Beyond Roses: Valentine’s Experiences & Gifts Worth Splurging On

Luxury isn’t about flashy, splashy gifts for Valentine’s Day. It’s about timeless things that give you a truly important gift in return: time. Time back for convenience, time for relaxation, and time to cherish experiences with loved ones. This is why I give with purpose, especially to those close to me.

If you’re looking to level up this lovey-dovey season, I have some high-end suggestions for practical (yet stylish) gifts and experiential surprises that will add a touch of richness to your holiday.

For the wayfaring moms and parents

Romantic, unique tours from Viator

Experiences are the new wave of loving gifts from everyone, especially tired parents who need a break. I’m obsessed with the idea of having a romantic trip together, whether it’s somewhere afar or just in your backyard. The most memorable gifts I recall from my spouse have been things like a flamenco show to see my favorite type of dance from Spain, and a spa treatment in the nearby scenic town of Newport, Rhode Island.

Have a peek through Viator, which offers countless opportunities to WOW your significant other. Or, how about a great tour booked for your littles you can all do together?

If you’re in Boston, here’s an indulgent Back Bay chocolate and art tour that’s sure to make your love swoon. Tours often can be reserved with no deposit, there’s a million reviews to help you decide, and there’s experiences in almost every corner of the world. Maybe you can pick one together as a fun Valentine’s Day activity.

Ternx Travel Stroller

I am forever working toward reducing my travel gear. Out of necessity, we’ve doubled and tripled the things taken on trips with two young children. Overall, though, it does make the experience easier; at least once we arrive! But this unique product from Ternx gives me an extra hand at the airport and I’ll be forever grateful. The one you love will also be obsessed with this practical, jet-setting gift.

The Ternx carry-on luggage stroller is a combination stroller for up to 48 pounds and a IATA compatible carry-on case. It folds into an overhead compartment if you don’t wish to gate check and there’s also lots of features that regular strollers have too, such as a canopy and storage basket. I can squeeze enough clothes and diapers into the carry on for the kids, cutting down on a checked bag too.

Babyark Classic carseat

Besides time-saving gear and experiences, the other thing moms and busy parents want for Valentine’s Day is peace of mind. And another thing parents often worry about is price point on gear to make sure they’re getting the most for their investment. So take that burden away and think about gifting a Babyark car seat, especially for new parents!

From four tiny pounds rear facing up to 65 pounds front-facing, this seat will last through your little’s entire childhood. Magnetic snaps allow for easy cleaning and lots of sturdy steel parts make this one of the safest seats around. Aesthetically its sleek design will look fresh in anyone’s SUV or mini-van.

What’s also interesting is this seat does not ‘expire’ like others. You can use this for multiple children and possibly pass it along afterwards too, which is well worth the investment.

For loved ones who need some me-time

Yellowleaf Hammocks

I will never lounge around my home the same way again. As a bigger sized person, I usually steer clear of hammocks because I never know the weight limit. I worry it won’t be comfortable.

Yellowleaf Hammocks makes a single that holds 330lbs and a family-size that can manage 500lbs. Despite these impressive stats, the hammock itself is super lightweight and can be fastened to almost anything. Or, get the whole system with a support frame and be able to lounge just about anywhere.

But the best thing about Yellowleaf is the commitment to marginalized communities and the environment. Each hammock is crafted by women of the Mlabri Tribe – “the people of the yellow leaves” – in the hills of Northern Thailand. The company is also a certified B Corp so you can feel good about your own wise choices when it comes to quality gifts that can change your lifestyle and help others.

Priority Pass

Part of the reason I hesitate with too many trips is the discomfort. I used to be able to handle a middle row economy seat in my 20s all the way to Taiwan, but these days I need to be kinder to my body. Whether I’m still kicking it in economy or treating myself to a business class flight, I know I’m able to utilize the lounges with Priority Pass. No matter your ticket, this pass gives you access to hundreds of airport lounges across the globe. There might be nothing better than offering the gift of complimentary food, showers, beverages, and space before your journey.

Also, gifters: many credit cards offer free access to Priority Pass, so it’s well worth checking yours to see if it’s good to go. You could surprise your loved one with lounge access on your next trip together. Here’s a few card options that credit a free Priority Pass membership in the U.S.:

Capital One Venture X card: Also has perks like a $300 travel credit and a TSA pre-check credit 

Chase Sapphire Reserve: Has the $300 annual travel credit and TSA Pre-check credit too!