Low Cost, Low Waste Valentine’s Day Ideas

Low Cost, Low Waste Valentine’s Day Ideas

Low Waste, Zero Waste Valentine's Day World Threads Traveler, Cait Bagby, Red and Pink Bowls of Valentine's Day Conversation Heart Candies on a White Table

[apss-share]

Valentine’s Day generates a significant amount of waste due to the emphasis on buying and receiving gifts, such as chocolates, flowers, clothing, cards, and other presents. Many of these gifts often come packaged in non-recyclable materials, such as plastic or foil, which contributes to the waste generated. And that’s not even taking into account the production and transportation of these gifts.

(Listen: Guilty Greenie Valentine’s or Valencrime?

These gifts can also come at the expense of your wallet and mental well-being with the average American shelling out anywhere between $175-$210 each Valentine’s. Celebrating your love doesn’t have to come at the expense of the planet or your wallet. Here are a few suggestions to show your love and appreciation that are both low cost and low waste.

Low Cost, Low Waste Valentine’s Day Ideas

Low Cost, Low Waste Valentine's Day Ideas World Threads Traveler, Cait Bagby, Image of a woman holding a knife above a wooden cutting board with chopped onions, carrots and lettuce on the board.

Homemade Dinner

Skip the fancy restaurants and instead spoil your loved one(s) with a homemade dinner. Cooking together is a fun and intimate way to create shared memories, spend quality time together, and have a few laughs along the way.

We Suggest: A Few Recipe Inspirations To Help You Out

Low Cost, Low Waste Valentine's Day Ideas World Threads Traveler, Cait Bagby in a Fair Trade paisley robe sitting on a green bench in a bathroom with a full length mirror behind her holding a handwritten love letter.

Write Love Letters

Sharing a heartfelt love letter is a simple and meaningful way to express your feelings while skipping the environmental cost of traditional cards.

Low Cost, Low Waste Valentine's Day Ideas World Threads Traveler, Cait Bagby - photo of a beige towel rolled up next to a white pump bottle, pink tulips and a tea light on a white table - home spa day

Home Spa Day

Giving each other massages, taking a relaxing bath or shower together, or applying a facemask while you sit back and relax is a great way to bond together while unwinding.

We Suggest: DIY Foot Soak

  1. Fill the tub or large bucket with warm water enough to cover feet and ankles.
  2. Add 1 C Epsom Salt, 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil, ½ C honey (omit for vegan option), and ½ C of baking soda.
  3. Soak feet for 15-60 minutes.

Plan a Picnic in the Park

Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day enjoying the sunshine and each other’s company. Plus the benefits of spending time outside will leave you feeling relaxed and recharged.

Low Cost, Low Waste Valentine's Day Ideas World Threads Traveler, Cait Bagby a woman sitting on an unmade bed with white and beige sheets and fairy lights in the background watching a movie on her computer.

Have a Movie Night

Curl up on the couch with your loved one and watch a movie together. You can even make homemade popcorn and snacks.

We Suggest: WaterBear Network a free streaming service providing thought-provoking series and movies meant to empower you.

Low Cost, Low Waste Valentine's Day Ideas World Threads Traveler, Cait Bagby. Two Women wearing off white puffer coats, beige boots, white scarves and hats sledding together on a wooden sled in a snowy forest

Boost Attachment and Bonding

Get active together. Engage in an activity such as sledding, a walking tour, visiting an art gallery, taking a painting class or maybe even a romantic weekend away at a sustainable accommodation. Shared experiences help bring you and your loved one together.

(Listen: Why connecting with nature is good for you and the planet on Guilty Greenie Greenpathy with Psychologist Troy Jackson)

How are you planning on celebrating Valentine’s Day. Leave a comment and let us know. 

Low Cost, Low Waste Valentine's Day Ideas World Threads Traveler Cait Bagby a pink and red listicle with five ways to celebrate valentine's day more sustainably and with zero waste in mind.

Recent Posts