List of nine ways to celebrate Valentine's Day on a budget
Love is in the air as Valentine's Day approaches, and some lucky couples may be planning a romantic long weekend away. Whether your destination is a cosy cottage in the British countryside or a city break in Italy or France, a winter vacation is bound to set you back financially - but there are a few clever ways to ease the pressure on your wallet.
Fred Harrington, money-saving expert at Coupon Mister, said: “With the right strategies, planning a Valentine's Day getaway can be both romantic and budget-friendly.
“Saving money doesn’t have to mean living under tight constraints. You can have jam-packed days of fun without spending a dime. You’re really only limited by your imagination, so stay focused on the main goal, which is to have fun and spend time with the one you love.
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“As long as you save money on the actual travel portion of your trip, exploration and conversation are free. Spend time wandering around, chatting up the locals, and most importantly, chatting up the one you're travelling with. If you do that, the budget will likely end up being the last thing on your mind as you create lasting vacation memories, all without destroying your savings.”
Here are nine tips for working out the best way to spend your holiday budget.
Book in Advance
Early bookings often mean better deals and more options. Airlines and hotels sometimes increase prices as the date approaches due to high demand, so securing your plans early can lead to significant savings. Deals can often be found if you subscribe to newsletters and set alerts to make sure you don’t miss out.
Set a Budget
Determine how much you're willing to spend and stick to it. Breaking your budget into categories—accommodation, travel, food, and activities—can help you prioritise expenses and identify areas where you can save.
Consider Nearby Destinations
Look for local or regional destinations that you can drive to. This saves on airfare and allows you to explore hidden treasures close to home without the stress of long-distance travel. You’ll also save a lot of time sitting around airports, taking taxis, and have much less of a chance of returning home late since you’ll be on your own schedule.
Be Flexible with Dates
If possible, travel slightly before or after Valentine's Day. Mid-week getaways can be much cheaper than weekend trips, and most destinations won't be as busy. If you’re ok with not celebrating specifically on February 14, this might be the best tip for saving money.
Use Travel Deal Websites
Websites like Groupon, Travelzoo, and Secret Escapes offer package deals that can include discounts on both accommodations and activities. Sign up early for alerts to catch deals as they become available.
Leverage Credit Card Rewards
Use points or miles accumulated through credit card rewards to offset costs. This could cover flights, hotel stays, or even cash for the trip, allowing you to save money while enjoying a nicer experience. After all, that’s what they’re there for!
Plan a Package Deal
Many travel agencies and online platforms offer package deals that bundle flights, accommodations, and sometimes even activities. This can be cheaper than booking each component separately.
Eat Like a Local
Stray from touristy restaurants and seek out local eateries. Not only do these often provide authentic cuisine at a lower cost, but they also enrich your travel experience. “Being able to support the local economy directly is a big advantage to staying away from contrived establishments. These places are also great for striking up a conversation and learning about the area,” says Fred.
Look for Free Activities
Research free attractions or events at your destination. Parks, beaches, local museums on free-entry days, and festivals can provide memorable and enjoyable experiences without affecting your budget.