Whether you’re hosting a party, relaxing at the pool, or trying to run a business, portable canopies offer easy protection from the rain and sun. Often called pop-up canopies, these portable shelters “pop up” when opened. Equipped with legs that are easy to adjust, pop up canopies offer stable protection on the go. Even though they are made for travel, they can be used at home quite effectively too.  Here are 5 of our favorite ways to use them at home.

Cover Your Garden or Sandbox

Remember when we said that the length of the legs are easy to adjust? Well, this makes them ideal for giving your garden a bit of shade. This is especially useful if you’re doing maintenance on it. We don’t all have the luxury of being able to wait for the sun. If you have the day off and it’s raining, then a canopy will protect you from getting wet while you get work done. Additionally, if you have little ones who play in a sandbox, a canopy can be used to give them shade on those scorching hot days. 

Shade For Your Pool Chairs

There’s nothing like laying out and catching some rays poolside. Sooner or later, though, you’ll want to take a break. Even if you make smart use of the water and sun block, it’s best to give your skin periods of shade. To accomplish this, put your canopy over your lounge chairs.

A Lemonade Stand

Ah, the lemonade stand. A staple of many childhoods, and a great way to teach kids the value of a dollar early. If your children are setting up on a hot day, then give them a portable canopy. The tent style makes the stand look more professional, it helps keep the drinks cool, and it protects the little ones from getting too much sun.

A Garage Sale

Most street businesses look more professional when they’re under a roof. A pop up canopy achieves that look, and it gives customers some protection from the beating sun. In addition, if it starts to rain, your stuff won’t get wet.

Cover Your Deck or Patio

Whether you’re having guests over for an outdoor lunch or just enjoying your morning coffee outside, it’s nice to have a quick shade solution sometimes. This is where the pop up canopy can really shine. Rather than investing in an awning, just pop one of these up, and when you’re done, either leave it as is, or break it down and move it to the side. Easy as pie.