11 awesome products to give your backyard a makeover under $50

Backyard decor
Backyard decor (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Summer is almost here, and the perfect time to enjoy backyard BBQs or gatherings. But if your outdoor space is in need of a refresh, and you don’t want to spend a fortune, don't despair. You can still give your backyard a budget makeover, and transform it into a cozy, entertaining space. 

What's more, you can easily find top products for just under $50, saving you more money. So from the best solar lights to the best pruning shears to spruce up your garden, here are 11 awesome products to give your backyard a makeover. 

Plus, if you have a small backyard, these tips will make your small backyard look bigger. Also, these 7 plants will create more privacy in your backyard if you want to prevent prying eyes.

1. Solar lights to create ambiance

Solar String Lights

Solar String Lights (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Once the sun goes down, you can keep the party going with the best solar lights. These Brightech Ambience Pro Outdoor String Lights ($21, Amazon), will make your patio space look like an outdoor bistro or Italian cafe. Designed to look like retro Edison-style lights, these string lights are ideal for creating a warm, gentle glow on your deck in the evening. What’s more, solar-powered lights won't impact your electric bill, as they spend the entire day storing up energy from the sun. 

2. Bluetooth speakers to have a blast

Anker Soundcore 3 on wall placed sideways on

Anker Soundcore 3 on wall placed sideways on  (Image credit: Tom's Guide)

If you’re hosting a party, and have your Spotify playlists ready, invest in one of the best cheap bluetooth speakers .The Anker Soundcore 3 Bluetooth speaker ($51, Amazon), may be tiny, but it delivers loud, well-balanced sound, that is ideal for outdoors. For just over $50, this tiny powerhouse that can survive water, dust, while the robust rubberised outer case takes care of protection from daily knocks. 

3. Pruning shears for the best looking garden

A rose stem being pruned by bypass pruning shears

A rose stem being pruned by bypass pruning shears (Image credit: Shutterstock)

The best pruning shears will spruce up your garden, making it neat and tidy for your outdoor gatherings.These gonicc 8" Professional Premium Titanium Bypass Pruning Shears ($27, Amazon), have quality, sharp blades made with Ultra-fine Polishing Technology and teflon or titanium coating, that will also prevent tree pulp adhesion. For more pruning tips, learn how to prune hydrangeas, and how to prune roses and when to do it to create a stunning space.

4. Hammock chair for ultimate relaxation

White hammock chair on balcony

White hammock chair on balcony (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Relax in style with a hammock to give you those holiday vibes. This Asterooutdoor  Hammock Chair Hanging Rope Swing ($47, Amazon), comes with two cushions and wood spreader bar for either indoor or outdoor use. Made from a premium soft cotton canvas fabric, it has a strong and durable design to to withstand up to 330 pounds. This hammock chair is ideal to hang in your patio, backyard or even balcony for the ultimate relaxation. 

5. Projector for movie nights under the stars

Outdoor projector for backyard theatre

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

If you want to know how to make a backyard movie theater, you’ll need a portable projector. Mini projectors like this Meer Mini Projector ($49, Amazon), are great for outdoor movie nights. Not much bigger than your smartphone, it’s power sourced, and can connect directly to your smartphone, tablets or laptops to play your favorite films. Coupled with a screen, tripod, and streaming stick, you’ll have the perfect backdrop for an outdoor theater.  

6. Popcorn maker for tasty treats

Red Hamilton Beach popcorn maker

Red Hamilton Beach popcorn maker (Image credit: Amazon)

To add to your movie nights, why not make your own popcorn? This Hamilton Beach Electric Hot Air Popcorn Popper ($32, Amazon), makes up to 15 cups of tasty popcorn in just minutes. What’s more, you can customize your flavor by adding melted butter and salt to cinnamon sugar and more. It’s compact and easy to use for those delicious snacks. 

7. Outdoor rug to make it cozy

Outdoor rug on patio

Outdoor rug on patio (Image credit: Amazon)

Bring the indoors out with a cozy rug to inject warmth and personality into your backyard. Not only do outdoor rugs feel comfortable, but they can make a colorful feature. Outdoor rugs such as nuLOOM Heidi Multi Striped Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug ($32, Amazon) are designed to be resilient against everyday wear-and-tear. Both water and fade resistant, it will brighten up any backyard. What’s more, you can accessorize with outdoor cushions and throws to create a homely feel. 

8. Decorative planters to add character

Row of blue wagon planters

Row of blue wagon planters (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Spruce up your backyard or patio with a decorative planter. This Amish Wagon Decorative Indoor/Outdoor Garden Backyard Planter ($49, Amazon), makes a nice feature to display your summer florals. With its country, rustic design and charm, this Amish styled wagon will impress your guests. 

9.  Ice cooler for your favorite drinks

Red ice cooler with bottles inside

Red ice cooler with bottles inside (Image credit: Shutterstock)

For summer gatherings, you’ll need one of the best coolers to keep your beverages chilled all day.  In addition, the best coolers will be convenient and light to carry no matter where you go. You can find budget coolers like this 50-quart, Coleman Rolling Cooler ($49, Amazon), that will hold up to 84 cans. Equipped with Xtreme Technology, it can keep ice up to five days in high temperatures, and has heavy-duty wheels to make it easier to transport outdoors. An essential tool for those backyard cook-outs. 

10. Fire pit to keep warm in the evenings

Firepit in backyard

Firepit in backyard (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Whether you want to toast marshmallows, or simply want a soft illumination outdoors, a fire pit can keep your evenings warm. This 32-inch Square Metal Firepit ($37, Amazon), comes with a protective fire screen lid to prevent sparks and burning embers from escaping. Its fire bowl also comes with a handy tool to poke wood or easily remove the mesh lid safely. Just ensure it’s sturdy on a flat surface before use. 

11. Water feature for tranquility

Water feature

Water feature (Image credit: Shutterstock)

If you don’t have the budget for a fancy water feature, why not get a mini version? This Ferrisland Tabletop Water Fountain ($37, Amazon), is designed with three-tier, flowing bowls to create a stunning feature. In addition, its polyresin rock surface design will add a rustic and relaxing ambiance to your outdoor space. 


If you want more money-saving tips, check out 11 easy household tips to help you save money and fight inflation, 9 tips to make your food last longer and tips to save on energy bills.  

Cynthia Lawrence
Content Editor, Homes

As the Homes Content Editor, Cynthia Lawrence covers all things homes, interior decorating, and garden-related. She has a wealth of editorial experience testing the latest, ‘must-have’ home appliances, writing buying guides and the handy ‘how to’ features. 

Her work has been published in various titles including, T3, Top Ten Reviews, Ideal Home, Real Homes, Livingetc. and House Beautiful, amongst many.

With a rather unhealthy obsession for all things homes and interiors, she also has an interior design blog for style inspiration and savvy storage solutions (get rid of that clutter!). When she’s not testing cool products, she’ll be searching online for more decor ideas to spruce up her family home or looking for a great bargain!