Valentine’s Day is nearly upon us so I hope you’re all ready to eat your weight in tiny heart-shaped chocolates. It might feel like there’s no way to make it through Valentine’s Day without throwing money in every direction, but if you’re doing a no buy year or you’re just trying to be more budget conscious, there are plenty of free date night ideas you can use to create the perfect V-day without the crazy price tag.
Everyone’s no buy year rules are different and that means everyone’s going to have a different budget for their Valentine’s Day date night. The cool thing is, there are plenty of cute date night ideas that cost absolutely nothing. Here are some of the best free date ideas that you can use this Valentine’s Day.
1. Movie Night
Going to the cinema is expensive (I’m looking at you, £3.00 bag of Malteasers). Not only that, but you can’t cuddle up under a blanket at the cinema or pause the film every time you need to use the bathroom. Ergo, not only is an at home movie night the more budget-friendly option, but it’s actually more enjoyable too.
2. Picnic
A romantic picnic is actually one of my 30 Before 30 bucket list goals. A picnic date is so versatile. Take any kind of food you like to any place you want to go and voila, you have a free Valentine’s Day date idea.
3. Nailed It Challenge
This is something a little more out of the box. It’s perfect for fans of Netflix’s ‘Nailed It’ (and those who don’t mind a messy kitchen). Set yourselves a baking challenge and see who can produce the best-looking edible in a set amount of time.
4. Go For a Walk or Hike
If you’re outdoorsy then get those walking shoes on and head out to explore. It could be that you take a turn around your local park or you might even venture out to a new hiking trail.
5. DIY Paint and Sip
Obviously the sip is optional (I, for one, will never say no to wine on Valentine’s Day), but a painting project is a really fun and creative way to spend an afternoon. You can follow a painting tutorial online or just go freehand and release the inner artist in you.
6. Visit the Beach
Sand between your toes aside, is there anywhere quite as romantic as the beach? Take a walk along the shore or bring along that picnic basket!
7. Board Game Night
Maybe I’m getting old and boring, but a board game night sounds like a great way to while away an evening to me. Assuming, of course, that nobody cheats at Monopoly.
8. Be a Tourist at Home
Spend the day visiting the tourist sights in your local area. You can check blog posts and travel sites to discover places you’ve never explored before.
9. Make Dinner Together
Who needs a fancy restaurant when you can spend some time in the kitchen together, cooking up your own culinary masterpiece?
10. Volunteer Together
I love this one! Find a cause that’s close to both your hearts and spend some time volunteering together. Not only will it bring you closer together, but you’ll be doing a good deed too.
Valentine’s Day does not need to break the bank and, with these free date night ideas, you can enjoy a romantic Valentine’s Day even if you’re on a no buy year or on a budget. After all, Valentine’s Day isn’t about the fancy dinners, the expensive jewellery or the overpriced teddy bears. In fact, I bet you’ll find that the less you spend, the more romantic your day will turn out to be.
