Turn your backyard into an oasis with an above ground pool

On a hot, sunny day, there's truly nothing better than immersing yourself in a refreshingly cool pool. Not all of us can afford to install an in-ground pool, and inflatable pools just don't cut it when you actually want to swim. Enter: above ground pools. Above ground pools are generally pretty easy to set up, are way more affordable than in-ground pools, and are big enough that multiple people can swim around in them.  How to install an above ground swimming pool First of all, you'll need a decently sized yard if you want to set up an above ground pool. Sorry to all you apartment and city dwellers. (Also, check with your homeowner's association to make sure they allow above ground pools in your neighborhood.) Second, you need a solid patch of ground — don't put the pool on sand, mud, or loose soil, otherwise you'll probably run into some sinking action. Read more...More about Home, Outdoors, Mashable Shopping, Culture, and Work Life IMAGE: Amazon OUR TOP PICK Intex prism frame above ground pool A good size and bonus accessories make this a standout pool. Dimensions: 15 x 4 feet Water capacity: 4,440 gallons $1,199 from Amazon IMAGE: Amazon BEST FOR BIG YARDS Coleman Swim Vista Series II Portholes on the sides of this pool let swimmers peek outside. Dimensions: 18 x 4 feet Water capacity: 6,092 gallons $2,000 from Amazon IMAGE: Amazon BEST WALLET-FRIENDLY PICK Intex metal frame pool At a reasonable price, you still get a good-sized pool with nice features. Dimensions: 12 feet x 30 inches Water capacity: 1,718 gallons $546 from Amazon IMAGE: Amazon BEST FOR SMALL SPACES Bestway Steel Pro rectangular pool This pool's size and shape work well with compact yards. Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.6 x 2.2 feet Water capacity: 872 gallons $519.99 from Amazon IMAGE: Walmart BEST FOR EASY STORAGE Bestway inflatable above ground pool This giant inflatable pool is easy to set up and take down. Dimensions: 13 feet x 33 inches Water capacity: 1,939 gallons $489.99 from Walmart IMAGE: Walmart BEST FOR YOUNG CHILDREN Intex mini frame pool This miniature version of an above ground pool is great for small kids. Dimensions: 48 x 48 x 12 inches Water capacity: 90 gallons $62.98 from Walmart