The Best Last Minute Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Under $30
Valentine’s Day is tomorrow. By now you should have already ordered a dozen roses for your beloved . And of course, there are plenty of non-flower gift ideas that are perfect for the day of love, and I’ve collected them here .
But don’t panic if you haven’t found the perfect gift yet or have completely forgotten about the holiday. I’ve curated a selection of thoughtful, inexpensive gifts that prove you don’t have to spend money to show someone you care.
Personalized Photo Gifts
Turn your favorite memories into meaningful gifts with same-day printing services from your local pharmacy or retail store. Create personalized photo magnets, prints, or small photo books that highlight your favorite moments together. Many stores offer same-day pickup, making it an ideal last-minute option that doesn’t feel rushed.
A gourmet chocolate experience
Ditch the traditional heart-shaped box and create a unique chocolate tasting experience. Visit your local specialty store or gourmet market to select four or five high-quality chocolate bars in different flavors and percentages. Place them on a simple plate or in a decorative bag with handwritten tasting notes for an educational and delicious adventure you can enjoy together. Or buy a fancy box from Amazon .
DIY Self Care Package
Create a spa day in a box using affordable yet luxurious items: a scented candle , bath bomb , face mask and a small bottle of essential oil . Pack everything in a decorative box or dollar store basket, adding a personal touch with handwritten “recipes” for self-care and relaxation.
Custom music box
Create a digital playlist of songs that tell your story together. Write thoughtful notes about why each song matters and gift them in a decorated box or envelope. While the playlist itself is free, you can add little treats or trinkets related to specific songs without breaking the bank.
Culinary Adventure Kit
Even if you can’t afford, say, a complete sushi making kit , you can still get creative. Create a themed cooking kit based on your loved one’s favorite food. For an Italian evening, include pasta, a special sauce ingredient, herbs and a handwritten recipe. For movie night, make unique popcorn seasonings, candy, and hot chocolate mixes. The main thing is to package it beautifully with recommendations for how to use everything.
Plant Parent Starter Kit
Visit a garden center (or click “One-Day Delivery” to get the Amazon version here ) and buy a small, low-maintenance plant (like a succulent or pothos), pair it with a decorative pot, and include basic care instructions. This gift continues to grow long after Valentine’s Day and demonstrates thoughtful consideration of their interests.
Vouchers for local experiences
Create handmade “tickets” for future dates based on local free or low-cost events. Include a coffee shop gift card, a free day pass to a museum, or a picnic plan with a small bottle of wine or sparkling cider. Here the focus is on spending quality time together rather than material things.
Created memory log
Take a blank journal and fill the first few pages with your favorite memories, photos, ticket stubs, and personal notes. Leave the rest blank and include clues for future memories you’ll create together. It combines sentimentality with the promise of future adventures. If you have time, you can buy a journal that already has loving prompts inside.
Tips for Last Minute Success
Many of these gifts can be put together in less than an hour using items from local stores. When you’re in a pinch, focus on presentation: simple tape, kraft paper or even newspaper can create beautiful packaging. And most importantly, include a heartfelt card explaining the idea behind your gift. Remember, Valentine’s Day is about expressing your feelings , not emptying your wallet.
The best Valentine’s Day gifts show that you’ve thought about what will make your partner happy. These inexpensive options prove that meaningful gifts don’t require advance planning or expensive price tags—just a little creativity and understanding of what’s important to your Valentine.