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Money-Saving Valentine’s Day Ideas Gen Z Can’t Get Enough Of

Valentines-2

It’s no secret that the cost-of-living crisis is still hitting Gen Z hard, and this year, students are set to get creative with DIY Valentine’s Day ideas. That’s right, we’re ditching the overpriced menus and uninspired gifts – as staying in has officially become the new going out.

Why spend a fortune on a forgettable dinner when you can curate an aesthetic, affordable, and romantic date night from the comfort of your own space? Let’s be real, nothing screams romance like a heart-shaped pizza devoured under a DIY pillow fort. 

Looking for some fun at home date ideas to spread the love this Valentine’s? We’ve uncovered some of the best budget Valentine’s Day ideas sweeping social media, just in time for the big day…

Five trending home-date ideas for Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) 

So, what are the must-try Valentine’s Day ideas in your accommodation this year? Whether you’re aiming for cosy romantic vibes, or want to create the ultimate Instagrammable V-Day setup, these heart-warming at-home date ideas deserve a spot on your schedule.

Pillow fort paradise

Build the ultimate cosy sanctuary using blankets, cushions, and of course, twinkly fairy lights. If you don’t have any, some muted lamps or LED lights will create some ambience.

Throw some snacks into the mix, pick a romcom, or get lost in your favourite playlist. The benefit of being at home is that you make the decisions.

Heart-shaped everything

From homemade pizzas, to pancakes, to cookies, whipping up comfort food into cute heart shapes is a fun and easy way to bring romance into the kitchen.

Decorate your table with some heart-shaped confetti and red candlesticks, and add some chocolate covered strawberries for the perfect experience. And be sure to snap photos from every angle to slot into your next Instagram dump.

DIY Spa Night

In need of some R&R? Transform your space into a relaxing couples retreat with candles, face masks, and maybe even a massage. Don’t forget the cucumber slices!

Sip and Paint

Dig out some art supplies, pour a glass of wine (or a chocolate milk, we don’t judge), and paint away. TikTok showed us the hilarious trend of drawing your partner or friend and comparing the masterpieces (or disasters) - and now might be the perfect time to go viral. 

TikTok Cooking Challenge

Chefluencers are flooding our social media channels, so why not pick out a viral recipe like ‘Marry Me Chicken’ or the ‘Dubai Pistachio Chocolate’ and chef it up together? It might just be the thing to deepen your relationships.

Budget Valentine’s Day ideas

Navigating tight budgets with that pesky student loan can be tricky (we’ve even written an ultimate budgeting guide about it!). But, with a pinch of creativity, some loved-up inspo, and a partner to surprise, celebrating Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to cost the earth.

Swap pricey gifts for DIY presents like a handwritten letter, or a photo collage of your favourite moments together and take advantage of student discounts for even bigger savings. Valentine’s Day is about showing appreciation, not spending a fortune – and thoughtful gestures always mean more than price tags!

So, whether you’re looking for a cosy effortless night in with your lover, or a super fun love-themed evening with your friends this Valentine’s Day, we think these fun at-home date ideas are the perfect way to kickstart new traditions!

Looking to go down the dinner party route this Valentine’s? Why not check out our step-by-step guide to hosting the ultimate feast. But, don’t forget the unwritten rules of the shared university kitchen...