Summer brings a welcome change of pace. Whether you’re spending more time outside, traveling, getting active, or just trying to slow down and recharge, there are plenty of ways to support your health and wellness along the way.

That’s where your health savings account (HSA) comes in. Most people think of it as something to use for prescriptions or doctor's visits and yes, it does that. But it can also cover a surprising range of everyday items and services that are especially useful this time of year.

If you're looking to stay healthy, safe, and comfortable this summer, here's how your HSA can quietly have your back without you even realizing it.

Sun and Skin Protection

Summer means more time under the sun and while it’s great for your mood, it’s not always great for your skin. These essentials are both important and eligible:

• Sunscreen (SPF 15+ and labeled “broad spectrum”): A daily must, not just for beach days.

• Lip balm with SPF: An often-overlooked detail that makes a big difference.

• Prescription sunglasses: If prescribed by your eye doctor, these can help you protect your eyes without paying out of pocket.

• First aid supplies: From scraped knees to bug bites, keep your kit stocked with things like bandages, antiseptic cream, gauze, and ice packs.

Protecting your skin and eyes helps you enjoy summer without setbacks. These essentials keep you safe and comfortable during all your outdoor activities.

Managing Allergies and Outdoor Exposure

Spending time outside means more exposure to allergens like pollen, grass, and dust. If you deal with seasonal allergies, your HSA can help offset some of the costs.

• Allergy testing and treatments: Including office visits and labs.

• Doctor-recommended medications: Over-the-counter meds may also qualify with a prescription.

• Air purifiers or humidifiers: If prescribed to manage a medical condition, these items can sometimes be reimbursed.

Wellness and Recovery

Summer can also be a time to invest in your overall wellness, whether that means staying active, managing stress, or simply feeling better in your body. Many of these services are eligible with a doctor’s note:

• Massage therapy: If recommended for medical reasons like muscle tension, back pain, or injury recovery.

• Acupuncture: A holistic option that’s often used for pain relief and stress management.

• Chiropractic care: Helpful for posture, pain, or alignment—especially after long travel days or being more physically active.

• Yoga classes or fitness programs: Can be eligible if recommended by a provider for a specific condition (like chronic pain or mental health support).

Health on the Go

Whether you’re traveling across the country or staying close to home, summer often means being on the move. Your health savings account can help you prepare and stay ready for the unexpected.

• Medical care while traveling internationally: Qualified medical expenses outside the U.S. can be reimbursed.

• Travel health supplies: Thermometers, motion sickness bands or medications, first aid kits—many are covered, especially if medically necessary.

• Emergency visits or prescriptions on the road: If something comes up while you're away from home, your account can help cover the costs.

Supporting Active Lifestyles

Longer days and warmer weather make it easier to get outside, stay active, and refocus on your health. Your HSA may help with that too, especially when items are used for specific health needs.

• Fitness trackers: If recommended for a medical reason (like tracking heart rate or managing a condition), they may qualify.

• Visits with a dietitian: If you’re working on nutritional goals or managing a condition like diabetes or high blood pressure.

• Weight management programs: Can be eligible if prescribed by a provider for a specific health concern.

What The Lively Team Uses All Summer

To give you a sense of how this works in real life, we asked the Lively team about the HSA-eligible products they actually use all summer long. Here’s what they rely on to stay healthy, comfortable, and ready for whatever the season brings.

• Supergoop Glow Oil: A lightweight SPF that protects skin without feeling heavy or greasy.

• Cure Hydration packets: Easy-to-use hydration boosts to stay energized on warm days.

• Bug bite relief: Quick-acting treatments that soothe irritation without any sticky residue.

• Comfortable insoles: Added support to keep feet happy after long hikes or busy days.

• Complete first-aid kit: Stocked with everything you need for unexpected scrapes and minor injuries.

• Prescription sunglasses: Functional and fashionable eye protection recommended by their doctors.

• Activity trackers: Helpful tools to monitor daily movement and motivate staying active.

Each of these picks is HSA-eligible, making it easier to take care of yourself while enjoying the season.

Tips to Get the Most From Your Account

A few extra tips to help you use your HSA confidently and avoid surprises:

• Know what needs a doctor’s note: Some items or services require a letter of medical necessity. Keep it on file in case you need it.

• Save your receipts: Whether you're paying out of pocket now or planning to reimburse yourself later, good records are essential.

• Check eligibility before you buy: Not everything that sounds “healthy” qualifies. When in doubt, use Lively's reliable eligibility list or ask your HSA provider.

• Use manufacturer coupons or store discounts: You can still combine HSA spending with savings tools and it doesn’t have to be full price.

• Stay organized year-round: Summer is a great time to check in on your contributions, spending history, and what you might want to budget for ahead of fall.

Make the Most of the Season

Summer is the perfect time to focus on your well-being—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Whether that means keeping up your fitness routine, protecting your skin, or recovering after a long day in the sun, your HSA is a useful tool for supporting those efforts. It’s not just for when you’re sick, it’s for staying well. The more you know about what your account covers, the more confident and intentional you can be about how you use it, now and all year long.