in Style with This Hammock Swing Chair

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

This hammock swing chair is a great seating option for balconies and backyards. It doesn’t need much space at all. And it’s an ultra-comfortable place to rest in the summer sun.

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Display All the Plants on This Massive Plant Stand

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Green thumbs need this extra-large plant stand. It has all the space required to truly show off a big plant collection in an ordered way.

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Give the Space a Refresh with These Boho Pillow Covers

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Rather than buying all new pillows, use these boho pillow covers to breathe new life into existing pillows. The durable fabric is made to withstand the elements, protecting the pillows underneath.

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Throw a Backyard Movie Night with This Projection Screen

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

This is a great summer night activity when it’s warm enough to be out past sunset. Watching movies on a projection screen outside makes it much more entertaining than indoors. Add some popcorn, and it’s a great family activity.

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Slow Cook the Meats on This Charcoal Grill

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

There’s pride in being able to good meat perfectly. This charcoal grill offset smoker makes it easier to get that perfectly, slow-cooked meat that will have everyone’s mouths watering to try the first bite. It also works well with ordinary burgers and hot dogs.

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This Bistro Set is Perfect for Drinks in the Backyard

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

This simple rattan chair and table set is a simple and compact way to add seating to the outdoor space. The table has a glass top, which makes it extremely easy to clean off, which is ideal for outdoor furniture.

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Enjoy a Picnic with the Family on This Blanket

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

This water-proof outdoor blanket is the ultimate picnic set-up. The material is tough enough to withstand spills, so it’s easy to clean up and keeps the itchy grass away from the skin.

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Yes, it Can Still Get Cold in the Summer

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

The nights can get pretty chilly in some places in the summer. Stave off the chill with this affordable outdoor heater. It’s easy to set up and runs on propane like a grill.

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Add Some Interesting Decor to the Backyard

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

These metal prickly pear cacti statues add color and texture to the outdoor space. And the best part is that there is no watering required at all.

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These Beautiful Planters Add Some Color

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Plant some succulents in these lovely purple planters. The iridescent glaze reflects the sun in a beautiful way in the summer sun’s heat.

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Defend Against Bugs with This Bug Zapper

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

This bug zapper is not for the faint of heart. It instantly kills bugs after attracting them to the light. It may be vicious, but it is highly effective.

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Track the Rain Water with This Rain Gauge

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

When taking care of the yard, tracking how much rain is coming down can be essential. This simple and easy-to-read rain gauge is a great way to monitor the rainwater coming into the yard.

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Relax on This Chaise Lounge

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

The perfect pool lounging chair is hard to find, especially for an affordable price. This simple chaise lounge comes at an affordable price and is a comfy place to catch a tan and read that new beach read.

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Serve Guests From This Serving Cart

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

This serving cart brings the versatility of a bar cart outdoors. It’s the perfect place to display batch cocktails and iced white wine for summer BBQs.

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This Shower is Ideal for Rinsing Off

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Pool water can leave skin and hair feeling dried out. Rinse off immediately after the pool with this lovely outdoor shower. It’s also excellent for post-beach washes before getting sand in the home.

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Keep Flies Away with This Table Fan

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Food attracts bugs that cannot be stopped. But these simple table food fans keep the bugs far away from food and beverages for outdoor dinner parties.

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Decorate with These Summer Vibes Pillow Covers

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Start the day with these sunny decorative throw pillow covers. The bright yellow color matches perfectly with that hot summer sunshine.

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Get Rid of Bugs the Natural Way with This Citronella Candle

budgetfriendly backyard finds 35 ways to add some fun to a boring outdoor space

Not everyone wants to ward off bugs with harmful bug spray or zappers. This citronella candle does it the natural way. It’s great to put it in the center of the table to help keep bugs away from the food.

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