12 things that make eating and socializing outdoors better this winter
You can be social and safe during the chilly months.
Credit:
Everlane / Anthropologie
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Now that it’s winter, many of us who live in colder climates are limited to staying inside watching Netflix until the spring, right? Wrong. Unless that’s your preferred way to spend your time, then by all means keep bingeing Bridgerton for the second time. But for those of us who are getting a case of cabin fever after a few bleak days inside, there are plenty of ways to socialize outdoors during the winter season while still social distancing and following your state’s COVID-19 guidelines.
We’ve gathered 12 things you need to bundle up and successfully spend time outdoors, as well as some activities that you can still do in the colder months, too.
1. The best face masks we’ve ever tested
An extra layer of warmth and protection.
These masks from Athleta aren’t just cute—they’re insanely popular for how comfortable and breathable they are and have earned more than 2,500 5-star reviews. After testing a ton of face masks, our experts dubbed them the best face mask on the market for its customizable fit thanks to the adjustable ear loops and nose bridge.This 5-pack comes with a variety of colors and patterns, so you can either wear a different one each day, or give them to friends at your next small get together.
Get the Everyday Non Medical Masks, 5 Pack from Athleta for $20
2. An electric patio heater to stay warm on your porch
Keep chills at bay.
You saw them at your favorite restaurants during the fall to help make outdoor seating a little warm, so why not get a patio heater to extend the lifespan of your own outdoor space? This propane heater from Fire Sense can burn for 10 hours on a single tank and directs heat to ensure that no warm air is wasted. The heater is also height adjustable and includes an automatic shut-off switch for safety.
Get the Fire Sense Pro Series 46,000 BTU Propane Gas Patio Heater from BBQ Guys for $426.99
3. Our favorite portable projector for outdoor movies
No movie theatre, no problem.
Bundle up in the backyard for a movie on the big, er, projected screen. Just make sure you have a patio heater and a ton of blankets on you. This mini projector from Anker is a smaller version of our favorite portable projector and has every capability the movie theater has. It displays an 100-inch picture and can run your favorite streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, and more. Our experts loved the Anker Nebula for its portability and crisp image, and you can expect a similar result with this one.
Get the Anker Nebula Capsule from Amazon for $299.95
4. The famous Amazon coat
Even celebrities love this coat.
If you’re spending time outdoors during the winter, you’ll need a really great coat. If you also want to look effortlessly chic like an off-duty model, you’ll need the super popular Orolay Down Jacket, which has more than 15,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating on Amazon. One of our editors is obsessed with the Amazon coat that’s equipped with six pockets, duck down filler, a fleece-lined hood, and the side zippers that make it easier and more comfortable to sit down. With 13 color options you’re bound to find one you love.
Get the Orolay Down Jacket from Amazon for $149.99
5. A wine tumbler for on-the-go sipping
Take the bar where you are.
Let’s be honest—one of the biggest things we miss these days is sitting at our favorite bar with friends and enjoying a nice glass of wine. You can still get the same experience without the hefty tab thanks to this convenient wine tumbler that you can take to the park or socially distanced walks. It’s highly-rated on Amazon with more than 13,000 reviews because it keeps your drink at chilled temperature for hours—or until you go for that second glass.
Get the Chill Out Wine Tumbler from Amazon for $11.95
6. A hand warmer you can recharge
Don’t be caught cold-handed.
No matter where your small group decides to meet up outside, it’s bound to be chilly this season. Make sure your hands stay perfectly warm with this rechargeable hand warmer that offers up to 15 hours of extra warmth. The design resembles a computer mouse and fits right in the palm of your hand. Take it with you on the slopes, on your socially-distant walks with a friend, or just use it to charge your phone (yes, it can do that too).
Get the Ocoopa Hand Warmer from Amazon for $31.43
7. A fire pit that doubles as a table
Eat, drink, and be warm.
Gathering around a roaring fire isn’t just for summertime. Invite your closest circle over for a fireside chat around this propane fire pit that’s also a table and fits perfectly into any patio decor. Great for year-round use, it allows you to comfortably enjoy eating outside through the seasons, and is, in my opinion, the most comfortable fire pit to enjoy company with.
Get the Lars Aluminum Propane Firepit Table from Wayfair for $679.99
8. A beanie to keep you stylish and warm
This beanie gets better overtime.
Whether you’re hanging out in the cold or enjoying an winter sport with a few friends, this beanie made from luxuriously soft cashmere will keep you incredibly cozy. This Grade A cashmere pills much less and actually becomes softer overtime, which is even more of a reason to get outside and wear it.
Get the Cashmere Rib Beanie from Everlane for $65.99
9. A pop-up gazebo to keep cover
A tent, but make it bougie.
If you don’t want to do dinner in an igloo, try popping up a gazebo in your own backyard. The mesh walls give air ventilation while the two zippered doors allow you to open up the space or keep it enclosed. Large enough for up to eight people, it can accommodate your socially distanced gathering with your immediate circle no problem. Add in a few blankets and some hot chocolate and you’ve got a perfect evening.
Get the Alvantor Gazebo Pop-Up from Walmart for $159.99
10. A super cozy faux fur throw blanket
If they make good boots then they can make great blankets.
When you’re dining outdoors in the winter, whether it’s in your own backyard or on a restaurant’s patio, it’s always a good idea to have an extra layer. Try this Ugg blanket on for size, with a heavyweight knit that feels plush to the touch and is large enough to wrap it around more than one person. It’s the perfect intersection of quality, indulgence, and practicality that you expect from Ugg, so it’s sure to be a favorite for years to come.
Get the UGG Faux Fur Throw from Bed, Bath & Beyond for $79.99
11. Earmuffs make of a cozy coat material
Say 'so long' to cold ears.
For fashionista’s and cozy-cravers alike, these teddy earmuffs are ideal for any outdoor winter venture. Reviewers love how they’re snug but not too tight, making them comfortable enough to wear for long periods, with many saying they purchased them in multiple colors. They can also help keep your mask in place while sledding, or as the pièce de résistance to your socially-distanced coffee date outfit.
Get the Teddy Earmuffs from Bed, Bath & Beyond for $4.99
12. A container that keeps bread warm outside
Nobody likes cold bread.
Admit it: we all went a little crazy making bread during quarantine last year. But on the bright side, now we can show off our newly-honed skills with this wool-felt bread basket. It’s outfitted with a warming tile to keep it from becoming a hard rock on the outdoor table. Simply place the terracotta tile in the oven for 15 minutes and it’s ready to keep your bread, and any other baked goods, perfectly warm for serving.
Get the Bread Basket & Warming Tile Set from Anthropologie for $50