Valentine’s Day on a budget can be very easy when you take a bit of time to think about what you want to do, rather than rushing out and grabbing a gift just cause it’s in front of you.
I am an old romantic. I really am. But, I’m not a fan of parting with my money. The cost of Valentine’s can quickly spiral – Rakuten’s Play.com have said that a massive £978m (!) was spent on Valentine’s Day in the UK in 2013.
However, it’s easy to keep the costs down while still making an impact, looking like you spent loads and spoiling your loved one.
Earn a bit of extra money in your spare time with surveys, offers and other simple tasks you can do at home.
New users can currently get a bonus when they sign up.
Claim sign-up bonusHere are my quick tips to shop you how to make quick savings for a budget Valentine.
Blow the Dough – Valentine’s Day Card
Whether you choose to get a personalised card online or pop to the shop to browse for one, cards can have a varying range of prices, depending on what you go for.
Skint Dad says: If you have the 02 Priority Moments app, you can get a free Valentine’s Day card in WHSmith stores.
Alternatively, why not put your crafty skills to the test and make one from scratch.
Saving: up to about £6
Splash the Cash – Full Back Massage
How relaxing can it be for someone to get the tension from your shoulders with aromatherapy oils and deep tissue massage. Just the thought of it relaxes my tension – until I think of the cost! Prices for a full back massage can be £45 for 60 minutes. That’s quite a cash outlay, even for love!
Skint Dad says: Grab the baby oil from the bathroom, get the kids to bed (and make sure they’re asleep), lay some towels out on the floor, light some candles and give your loved one a sensual massage. Just make sure to ask them to return the favour ;-)
Saving: £45
Have a Splurge – A Dozen Red Roses
Roses are red, Violets are blue, £29.03 for 12 red roses, Remember to use a voucher code too!
That’s quite a bargain for delivered roses and you can add a voucher code from Savoo for another 12% off.
Skint Dad says: For a cheaper alternative, head to Lidl where you can pick up 12 red roses for just £3!
In fact, why do you need red roses, you could pick up loads of other flowers from a supermarket for less than £5.
Saving: £26.03
Wave the Wad – Chocolates
Thorntons have a huge, yummy looking selection of chocolates to choose from. Their Valentine’s gifts start from £15 and you can also get cash back through Quidco. If you choose to spend £30, you can get £5 off and 9% cashback!
Skint Dad says: Why not have a go making chocolate yourself. The sentiment in itself is worth more than money can buy.
Saving: £12
Burning Your Money – Romantic Meal for Two
This is a time when restaurant create set menus and charge the earth to get you through their doors. Yes, it’s nice to get dressed up and go out but at what cost? On top of the meal (about £20 each), and drinks (£15 for a bottle of white), you’ll need a taxi there and back (£12). Costs quickly add up.
Skint Dad says: Get your chefs hat out and cook up a scrummy meal at home. Dress up, crack open that bottle of wine you’ve been saving and enjoy the company of your loved one away from prying eyes.
Why not have a Fakeaway and feel like you’ve had a really great treat?
Saving: £57
After a quick tally, using the Skint Dad method can get you savings of around £150!
What bargains will you get for your loved ones this Valentine’s Day?
