By Gabriella Silva
Staff Writer
Valentine’s Day, the most romantic day of the year, is racking up record breaking costs. According to the National Retail Federation, Americans are planning to spend $23.9 billion on the holiday. That’s an average of $175.41 per person, which is a price many college students can’t afford.
“With the spring semester just starting, tuition and textbook payments have been very costly. I am a full-time student working five days a week. It’s hard nowadays to save up,” said Viviana Valencia, a sophomore, via text message.
While it may seem difficult to properly celebrate with a tight budget, there are still many cost-friendly alternatives you can do to show your loved ones how much you care about them.
3 Affordable Ways To Celebrate Valentine’s Day
Impressing your loved one doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are some affordable Valentine’s Day date ideas for college students.
- Spend The Night In
With Valentine’s Day on a Monday, students are already busy with their classes and jobs. After a hectic schedule, many people would rather want to have a chill evening than to go out, especially if they’re running low on money. Destress yourself from a hard day’s work by spending the rest of the day at home with your significant other.
- Home Cooked Dinner
As restaurant prices continue to skyrocket, dining out on a budget is becoming a lot harder. Save yourself the hassle of calculating your bill by cooking a special dinner with your date instead, and don’t forget about dessert!
- Movie Marathon
Streaming services just made “movie date night” even better. Netflix, Disney+, Hulu and other subscription services are full of romantic movies perfect for you and your date. Turn on your device and binge watch your favorite films together.
3 Affordable Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas
Don’t have the money to buy an expensive gift? Not a problem! Here are some affordable Valentine’s Day gift ideas for college students.
- DIY Candy Basket
Not only is the dollar store full of seasonal treats, but also any other item necessary to create the ultimate Valentine’s Day themed candy basket. Anything red, pink and heart-related is essential!
- Homemade Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Chocolate covered strawberries are a Valentine’s Day staple, but sellers often charge a very high price. Ditch the expensive order and make the simple treat yourself.
- DIY Video Montage
Technology is so advanced these days that you could make a movie on your phone if you wanted to. Download a video editing app and put together your favorite pictures and videos of you and your significant other. The more personal, the better!
Don’t be intimidated by elaborate plans and expectations. No matter how you choose to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year, as long as it’s thoughtful, loved ones will appreciate the gesture.
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There are many cost-friendly ways to show your loved ones how much you mean to them.
Photo by alleksana on Pexels
