Long-Distance Relationship Valentine’s Day Ideas: Making the Miles Feel Shorter
Do you and your partner live miles apart, but you’re determined to make this Valentine’s Day special? Maintaining a long-distance relationship can be tough, but with a little creativity and thoughtfulness, you can still share meaningful moments. With over 7 million couples in the U.S. navigating the challenges of long-distance love, it’s important to show your commitment—especially on Valentine’s Day.
In this guide, I’ll share some creative and personal long-distance relationship Valentine’s Day ideas to help you celebrate your love from afar. Whether you’re surprising them with a thoughtful care package or sharing a virtual dinner date, these ideas will make the distance seem a little less daunting.
1. Share Dinner and Drinks—Virtually
Ever wish you could have dinner together, even when you’re thousands of miles apart? One of the most intimate ways to celebrate is by planning a surprise dinner and wine delivery for your partner.
Here’s a tip: don’t tell them what you’re planning. Just ask them to be home at a certain time. Order their favorite meal, maybe from a local spot you both love, and pre-pay for a bottle of their favorite wine. It’s a simple yet romantic way to show you’re thinking of them.
Once the meal arrives, set up a video call, light a candle on your end, and enjoy a virtual dinner date together. Skip the everyday chit-chat and focus on each other—no work talk allowed! Did you know that regular video chats, at least once a week for two hours, can keep the spark alive in long-distance relationships? And yes, that’s more effective than phone calls. A study from Psychology Today supports the idea that face-to-face interaction is vital for maintaining emotional connection.
Why not take it a step further? You can find thoughtful Valentine’s Day gifts on Amazon, like personalized wine glasses or meal kits to make your dinner date extra special.
2. Write an Old-Fashioned Love Letter
In the digital age, we’ve gotten used to quick texts and emails, but nothing beats the heartfelt sentiment of an old-fashioned love letter. Even if you’re not a natural poet, you can still write a few lines that capture your feelings. Think about what you appreciate most about your partner—whether it’s their creativity, loyalty, or how they always know how to make you smile.
Try including little details: when you first realized they were “the one” or a memory of a special day you spent together. You’d be surprised how much joy receiving a handwritten letter in the mail can bring. If writing feels intimidating, start small—send them daily texts for a week, telling them why you miss them or share a few inside jokes.
3. Wow Them with International Flowers
Flowers have been a symbol of love and devotion for centuries, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to send some blooms their way. But why stop at the usual bouquet of red roses? Consider going a bit deeper into the language of flowers. Did you know lilacs symbolize young love, and irises are often given to newlyweds? Orchids are elegant and long-lasting, perfect for someone who appreciates beauty that endures.
Want to impress not only your partner but their friends and family too? Here’s a pro tip: send more than one bouquet! Imagine the look on their face when a second delivery arrives the next day—flowers that remind them of you will be sure to win over their social media feed.
4. Create the Perfect Playlist
Ready to make your valentine feel truly special? Time to bring back a little nostalgia with a personalized playlist. Back in the day, making a mixtape was the ultimate gesture of affection. Today, you can craft a perfect playlist on Spotify or YouTube to share with your loved one.
Think about songs that have special meaning to both of you—maybe the one that was playing when you met or a tune you both sang along to on your last road trip. Keep the playlist at around 25 songs, as research shows that shorter playlists can be more impactful. You can even take it up a notch by creating a mutual playlist where you both add songs that remind you of each other throughout the day.
5. Send a Personalized Care Package
Few things say “I’m thinking of you” like a care package. Whether it’s filled with their favorite treats or small gifts that reflect inside jokes, a personalized package can help bridge the distance. Think chocolate, a cozy blanket, and perhaps even a small scrapbook of your favorite memories together.
Is your partner into a specific hobby? If they love gardening, include seed packets of their favorite plants or small tools. It doesn’t have to be grand—just thoughtful. According to Psychology Today, small gestures like care packages have a big impact on emotional connection in long-distance relationships.
If you’re short on time, BuzzFeed has a great list of care packages you can order online. Be sure to send it early so it arrives in time for Valentine’s Day!
You can also browse my Amazon affiliate link for pre-made care packages or customizable options that can be tailored to your partner’s tastes.
6. Plan a Movie Night
Another great way to feel closer is by having a virtual movie night. Pick a movie you’ve both been dying to see, grab some popcorn, and press play at the same time. Streaming services like Netflix even have party features where you can watch together, chat, and react in real time.
This is also a perfect excuse to create a themed night—choose movies that bring back memories, like the first one you watched together, or try something new that interests you both. Remember, it’s not just about watching; it’s about sharing the experience, laughing at the same parts, and bonding over the storylines.
Long-Distance Relationships: Making It Work, One Gesture at a Time
Valentine’s Day is all about reminding your partner just how much they mean to you, even from afar. Whether you’re sending international flowers, crafting the perfect playlist, or sharing a virtual dinner, these small acts of love go a long way.
Have you tried any of these ideas in your long-distance relationship? I’d love to hear your experiences or any other creative suggestions! Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
In the meantime, don’t forget to check out my blog for more Valentine’s Day inspiration and helpful tips on maintaining a healthy, long-distance love. From relationship advice to lifestyle tips, I’ve got you covered!