11 Ways To Plan a Romantic Valentine’s Day Without Overspending
Written by
Emily Fowler
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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Valentine’s Day has a way of turning into a spending spree. Fancy dinners, jewelry and extravagant gifts all come with a premium price tag and can break any budget.
But a meaningful celebration doesn’t have to mean emptying a bank account, and a little creativity can go a long way this Valentine’s Day.
Write a Love Letter
A handwritten letter full of meaningful words can carry more weight than anything bought in a store — and it’s free. Writing a heartfelt message about what makes the relationship special is sure to last longer than overpriced flowers.
Make a Photo Collage
Print some of your favorite “couple” pictures and arrange them in a photo frame or scrapbook.
You can print out photos at home or a local store for just a few dollars, and Walmart has many affordable frame options. For example, check out this multi-photo frame for under $15.
It’s a personal keepsake that costs little but means a lot.
Create a Playlist
While it may be old school, a mix of songs tied to special memories, moments or inside jokes makes for a thoughtful, no-cost gift.
Skip the Florist
A potted plant lasts longer than a bunch of flowers and costs less than a lot of pre-arranged bouquets, particularly around Valentine’s Day. Walmart has a large selection to choose from.
It’s the gift that keeps on growing rather than wilting in a week.
Serve Breakfast in Bed
A homemade breakfast of your partner’s favorite morning treats feels indulgent without the restaurant markup. Depending on what you’re planning to cook, grocery costs can vary — but you’ll likely still spend less than if you were to go out for breakfast.
Bonus points for adding a handwritten note and a single bloom on the tray.
Go for a Hike
Fresh air, a scenic view and uninterrupted time together make for a perfect no- or low-cost date. Pack snacks or a thermos of hot chocolate to make it extra special.
Picnic Lunch Somewhere New
A change of scenery elevates a simple meal for a romantic lunch for two. Pack some of your favorite low-cost foods to enjoy.
A local park, beach or scenic overlook turns a daytime date into something extra memorable.
Bake a Cake
Baking together is fun, inexpensive and ends with something sweet — whether it’s taking a shortcut with a packet mix or baking from scratch.
Target has cake mixes for under $2. Mix it up with a few grocery staples like eggs and oil, add some frosting, and you’re all set.
Board Game Night
A little friendly competition adds some spice to the evening. Classic board games or card games set the stage for an interactive, budget-friendly date night. Use games you already have for a completely free activity, or splurge on a new game to enjoy together.
The New York Times ranked its favorite games for 2025, and it features a game that costs just $15.
Memory Lane Movie Night
Digging up old home videos or past travel clips makes for a nostalgic, entertaining and free night in. Add popcorn and cozy blankets to complete the setup.
Cook at Home
Restaurants can mark up prices for Valentine’s Day, and reservations can be impossible to get. A homemade meal can beat a crowded, overpriced restaurant when it comes to being romantic. Try a new recipe, or cook an already favorite dish for a personal touch.
Extravagant doesn’t always mean meaningful, and a memorable Valentine’s Day isn’t about the money spent — it’s about the effort put in.
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