How To Best Spend $20 at Big Lots This Summer

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Summer is a great time to snag deals, especially at budget-friendly retailers like Big Lots. With just $20, you can get terrific deals on snacks, beach items, clothes, fun activities for the kids and beauty items that help you stay cool in the heat.
“As a mom of two young kids, I frequent Big Lots often for summer items,” said Amanda Schmitt, author of the blog “Life As Mama.” “Their outdoor toys and pool floats are very affordable, usually under $10. Things like squirt guns, kiddie pools, and sandbox toys are all great options for little ones on a budget.
Schmitt said she also shops at Big Lots for affordable finds on summer-style essentials like shorts, tank tops, swimwear and sandals.
“I’ve found name brands like Champion, Hanes and Faded Glory for $5 to $10 per item,” Schmitt said. “They also frequently run sales on their summer clothing where you can get items for $3 to $5.”
GOBankingRates scoured the best deals to uncover how to best spend $20 at Big Lots this summer.
Basic Black Ice Cream Scoop
- Price: $5.59
Scooping ice cream and sherbert gets a little easier with this old-fashioned scoop with a reinforced handle.
“Stay Cool and Eat Ice Cream” Reusable Tote Bag:
- Price: $0.57
Reusable tote bags are great for everything from running errands to household storage. This summer-themed bag adds lots of space to carry things and warm-weather charm wherever you go.
Boylan Sparkling Lemonade, 12 oz
- Price: $0.99
Add a little nostalgia to your summer drinks with this caffeine-free lemonade. It’s made with pure cane sugar, has a sweet-tart lemonade flavor and is topped off with a sparkling finish.
Retro Series Pop-Up Hot Dog and Bun Toaster
- Price: $15.99
Looking for a speedy snack or dinner solution? The Pop-Up Hot Dog and Bun Toaster roasts two hot dogs and buns simultaneously. It can also be used for chicken dogs, turkey dogs, veggie dogs, precooked sausages and brats.
Banana Boat Kids Sport Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50, 6 oz.
- Price: $8.99
Whether your children play summer sports, or you need extra sun protection while at the beach, Banana Boat Kids Sport Sunscreen is lightweight, mild and gentle for sensitive skin. It’s also water resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Freeman Basics Soothing Cucumber Face Wipes, 25-Pack
- Price: $1
Cool down from the summer heat with cucumber face wipes. They provide a quick and convenient way to soothe overheated skin while removing sweat and grime, which can also help you feel cooler.
Sound Body Aloe Vera Gel, 16 0z.
- Price: $5.49
With record high-temperatures, aloe vera gel is perfect for soothing sunburns and keeping your skin hydrated after a day in the sun.
Rainbow Heaven FunRing Inflatable Kids Pool (45″)
- Price: $8.99
The puncture-resistant kiddie pool is a great alternative when your little ones need to cool off, and you don’t have time to go to the beach or pool. It’s easy to inflate and can be used as a ball pit in cooler weather.
H20GO! Happy Crustacean Junior Inflatable Pool Raft
- Price: $5.99
Add bright sea creatures to your child’s summer water adventures. The pool raft is also equipped with an inflatable bottom and built-in side handles for extra support.
Red, White, & Blue Cooling Popsicle Dog Toy
- Price: $4.99
Pets need to cool off too during the summer. This festive dog toy stays cold after you freeze it, even while your dog nibbles and plays with it.
Real Living Silver Solar Pathway Lights, 4-Pack
- Price: $10.39
The solar-powered lights automatically light up at night, illuminating your walkways, gardens, patios and other outdoor areas.
White Terry Bucket Hat
- Price: $2.97
Stay cool and stylish at an affordable price. The classic bucket hat style is made of soft terry fabric in a neutral color that easily pairs with your everyday outfits.