For Christmas, I brought my “boyfriend” the giant inflatable chocolate donut (read: I bought myself the giant inflatable chocolate donut) for our trip to Thailand back in December. The chocolate version is more boyfriend appropriate than the strawberry pink inflatable donut in my defence (for a boy who doesn’t wear too much pink at the pool). Now, as we’re itching closer to summer I’m finding myself creeping on over to Asos and scanning the inflatable range (yes there is an entire range of inflatable food and animal shaped items to scroll through – you can thank me later). With a flight to Greece booked next month, I’m tempted to add to my inflatable food family. This is acceptable, right? I’m feeling the inflatable pizza, although should I mix my (ahem, boyfriend’s) donut with a healthier fruit item? I don’t know. Maybe I need a more balanced diet of inflatables – any feedback welcome, this list is mainly food for thought (puns entirely intended). You just know floating around the pool or out to sea on a giant animal or delicious treat with a cocktail in hand, mirrored glasses and screaming ‘spring break!’ repeatedly is going to make everyone jealous. So what if you don’t spend your life on holiday and live London way, and nowhere near a beach (like me), I imagine all these items would also make great furniture when not on an exotic holiday. What’s not to love? I’ve put together my line-up of snazzy inflatables to inspire you to join me in spending your hard earned money in a totally ridiculous but beautiful way. So here you have it, my list of favourite completely non-essential summer essentials. Now I’m off to order a pizza…

Sunnylife Inflatable Gold Swam, £55, Asos.

Big Mouth Inflatable Pizza Slice, £29.99, Asos.

Sunnylife Inflatable Pineapple, £45, Asos.

Sunnylife Inflatable Flamingo, £55, Asos.

Big Mouth Inflatable Watermelon, £45, Asos.

Big Mouth Inflatable Strawberry Donut, £19.99, Asos.