My Best Bargain Purchase this summer: the John Lewis handheld fan

As a middle-aged woman who often feels overheated, whether from summer sun or the occasional menopausal hot flush, I’m always after affordable ways to stay cool. The John Lewis ANYDAY Handheld and Foldable Desk Fan has been my standout find this summer.

At just £12, this fan is my best bargain purchase of the season, and I can’t stop raving about how it’s made my days so much more comfortable.

This fan has been my constant companion through a busy summer. I’ve brought it to weddings, garden parties, family day trips, and even used it at home. It’s been a lifesaver in stuffy rooms, crowded events, or when I’m out in the blazing heat.

With three speed settings, it delivers a strong breeze for its size, and it’s quiet enough to use without drawing attention. I’ve set it on my desk during work-from-home days, placed it on my bedside table in overly warm hotel rooms, and held it for instant relief when a hot flush or just the summer heat gets overwhelming.

The USB charging is so practical, I plug it into my laptop or a power bank, and it runs for hours, up to nine on the lowest setting, which is more than enough for my needs.

I learned my lesson the hard way on a recent family day trip to Legoland. I forgot to pack the fan, and with the scorching sun and endless walking, I was uncomfortably hot and kicking myself for leaving it behind. Queuing for rides without that cooling breeze was torture, and I vowed never to make that mistake again.

This fan is now a must-have in my bag for any summer outing. One slight drawback is its size, it’s a bit bulky for smaller handbags and tends to poke out of my daintier crossbody bags. I wish John Lewis would design a slightly more compact version for those of us who prefer smaller bags. But honestly, this is a small price to pay for the relief it offers, it’s still worth every penny.

Available in four stylish colours, white, sage, yellow, and lake blue (they used to have it in grey too), it’s both practical and good-looking. I even saw a bridesmaid at a wedding using a white one to keep the bride cool during an outdoor ceremony, such a clever touch.

With over 1500 five-star reviews, it’s no surprise this fan is a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m dealing with a menopausal hot flush, a stuffy room, or just a swelteringly unbearable day, this fan has been a game-changer. It’s reliable, affordable, and endlessly versatile, making it my go-to for staying comfortable wherever I am. For anyone looking to beat the heat without spending a fortune, this is the summer essential you need.

Buy yours from John Lewis & Partners before they’re gone. At £12, it’s a bargain that delivers far beyond its price tag.