Photos: Wirecutter Staff

Wirecutter’s experts have spent hundreds and hundreds of hours testing everything you’ll need for a successful summer, whether your plans involve cross-country flights, beach trips, or simply homemade ice cream on the porch.

We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite essentials, and secured truly great discounts on each of them—exclusively for Wirecutter readers. Let’s start with the ones your newsletter editors are most excited about, shall we?

A beach towel that absorbs water better than any other we tried: This towel is ridiculously soft and big enough that you can comfortably sprawl out starfish-style in the sun. Plus, it sheds sand with ease when it’s time to pack up. Get it on sale for $34 with promo code WCSUN15.

A powerful—and pretty!—fan: Not only does it send cool air to the hard-to-reach corners of a room, it’s got a great vintage-looking vibe and is impressively easy to clean. It doesn’t often go on sale, but it’s currently $42 off here.

An iconic, “ridiculously sturdy” tote bag: The timeless (and rarely discounted!) L.L.Bean Boat and Tote is built to last and well suited to handle everything from regular trips to the beach to hauling your summer produce. Head of newsletters Sofia Sokolove is seriously considering two—a medium-sized navy one for the beach and a small red one for … fun. All sizes are on sale here with promo code WCSUN15.

An (actually comfortable) travel pillow: If you’re lucky enough to be jetting off on a vacation this summer, we’re big fans of this pillow that has an adjustable string closure, so you can fit the pillow securely around your neck. Its cushioned memory-foam core and contoured top helps keep your neck upright and head in place. Use two promo codes—WCSUMMER and WCSHIP—to get it on sale, plus free shipping.

An easy-to-use ice cream maker: This frozen-bowl-style ice cream maker churns out dense, creamy ice cream faster than any of our other recommendations. Says supervising editor Marilyn Ong: “I have never seen my kids learn any kitchen skill so fast, and with so little complaint.” Save $15 on it here with promo code WCSUMMER.

Breathable sheets that come in fun prints: These Brooklinen sheets we love are made with a percale weave—a cool, breathable type of cotton weave that feels light and crisp to sleep in. Ideal for hot summer nights. All sizes are on sale here with promo code WCSUMMER.

A polished-looking backpack for working from anywhere: Okay, fine, maybe you’ll need to get a little bit of work done this summer. But perhaps using this elegant, thoughtfully designed, and ergonomic laptop backpack will make it a little better? Newsletters editor Brittney Ho has been eyeing a new work bag for months now, and at this price, she may finally go for it. Get it for 13% off with promo code WCSUMMER24.

More Wirecutter-exclusive deals we’re excited about→

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more ›

Photo: Rozette Rago

We’ll leave you with this: our eight favorite ice cream sandwiches. No, they aren’t on sale, but they are certainly a summer treat. Enjoy.

Creamy, sweet, and classic→

Thanks for reading.

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