These state fair essentials help keep you cool, comfortable and prepared all day. (iStock)
State fair season is underway, and the right gear can make a long day of rides, games and fried food much more comfortable. From portable neck fans and comfortable Skechers sneakers to foldable wagons that carry everything you need, these essentials will help you make the most of your visit.
When are the biggest state fairs?
Many of the country's biggest state fairs begin in August and continue through the fall. Here are some of the most popular events and when they take place.
Iowa: The Iowa State Fair in Des Moines runs from Aug. 13-23.
New York: The Great New York State Fair in Syracuse happens late summer, from Aug. 26-Sept. 7.
Minnesota: The Minnesota State Fair runs for 12 days from Aug. 27-Sept. 7.
Florida: The Northwest FL Fair in Fort Walton Beach runs Sept. 29-Oct. 3.
California: The California State Fair in Sacramento ran from July 17 through Aug. 2 this year. Beginning in 2027, the fair will move to Sept. 17-Oct. 3.
New England: The Big E, the region's largest fair, runs Sept. 18-Oct. 4 in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Texas:The State Fair of Texas runs Sept. 25-Oct. 18.
Beat the heat
Since many state fairs take place during hot summer weather, you need ways to stay cool while having fun.
Portable neck fan: $25.99 (24% off)
Original price: $33.99
This fan has dozens of air outlets that cool you down. (Amazon)
The 78 air outlets on this portable neck fan provide a steady flow of air to help you stay cool at the fair. The rechargeable battery lasts up to 16 hours on a single charge, and the fan runs quietly, so you can still hear what's happening around you.
READ MORE: 17 Amazon finds under $25 that solve everyday problems
Cooling towels: $13.99 (18% off)
Original price: $16.99
Pack an easy way to stay cool. (Amazon)
Wet these cooling towels, give them a quick shake and wrap one around your neck for instant relief. They stay cool for about three hours and come with a case and carabiner that clips easily to your bag.
Insulated Yeti water bottle: $50
A stainless steel water bottle helps keep drinks cold for hours. (Amazon)
The stainless steel insulation of this Yeti water bottle keeps drinks cold for hours, making it easier to stay hydrated. The large size means fewer refills, and the built-in handle lets you easily clip it to your backpack or wagon.
For a stainless steel option in more unique colors, Owalas are a popular Amazon pick, with more than 20,000 bought last month.
Walk with ease
These essentials help you stay comfortable while exploring the fairgrounds.
Skechers Energy Afterburn sneakers: $62.99
Slip on a supportive pair of shoes for all-day walking. (Amazon)
Quality sneakers are a non-negotiable for long fair days and Skechers fit the bill. The thicker tread gives you better traction, helping prevent your feet from aching, and the leather-and-mesh upper helps improve airflow to reduce sweat buildup. This style also comes in women's sizing.
If the fair takes you through mud, dust or rainy weather, opt for New Balance cross trainers. The leather build gives added protection from the elements and supportive heel cushioning keeps your feet comfortable.
READ MORE: Expert-recommended shoes to help with plantar fasciitis, starting at $75
Anti-blister balm: $8.99
Stop blisters before they form. (Amazon)
A quick swipe of anti-blister balm on your heels stops blisters from forming. The formula contains plant-derived ingredients that help with friction without leaving a greasy residue behind.
Compression socks: $9.99
These socks have ankle supports that combat blisters. (Amazon)
This two-pack of compression socks helps improve blood flow while adding heel cushioning to help prevent blisters. The moisture-wicking fabric keeps your feet dry, and the extra arch support makes long days walking to different stalls more comfortable. If you prefer solid black socks, this six-pack of ankle socks is comfortable and provides arch support.
Stay connected
Keep your phone charged and protected for mobile payments, photos and videos.
Mini power bank: $24.99
A mini backup charger gives you power when you need it most. (Amazon)
Compact enough to throw in your bag, this mini power bank is ready whenever your phone starts running low on battery. The attached strap doubles as a charging cable for convenience. Need even more of a boost? Anker's laptop power bank gives you nearly double the power and has space for four devices at once.
READ MORE: Get ready for storm season with generators and power banks up to 55% off
Jackery Explorer portable power station: $559
Store this small power station in your car for easy access to extra power. (Amazon)
For extra backup power, the high-capacity Jackery Explorer charges phones, portable fans and other small electronics you bring along to the fair. With a 1,500-watt AC output, it can also power larger appliances when you need more than a basic power bank.
Retractable car charger: $16.12 (19% off)
Original price: $19.99
End cable clutter in your car with this charger. (Amazon)
Charge your devices before you get to the fair with this retractable car charger. The cords automatically retract into the main box, so you don't have to worry about clutter or tangled wires. It includes a USB-C and USB-A cord, plus two additional ports that support your own cables.
Phone lanyard, 2-pack: $9.99
Make sure your phone stays dry while you're at the fair. (Amazon)
A waterproof phone lanyard protects your phone from rain and keeps it easily accessible. The clear case lets you use the touchscreen without removing your phone, and it fits most phone models.
Family essentials
If you plan to bring kids to the fair, a foldable wagon and cooler keep drinks and snacks at the ready.
Graco Modes stroller: $249.99
This budget-friendly stroller has plenty of storage. (Amazon)
Bring your baby and all fair-day extras along in this Graco stroller. The under-seat basket can hold snacks, a diaper bag and even a few fair game winnings. The three-in-one design lets you transition from car seat carrier to infant pramette to toddler stroller.
Foldable wagon: $39.99 (33% off)
Original price: $59.99
Store all your belongings in this convenient, foldable wagon. (Amazon)
Cart around everyone's belongings with a foldable wagon. This one expands and holds up to 220 pounds, then folds and stores easily in your trunk.
Camping chairs, 2-pack: $94.99 (21% off)
Original price: $119.99
Bring folding chairs for a convenient place to sit. (Amazon)
Bring a pair of camping chairs when you need to sit and relax after hours on your feet. The two oversized chairs let you kick up your feet while you watch performances, shows and games or snack on hot dogs and candy apples.
Stroller fan: $15.98 (20% off)
Original price: $19.99
Stay cool with a portable stroller fan. (Amazon)
Add a fan to your stroller or wagon to cool down quickly. The bendable arms mold to any surface, staying put even when the road gets a little bumpy. The rechargeable battery lasts for 2.5 to 10 hours, depending on how high the fan runs.
Yeti soft-sided cooler: $250
Store up to 12 cans in this small, powerful cooler. (Amazon)
The Yeti Hopper's DryHide shell seals in cold, resists punctures and dries quickly, giving you a cooler you can rely on for years. Carry it three ways: with the shoulder strap, the top handle or the two side handles. For a cheaper option with similar cooling capabilities, we like the RTIC cooler.
Backpack cooler: $32.99 (11% off)
Original price: $36.99
A cooler backpack gives you a more convenient way to carry drinks. (Amazon)
Fair food and drink costs add up fast. If allowed, fill this backpack cooler with snacks and drinks to save a few bucks. A thick layer of insulated foam seals in the cold for up to 10 hours.
GoPro Hero12 action camera: $299
Capture all the excitement with a GoPro. (Amazon)
Record every dizzying ride and fairground adventure with the GoPro Hero12. It captures clear footage in cloudy or bright conditions, and the waterproof design can handle rainy days.
Be ready for anything
When the weather turns, stay dry with these finds.
Packable rain jacket: $19.99 (38% off)
Original price: $31.99
Always keep a rain jacket on hand for sudden storms. (Amazon)
Pack this portable rain jacket for an extra layer of protection. The waterproof and windproof fabric helps protect against rain and wind, but is lightweight enough that you won't overheat.
READ MORE: Stay dry with these rainy day essentials, starting at just $15
Small umbrella: $9.46 (47% off)
Original price: $17.99
This small umbrella fits in most bags. (Amazon)
A mini umbrella takes up less space than a full-size one, making it easy to stash in your fair bag. This one comes in a handful of colors.
Quick-drying sun hat: $17.99
Add this sun hat to your fair ensemble and stay dry during rainstorms. (Amazon)
Wear a sun hat to protect yourself from UV rays and rain on unpredictable summer days. The breathable, quick-drying fabric won't leave you sweaty, while the neck flap prevents sunburns. Opt for a Mission sun hat if you want a more cooling option — just add water, wringe it out and shake and it cools you down for up to two hours.
Carry your finds
Keep your essentials close and leave room for all your fair finds with these bags.
Foldable tote: $21.99
Get six totes for just $20. (Amazon)
These totes fold into a compact square and expand to full size to hold drinks, snacks and any fair treats. With a six-pack, everyone in the family can get their own bag.
Crossbody bag: $24.99
There's a spot for all your belongings in this crossbody bag. (Amazon)
Stay organized on the go with this crossbody bag. It has separate compartments for tablets, extra clothes, a pair of headphones and more. Two mesh side pockets give you space for multiple water bottles.
For more deals, visit www.foxnews.com/deals
Belt bag: $15.95
This lightweight bag offers room for all the essentials. (Amazon)
A belt bag helps you travel light without sacrificing easy access to your belongings. It's wide enough to accommodate most phones, with room for cash and keys.
If you're an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items sent to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today.
