11 Sweet Things to Do in a Long Distance Relationship

Long distance relationships (LDRs) are often seen as challenging, but they can also be incredibly rewarding. The key to thriving in an LDR is to find sweet and meaningful ways to connect with your partner despite the miles between you.

In this article, we'll explore 11 sweet things to do in a long distance relationship that can help you maintain a strong bond and keep the romance alive. From creative date ideas to thoughtful gestures, these tips will provide you with practical insights and real-world examples to make your relationship flourish.

1. Schedule Regular Virtual Dates

Create a Shared Calendar

One of the most important aspects of any relationship is spending quality time together. In an LDR, this means scheduling regular virtual dates. Creating a shared calendar can help you both keep track of these special moments. Whether it's a weekly movie night or a monthly dinner date, having something to look forward to can make the distance feel smaller.

Plan Themed Date Nights

To keep things interesting, plan themed date nights. For example, you could have an Italian night where you both cook pasta and drink wine, or a movie marathon with films from a specific genre. Themed dates add excitement and give you both something to prepare for and enjoy together.

Use Video Chat Apps

Utilize video chat apps like Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime to make your virtual dates feel more personal. Seeing each other's faces can make a huge difference in feeling connected. Set up your space nicely, perhaps with candles or a nice background, to make the experience feel special.

2. Send Surprise Care Packages

Personalize Your Gifts

Sending a care package is a tangible way to show your partner that you're thinking of them. Personalize your gifts by including items that are meaningful to your relationship, such as their favorite snacks, a book you've both talked about, or a handwritten letter.

Include Inside Jokes

Inside jokes are a great way to maintain intimacy. Include items in your care package that reference these jokes, like a quirky mug or a funny t-shirt. These small touches can bring a smile to your partner's face and remind them of your unique connection.

Plan a Delivery Surprise

Coordinate with your partner's friends or family to deliver the package when they least expect it. Surprises can create memorable moments and show your partner that you're willing to go the extra mile to make them happy.

3. Write Love Letters

Go Old School with Handwritten Notes

In the digital age, receiving a handwritten letter can be incredibly touching. Take the time to write a heartfelt letter to your partner, expressing your feelings and sharing updates about your life. Handwritten notes add a personal touch that digital messages can't replicate.

Create a Letter Series

Consider writing a series of letters for your partner to open on specific occasions, like when they're having a bad day or when they miss you. This thoughtful gesture provides comfort and support, even when you're not physically there.

Use Creative Stationery

Invest in some beautiful stationery to make your letters even more special. The effort you put into the presentation can make your partner feel cherished and appreciated.

4. Share a Digital Photo Album

Capture Everyday Moments

Create a digital photo album to share with your partner, filled with pictures of your daily life. Capturing everyday moments helps your partner feel included in your world, even from afar.

Add Captions and Stories

Include captions and stories with your photos to give context and share your thoughts. This adds depth to the images and allows your partner to experience your life through your eyes.

Update Regularly

Keep your digital photo album updated regularly to maintain a sense of connection. Frequent updates show your partner that you're thinking of them and eager to share your life with them.

5. Play Online Games Together

Choose Cooperative Games

Playing online games together can be a fun and engaging way to bond. Choose cooperative games that require teamwork, like "It Takes Two" or "Overcooked." Working together towards a common goal can strengthen your relationship and provide a sense of accomplishment.

Try Multiplayer Games

Explore multiplayer games that allow you to compete against each other or other players. Games like "Mario Kart" or "Among Us" can be a great way to introduce some friendly competition and laughter into your relationship.

Schedule Game Nights

Set aside specific times for game nights, just like you would for a date. Having a regular gaming schedule gives you both something to look forward to and ensures you make time for fun.

6. Create a Shared Playlist

Curate Songs with Meaning

Music has a unique ability to evoke emotions and memories. Create a shared playlist with songs that have special meaning to your relationship, like the song you danced to on your first date or a tune that reminds you of a memorable trip. Curating songs with meaning can help you feel closer to your partner.

Discover New Music Together

Use your shared playlist as an opportunity to discover new music together. Introduce each other to new artists and genres, expanding your musical horizons and creating new memories linked to these songs.

Update the Playlist Regularly

Keep your playlist fresh by regularly adding new songs. Updating the playlist ensures it remains a dynamic part of your relationship and provides a constant source of connection.

7. Watch the Same TV Shows or Movies

Choose a Series to Binge Together

Select a TV series or movie franchise to watch together, even if you're miles apart. Binge-watching the same content allows you to share reactions, theories, and favorite moments, creating a shared experience.

Use Streaming Services with Watch Party Features

Many streaming services, like Netflix and Amazon Prime, offer watch party features that allow you to watch content simultaneously with your partner. These features sync playback so you can enjoy the show together in real-time.

Discuss and Share Reactions

After watching, discuss the episodes or movies and share your thoughts. Engaging in discussions deepens your connection and provides insight into each other's perspectives.

8. Plan Future Visits

Create a Travel Bucket List

Planning future visits can give you both something to look forward to. Create a travel bucket list of places you'd like to visit together. Dreaming about future adventures can help keep the excitement alive and provide motivation during tough times.

Set Realistic Goals

While dreaming big is fun, it's important to set realistic goals for your visits. Consider your schedules and budgets to plan trips that are feasible and enjoyable for both of you.

Countdown to Your Next Visit

Use a countdown app or calendar to mark the days until your next visit. Counting down together builds anticipation and excitement, making the wait more bearable.

9. Celebrate Special Occasions

Plan Virtual Celebrations

Don't let distance stop you from celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or other special occasions. Plan virtual celebrations with video calls, decorations, and even a shared meal. Making an effort to celebrate shows your partner that these moments matter to you.

Send Thoughtful Gifts

Surprise your partner with thoughtful gifts that arrive on special days. Consider their interests and needs to choose something meaningful, whether it's a personalized item or a practical gift.

Create Traditions

Develop unique traditions for your relationship, like exchanging letters on your anniversary or watching a specific movie on your partner's birthday. Traditions provide a sense of continuity and make each celebration feel special.

10. Support Each Other's Goals

Share Your Aspirations

Openly discuss your personal and professional goals with your partner. Sharing your aspirations allows you to support each other and celebrate achievements together, even from afar.

Encourage and Motivate

Be your partner's biggest cheerleader by offering encouragement and motivation. Send supportive messages or surprise them with a small gift when they reach a milestone.

Celebrate Achievements

Celebrate each other's achievements, no matter how small. Acknowledging successes reinforces your support and strengthens your bond.

11. Practice Open Communication

Schedule Regular Check-Ins

Regular check-ins are crucial for maintaining open communication in an LDR. Schedule times to discuss your relationship, share feelings, and address any concerns.

Be Honest and Transparent

Honesty and transparency are key to building trust. Share your thoughts and feelings openly, even if they're difficult to discuss. This openness fosters a deeper connection and prevents misunderstandings.

Listen Actively

Practice active listening by giving your partner your full attention during conversations. Show empathy and understanding to create a safe space for open dialogue.

Conclusion

Navigating a long distance relationship can be challenging, but with creativity and effort, it can also be incredibly rewarding. By incorporating these 11 sweet things to do in a long distance relationship, you can strengthen your bond, maintain intimacy, and create lasting memories with your partner. Remember, the key to success is communication, trust, and a willingness to make the most of the time you have together, no matter the distance.