All's fair in love and travel... Get away this Valentine's Day

It’s fast approaching, the day that strikes fear (usually him) and loving (usually her) into the hearts of many couples.

Valentine’s Day falls on a Monday this year; February 14 for those who need a reminder. The fact that it’s a Monday is perfect – for us and the travel industry.

Six weeks into the New Year will be the perfect time for a long weekend break.

How to book now and not pay a fortune? That is the question. Cheapflights is here with its top tips on how to shop for last-minute Valentine’s Day getaways:

Add spark by trying something new. Be flexible with your destination by choosing a “second-tier” city (smaller airports may be cheaper to fly into too). If the Bahamas is outside your price range, consider Miami – a lively and artful city on the beach. If not New York, then Boston, for a small-town, European feel. If Cabo San Lucas looks like it might bust your budget, then maybe Santa Barbara, for a SoCal respite. Not Paris? Try Montreal for a cheaper flight and a better exchange rate.

Cheat on your airport, not your loved one. Use an alternative airport to look for better rates – sometimes a longer drive at an early hour can save you big.

Distance won’t make the budget grow fonder. Choose a shuttle flight (think: Boston to Washington D.C. or Los Angeles to San Francisco) to leave the ground without leaving your budget behind. Bonus – with shorter flights, you’ll get more time at your destination.

Plan the perfect date. Fly out on Valentine’s Day to save on the premium weekend rates, or surprise your loved one with a trip leaving the day after. Once Valentine’s Day is technically over, we’ll be back in low season for a while. Make February 15th  the new February 14th.

Break up (your stay, not your relationship). Choose a luxurious hotel for one night of your stay. We suggest upgrading for your final night rather than starting off swanky and then downgrading.

Plan to be a VIP. Shop around in advance for reduced tickets on tourist attractions. See if your destination offers a tourist card (most European cities offer them) – they are usually good for public transport and have discounts on museums, galleries and restaurants.

Good things come in hotel packages. Select an all-inclusive resort package and see if there are any freebies  like a spa treatment, bottle of champagne or an activity. You’ll need to do the math here. Do you usually go gaga for a mani-pedi? If not, it may not be worth paying the price for it now.

Love the one you’re with. Fully embrace your destination – and do it for as little money as possible. Charming old city? Take to the streets for culture and entertainment. Beach destination? There’ll be no extras here surely, just the price of sunscreen. Check the tourist board websites to find accommodation discounts. For example, Bermuda has rebranded February as “Love Month” and has published a brochure packed full of fun – and mostly free – events throughout the month.

Check out more of our How-to Guides.