Buying a sun hat can be surprisingly difficult because the right style has to balance comfort, coverage, and personal flair. Some hats offer wide brims but refuse to stay put when the wind starts to blow. Others look stylish on the rack but leave your face out in the sun, which is hardly a bright idea. Prices can also range from bargain-basement deals to options that cost enough to make your wallet tip its hat. Add seasonal inventory and changing store selections, and finding the ideal topper can feel like a real head-scratcher. The good news is that Paterson has several places where you can shop around and keep your search from going off the brim.
*Note: Prices below are estimated typical prices for adult sun hats and may vary by season, brand, promotions, and availability. Check each store’s website or call ahead before making the trip.*
- **Walmart — affordable coverage for every head**
- **Target — stylish hats with a bull’s-eye budget**
- **Burlington — branded shade without a designer-size bill**
- **Marshalls — treasure-hunting for a hat that fits the bill**
- **Rainbow Shops — colorful styles at approachable prices**
- **dd’s DISCOUNTS — low prices that put the cap on spending**
- **Dollar Tree — a small price for a little shade**
- **Family Dollar — everyday deals with a sunny side**
- **Walgreens — convenient coverage when the sun is already out**
- **CVS Pharmacy — a handy prescription for sun protection**
Walmart is a practical first stop for floppy hats, bucket hats, straw styles, and other warm-weather accessories. Its broad selection makes it easier to find shade without spending a king’s ransom—or losing your crown. **Estimated average price: $12.** Visit the [Walmart store finder](https://www.walmart.com/store-finder?location=Paterson%2C%20NJ).
Target often carries fashionable summer accessories, including woven, canvas, bucket, and wide-brim hats. The selection can be especially good for shoppers who want sun protection with a little runway flair—because looking sharp under the sun is always a hat-trick. **Estimated average price: $20.** Check the [Target store locator](https://www.target.com/store-locator/find-stores/Paterson%2C%20NJ).
Burlington’s changing inventory may include straw hats, beach hats, fedoras, and casual summer caps from recognizable brands. Since the merchandise is often discounted, shoppers can score a stylish lid while keeping their budget from getting overheated. **Estimated average price: $16.** Browse the [Burlington store locator](https://www.burlington.com/store-locator).
Marshalls is a good choice for shoppers who enjoy digging through rotating inventory in search of a standout accessory. You may find a resort-style sun hat, packable beach hat, or designer-label bargain, so keep your eyes peeled and your head in the game. **Estimated average price: $18.** Use the [Marshalls store locator](https://www.marshalls.com/us/store/stores/storeLocator.jsp).
Rainbow Shops frequently offers trendy seasonal accessories, including floppy hats, straw hats, and casual sun hats in bright colors. It is a fitting place for shoppers who want their summer look to make a statement without making their bank account see spots. **Estimated average price: $14.** Visit the [Rainbow Shops website](https://www.rainbowshops.com/) to check current locations and merchandise.
dd’s DISCOUNTS can be worth checking for inexpensive seasonal accessories and casual hats. Inventory changes often, but the store is a solid option when you want basic sun coverage and a price tag that does not cast a long shadow. **Estimated average price: $10.** Find nearby branches through the [dd’s DISCOUNTS store locator](https://www.ddsdiscounts.com/store-locator).
Dollar Tree may stock seasonal hats, visors, and lightweight sun accessories, especially during spring and summer. The selection can be simple, but it is hard to argue with a bargain that keeps your head cool and your spending cap firmly in place. **Estimated average price: $5**, since seasonal hats may be priced above the traditional dollar amount. Check the [Dollar Tree store locator](https://www.dollartree.com/store-locator).
Family Dollar is another budget-friendly place to look for basic summer hats, visors, and outdoor accessories. It may not offer the widest selection, but a quick stop could help you find a serviceable hat before your errands reach their peak. **Estimated average price: $8.** Search for a Paterson location using the [Family Dollar store locator](https://www.familydollar.com/store-locator).
Walgreens stores sometimes carry seasonal accessories such as visors, caps, and lightweight sun hats, particularly near spring and summer travel displays. This is a convenient choice when you need shade in a hurry and do not want your shopping trip to become a brim-and-bear-it situation. **Estimated average price: $12.** Check inventory through the [Walgreens store locator](https://www.walgreens.com/storelocator/find.jsp).
CVS may offer seasonal hats, visors, and outdoor accessories depending on the individual branch and time of year. Selection can be limited, but it is worth a look when convenience matters and you need to put a lid on excessive sun exposure. **Estimated average price: $15.** Use the [CVS store locator](https://www.cvs.com/store-locator/landing).
With options ranging from discount chains to department-style retailers, Paterson shoppers have plenty of places to look for sun protection. Call ahead when possible, since hat inventory can change faster than you can say “brim service.” Whether you choose a wide-brimmed classic or a compact packable style, the right hat can help you keep your cool from the top down.