Turn A Budget-Friendly IKEA Item Into The Perfect Bar Cart For Outdoor Entertaining

If you're someone who loves entertaining outdoors, then you already know the right setup is everything. You want all your go-to items within arm's reach so you can actually enjoy the moment (and not run back and forth to the kitchen). Outdoor bar carts are perfect for this very reason as they offer space for cups, drinks, snacks, and even a cute little plant (because why not?). The problem is, they can easily cost $100 or more, which is a lot if you're on a tight budget. And while an outdoor drink fridge sounds amazing, one that can handle the elements will definitely put a dent in your pockets.

Luckily, IKEA has come to the rescue, as it often does, with an affordable alternative. The NISSAFORS utility cart sells for just $29.99 and comes in black, beige, white, and yellow. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also doubles as the perfect bar cart for outdoor entertaining. Equipped with wheels, it rolls easily across patios and backyards, and thanks to its compact size (just over 32 inches tall, 11 inches wide, and 19 inches long), it fits into just about any space. IKEA Canada even shared a clever example on TikTok showing how one customer transformed her NISSAFORS cart into a cutesy outdoor bar setup. 

What's better than turning an affordable IKEA utility cart into an outdoor bar cart? Using it as a drinks fridge, without having to dish out extra dollars for the real thing! IKEA Canada's customer example is certainly a nice setup, but a lot of space is taken up by decor that could be put to better use. Here's another way to organize it for a fabulous outdoor bar cart setup: Use the bottom shelf to display a variety of drinks so guests can pick their favorites (this will get the bar vibes going). The middle shelf can hold cups, bottled water, and maybe some packaged snacks. The top shelf becomes your DIY "fridge" with a wicker basket (or any container) lined with a clean plastic bin to hold ice and beverages. Finally, top off the basket with a cute sign that says "Cold Drinks" (you can find plenty of free printable signs online!).

Now, it's worth pointing out that IKEA's NISSAFORS cart is technically intended for indoor use, but since it's made of powder-coated steel, the same material often used in outdoor patio furniture, it should be sturdy enough to handle the occasional night out. And once the party's over, just roll it back inside and repurpose it as a plant stand, pantry organizer, or stylish storage for everyday essentials.