Romance on budget: HK couples tighten spending, turn to mainland getaways for Valentine’s

Instead of a lavish night out, about one in five Hong Kong couples are choosing short trips to the mainland on a tighter budget this Valentine’s Day, according to a survey by a local dating company.

HK Romance Dating interviewed 517 local couples — including 243 men and 274 women — between January 15 and February 3 to examine their celebration plans.

The survey found shifting preferences in Valentine’s activities. Watching movies topped the list for men at 52 percent, while shopping was the most popular choice among women at 42 percent.

A notable emerging trend is celebrating across the border, selected by 21 percent of men and 23 percent of women.

By contrast, celebrating at home has declined sharply among men, falling from 48 percent last year to 11 percent this year.

Tighter budgets for meals and gifts

While most couples are not skipping a candlelit dinner — 86 percent of men and 71 percent of women still plan to dine out — spending has become more restrained.

This year, the most common budget for a romantic meal falls within the HK$501 to HK$1,000 range, cited by 42 percent of men and 55 percent of women. Last year, most respondents spent between HK$1,001 and HK$2,000.

Gift budgets are also modest. About 36 percent of men plan to spend between HK$501 and HK$1,000, while 54 percent of women prefer to spend under HK$500.

Meanwhile, 22 percent of men and 6 percent of women said they are prepared to spend between HK$1,001 and HK$5,000 — both figures lower than last year — reflecting a more cautious spending sentiment.

Gift wish lists reveal expectations gap

Flowers remain the classic choice among men, rising from 46 percent last year to 52 percent this year. However, more than half of women, at 56 percent, said they hope to receive watches or jewelry instead.

For women, digital electronics remain the leading gift option for the second consecutive year at 44 percent. The category also tops men’s wish lists at 42 percent.

As for least desired gifts, 52 percent of men named amusement park tickets, while 44 percent of women preferred to avoid stationery, and 29 percent said they would not want toys or figurines.

Gifting tip: Thoughtfulness over price tags

Anita Cheung, founder of HK Romance Dating, said men still consider flowers an essential Valentine’s gift and often pair them with another present despite higher holiday prices.

Co-founder Yubi Wong Ka-yu encouraged couples to better understand their partners’ preferences and recent needs, noting that customized gifts can better convey sincerity.

The company also suggested that couples consider new celebratory activities, such as DIY workshops or cooking classes, in addition to traditional dinners. It advised open communication about plans and even sharing costs to avoid misunderstandings.