How to have a romantic Valentine's day on a budget

Valentine’s Day gives you the perfect opportunity to spoil that special someone in your life. The only trouble is, because so many people are keen to buy their partner a gift, whisk them away somewhere or treat them to a fancy meal, it can end up being a rather pricey day. Often, anything with the word ‘Valentine’s Day’ on it or that is covered in red love hearts will cost more than it would do during most other times of the year. We have social pressure and commercialism to thank for that, unfortunately.

But, while you may have your sights set on giving your other half a memorable Valentine’s Day, there are ways you can do that without having to spend a small fortune. All it takes is a little creativity and forward planning.

Certified love and relationship coach Nina Mandair says you shouldn’t feel like you need to spend too much on Valentine’s Day. Nina says:

‘It's easy to feel pressured to make grand, expensive gestures on Valentine's Day, but love isn't measured by the amount you spend. Expensive gifts can never replace emotional intimacy and meaningful connection. Prioritise understanding your partner's love language and show up for them in ways that truly matter. Remember, the most memorable moments often come from simple, thoughtful gestures. Focus on creating experiences that strengthen your bond rather than trying to impress with material things. True romance is about connection, presence and making your partner feel seen and cherished.'

So, below, we’ll offer you some suggestions to make sure you can have a romantic Valentine’s Day with a loved one this year without the need for a big budget.

Affordable Valentine's Day ideas

Looking to treat your love to something special this Valentine’s Day but want to avoid spending too much? Here are six ideas so you can have a romantic and affordable Valentine’s Day this year.

1. Plan a romantic dinner for less

A Valentine’s Day classic is to take your partner out for a fancy and romantic dinner. The only thing is, restaurants book up fast and have a habit of raising the prices to make the most of the added demand.

To save a little cash, browse restaurant voucher codes and see what offers you can take advantage of on the big day. Or to save even more, consider cooking a meal at home and having a cosy and intimate dinner with just the two of you? Many of the supermarkets do dine-in offers that give you a starter, main, side dish and bottle of wine. You can even save money by shopping online and using voucher codes to lower the cost of your shop, so you can get way more for your money – and maybe even a bottle of bubbles.

Another deal supermarkets offer is the 25% off when you buy six bottles of wine. This means you can get your favourite tipple for Valentine’s Day and you have plenty left over for the next few weeks, or to hold on to them for the next special occasion.

2. Gift thoughtfully without overspending

During the build-up to Valentine’s Day you can pay a premium for a lot of the most common romantic gifts, like flowers and jewellery. So, why not think outside the box a little and give your partner something else they’ll love but isn’t typically seen as something romantic? After all, Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be about the typical lovey dovey gestures – the two of you will no doubt have your own love language anyway, so make the most of it.

For example, if your other half is a big tea drinker, why not treat them to a premium box of tea that they rarely buy themselves? This little bit of thought can go a long way and doesn’t have to cost much. Check out our Gifts for Her and Gifts for Him vouchers to save money.

Personalised gifts are also a fantastic way to give your other half something special and unique. It also tells them that you’ve put a lot of thought and effort into their gift, and many personalised gifts are also nice and affordable. Brands like Astrid & Miyu, Bloom Boutique and Joma Jewellery are all great for personalised jewellery. If you really are keen to give your partner something traditionally romantic, browse jewellery and flowers voucher codes and grab yourself a bargain.

3. Enjoy a cosy night in

You don’t need to go anywhere to make Valentine’s Day extra special, you can have a lovely night in with your other half and still make sure they’re spoiled and pampered. After all, more often than not the simplest nights are the most memorable.

There are loads of ways to have a romantic night in, from an indoor pizza picnic or movie night, to a phones-down-series-binge-athon. To ramp up the romance, you could pick up some candles and your favourite drinks, then stick on some soft music and indulge in some DIY spa treatments with just a bath bomb, some massage oils and a few skincare products. Retailers like Superdrug and The Body Shop should have everything you need. You could put together a personalised playlist then reminisce over old photos while spending some amazing quality time together.

When it comes to a great night in, certified love and relationship coach Nina Mandair says:

‘Transforming your space doesn't require a big budget. Focus on the senses:'

Lighting: Use candles or fairy lights to create a soft, romantic glow.

Scents: Light your favourite scented candles or use essential oils to set the mood.

Music: Create a playlist of songs that are meaningful to your relationship.

Textures: Lay out soft blankets and cushions for comfort or scatter rose petals to add a romantic touch.

Activities: Run a bubble bath for two, give each other massages, or have a movie night with your partner's favourite films.

4. Create a memorable experience together

Just because it’s Valentine’s Day, where does it say that you have to do something traditionally romantic? While flowers, snuggling to watch a movie and enjoying a romantic three course meal are brilliant Valentine’s staples, they’re far from written in stone. Instead, why not do something low-cost that ensures you create some wonderful memories? Here are just a few suggestions for low-cost things to do on Valentine’s Day:

• A walk through scenic landscapes
• A visit to a local park
• An evening of stargazing
• Pottery painting or an art class
• Recreate your first date
• A DIY photoshoot
• Volunteer together
• Learn something new
• Bake a cake together

There are also plenty more experiences to be had. Something like wine tasting or chocolate making is a little bit different and a super way to spend the day together. Browse days out and experience voucher codes to find something you’ll love doing and save a bit of money.

5. Create DIY gifts

For something cheeky, romantic, flirty and a little bit naughty, you could make each other DIY Valentine’s gifts. Not only does this mean you get to give your partner something super personal and thoughtful, but you also don’t have to spend much money. There are loads of ways to have fun with it too, here are just a few ideas:

• Love coupons: Make a booklet of coupons offering things like a massage, breakfast in bed, or a chore-free day.
• Memory scrapbook: Compile photos you can print out at Snapfish and Photobox, as well as notes and mementos from your relationship in a handmade scrapbook.
• Write a love letter: A heartfelt letter expressing your feelings can be more meaningful than an expensive gift.
• Create a DIY playlist: Create a Spotify playlist filled with your partner’s favourites and the songs that represent your relationship.
• Learning something new: Learn a new skill, like knitting or crochet, and make something original.
• Create a date map: Get a map of your local area and add markers for all the spots you’ll visit together over the next year.

6. Celebrate just before or just after the big day

Often, businesses will capitalise on Valentine’s Day and will tweak their prices or adjust their offerings accordingly. Not to mention there will be loads of other couples out there trying to secure their own booking for the big day. It’s all about supply and demand, which means a romantic night out on February 14th can be tricky if you want to celebrate by going somewhere special.
Lifehouse Spa, Essex price difference between Valentine’s Day and one day later:

Instead, why not bring things forward or push things back just a couple of days? That way, you’re far more likely to find a great deal and not feel rushed with restaurant staff wanting to turn tables over quickly. Imagine a candlelit dinner with delicious treats but none of the franticness or high cost! Or, consider heading out for a nice lunch instead of an evening meal, which can be more affordable and relaxed?

Celebrate love without breaking the bank

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to cost a fortune to be special. By being a little crafty and coming up with some thoughtful and creative ideas, you can plan a romantic day that shows your partner just how much they mean to you.

Browse Savoo Valentine's vouchers so you can save money and make your celebration as sweet as your favourite love story.