When the weather is cold, spending time hanging out in the backyard or on the balcony isn't very tempting.

It's easy to change that though. With just a few tweaks to your outdoor space you can make it a much more inviting space during winter.

These changes can be made whether you're on a tight budget or have a little more cash to splash.

Here are five ways to get more from your outdoor space in winter:

A nighttime gathering with friends can go from a quick drink on the patio, to hours of fun and laughter just by adding a heater.

There are plenty of options out there to choose from including strip or panel heaters that attach to the wall or ceiling, or tall, portable gas heaters you can move around the deck.

READ MORE: An expert guide to selecting the most cost-effective heater for every room in your house

Or you could get a fire pit, which is one of the biggest trends in outdoor entertaining right now.

Not only will it keep you warm, but it provides a central place for friends and family to gather round. Plus you can even toast marshmallows with this type of heating.

You can find fire pits at hardware stores like Mitre 10 for as little as $89, like the elegant Living Accents steel firepit.

If the sun is shining in your backyard you might only need a blanket to stay warm, so adding throws is an easy and affordable way to add some warmth.

READ MORE: A backyard fireplace is the ultimate winter luxury

It's also nice to have throws on hand even if you do have a heater because that warm glow isn't always enough to combat the chill.

Throws also look beautiful draped over chairs, sofas and outdoor beds.

While you're at it, get a few comfy cushions to style the space with. The cushions will make the space more cosy and give you somewhere to snuggle into while wrapped up in a throw.

But if you're going to get throws and cushions for the outdoors, you'll need to make sure they're stored away during heavy rain and wind, even if they're water resistant.

And just like inside, a rug will cosy-up the area too and make the ground a little warmer to put your feet on.

READ MORE: Throw blankets under $100 that will keep you warm this winter

The dark sets in early during winter so to get more out of your outdoor space you'll need good lighting.

Festoon lights hung up on the patio, along the fence or across the backyard look stunning and instantly create an inviting glow.

If you're after something simpler, Ikea Australia's interior designer leader Amy Hare has another suggestion.

"To create the ultimate cosy atmosphere outdoors, add lanterns to those unused areas for a warm glow to brighten up the dark evenings," she said.

Amy recommends the enrum lantern for $7.50, which uses a tealight candle for a subtle glow.

Or if you require something more substantial, there's always the storhaga LED table lamp for $69.

Even when furniture is designed for the outdoors it can still be damaged by the elements over time.

But there's a simple thing you can do to protect your furniture, just make sure you do it before the wild weather strikes.

"From the endless rain to the unexpected bright spells, the Australian weather has been more unpredictable than ever. Weather proofing your furniture with coverings ensures they'll last the harsh winter conditions so you'll be ready for summer all year round," Amy said.

Ikea has a wide range of furniture cover sizes and shapes in the Tosterö range, including a furniture set cover for $89.

READ MORE: Expert tips to clean your yard and bring your garden back to life after heavy rain

A partially enclosed patio and a permanent gazebo are the stuff of backyard dreams, but if you don't have the budget for that you can add temporary solutions.

If you have a balcony with an exposed balustrade, there are lots of screen options available. You can choose from reed screens, artificial plant and mesh screens, which are usually sold at budget-friendly prices.

For backyards, there is a wide range of options out there to suit your needs but there is one that stands above the rest.

"Having a gazebo on hand is the easiest way to ensure you're protected from the weather and to enjoy your outdoor space," Amy said.

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