Camping Tips and Tricks

OUTDOOR DATE IDEAS PERFECT FOR VALENTINE’S DAY

Outdoor Valentine’s Day couple
Courtesy of Everton Vila via Unsplash

Valentine’s Day is coming up quicker than you think. Do you have something special planned for your sweetheart?

The impulse might be to reserve a spot at the fanciest restaurant that you can afford (or not afford), but most places are likely booked up at this point. Besides, doesn’t your special someone deserve a date as special as they are?

Do something different this holiday by taking advantage of the beautiful outdoors for your next date spot.

Plus, if you can swing a full weekend rather than one day, check out our guide for the ultimate romantic tent setup for a camping trip with your loved one.

Read on for our date suggestions.

Hot Chocolate and Stars

What’s more romantic than the starry night? We aren’t sure, but hot chocolate certainly helps!

To make it extra memorable, choose a spot with few distractions and get away from the city lights. Don’t forget a warm blanket (or two) to combat the chilly February air.

Geocaching

If your sweetie likes a little more activity on dates, consider taking them geocaching. This fun activity involves looking for specific points using GPS, kind of like an expansive scavenger hunt. The joy of reaching your destination is one way to bond, and working together toward a common goal can strengthen your relationship.

Skiing

If you want some adventure this Valentine’s Day but your climate is too cold for stargazing or wandering the woods, maybe the answer is warmer gear—like the kind you’d wear hitting the slopes. If you or your partner is new to skiing, this is a great opportunity for one or both of you to try something new. Cheering each other on is a wonderful way to bond, and you can talk about it all over something hot to drink afterward. And if you’ve both already been skiing, consider trying a new winter sport—snowboarding or ice skating, perhaps?

Hiking

Maybe skiing is a bit too much for your Valentine—but you can still enjoy the outdoors by checking out local hiking trails. Just make sure to tell your date to dress warm in advance.

Make your hike extra romantic by packing a picnic for two. If you’re not much of a cook, many grocery stores have gourmet pre-made food selections that are easy to pack. Add a bottle of wine or sparkling cider with cheese and bread, and don’t forget the chocolate!

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About Liz Lanier

Liz Lanier is a freelance writer and an MFA Fiction candidate at Minnesota State University, where she also teaches undergraduate composition. Her writing can be regularly seen at Variety and GameDaily. She also has bylines in The Mary Sue, Game Informer Magazine, The Billfold, and others. Follow her on Twitter @LizLanierWrites.