I work at Aldi

FROM picnics, barbecues to long evenings just chilling in the garden with a crisp glass of wine - we all look forward to the summer months.

So it's crucial to ensure you're prepared for as soon as that sun comes out to really make the most of it.

Thankfully that doesn't mean you have to spend a fortune, and Aldi has a whole host of specialbuys hitting the shelves in the coming weeks.

They're all under £30, but they're limited-edition deals - which means you need to know exactly when to go if you want to grab a particular item.

Thankfully Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi, has shared with us her top summer buys - and the date they're available in store so you don't miss out.

She says: "Each Thursday and Sunday new products arrive in the iconic 'Aisle of Aldi', found in the middle of the store, from must-have homeware and BBQ equipment to toys and beauty bargains.

"Our Specialbuys offer shoppers amazing value items for less, but these are limited-edition deals and once they’re gone, they’re gone!

"To avoid missing out, a top tip is to sign up to the weekly newsletter to be one of the first to hear about new launches and returning best-sellers."

For many of us, nothing beats winding down with a delicious chilled beverage in the garden or on the balcony after a long day at work.

And having a stylish drinks table is both fun and handy.

Julie says: "Offering style and functionality, the drinks table with planter is the perfect addition to both indoor and outdoor spaces.

"With two surfaces ideal for placing drinks on or styling with plants, it is available in a choice of black or grey to suit any décor."

In stores from 21 May.

With summer literally just around the corner, it's the perfect time to jazz up your patio - and one way to do this is to pick up some new planters.

Julie says: "Those with a green thumb will love the slate effect square planter.

"Available in stores from 21 May, it's suitable for both indoor or outdoor use thanks to its weather resistant, durable design."

You'll be sure to get into the summer spirit, quite literally, with Aldi's cocktail candles.

Julie says: "These candles are designed to transport shoppers to their favourite holiday destination with their favourite cocktail in hand.

"Available in three scents - the zesty tang of a Cosmopolitan, the tropical sweetness of a Piña Colada, or exotic zing of a Passion Fruit Martini.

"These cocktail-inspired candles are every bit as sweet as they are scent-sational!"

Available in stores from 21 May.

Shoppers can also pick up a range of outdoor lighting in stores from 21 May.

Julie says: "From the solar spotlights (£16.99 for a 10 pack) to an array of string lights including the Solar Neon Bulb String Lights (£12.99), Solar Geo Strings (£7.99) and Solar Ivy Strings (£7.99) - there's something for any outside space.

"Ideal for al fresco dining this summer."

Among the practical purchases is the perfect product for picnics - a foldable cooler bag.

Julie says: "Perfect for family trips and picnics, the foldable cooler bag is an affordable option for keeping food and drinks fresh during the warmer weather.

"With multiple pockets and plenty of space inside, no one will be going hungry!"

Available in stores from 25 May.

Unless you're getting a disposable barbecue, it's usually a big investment if you want to buy a proper one.

Which is why, at just £29.99 this sleek portable version is so impressive.

Julie says: "New this year, the portable BBQ can be taken anywhere!

"Housed inside a portable, folding brief case it features a galvanised fire bowl and grilling grate for deliciously barbecued food wherever you are."

Available in stores from 25 May.

When the temperatures rise, a pool is an absolute must-have, especially for families.

Julie says: "Cool off on a sunny afternoon in our jumbo pool.

"Ideal for the whole family, it has an integrated headrest, cup holder and transparent window to bring the holiday poolside experience to the back garden."

Available in stores from 25 May.

For enviable summer skin, Aldi's sell-out Vitabase range has just returned to stores.

Julie says: "Shoppers can choose the Lacura Vitabase face primer formulated with Vitamin C, B, E, Shea Butter, Sodium and Hyaluronate for an instantly smooth, plump, and hydrated cover.

"Or they can pick up the Lacura Vitabase eye primer featuring Vitamin B, Shea Butter and Hyaluronate for a fast-absorbing formula that boost hydration to reduce the appearance of fine line, wrinkles, and dryness."

Just be sure to use products or suncream with SPF in it to protect from the sun too.

Every single year without fail, affordable fans sell out as soon as the weather hits sweltering highs - which is why you need to buy a fan before it's too late.

Julie says: "Beat the heatwave this summer and pick up the tower fan to make hot days and nights easier.

"Perfect for smaller spaces, the three-speed setting and 85 degree oscillation keeps air circulating, while the 120-minute timer with automatic shut-off will put minds at ease."