With Valentine’s Day just days away, many couples are booking restaurants for their traditional candlelit dinner. But why not switch things up this year and hit the open road?
Not only is it a fun, relaxed, and memorable way to spend time together, but it also shows creativity, which is sure to impress your partner.
You can go wherever the mood takes you, share unforgettable moments, and play your favourite songs along the way.
To help make your trip as smooth (and romantic) as possible, Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing, shares his top tips for planning the perfect Valentine’s getaway.
Choose a scenic route
“The UK is full of stunning scenic routes, no matter where you live.
“In the north, the Peak District offers breathtaking views at every turn. In the south, the rolling hills of West Sussex and the Cotswolds make for equally beautiful drives.
“Choosing a route with natural beauty shows thoughtfulness and provides the perfect setting for conversation, making for a memorable trip.
“It also offers the opportunity for spontaneous exploration. Allow yourself to get lost in the landscapes and discover new destinations.”
Pack the essentials
“Before setting off, ensure you have everything needed for the journey. This is a great chance to bring your date’s favourite drinks, snacks, and personal items.
“A blanket is always a good idea. If your date is relaxing in the passenger seat, they’ll appreciate the extra warmth and comfort.
“You could even go the extra mile and create a checklist together to ensure you do not overlook anything important.”
Bring a picnic
“No road trip is complete without a picnic. Pack a cool bag with classics like sandwiches and snacks.
“If space allows, bring a portable picnic table. Otherwise, picnic plates and finger food will do the trick.
“Choosing food and drinks that both of you will enjoy will make the experience all-the-more special.”
Create a romantic playlist
“Every couple has songs that hold meaning for them. Before your trip, put together a playlist of favourites to enjoy on the drive.
“If you need inspiration, many streaming services offer features to help. For instance, Spotify’s ‘Blend’ feature can mix both your tastes into a shared playlist.
“Ensure your phone is fully charged, so the music doesn’t cut out mid-trip.”
Select dreamy destinations
“Valentine’s Day offers the opportunity to go all-out. Choose destinations with natural beauty or bucket-list appeal, such as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty or iconic landmarks.
“For this, you can fully cater it to both the tastes of your date and as a couple. For instance, if you’re both avid walkers, research walking trails with great views and wildlife.
“You could even research drive-in cinemas showcasing classic romantic movies. Use this opportunity to get as creative as you like!”
Capture the memories
“Bring a way to capture the trip, whether it’s your phone, a disposable camera, or a film camera.
“Afterwards, you can create a scrapbook or photo album to look back on together, keeping the memories alive for years to come.”
