Summer weather in April? 15 cooling products to beat the unexpected East Coast heat wave

It's only mid-April and the East Coast is already getting hit with summer-like heat. Temperatures across the mid-Atlantic and Southeast are expected to climb into the mid-90s this week, with around 600 record highs in jeopardy and 160 million people experiencing weather more typical of June than April.

If you're anywhere from D.C. to New York, you're probably already digging through your closet looking for shorts and wondering where you put the fan you stashed away last September.

But Tom's Guide has you covered. There's no shortage of tech that can help you stay cool, comfortable, and productive when the temperatures start climbing this fast. I've rounded up 12 of the best products on Amazon to help you beat the heat, from portable fans and smart AC units to cooling gadgets you can take with you on the go.

Whether you're working from home, heading outdoors, or just trying to get a decent night's sleep, these are the products worth grabbing right now before they sell out.

Cooling on the go

When you're stuck outside in record-breaking heat, you don't need a full AC unit, you need something portable that's not cumbersome to carry around. These three picks are the ones I'd grab if you're commuting, walking the dog, or just trying to survive a long day outdoors.

Cooling at home

Whether you're working from home, trying to keep your pets cool, or just trying to keep one room from feeling like a sauna, these home cooling picks cover every budget and setup.

Cooling for sleep

Trying to sleep when it's 90 degrees outside is honestly one of the worst feelings in the world. These three products are designed to keep your bed cool, your room comfortable, and your sleep uninterrupted.

Portable coolers

If you're heading to the beach, a park, or a backyard barbecue this week, a decent portable cooler is non-negotiable. These picks will keep your drinks ice-cold for hours, and I've selected three different sizes at three different price points.

Keep hydrated

Staying hydrated isn't optional when the temperatures get this high. The right water bottle keeps your drink ice-cold all day long, which makes a massive difference when you're constantly reaching for water. I love my Yeti Rambler, but if $50 is too much for a water bottle, Civago's insulated 40 Oz is just $17.99.

Heat waves like this one are becoming more common, and being caught unprepared is the worst feeling in the world. The good news is that even a few smart purchases can make a massive difference, whether that's a quiet bedroom fan, a portable AC unit for your home office, or a cooling neck wrap for outdoor walks.

My top picks would be a decent tower fan and a smart AC unit if you've got the budget, with a few cheaper accessories like cooling pillows and personal fans to round things out. Oh and don't forget to stay hydrated, my Yeti Rambler is one of the best products I've ever bought, even if it's on the pricier side.

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