Valentine’s Day: Ballin’ On a College Budget

Valentine’s Day is almost here, and while love may not cost a thing, your budget as a college student might disagree. Whether you’re spending time with your stink, friends, or even spoiling yourself, there are numerous ways to still share the love without spending so much money. It’s so easy to feel like you have to go above and beyond on love day, but it’s ok to be realistic. Between DIY gifts and simple date ideas, you can easily put something creative together without breaking the bank. Here are a few ways you can still make Valentine’s Day enjoyable as a “broke” college student. 

V-Day Picnic

If the weather permits, an outside Valentine’s Day picnic is the cutest, cheap date idea! You can buy snacks, maybe a little sweet treat, and bring interactive things to do like games or coloring books. You can also do this inside your dorm with blankets and LED/fairy lights for a little more privacy. No matter the location, a picnic is the perfect balance between spending time with your partner and helping your pockets in the process.

DIY Gifts 

Actions speak louder than words. Sure, a love poem or song is cute. But, if there are no actions behind your words, then it’s simply meaningless. Get creative when it comes to the gifts! Making a playlist of songs that remind you of your person, creating a photo album of all your fond memories together, or putting together a basket with their favorite things are all different ways to show your love without spending a ton of money. You can also do cute things like “open when..” envelopes and put small surprises inside, create love coupons that can be redeemed for actions, or put together a memory jar of all your favorite memories together. Yes, flowers are still thoughtful, but they are slightly overdone! Raise the bar and show your love in a different way that isn’t so cliche. 

Dinner at Home

This is for the ones who think they’re Gordon Ramsey Jr. Instead of spending so much money at the fancy steakhouse downtown, you can have Ruth Chris at home! What’s even more fun is if you and your date make the meal together. It’ll be intimate, interactive, and a sneaky way for you to see if your love interest can really get down in the kitchen. However, if cooking isn’t your strong suit, you can easily order takeout and set the table like normal. Either way, don’t feel pressured to eat somewhere extravagant!

Have a Galentine’s 

If you’d rather spend time with friends this year, a galentine’s is always a great option for the girls! Dress up in matching pajamas, bring your favorite treats and snacks, and have the ultimate girls night. For the guys, game nights are always a good option and everyone can chip in on food so that way the cost is split evenly. Don’t make it a typical, friend hangout either! Feel free to decorate the space, have friendly game competitions against each other, or go on a late night adventure. Showing your friends that you love and appreciate them is just as important. 

Self-Care 

Maybe you don’t have a heart sparkle this year, and that’s ok! You can still find ways to be in the love day mood by simply spoiling yourself. Treat yourself to a spa day, buy yourself the meal you’ve been craving, or even take the day to binge watch romantic comedies or your favorite show. You can even buy yourself some flowers to brighten up your living space. Whatever it is, make sure you find ways to remind yourself just how loved and amazing you are. 

Remember, showing someone you love and appreciate them doesn’t always have to involve money.  In college, no one is expected to have life together, or the funds to do any and everything. Quality time and consistent effort goes a lot further than inconsistent gift giving. So, don’t stress about not being able to go above and beyond this year! You’ll get there soon enough.