Dr. Mark Travers, a psychologist who specializes in relationships, says that happy couples are intentional about how they spend their weekends. After researching hundreds of couples and navigating his own marriage, he has found that five specific habits consistently appear in the strongest relationships.
Here, we’ll look at the five weekend routines that can bring long-term satisfaction in couples. These habits aren’t complicated, but they do require some effort. We’ll explain why they are important and how you can apply them to your shared life with your partner.
What happy couples do differently on weekends
Couples in the healthiest relationships don’t rely only on chemistry. They create routines that protect their bond, even during busy or stressful times. While weekdays tend to be packed with work and responsibilities, weekends offer a chance to reset. Those who use this time well tend to be more connected and resilient.
1. They make space for laughter
It sounds simple, but it’s easy to overlook when life feels overwhelming. Humor breaks tension, lowers defensiveness, and helps couples stay emotionally close. Whether it’s through jokes, silly games, or spontaneous dancing in the kitchen, happy couples find small ways to be playful, and they do it on purpose.
2. They create simple rituals
A ritual doesn’t have to be something fancy. It could be cooking together on Sunday night, watching a show you both like, or taking a regular walk in your neighborhood. These give structure to time off, making weekends feel less chaotic and more meaningful. They also provide a sense of shared identity, which helps couples feel like a team.
3. They spend time together, apart
Another key habit is engaging in “parallel play”. This term, borrowed from developmental psychology, describes two people doing different things in the same space. You read a book while your partner gardens or scrolls through car videos. You’re not talking the whole time, but you’re together. This kind of relaxed closeness allows both people to recharge without pressure, and it strengthens the bond.
4. They make intimacy part of the plan
Couples who are happy long-term tend to prioritize sex, not just when the mood strikes. Scheduling intimacy might feel awkward at first, but it often works better than waiting for a perfect moment that never comes. It’s also a good way to keep emotional closeness from slipping through the cracks when life gets busy.
5. They make sure to be present
Finally, there’s one habit that might get overlooked: putting phones away. Couples don’t need to be in deep conversation all the time, but when they do spend time together, it’s important to be fully present. That means no email, no endless scrolling, no checking in with work. Even a quiet coffee together feels more meaningful without digital distractions.
The way couples use their weekend time can either strengthen the bond or let it wear down, and all of these habits share one thing in common: they’re intentional. Happy couples don’t leave connection up to chance. They make time for each other, even in small ways, and they protect that time from outside noise.
