Valentine’s Day Shopping Guide 2026: Best Deals, Coupons & Shipping Deadlines
Last updated: January 31, 2026 Recently updated
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and Americans are expected to spend a record $29.1 billion on gifts this year. Whether you’re shopping for jewelry, flowers, chocolates, or experiences, this guide will help you find the best deals and avoid common mistakes.
Quick Stats
$199.78 – Average spending per person (record high)
55% of Americans celebrate Valentine’s Day
38% shop online for Valentine’s gifts
February 3rd – Last day for standard shipping
Your Valentine’s Day 2026 shopping timeline
When to Shop for Valentine’s Day
Timing is everything when it comes to Valentine’s Day deals. Here’s the optimal shopping timeline:
When
What to Expect
Recommendation
Mid-Late January
Best promotions, full inventory
SHOP NOW
Feb 1-7
Good deals, still time for shipping
Good timing
Feb 8-12
Express shipping required, limited stock
Last minute
Feb 13-14
Premium prices, low inventory
AVOID
Pro tip: Jewelry prices are up 8-12% compared to 2024 due to gold and diamond costs. Shopping early locks in current prices before potential increases.
Best Valentine’s Day Deals by Category
Jewelry
Jewelry remains one of the most popular Valentine’s gifts. Here are the best deals:
Kay Jewelers – Up to 40% off everything; extra 30% off clearance
Zales – Up to 50% off select items; free shipping on $199+; 10% military discount
Blue Nile – 50% off select rings; 30% off diamond tennis bracelets
Pandora – 3-for-2 charm deals
Aurate – 20% off with code VDAY
Kay Jewelers coupons | Zales coupons
Flowers
Order by February 10th for guaranteed delivery. Here’s what each retailer is offering:
1-800-Flowers – 25% off sitewide; bundled gift options available
ProFlowers – 20% off sitewide
FTD – 20% off sitewide
The Bouqs Co. – 25% off with code WINTER
1-800-Flowers deals | ProFlowers deals
Chocolates & Gourmet
See’s Candies – $5 off orders over $35; free shipping on $75+
Godiva – 20% off sitewide with coupon codes
Harry & David – 20% off with code TOGETHER20
Edible Arrangements – Free next-day delivery on $79+; 50% off select items with code LOVE50
Godiva coupons | Harry & David deals
Experience Gifts
Experiences are becoming more popular than physical gifts. Consider:
Groupon – Up to 70% off Valentine’s experiences; spa packages, dining, local activities; electronics up to 75% off with code LOVE
Viator – Up to 50% off select experiences; “Reserve Now & Pay Later” option
Groupon deals
Most Popular Valentine’s Gift Categories
Based on NRF data, here’s what Americans are buying:
Candy – The classic choice, still #1
Flowers – Traditional but never goes out of style
Jewelry – For serious commitments
Evening out/dinner – Experience over material
Clothing – Practical but personal
Trending in 2026: Pet Gifts
35% of consumers plan to buy Valentine’s gifts for their pets this year, spending an estimated $2.1 billion on pet toys, treats, and accessories. This is up from $1.7 billion in 2025.
Shipping Deadlines
Don’t let shipping ruin your Valentine’s Day. Here are the key deadlines:
Shipping Method
Order By
Cost
Standard (5-7 days)
February 3rd
Often free over $50-75
Priority/Expedited
February 10th
$10-25
Express/Overnight
February 12th
$25-50+
Same-day delivery
February 14th
Premium pricing
How to Stack Discounts
Maximize your savings by combining multiple discount methods:
Start with a sale item – Many stores have Valentine’s sections already discounted 20-40%
Individual retailer websites for current promotions
Last updated: January 2026
Sarah Mitchell
Sarah Mitchell is a savings expert with 8 years of experience in consumer finance and coupon strategy. Her work has been featured in Consumer Reports, Money Magazine, and The Penny Hoarder. She tests and verifies coupon codes daily to help shoppers save money.
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