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Outdoor Living: Ruark’s Top Tips to Make the Most of the Summer

It’s gloriously sunny, the kids have broken up from school, and long summer nights are stretching out ahead - but somehow, you’ve found yourself sitting indoors, twiddling your thumbs, and wondering how to best enjoy the good weather.

Not sure how to spend the next couple of months wisely? Read on for our top tips to make this summer count, whether you’re soaking up the sun or waiting for a break in the clouds.

Ruark Audio BackPack 3 on R1 Mk4

1. Take the tunes outside

It doesn’t matter if you’re throwing a garden party, camping under the stars, or chilling in your back garden - music will enhance any kind of outdoor pursuit, but Bluetooth speakers don’t always cut it in terms of audio quality.

Happily, you can now take your R1 outside thanks to the new BackPack3 battery. Offering an impressive 12-hour playback time, BackPack 3 means you’ll get the same rich mains-powered performance you’re used to from the R1, with the added benefit of complete portability. Prefer stereo sound? BackPack 3 is also compatible with the MR1 Bluetooth speaker system.

2. Invest in (or make) some garden furniture

Nothing makes a garden quite as appealing as some artfully placed pieces of furniture. According to Inside Out Living, one of the biggest trends for 2022 is the creation of ‘functional outdoor rooms’ that combine a mixture of indoor furnishings and practical weatherproof materials - think rattan dining sets, outdoor rugs, and cosy cushions.

On a strict budget? Sustainable materials and recycling are another big trend in the world of garden decor this year. Why not upcycle an old deck chair that’s seen better days, or (if you’re feeling adventurous), stack some pallet boxes for a thrifty, eco-friendly garden sofa?

3. Pack a picnic

Taking your own food on a summer day out is a great way to save your pennies and avoid expensive takeaways and restaurants. Pack a cool bag with your favourite snacks (leaving space for a bottle of Rosé), roll up a sturdy blanket, charge your R1, and meet your friends at the park for a leisurely afternoon outdoors.

4. Have a backup plan

Weather looking gloomy? In that case, you can still make the most of the summer by bringing the outdoors in. Some tropical trees and succulents thrive indoors, so bring a taste of nature into your home with some carefully positioned pot plants. Of course, no summer day in would be complete without the perfect playlist to liven up the mood - that’s why we’ve put together a selection of our favourite summery songs for you to enjoy, whether you’re basking in the sun, braving the brisk British weather, or cosying up indoors.

Summer Outside playlist