Going out with your significant other is always a good time. You two get to bond, become closer, and think of creative ways to pass the time. However, as fun as dates can be, they can also hurt your wallet. After all, dinner every week is fun when you have the means, otherwise it can be a tad stressful.
But, not to worry! There are a lot of fun things you and your partner can do without breaking the bank. These cost-effective date ideas will ensure you get the most out of your time together, while also saving your green.
#1 Hey, Boo Boo
Never underestimate the power of a good picnic. You get to pack your own food, show off your culinary skills, and enjoy a beautiful day in the park together. That said, they’re great for any stage in your relationship. If you’re at the point where you don’t need to fill every second with chit chat, getting out of the house and being in some fresh air will lift the spirits.
Picnics are also a terrific way to get to know your partner a little better, so they’re perfect for a third or fourth date. If you’re worried about what to do after you’re finished eating, pack a deck of cards or something similar. You’ll still engage in conversation, all while having a nice buffer to beat those awkward lulls.
#2 Colonel Mustard Strikes Again
Just about everyone loves to sit down with a board game. With thousands of options to choose from, you and your partner can have friendly games of Jaipur, Sequence, Pandemic, or Ticket to Ride. Each one varies in length, so you can squeeze in a match or even two before the night is over. You’ll also save money by laying out a spread at home or even ordering some take-out.
Don’t forget that board game nights are also great if you’ve been dating for a while. Invite another couple (or two!) over and have an all-out brawl on who can finally win the game of Life. (If only it were that easy to pay off our debts, huh?)
#3 America’s Next Top Comic
Much like many starving artists out there, unknown comedians are trying to make a name for themselves in a competitive niche. Why not support your local talent by checking out a comedy show in your area? If you’re lucky, you may stumble into a freebie or pay what you can show. In any case, you and your date get some inexpensive entertainment and something to talk about when the night is over.
#4 Get Your Bowl On
It may sound kind of corny at first glance, but bowling is an excellent date idea. Not only is it cheap, but it’s also an adorable way to welcome some healthy competition. Plus, cheesy dates are good ways to let your partner know that you have a fun, corny side.
Food and drinks are available as well, often for much cheaper than what you’d find in more upscale restaurants. Think pub food but with additional entertainment thrown in. So, you’ll still be able to engage in conversation before seeing which one of you is the bowling master.
#5 Friend Like Me
Last but not least, who can deny the call of a movie night? We all know there are dozens of streaming services available at this point, so why not take advantage? What’s great about these services is that you have lots of different genres to choose from. You could also relive your youth and indulge in some classic Disney flicks from the ‘90s. There’s also the added bonus of building blanket forts, snuggling together, or sharing a snack. You should think of at-home movie nights like going to the theatre; it has all of the same benefits, but on a budget.
If you and your partner enjoy spending time together, it doesn’t really matter if you have cheaper dates. What’s most important is that you get to know one another better and spend time together. Besides, who could fault you for wanting to save a little dough?
