Get Ready for Summer Fun!

Beach time and grilling outside with family and friends are activities that you can enjoy during the summer season. Before spending time outdoors, relaxing in the summer sun, there are a few things that you might want to add to your shopping list of items to get. Many of the items that you might need for summer can be purchased during the first few months of the year so that you have plenty of time to stock up on what you need.

Cooler Clothing
It's time to update your wardrobe from long sleeves and pants to shorts and sundresses. Stock your closet and drawers with all of the items that will provide a refreshing feeling as well as one that is comfortable whether you're working in the yard outside or relaxing on the beach. Don't forget a new bathing suit for lounging or swimming.

Grill Supplies
If you already have a grill, make sure it's cleaned inside and out before putting the first hamburgers and hot dogs on the grilling surface. However, if you don't have a grill and want a way to prepare delicious food when it's warm outside, there are several types to consider. If you live in smaller home that doesn't have much room, consider a tabletop grill that you can put on a table outside. A larger charcoal grill will give you the smoky flavors that you might enjoy with your meat.

Capturing Memories
Whether it's a small camera or a large one with various settings and filters, you want to get a camera so that you can record the memories that you make with your family and friends. Consider getting one that is waterproof so that you can take the camera to the pool and the beach.

Sun Protection
Make sure you have plenty of protection from the sun with sunscreen that has a high SPF level. Children should have a sunscreen with a higher SPF than adults. Most sunscreens are waterproof so that the product doesn't come off while swimming or sweating. There are also some that have a lower SPF for those who enjoy tanning but still need protection so that they don't burn. Other ways that you can protect yourself from the sun include sunglasses and a large hat that covers the face and provides shade. 

Bottled Water

Probably one of the most important items to stock up on is bottled water - it is important to stay hydrated in the heat and what better than with refreshing natural water to stay cool and refreshed!

Food tems That You Can Buy In Bulk and Store For A Long Time

When running out to the grocery store isn’t always an option, it is good to know what food items can be purchased in bulk and stored. Often buying in bulk saves money too. When buying in bulk, it is important to store items properly so they remain fresh. Keeping oxygen away from the food is very important. Leave everything sealed in its package or stored in airtight containers for maximum freshness. Many items can be good for up to ten years. Most foods store longer if kept in cooler temperatures. Flour, spices and oils should be refrigerated if possible or kept in a cool, dark place.

Canned Foods
Canned foods are one of the easiest items to store and buy in bulk. If you use certain items a lot, it is better to stock up rather than risk running out. Canned foods may include beans, vegetables, diced tomatoes for sauces, as well as tuna and other meats. Always check the expiration date on the can. Most canned goods last for four or more years.

Grains and Legumes
Grains and legumes are a staple in everyone's diet. They are best kept in airtight containers and out of direct sunlight. Some heartier grains, such as wheat germ, contain more oils and can spoil faster. Generally, most grains can be stored for five to ten years if kept at 70 degrees F.

Rice
White rice stores much longer than brown rice. Most brown rice will store for one to two years or longer if refrigerated. White rice can last up to ten years in an airtight container at room temperature.

Dry Pasta
Dry pasta is a great bulk buy. It stores well and is versatile. Pasta is a quick and easy meal solution, plus it is relatively cheap. Most pasta will be good for two to six years.

Dehydrated Vegetables and Milk
Dehydrated fruits and vegetables are yummy snacks and store well. Most can be stored for up to five years. Dehydrated milk is very handy to have in the kitchen. It can be stored for three to six years depending on air and moisture control.

Beverages
Many bottled drinks can be bought in bulk and stored. Powdered drink mixes are also a great item to stock up on. Most packaged drinks last two to four years.

Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are great healthy snacks. They can be used to make nut milk and nut butter. They are also used in a variety of cuisines and dishes from desserts to curry. Nuts and seeds do contain volatile healthy oils that can become rancid, so storage is important. It is best to store them in the freezer or refrigerator for one to two years. At room temperature, they will last about six months.

Other Items
A few other items that store well are baking soda, honey, salt and sugar. These items are good indefinitely. However, humidity and moisture can be an issue for salt and sugar. Again, unopened packages and airtight containers are the best bet. Tea and coffee also store well for up to three years.

Essential Items to Always Have in Your Home

It is better to be safe than sorry. Having essential household items available before an emergency is important. It could save you from minor disasters or even save your life. Here are some items you should always have in your home if you ever find yourself in a bit of pinch.

An item commonly forgotten or left unreplaced is a stock of band-aids. Doctors recommend keeping band-aids always on hand even if their use seems minor. Small cuts during cooking or other accidents, can quickly be fixed with a band-aid. Leaving cuts exposed, no matter how small, can turn into a nastier mess and get infected, often needing more medical help. Save yourself the trouble and buy a small stash of them.

Headaches do not always happen, but when they do be prepared with some form of pain relief. Pain relief medications not only help with headaches but also menstrual pains and cold/fever symptoms. Doctors also recommend keeping some form of aspirin around in case of a heart attack. Take preventative measures into your hands by keeping a small stash of pain relievers ready.

Matches will not always work after being stored away for many years. They also do not last very long. Replace your matches with instant multi-purpose lighters. They are durable and can light for longer durations. Multi-purpose lighters have also been rated safer and more reliable than matches.

Whether it is an emergency or sudden surprise of extra guests, keeping spare extra dental supplies and care is important. Guests will appreciate a gift of a brand new toothbrush if they have forgotten theirs. You might find yourself needing one after your toothbrush has long outlived its expiration date. Floss has also been shown to have multi-purpose uses. If in need of a knife, tooth floss can be used instead to cut small items like food. Mouthwash can also be used to disinfect items or wounds.

Probably the most overlooked essential item is bottled water. Bottled water is the staple of emergency household items. Water often goes unappreciated because it seems to always be readily available in your home. When disaster strikes, clean water can become a commodity. Always keep a stock of bottled water on hand, as it can be used to cook or rehydrate during natural disaster and emergencies.

Knives are not always available and can prove to be difficult to cut certain objects. Keeping a pair of extra scissors on hand doubles as a knife in a pinch. They can be used to cut cloth and even solid objects faster than knives. Scissors are also safer to use to trim hair or facial hair when needed.

Do not forget about these commonly overlooked essential items to always have in your home. Always have them handy, readily available and never wait until the time of an emergency to consider obtaining them. Island Bargains has all these items available for purchase on their site and then even ship to the Caribbean. You might find some other essential items you would like to have not found on this list.