Wondering how you’ll find something genuinely meaningful for your partner — without breaking the bank?
Even if you’ve only got $5 to spare, you can still make this Valentine’s Day one to remember.
22 Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas Under $5
We’ve already shared ideas for at-home dates — whether you’re together in person or miles apart. Below are 22 last-minute gifts that each cost under $5.
1. Playlist
Remember mixtapes? Update that sentiment for the modern age by crafting a personalized Spotify playlist. You don’t need Spotify Premium; use the free desktop app to assemble the perfect selection and send it to your valentine.
2. Lloyd Dobler Serenade
This idea is ideal if your Valentine appreciates classic ’80s films.
Recreate the iconic moment from Say Anything — hold a boombox aloft (metaphorically or literally) and declare “In your eyes… I am complete.”
If a real boombox isn’t available, blast the song from your phone and give it your all.
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3. Bulk Candy
Maybe your mate loves jelly beans or chocolate-covered almonds. The bulk candy aisle provides many options for assembling a personalized $5 treat that will taste better than a cheap store-bought Valentine’s box.
If you opt for bulk candy, focus on presentation. Place it in a pretty bag or small box, tie a ribbon, and make the little gift feel special.
4. Handmade Card
A hand-crafted card can be one of the most treasured Valentine’s Day gestures.
Anyone can buy a 99-cent card with a generic line. Only you can create a unique card with your own sincere message.
5. Art
Have drawing or painting skills? Create an original piece for your loved one. A flattering portrait or a sketch of the spot where you shared your first kiss rarely misses the mark.
Expense depends on what supplies you already own, but many craft stores sell single sheets of quality paper inexpensively. Even an ink sketch on nice paper can look lovely.
6. Poem
Write a love poem. It worked for the Bard, and it might work for you. Try a classic form like a sonnet or a villanelle, or just compose something from the heart.
7. Song
Turn your poem into a song. How many people receive a tune written just for them? Perform it for your valentine and you’ll find that the most meaningful gifts often cost nothing at all.
8. Band Performance
Have friends who play instruments? Teach them the song you composed or ask them to help you cover a meaningful tune. Then give your valentine a concert they won’t forget.
9. Request a Song
Simple gestures can be powerful. If a local radio station accepts requests, ask for your special song. Text your partner when it’s on, or listen together.
10. Old Shirt Turned into a Pillow
Convert an old T-shirt into a pillow. This Instructables tutorial shows how. You’ll need stuffing, which can usually be found at a craft store or big-box retailer for under $5.
11. Old Stuffed Animal
Gifting a cherished stuffed animal says “I’m in this for the long haul.”
Giving an old plush toy signals trust and affection by sharing something you once treasured.
12. Book
If you own a book you think your valentine would enjoy, gift it after writing a personal inscription. It’s as intimate as giving a cherished toy, and you’ll have something to discuss together.
Don’t want to part with your only copy? Shop a used bookstore where you can often find titles for under $5 — great for thoughtful presents.
If your partner has an e-reader, many ebooks are under $5. Search for 99-cent deals to give multiple titles and make the present feel larger. Also check bargain services like Bookbub for offers.
13. Homemade Cookies
While others arrange costly bouquets, bake your date a batch of fresh cookies. They’re perfect to bring along for a picnic or an evening of stargazing.
14. Love Thoughts in a Jar
All you need is a jar and strips of paper. Cut the paper into slips, write little notes on each, fold them and fill the jar.
When your valentine needs a pick-me-up, they can draw a slip and read one of your loving messages.
15. Book of Memories
Buy a simple sketchbook or notebook and fill each page with a memory — where you first met, the first time you held hands, that concert last spring. Draw, write, affix ticket stubs — make it uniquely yours. It’s likely to become a cherished keepsake.
16. Coupon Book
The coupon booklet is a classic for a reason. The key is to include coupons your valentine will actually appreciate.
Do they enjoy choosing the movie? Appreciate not doing dishes? Tailor the coupons to their preferences to make the gift worthwhile.
17. Massage Night
Buy a small bottle of massage oil, lay fresh towels over clean sheets, and give your partner a relaxing massage. Look up online guides, like these massage tips from Canyon Ranch, to learn safe techniques.
18. Shared Journal
Pick up an affordable notebook, write the first entry, and give it to your valentine with instructions to read it, add their own entry, and pass it back. Continue until the notebook is full.
A shared journal is a lovely way to document hopes, dreams and plans together.
19. Love Letters
Have you read “The Wednesday Letters”? It follows a man who writes his wife a letter every Wednesday.
Consider starting a similar tradition this Valentine’s Day: give one love letter and promise it’s the first of many.
20. Clean All The Things
Want a present your valentine will truly appreciate? Deliver a spotless home.
Find a reason for them to be out on Valentine’s morning, then scrub, mop, wash and organize. Finish with simple touches like a small bouquet or a plate of homemade cookies on the table.
21. The 36 Questions
If you follow the Modern Love column in The New York Times, you may know about The 36 Questions That Lead to Love.
These prompts — which ask things like “What would constitute a ‘perfect’ day for you?” and “When did you last cry in front of another person?” — are designed to foster closeness.
Spend an evening asking and answering these questions together for an intimate, memorable night.
22. One Rose or Grocery Store Flowers
If a full dozen roses is out of reach, look for single roses at a florist. A solitary red rose can say more than a bouquet.
Even inexpensive grocery-store blooms can be transformed. Remove the plastic wrap, trim the stems and arrange them in a vase — or repurpose a clean glass jar — for a sweet, simple display.
Nicole Dieker is a contributor to Savinly.
