Memorial Day Must-Haves: 15 Summer Necessities

By Marni Elyse Katz
May 30, 2011

Memorial Day Must-Haves

Memorial Day marks the start of summer. And when it comes to celebrating the season successfully, certain items are non-negotiable. From sunglasses and trendy summer sandals to summer cookbooks and gas grills, you can stock up on summer staples on eBay online auctions. We sourced fifteen eBay finds that every summer house requires.

Weber Genesis E-310 Liquid Propane Gas Grill

(buy it now price, $599.99)

He’s hardly stepped off the train before the white apron and chef’s hat is on. Stock up on steaks and veggies; he’s invited everyone over to kick off the season. Thankfully, this Weber has 507-square-inches of cooking space, plus hooks for six tools. Kebab anyone?
Collapsible Beach Chair with Canopy

(buy it now price, $48.99)

You’ve tried the tent—it never folds back into its bag—and your umbrella inevitably blows down the beach at the mere whisper of wind. Try one of these chairs with built in canopy. It may not shield your lower half, but your head will always be under cover. Plus, it collapses down to less than 7-inches in diameter, ensuring enough trunk room for the beer cooler.
Cuisinart Frozen Ice Cream Maker

(buy it now price, $35.99)

Licking cones in sandy suits after a day at the beach is absolutely amazing. But for dessert after dinner parties, consider concocting homemade sweets with organic (and perhaps lowfat?) ingredients. This makes ice cream, frozen yogurt and sorbet.
Set of Four French Bull ‘Splendida’ Flower Dinner Plates

(buy it now price, $43.75 )

Plastic plates have come a long way. French Bull’s sturdy melamine pieces sport fun and colorful patterns that add easy flair to outdoor dining. In the off-season, use them for the kids.
Joseph Joseph Salad Bowl and Servers

(buy it now price, $39.95)

A cute, portable salad bowl and server set on hand lets you easily transfer the greens from the kitchen to the patio. During the school year, it will get plenty of use when you’re called on to participate in the class potluck.
1000+ Seeds, Wildflower Seed Mix

(buy it now price, $1.99)

You needn’t be a dedicated gardener, or even boast a green thumb, to sow—and grow—wildflowers. Simply rough up the terrain, scatter these seeds, and sprinkle over with soil. Or take your chances and throw them to the wind. Watch; in a few weeks, blooms perfect for cutting will surprise you.
Marc by Marc Jacobs Nylon Packable Shopper

(buy it now price, $58)

Keep your tote stocked with sunscreen, sunglasses, and the newest fashion mags. Add a chilled bottle of water and a coverup. This nautical cutie is lightweight, but easily able to tote it all.
Barefoot Contessa at Home by Ina Garten

(buy it now price, $16.50)

This first edition hardcover was written five years ago, but Ina Garten absolutely holds her own. Having got her start in the summer playground of East Hampton, the "Barefoot Contessa's" farm-to-table dishes—from Tomato, Mozzarella, and Pesto Paninis and Old-Fashioned Potato Salad to Peach and Blueberry Crumble and Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Icing—are water summer is made of.
Halex Select Six-Player Croquet Set with Deluxe Carry Case

(buy it now price, $40.61)

The grounds don’t boast a tennis court, but the yard is big enough for lawn games. A colorful croquet set beats Pictionary on a relaxed summer afternoon. Makes a great hostess gift as well.
Triple Tube Copper Bird Feeder

(buy it now price, $69.99)

You’ve moved in and stocked the fridge for the summer; now feed your outdoor friends. This bird feeder should attract the birds, but keep out the squirrels.
Set of Six Margarita Glasses

(buy it now price, $19.98)

Beer’s great for the beach, and fancy vodka-filled cocktails reign at restaurants. But when you’re dining in with friends, you prefer to whip up batches of margaritas with fresh limes and coarse salt. Best to have the glass to go with.
Zyliss 5-in-1 Way Bottle Opener

(buy it now price, $6.99)

Nothing worth than being caught on the beach with a full supply of refreshments and no way to open them. This bright mod gadget opens pull tabs on cans, peskly plastic and metal twist-off caps, metal bottle caps. pop-tabs, and jar lids. Keep one in your cooler; the almost-neon color makes it easy to find.
Metro Picnic Basket

(buy it now price, $43.99)

The wicker picnic hamper is more romantic than practical. Opt for an insulated tote. This nylon schlepper in sturdy aluminum frame has a waterproof interior and an expandable drawstring top, and is roomy enough to fit a feast for four.
Canvas Ankle Strap Espadrille Wedges

(buy it now price, $21.99)

Espadrilles are always summer staples, but this season wedges are must-haves, plain and simple. Ditch the flip flops when the sun goes down, or when you head into town, in favor of these casual but super cute canvas wedges with bow.
Oberlin B&L Ray Ban Vintage1970s Oval Sunglasses

(buy it now price, $20)

Aviators and Wayfarers are classics, but it’s the rounded silhouette that hipsters are turning to this season. We love the minimalist sleek vintage vibe of these ‘70s era shades.