Lidl is giving free £10 vouchers to shoppers for Valentine’s Day

If you're not careful Valentine's Day can end up hitting your wallet.

I explain how to avoid the traps.

AVOID THE SET MENU

As February 14 falls on a Friday this year, consider going out for a meal on Saturday instead.

This is because many restaurants insist that you must order a set menu on Valentine's Day, which can be very expensive.

Usually this is not the case on other days.

Some of the set menu items may also be on the regular dinner menu, so you can still order them without paying a premium.

LOVE IS...FINDING A DISCOUNT CODE

If you do want to go out for dinner on Valentine's Day then look for restaurant deals on The Fork.

This website shows you all the restaurants with special offers and deals in your area.

If you're eating in this year, you could save money with one of the dine-in-for-two options above.

Check the individual cost of each item in the deal to ensure you're making the biggest saving.

Keep an eye out for discounts and vouchers in the run up to February 14.

Some companies run special promotions in the lead up to the big day.

Check websites such as Groupon, which offers special dining options or experiences.

DON'T OVERSPEND

It can be easy to fall into the trap of overspending when it comes to spoiling a loved one.

But if you do, you'll be causing yourself long term financial pain.

I'm sure if you have a chat with your partner and explain what your budget is before February 14th then you can both be on the same page and you'll avoid disappointing them.