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10 classic Valentine’s Day gifts that are absolute winners | A couple of travel makers

It really is the thought that counts.

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Stephanie Yip
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There's always talk about "unique" or "best" Valentine's Day gifts. But honestly, you don't have to outdo yourself on this day.

Save that for their birthday and your anniversaries as those are much more personal days that command an exceptional celebration.

That's not to say you shouldn't do something on Valentine's Day. After all, it is the most loved-up day on the calendar.

So if you're searching for a surprise, these gifts are classics that we personally have gifted or been gifted that have gone down a treat.

Stef and D at the 7 Bridges Walk.

We're Stef and D, a pair of married jetsetters. Together, we've visited 55 countries and we're determined to see even more – all while working full time and paying off our mortgage. We count our dollars at home and while away and we're here to share our tips on how you can travel on a budget.

New blog posts every fortnight on Mondays here. Follow us: @acoupleoftravelmakers

1. Flowers

Send them on the fly during the workday. Or if you're more private like us, beat them home and leave them waiting on their bedside table or dresser.

Big or small, bouquets or jarred, purchased or picked from the yard, unless they've openly stated they abhor florals, flowers are always a winner. And no, it doesn't have to be roses.

2. Home-cooked breakfast

If you believe that the way to their hearts is through their stomaches, sneak out of bed early and whip them up a little something. It could be as simple as toast and coffee or as fancy as pancakes or bacon and eggs.

Couple sharing a pasta dish

3. Dinner in

Put your hand up to cook dinner tonight and whip up one of their favourite dishes. And always remember that effort counts.

4. Dinner out

Need to impress? Wish to make a bit of a show of Valentine's Day? Maybe you're just too lazy to cook. Get this one organised early and book a table for two at a restaurant you've been longing to visit. Or, rock up at a local joint. Here are some restaurants in Sydney to get started.

5. Jewellery

If he or she is the kind who loves a bit of bling, change up their look with a new necklace, earrings or bracelet. It doesn't have to be flash so long as it suits their style. For an easy out think of something they've remarked they liked while browsing the shops.

Whatever you do, veer away from rings unless it's their main form of jewellery or you're popping the question.

Couple at a movie theatre.

6. Movie date

Spend the night in each others' arms swooning over the latest rom-com. There's always one in the cinema over Valentine's Day. This year the big one is Emma.

Our first Valentine's Day movie was Little Miss Sunshine (shows how long we've been together, right?)

Alternatively you can pick your favourite movie to watch at home.

7. Chocolates

I'm a sucker for chocolates and if your other half is too, you can appease their sweet tooth with a box of something fancy. Or even a packet of their go-to choc. It's the thought that counts.

8. Bedroom stuff

It is the day of love after all. Surprise them in the bedroom with some new lingerie, a scented candle or a new "toy". You know where I'm going with this.

Collection of photos.

9. Print out photos

Pick the best snaps from your time together and turn them into a present. If there's a bundle you can build a photobook or if you have a few hot shots you can print and frame them or print them onto a pillow, canvas, mug or magnet. The options are endless.

Personally we've gone simple, printing out photos from each year we've been together and framing them.

10. Staycation

Last year we spent Valentine's Day on staycation. It started with an event (for us it was a concert) and ended with an evening at a 5-star hotel in the city. It's the ideal chance to feel pampered in your hometown and, unlike over Christmas or New Year's Eve, there isn't a markup for the day.

What have been your favourite Valentine's Day gifts? Let us know in the comments below.

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