You don’t want to break the bank this Valentine’s Day, so you’ve sworn off chocolates, flowers and that fancy, five-course meal that probably isn’t worth it anyway. This V-Day try one (or a few) of these unexpected and, most importantly, inexpensive Valentine’s Day ideas that your significant other is sure to love.
7 Inexpensive Valentine’s Day Ideas
1. Relive Your First Date
There’s nothing more romantic than nostalgia. Whether you had your first date at 15 or 51, it’s cheap fun to remember how your relationship started. Break out your old yearbooks, photos and letters, and take a sentimental trip down memory lane over some takeout.
2. Take the Day Off
Americans are notorious for not taking vacation days. So why not use one of your PTO days to spend the day away from your desk and with the one you love. Bonus: You won’t have to worry about making your dinner reservation in rush-hour traffic. Instead, you can go out for a leisurely breakfast or linger over a long lunch, both of which are easier on the wallet anyway.
3. Try a New Recipe
Skip the long wait at your favorite restaurant, and do dinner at home. Find a new recipe inspired by a romantic trip you took together or your first date, and get cooking together — even if that means the person who’s less comfortable in the kitchen does all the chopping. Have a bottle of wine you’ve been saving? Now’s the perfect time to pop it open.
4. Go on a Road Trip
We’re willing to bet there’s a charming small town nearby that you’ve been meaning to visit. For an inexpensive Valentine’s Day date, opt for a day trip instead of an overnight. Window shop, see the sights and enjoy a picnic lunch with your sweetheart.
5. A Night at a Museum
From modern art to history, science to botanical gardens, museums offer an inexpensive Valentine’s Day option that will expand both of your horizons — and spark some interesting conversations. Be on the lookout for special V-Day events, where you may get to browse your new favorite exhibit with a champagne flute in hand.
6. Hit a Low-Budget Sports Game
Professional sporting events are expensive, for sure. Minor-league and college teams, on the other hand, can give you more bang for your buck. The smaller arena settings mean a more intimate fan experience that’s perfect for an inexpensive Valentine’s Day outing. You can buy tickets close to the court, rink or field for a fraction of the price.
7. Make the Ordinary Extraordinary
Sometimes it’s the small gestures that mean the most. Breakfast in bed. A mailed love letter. A growler of a favorite beer. Plan a week of these little acts of kindness to make a big impression.
Need more ideas? These budget-friendly date ideas are another way to keep your Valentine’s Day costs low.
Love for Your Budget
Need help creating a budget and savings plan that works for you? Talk to your Farm Bureau agent today for help getting on the right path for your financial goals.