21 Sweet Things to Do in a Long Distance Relationship

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Long distance relationships—who knew love could span thousands of miles and still be this complicated?

Are you tired of buffering video calls, endless texts, and the eternal struggle of differing time zones?

Well, guess what? You’re not alone!

It’s a wild ride, filled with its own set of challenges and quirks.

Ever tried sending a hug via mail? Spoiler alert: it doesn’t work. 

But don’t let the distance fool you—there are plenty of sweet, creative ways to keep that spark alive! 

Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or just looking to survive the next few months apart, there are countless things to do in a long distance relationship to make your partner feel special from afar.

Ready for some heartfelt gestures and maybe a little bit of laughter along the way?

Buckle up, because long-distance love can be pretty amazing, despite the miles!

How to make her feel special in long distance relationship

Want to make her feel special despite the miles? Easy! Surprise her with unexpected video calls just to say “I miss you!” Send her a playlist of songs that remind you of her—instant swoon!

Ever tried snail mail?

Handwritten letters are gold. How about a virtual movie night?

Grab some popcorn, hit play at the same time, and laugh together! Little thoughtful gestures, like leaving cute voice messages, can make a world of difference.

Who says distance is a deal-breaker?

21 lovely things to do in a long distance relationship

Long distance relationships can be challenging, but they’re also a great opportunity to get creative and find new ways to connect. Whether you’re looking for things to do in a long distance relationship or just some fresh long distance relationship activities, we’ve got you covered. 

Here are 21 lovely things to do in a long distance relationship that will keep the romance alive and make the miles between you feel a little shorter!

1. Send a handwritten letter

In the age of digital everything, receiving a handwritten letter is pure gold. Share your thoughts, feelings, and maybe even a doodle or two. It’s personal and heartfelt, making them feel closer to you despite the distance. 

Pour out your emotions on paper, and don’t shy away from being vulnerable. Describe your day, reminisce about past memories, and talk about future dreams. The tangible feel of the letter adds a special touch that texts and emails just can’t match.

How to surprise them with it: Don’t tell them it’s coming! Just drop it in the mail and wait for the delighted call when they find it in their mailbox. Bonus points for using scented paper or including a tiny, pressed flower. They’ll be overjoyed by this sweet surprise, one of the most thoughtful long distance relationship ideas.

2. Plan a virtual date night

Get dressed up, pick a movie to watch simultaneously, or cook the same meal together over video call. It’s like a date, but with a twist! The effort you put into planning a virtual date shows how much you care. 

It’s a perfect blend of fun and intimacy, helping you maintain that connection even from afar. Add some candles and your favorite drinks to make it feel more like a real date night.

How to surprise them with it: Send them an invitation via email or text, complete with a “menu” for the night and a link to the movie or recipe. They’ll love the effort you put into planning it. This is one of the best things to do in a long distance relationship to keep the romance alive.

3. Create a shared playlist

Music has a way of bringing people together. Create a playlist of songs that remind you of each other, your shared memories, or ones you know they’ll love. 

It’s a continuous reminder of your connection, playing in the background of your daily lives. You can even update it regularly with new songs that reflect your evolving relationship. It’s like sharing a part of your heart.

How to surprise them with it: Share the playlist link with a sweet note explaining why you chose each song. They’ll appreciate the thought and get to enjoy some great tunes! This idea ranks high among long distance couple things to keep the bond strong.

4. Play online games together

Whether you’re into board games, video games, or trivia, there are plenty of options to play together online. It’s a fun way to bond and have some laughs. 

Gaming can be a great stress reliever and a way to forget about the miles between you for a while. Plus, a little friendly competition can add a spark to your relationship.

How to surprise them with it: Find a game you both enjoy, and send them a message saying, “Game night tonight?” with a link to the game. It’s a great way to unwind and spend quality time together. This is a fun and engaging long distance relationship activity.

5. Have a virtual cooking session

Pick a recipe, gather the ingredients, and cook together over a video call. It’s like being in the same kitchen, minus the dishwashing. 

Cooking together can be a fun and intimate experience, and you can enjoy the same meal at the end. Share tips, laugh over mishaps, and enjoy the process together.

How to surprise them with it: Send them a list of ingredients ahead of time, then surprise them with a video call saying, “Let’s cook dinner together!” It’s a fun, interactive date night. This is a delightful addition to your list of what to do in a long distance relationship.

6. Write a poem or song for them

Express your feelings in a creative way by writing a poem or a song. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just heartfelt. 

This gesture shows your willingness to step out of your comfort zone to make them feel special. It’s a personal and intimate way to convey your love.

How to surprise them with it: Record yourself reciting the poem or singing the song and send it to them. They’ll treasure the effort and sentiment behind it. This is one of those unique long distance relationship ideas that they will never forget.

7. Send a care package

Fill a box with their favorite snacks, small gifts, and a handwritten note. It’s like sending a hug through the mail. 

The anticipation of opening the package and discovering the contents can bring immense joy. It shows that you know their preferences and care about their happiness.

How to surprise them with it: Pack the box with things they love and a few surprises. Add a note saying, “Open when you need a pick-me-up.” They’ll feel your love and thoughtfulness. Care packages are classic things to do in a long distance relationship to show you care.

8. Create a photo book

Compile your favorite photos together into a photo book. It’s a lovely way to reminisce about the good times and look forward to making new memories. 

Every page turn can be a journey through your relationship, reminding them of your shared moments and your commitment to making more.

How to surprise them with it: Create the photo book online and have it shipped to them. Include a note saying, “A little trip down memory lane for you.” They’ll be touched by the gesture. This is a tangible reminder of your long distance love.

9. Plan a surprise visit

If it’s feasible, plan a surprise visit. There’s nothing like seeing each other in person after a long time apart. The joy of reuniting face-to-face is incomparable and can rejuvenate your relationship.

How to surprise them with it: Coordinate with their friends or family to keep it a secret. Show up at their doorstep with flowers or their favorite treat. They’ll be over the moon! This is one of the most exciting long distance relationship tips.

10. Watch the same TV show or movie series

Pick a show or movie series to watch simultaneously. It gives you something to talk about and share opinions on. This shared experience can bring a sense of normalcy and routine to your relationship.

How to surprise them with it: Suggest a series they’ve been wanting to watch, and set a schedule for watching it together. Send them a funny meme or comment about each episode to keep the conversation going. This is a perfect long distance relationship activity for movie buffs.

Related Reading: Research indicates that sharing a social identity through friends and family enhances romantic relationship quality. However, when this isn’t possible, sharing media like TV shows, books, and movies with partners can compensate. Two studies found that shared media improves relationship quality and motivates couples to share media, enhancing interdependence despite a lack of shared real-world social networks.

11. Send a surprise gift

It doesn’t have to be expensive—a book they’ve been wanting to read, a cozy blanket, or a piece of jewelry they’ll love. Thoughtful gifts show that you’re thinking of them and know them well.

How to surprise them with it: Order the gift online and have it delivered to them. Include a note saying, “Just because I miss you.” They’ll love the unexpected surprise. Gifts are wonderful things to do in a long distance relationship to keep the romance alive.

12. Plan future trips together

Talk about the places you want to visit together and start planning a trip for when you can finally be together. Planning future adventures can be a great way to stay positive and excited about your relationship.

How to surprise them with it: Create a travel itinerary or a Pinterest board with all the places you want to go. Share it with them and say, “Can’t wait to explore these places with you!” It gives you both something to look forward to. This is one of the best long distance relationship ideas to keep the excitement alive.

13. Have a virtual wine or coffee tasting

Pick out a few wines or coffees to try together over a video call. It’s a fun way to share an experience and try something new. This can be a sophisticated and enjoyable date idea.

How to surprise them with it: Send them a tasting kit ahead of time with a note saying, “Ready for our tasting night?” They’ll love the thought and effort you put into it. This adds a touch of class to your list of long distance couple things.

14. Send a countdown calendar

Create a countdown calendar for the next time you’ll see each other. It’s a cute way to build excitement and anticipation. Each day marked off brings you closer to being together again.

How to surprise them with it: Make the calendar yourself and mail it to them, or create a digital version and share it with them. Each day they mark off will bring them closer to seeing you! This is a fun and engaging long distance relationship activity.

15. Share a journal

Start a journal where you both write entries and mail it back and forth. It’s a unique way to stay connected and share your thoughts. This ongoing project can deepen your emotional bond.

How to surprise them with it: Start the journal with a heartfelt entry and mail it to them. Include a note saying, “Can’t wait to read your thoughts.” They’ll cherish the intimate connection. This is a meaningful long distance relationship idea.

16. Create a custom puzzle

Have a custom puzzle made from a photo of the two of you. It’s a fun and unique gift that you can do together over a video call. This activity is both playful and romantic.

How to surprise them with it: Order the puzzle online and have it shipped to them. Suggest a puzzle night and enjoy putting it together while you chat. They’ll love the creativity behind it. This is one of the cutest long distance couple things to try.

17. Read the same book

Pick a book to read at the same time and discuss it as you go. It’s like having your own little book club. Sharing your thoughts and interpretations can bring you closer.

How to surprise them with it: Send them a copy of the book and a note saying, “Can’t wait to discuss this with you.” They’ll appreciate the thoughtful gesture and the shared experience. This is a great addition to your list of what to do in a long distance relationship.

18. Send a video message

Record a video message just for them. It’s more personal than a text and lets them see your face and hear your voice. These messages can be a source of comfort and joy.

How to surprise them with it: Send the video message randomly, maybe when they’re having a tough day. Say something sweet and funny to brighten their day. They’ll love seeing and hearing you. This is a heartfelt long distance relationship idea.

19. Create a bucket list together

Make a list of things you want to do together in the future. It gives you both something to look forward to and dream about. This can be a fun and inspiring activity.

How to surprise them with it: Start the list and send it to them, asking them to add their own ideas. It’s a fun way to plan your future together and keep the excitement alive. This is a fantastic long distance relationship activity.

20. Host a virtual trivia night

Challenge each other to a trivia night over video call. It’s fun, competitive, and a great way to learn new things together. Trivia nights can be both educational and entertaining.

How to surprise them with it: Create a trivia quiz with questions you know they’ll enjoy. Send them a message saying, “Trivia night tonight?” They’ll enjoy the friendly competition and the quality time. This is a lively addition to your list of long distance couple things.

Watch this episode of Relationship Theory to learn how you can make your long distance relationship thrive:

21. Celebrate milestones

Don’t let distance stop you from celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, or any special milestone. Plan something special even if you’re apart. Celebrating milestones keeps the relationship vibrant and meaningful.

How to surprise them with it: Send them a gift or plan a virtual celebration. Include a heartfelt message reminding them of how much they mean to you. They’ll feel loved and appreciated, no matter the miles. This is a crucial long distance relationship tip to maintain closeness.

Get the best even when you are apart!

Who says distance has to dull the romance?

With a bit of creativity and a sprinkle of effort, you can make your long distance relationship just as sweet and fulfilling as any other!

From handwritten letters to virtual wine tastings, there are endless ways to stay connected and keep that spark alive. 

Sure, it might take a little extra planning and a few more video calls, but isn’t your love worth it? 

So go ahead, try out these ideas, laugh together, and make memories even miles apart. Long distance love can be amazing—just keep surprising each other and having fun!