It’s that time of the year again – Valentine’s Day! The day to celebrate love and spoil the special person in your life. If you’re on a tight budget, don’t worry, that doesn’t mean you can’t still celebrate. We’ve got ten ideas you could try to share the love this Valentine’s Day without throwing your budget out the window.
1. Have a home-cooked dinner
Skip the busy, expensive restaurants that require bookings months in advance and have a nice home-cooked meal instead. Prepare for your V-Day dinner while you plan your weekly meals so you can look at putting a bit more money aside to cook up something extra special. You’re in luck – most stores usually mark-down chocolates just in time for Valentine’s Day, so if you time it right, you could still score your favourite treat but at half its usual price.
2. Kick back for a movie marathon
Instead of paying the soaring prices of movie tickets, stay in and use the streaming services you already pay for to have a movie marathon. We know, we know, you miss that enticing popcorn smell… but you can recreate the environment at home by grabbing some $1 microwave popcorn from a grocery store. Plus, you can snuggle up on your own couch and choose whichever and however many movies you want to watch.
3. Skip the flowers, make an edible bouquet instead
We all know flowers can be a tad expensive, and as pretty as they are, they don’t last long. Save your money and make an edible bouquet instead. You could use your partner’s favourite chocolates or make something simple like cake pops and arrange it to look like flowers. Whatever you decide, the thought that goes into this gift will make your loved one feel even more special.
4. Have an at-home dance class
If you’re looking for a fun couple’s activity that won’t cost you a cent, have your own dance class right in the comfort of your home. It’s simple – find an easy-to-follow tutorial on YouTube and give it a go. Even if neither of you are good dancers, the purpose of the activity is to do something fun together to celebrate Valentine’s Day, so keep that in mind (especially if your partner needs some convincing).
5. Go for a day trip
For the more adventurous couples out there, maybe you’re looking for a way to get away from home for a bit but without spending too much money. Do some quick research of hikes, waterfalls, swimming holes and nearby towns that are suitable for a day trip and you’ll have your solution. You could even pack some snacks from home so you don’t have to spend money on lunch. Plus, it’s a great way to be out in nature.
6. Check out free events happening around town
Hop on your local Council’s website and see what kind of events are happening on or around Valentine’s Day. Generally, there are plenty of free events that are appropriate for everyone. It’s a great way to avoid spending lots of money and allows you to still spend time with your loved one.
7. Get crafty with DIY gifts
Break out the paint, glitter, paper and coloured pens and get to work. Think about things your partner wants or needs, or maybe even something they would appreciate, and get to making it. Chances are you already have the supplies and materials on hand and any additional purchases can be made at low prices. Not to mention that DIY gifts can make Valentine's Day even more special.
8. Have a game night
It’s time to break out those board games that hardly see the sun. Game nights can be loads of fun, even if there’s only two of you. You won’t have to spend any money and it gives you the chance to get competitive. After all, who doesn’t love a bit of friendly competition?
9. Go on a picnic
What’s more romantic than a relaxing picnic with beautiful scenery? Home-packed snacks, a picnic rug, something to drink and your partner’s company is all you need to bring this Valentine’s Day idea to life. It’s the chance to be at one with nature and have some time all to yourselves.
10. Bring back the old-school mixtape… as a playlist
If you’re looking for a bit of a different gift that still keeps you from breaking your budget, take a trip back in time and make a mixtape, but as a playlist to give it a modern twist. Find your partner’s favourite songs on whatever streaming platform you use and give your playlist a fun, sweet name. It’s the sentimental factor that makes this gift even more special.