As we head into the season of pool days and vacations by the sea, there’s one garment I can’t wait to live in. The beach is covered. After all, the best days are the ones that don’t require a bra or pants and when you add the promise of water and sunshine, well, it’s just perfection.

While shopping for a swimsuit can be a little stressful, finding the perfect swim cover up is almost too easy. They are fluid! They are comfortable! They don’t pinch or push and “cheeky” isn’t even an option. And while your schedule for the day may be light, the right styles can take you from the pool to alfresco dining or even on a stroll around the farmer’s market.

Related: 14 great places to buy matching swimsuits for the whole family

On the other hand, a beach blanket is a piece of clothing that is guaranteed to end up in a ball at the bottom of your beach bag. It will get wet and sandy and given the sieve-like performance of bath nappies, maybe even pee on it. (I’m just keeping it real, folks. Sorry.) While I can always find a good excuse to buy fancy things, I just can’t rationalize dropping a major coin on a blanket. And you know what? You are absolutely not obligated.

It turns out that Amazon is completely crushing in the cover-up category. From dressy crochet to bohemian-inspired tunics, they have tons of great styles that look a lot more expensive than they are. I’ve rounded up a selection of favorites and not a single one costs more than $30. But you don’t have to tell anyone when the compliments come in. They will never know.

Shop my favorite beach blankets from Amazon below!

Cupshe

$29.99

For a bohemian-inspired look that’s both sexy and sophisticated, you can’t do better than this affordable option from Cupshe. We’re always impressed with their swimsuits and cover-ups that look way more expensive than them – and this one is no exception. At under $30, all it takes is some jewelry and a cute pair of sandals to take you from beach time to million-dollar-looking brunch time.

Ekouaer covers himself

Ekouaer

$28.99

With over 13,000 5-star ratings and 49 (!) different colors and patterns to choose from, this might be the only blanket you need this summer. It’s longer in the back for good butt coverage with a rolled-up cuff that provides just a little extra sun protection.

bsubseach cover

Bsubmarine

$27.99

Whether you throw it on over your suit or with jeans and a tank top, this kimono-style cover-up elevates every summer look. It’s available in over 30 colors and patterns and looks great belted or left flowing in the breeze as you make your entrance.

Jeasona Crochet Blanket

jeasona

$16.99

What can we say? We are suckers for a good crochet blanket. This popular style features a high-low hem and side drawstrings to adjust the height of the slit. Slip on a pair of leather sandals and you’re ready for the beach bars all afternoon.

Moss Rose Kimono Blanket

moss pink

$24.99

Loose, soft and lightweight, this versatile kimono is the perfect style for wrapping up by the pool. It comes in a ton of different styles and certainly doesn’t need to stay relegated to disguise its status. Pair it with your cut jeans or even dinner time for an instant outfit.

Willit UPF 50 Shirt Dress

Is that ok

$29.99

The days of slathering ourselves in baby oil and baking in the sun are over, my friends. Sun protection, from daily face sunscreen to UPF clothing, like this sporty full-coverage dress, is all the rage. The quick-drying material and UPF 50+ fabric make it the perfect piece for days at the beach. It also has a hood and pockets we love for more adventurous excursions like hiking or sneaking around in a game of pickle ball (or, more realistically, hitting the playground.) It also comes in a dozen different colors to stock up on .

Submarine Button Up Cover Up

Bsubmarine

$26.99

From boat days to summer camp outings, this laid-back button-up blanket is the perfect fit. The longer length in the back keeps you covered and can be worn open or buttoned up. It’s also available in a wide assortment of soft, bright colors to suit any style palette!

Turkish Wrap Bsubdeasch

Bsubdeasch

$26.99

TBH, we only live for the day our wardrobe is 95% kaftans and we sat on the veranda, glass in hand surrounded by three of our best friends. We can wait, but in the meantime we will add it to the cart and start the collection. It gets rave reviews for its ability to pass for something much more expensive and the silhouette is simply stunning. Bonus points for a deep V neckline that’s totally nursing-friendly!

Sarong

Cardydonia

$23.99

If a touch of modesty is all you’re looking for, this chic sarong is for you. Literally. Somehow. It’s simple and versatile with the ability to be worn tied around your waist, over your shoulder, or even worn in a dress style.

Sarong

Gear

$15.99

And finally, every mom needs a sarong to put in her bag! Yes, it’s the perfect blanket, but can also be used to wrap cold, tired, sandy children, spread out on the sand like a beach blanket, pinched like a towel when the rest of your stash is soaked and useless or even make a stylish nursing cover. Look what pro you are!

All buying guides, shop, summer