Best Hammocks to Help You Enjoy Some R&R at Home

Courtesy of Katie Friedman

Hi Friends,

Spring is in full swing! Make sure you get a little "me time" with any of these popular hammocks.

Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these links.

It's important to practice self-care and protect your mental health, and what better way to take a load off than by reading a book, calling a friend or meditating while swinging in a comfy hammock? Even if you can't physically escape to a tropical locale or remote mountaintop, you can mentally transport yourself there on one of these lazy loungers. Here are our 10 favorite hammocks that you can set up on your front porch or patio whenever you need a little R&R.

Classic + Comfortable Double Hammock
$29.97 Amazon

Once they find out how comfortable this hammock is, your whole family will want to pile in. The good news is that it can hold up to 400 pounds (though it's definitely meant for two people) and is just as easy to set up as it is to tear down. You know, in case you need to make a quick escape and find a new happy place.

Cute + Durable Hammock Chair
$66.99 Wayfair

If you'd rather hang solo, then this one-person hammock chair will help you send the message loud and clear. Though the seat looks delicate, the weather-resistant cotton design and spreader bar can hold up to 275 pounds and will lend a breezy touch to your outdoor ensemble.

Flat-Weave Hammock
$79.99 Target

If you want a hammock that's as stylish as it is comfortable, I suggest you snag this little number. The fabric is soft and sturdy, giving you the perfect spot to kick back and enjoy warm breezes. Note: Hanging hardware is not included.

Stylish Double Hammock
$129.99 Wayfair

This is another adorable two-person hammock with comfy quilted construction. It comes with tree straps and chains so you can easily attach it to a stand you already own or rig it up in the backyard. Plus, the fabric is UV-resistant, so the beautiful nautical striped pattern won't fade.

Tropical Hammock With Stand
$99.99 Amazon

Prepare to slip — or should I say, swing? — away to white sandy beaches, because this striped hammock will make you feel like you're on a tropical vacation. It even comes with the sturdy steel frame pictured above, so you can keep it on your patio year-round.

Enclosed Hanging Chair
$175.99 The Home Depot

Is it a teepee, a hammock or a chair? It's all three! Perfect for a quiet afternoon reading break, this indoor/outdoor suspended seat supports up to 450 pounds and is constructed of durable, washable, breathable, UV-resistant mesh fabric. It's packable, too, making it a great camping companion. We see this being an instant hit with kids (and adults!).

Saratoga Hammock
$128 Anthropologie

Boho lovers, this is the hammock for you. With its unique fringe trim and macrame details, this yellow-and-white hammock clearly has "cool" written all over it. If you hang it in your backyard by the inflatable pool, you can even pretend that you've taken a trip to Palm Springs or Miami Beach.

Handmade Yucatan Hammock
$69.99 Amazon

This multicolor hammock was just made for lazy days. Crafted from 100-percent cotton and woven by artists from the Yucatan, it's an incredibly soft seat. It's also available in nine vibrant colors.

Protective Hammock Set
$99.83 Amazon

Tired of the mosquitos interrupting your "me time"? Snag this Wise Owl hammock kit, which comes complete with a tight-weave net and rain tarp to keep the bugs and water out. Whether you're chilling in the backyard, on an apartment balcony or at a campsite, this lightweight, easy-to-assemble hammock goes anywhere for instant relaxation.

Foldable + Portable Hammock
$65.99 Walmart

Believe it or not, this hammock folds up so small that it's incredibly easy to store in your shed or garage. A sturdy canvas construction and aluminum frame provide all the support you're looking for and ensure that it'll last for many summers to come.

Relax & enjoy...

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Yvonne

The Best Travel Backpacks for Every Trip

Courtesy of Deanne Revel

Hi Friends,

Shop backpacks that are highly rated by HGTV editors and travelers around the world.

Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and they may make money from these links.

Every traveler needs a good backpack. It’s the perfect size for a plane carry-on. It’s essential for hiking or camping. And a backpack is the best hands-free option for parents on the go. If you're looking for a new travel backpack, we found the perfect one for every trip, from waterproof to anti-theft to an insulated cooler. Check out these top picks below and see which backpack is right for your next adventure.

Backpacks 101

There’s a lot to consider when shopping for a backpack, but the material should be the most important factor. If you’re using a backpack to commute or bike, you’ll want a waterproof (or at the very least water-resistant) backpack. Sometimes backpacks come with detachable waterproof coverings. Sometimes the fabric itself is waterproof, but bottom line: Suede and other leather backpacks are not great for the elements. Fit is also extremely important — especially if you’re shopping for a hiking or camping backpack. An ill-fitting pack can cause damage to your lower back, shoulders and neck. So, look for a backpack with adjustable shoulder and hip straps for a customized, perfect fit. The third most important feature to consider when shopping for a travel backpack is organization. Look for backpacks with smart features such as quick access pockets for phones and passports or a dedicated sleeve to slide a backpack on top of a rolling suitcase. These tiny features might not sound that important but are game-changers when navigating busy airports and cruise terminals.

Best Carry-On Backpack

If you only buy one backpack for travel, make it The Backpack. Away's signature bag is an all-around great bag — especially as a carry-on for air travel. The bag features three main zip compartments with dedicated pockets for smaller items and a sleeve for laptops up to 15 inches. There's a hidden pocket for quickly grabbing passports and documents, and the backpack even features a handy sleeve for slipping over the handle of a rolling suitcase. It's large enough that you can fit all your essentials, yet small enough to slide under the seat in front of you.

The Backpack
$165 AWAY

Professional photographers worldwide swear by Peak Design and the company's Everyday Backpack is a great example of why. The standard 20-liter bag is weatherproof on the outside and has durable, padded dividers on the inside to keep cameras, lenses, accessories and laptops secure and separated. There are also dedicated side pockets for tripods. The 20-liter bag will hold one camera and a couple of lenses, but the 30-liter bag can accommodate multiple camera bodies and around four lenses.

Everyday Backpack
$259.95 Peak Design

Whether you're browsing a Saturday morning farmers market or heading out for an afternoon picnic, an insulated backpack will keep your drinks and eats perfectly chilled. This backpack from Corkcicle is basically one big cooler with straps, which is the perfect alternative to bulky straw baskets or heavy tote bags.

Brantley Backpack Cooler
$129.95 Corkcicle

The best hiking backpack is one you forget you’re wearing. Designed specifically for women, the Osprey Sirrus 24 comes with adjustable torso straps, a seamless hip belt and incredible ventilation in the back. Though the 24 is the smallest pack in the Sirrus series, it can handle up to 25 pounds.

SIRRUS 24 Women's Day Hiking Backpack
$140 Osprey

You can't go wrong with an Osprey and more specifically you can't go wrong with the Ariel and Aether line of backpacks. The Ariel has options for smaller bodies and frames, while the Aether is designed for larger bodies but both share the same design and type of compartments. Even the Ariel 55, the smallest in the collection, has a dedicated spot for a sleeping bag, mat, hiking poles, water bottles and more. The most impressive feature for Ariel and Aether is the Custom Fit-on-the-Fly Hipbelt and Shoulder Straps. These packs can be adjusted for multiple fits for all different shapes and sizes.

Ariel 55 Backpack
$260 Osprey

Thieves don’t need to steal your bag. They just need to stand close enough to you to scan what’s inside. Using RFID (radio-frequency identification) technology, hackers can lift data from your passport, credit card and more. Invest in an RFID-blocking bag, such as Pacsafe’s Citysafe bag, to keep your personal info safe while traveling abroad.

Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Mini Backpack
$139.95 Amazon

Technically, Fawn Design was created for cool moms, but these fashion-forward diaper bags have developed a cult following from non-parents (myself included) because these bags have so many pockets. Seriously, there's a pocket for everything. The mini is the same size as a large backpack purse and can fit an iPad and tons of snacks. If you're looking for a bag for your next theme park or cruise vacation, this is it.

The Mini Backpack
$94.90 Fawn Design

We're big fans of Baggu's reusable shopping bags here at HGTV, and now the brand has backpacks and purses, too. This sporty backpack features the same recycled ripstop nylon as the shopping bags, but now it's in a backpack form perfect for road trips, beach days or tossing into a suitcase.

Small Sport Backpack
$68 Baggu

If you'd rather travel with a backpack than a duffel for short trips, check out the Outbreaker Backpack from Tortuga. It's basically one big packing cube with backpack straps. And the zipper opens all the way around like a suitcase instead of a traditional backpack for easy access and packing.

Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack
$299 Tortuga

Most backpacks with laptop sleeves are designed for 13 and 15-inch laptops, however, if you have a larger laptop, check out this bag from Calpak. The Luka can carry a laptop up to 17 inches. This bag also makes a great commuter travel backpack as the bottom features a hidden pocket for sneakers or an umbrella.

Luka Laptop Backpack
$98 Calpak

Dry bags are a godsend for a day out on the water, but the packs aren’t really practical unless you’re throwing them in a boat. Adventure company SealLine is changing that with a series of dry bags that feature a backpack design. The small Urban Backpack is a great all-around size, whether you're kayaking, snowshoeing or walking around Seattle in the rain.

SealLine Urban 26-Liter Waterproof Laptop Dry Daypack
$169.95 Amazon

If you’re looking for a bag that does a little bit of everything, the Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Daypack is the best bang for your buck at $30. The incredibly lightweight design is great for a trip with both outdoor adventure and city time. While not waterproof, it is moisture-resistant and the entire bag folds into the front pocket for easy storage.

Stowaway Packable 20-Liter Daypack
$30 Eddie Bauer

Happy Travels...

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Live well,
Yvonne

Cozy Bedroom Buys You Need for Fall...

Courtesy of Katie Friedman

Hi Friends,

Build the comfiest bed for fall with these plush mattress toppers, flannel sheets, sherpa blankets and more.

Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these links.

We've officially reached that time of year when the breezy, cotton percale sheets just don't cut it anymore. Sure, they might be soft, but they're just not warm enough, not snuggly enough for those brisk evenings around the bend. And that can only mean one thing: It's time to call in the wool, flannel and fleece reinforcements.

Lucky for you, we've already found the cutest and coziest fall bedding sets available. Read on to build your perfect bed from the mattress up, and settle into the season in autumnal style.

Mattress Pads

Denali Supreme Lambswool Mattress Pad
$96.89 - $145.77 Overstock

Wool is synonymous with warmth and coziness, so a wool mattress pad is a must-have. In addition to being hypoallergenic and resistant to mold, this plush mattress topper naturally retains heat and helps regulate body temperature to keep you warm in the fall/winter and cool in the summer. (That means you can use it year-round.) It's also washer-friendly and equipped with elastic straps so you can secure it firmly in place.

Beautyrest Cotton-Blend Heated Mattress Pad
$59.99 - $133.99 Bed Bath & Beyond

And if you live somewhere where it gets really cold? Then you should definitely snag this heated mattress pad. A fitted skirt provides a non-slip fit, while the flexible wires deliver up to 80 degrees of heat. You can use it to pre-warm your bed, to soothe stiff muscles and aching joints, or just to get that totally-toasty effect. It automatically shuts off after 10 hours and includes two controllers for you and your sleep partner.

Sheets

Belgian Flax Linen Sheet Set
$242 - $309 Pottery Barn

Breathable yet naturally insulating, flax linen sheets are the perfect way to ease your bedroom into fall. On those last few hot summer nights, the lightly textured fabric will keep you nice and cool, but as the temperature dips, it'll feel more like a thin blanket layered under your comforter. These Belgian Flax Linen sheets have a lived-in look that we absolutely love and are available in 13 different fall-friendly colors, like sage and fig.

Tossed Leaves Flannel Sheet Set
$89 - $139 L.L.Bean

Flannel sheets? Yes, please! Lay on the fall color and comfort with these festive sheets featuring tossed leaves. Because they're made from cotton flannel, which is heavier than flax linen, they'll keep you nice and warm on those super chilly evenings while enlivening your neutral bedding.

Buffalo Check Cotton Flannel Sheet Set
$49.99 - $57.99 Target

For the record, you can never have too much flannel. Lean into snuggle season with a set of these cozy, cotton flannel sheets. You'll love how the light orange, blue and cream brighten the buffalo check pattern and give your bedroom an autumn-appropriate, country-chic look. Each set comes with a flat sheet, fitted sheet and two pillowcases.

True North Microfleece Sheet Set
$31.86 - $59.99 Kohl's

You've never really been as snug-as-a-bug-in-a-rug until you've slept on microfleece sheets. Crafted from 100-percent polyester, thicker fabric than most, these fleece sheets are unbelievably warm. Best of all? They have an anti-pill design, so they'll look just as new and feel just as soft after every wash cycle.

Throw Blankets

Luxe Chenille Throw Blanket
$63 $44 West Elm

Sumptuous and soft to the touch, chenille makes for the perfect fall layering piece. Leave it at the foot of your bed for a high-end dose of texture, or slip it under the covers to create a cocoon of comfort. It's available in six different hues, but we're partial to this fashion-forward dusty rose.

Thermal Sherpa Back-Knit Throw Blanket
$79 Pottery Barn

Who could possibly say no to sherpa? Add an extra layer of warmth to your bed (and create a snuggly space that's so, so hard to leave in the morning), with this thermal knit sherpa blanket. The front features marled yarn in an ochre hue for a homespun look and hides the sherpa side from your family — so you don't have to worry about sharing!

Chunky Knit Throw Blanket
$59 - $69 Target

If you can't sleep in your favorite sweater, the next best thing is obviously bundling up in a chunky knit throw blanket. The machine-washable, mid-weight material will bring all the delicious fall texture to your space, while the marled gray hue will coordinate well with your year-round decor.

Duvet Covers & Comforters

Classic Heavyweight Down Duvet Insert
$289.95 - $329.95 Crate & Barrel

Down has a reputation for being exceptionally warm, comfortable and long-lasting when properly cared for. (Read: It should never be washed, only dry-cleaned.) So this heavyweight down-filled duvet insert might be a great investment for your bedroom. It even features a clever, baffle-block construction for maximum loft and minimum shifting of the down.

Pendleton Mosier Plaid Comforter Set
$179 - $269 Dillard's

Down might be warm, but it's not the only option for comfy fall bedding. If you're looking for an eco-friendly and low-maintenance alternative to feathers and fluff, snag this classic plaid bedding set from Pendleton. It comes with a hypoallergenic, polyester-filled comforter and is safe to toss in the wash.

Custom Scalamandre Bahar Organic Duvet Cover
$79 - $299 Williams Sonoma

If you've already got the uber-snuggly fleece sheets, bring in some fall color by way of this adorable cotton duvet cover. Warm notes of ochre, umbre and taupe, plus wheat and other botanicals, make this bedspread look festive-yet-timeless.

Enjoy your Fall shopping spree...

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Live well,
Yvonne

How to Host a Rustic, Fall Backyard Party...

Courtesy of Brian Patrick Flynn
Photography by Flynnside Out Productions

Hi Friends,

We'll show you how to create the perfect atmosphere for a classic, fall-themed backyard party your guests will love.

Party Perfection

Invite family and friends over for a celebratory backyard get-together that's a little bit rustic and sophisticated and whole lot of fun.

Make It Interactive

If you're keeping score, do it on an oversized outdoor chalkboard. It's easy to make, and we love how multipurpose it is. When you're not keeping score, it can become an art canvas or menu display for more formal gatherings.

Get the How-To

Create Conversation Zones

If you have the space, create a few different seating areas. This will help create a better traffic flow and keep everyone from congregating in one spot too long.

Use Indoor Accessories

Bringing accessories from inside your home onto the deck is an instant way to elevate any outdoor space. Just remember, when the party's over, don't forget to take them back indoors.

Seasonal Sips

Nothing says fall like cider. This bourbon and honey cider cocktail is delicious and perfect for a fall shindig.

Get the Recipe

Upcycled Elements

Let your rustic style shine through with this upcycled beverage station made from an old stool. The spigot allows water to drain easily when the ice melts.

Get the How-To

Organic Vessels

Skip the glass or ceramic vase and go organic instead. A hollowed-out tree branch or fresh produce can make beautiful vessels for seasonal florals.

Get the How-To

Keep It Casual

The key to a great party is allowing yourself to enjoy it, so keep it casual and let your guests serve themselves. Set up a simple buffet with just a few tasty bites and let the sparkling conversation begin!

Sweet & Savory Bites

A do-it-yourself caramel apple bar is always a crowd-pleaser. It's the perfect way to serve up something that's both sweet and savory. Guests can choose their dip and get creative with an assortment of delicious toppings.

Make Your Own

Clever Details

Small details matter. Something as simple as hollowing out a few apples and placing tea lights inside can add that extra little something to an otherwise ho-hum tablescape.

Get the How-To

Fun & Games

Keep games and dice handy just in case guests get competitive. You never know when someone will want to play a friendly game of Bunco!

Stay Cozy

Keep plenty of throw blankets handy to take the chill off as the sun goes down.

Sophisticated Style

Mix in a few metallics, like brass or silver, to keep the rustic look feeling slightly sophisticated and glam.

Fall is just around the corner...

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Live well,
Yvonne