Cheap Date Ideas

Recently, I was catching up with an old friend who was struggling financially in the arena of dating.  Taking girls to dinner to never see them again seemed to be a waste of money but he also didn't want to cheapen the experience by asking them to split their meals. His wallet was as empty as his heart.

I'm a self-admitted cheapo.  Spending too much money on anything is guaranteed to bring on a panic attack...and what I define as too much money is what normal people spend on a soda.  I'm over the edge, I'm aware of this.

Dating doesn't have to be all high pressure fancy dinners and flowers.  There are tons of ways to connect with a new suitor or reconnect with your love that won't break the bank.

Take Advantage of Where You Live

Do you live by the beach? Beach dates are easy, cheap, and a great way to talk and get to know the person you're dating or to reconnect with your partner. I live in Pittsburgh which gives me the opportunity to take in sights like Mount Washington or walk along Point State Park.  Utilize what's nearby to access free fun and in-depth conversations.  Here are a few ideas:

• Go for a hike.
• Or a much simpler nature walk through the woods.
• Walk along a river/lake/ocean/bridge overlooking one of these things.
• Explore a neighborhood you're not quite familiar with and pop into shops that interest you.

Put Together a Puzzle

Nothing like a team activity to see how your date performs under pressure!  There's also a sense of accomplishment you'll build a bond over when the puzzle is complete.

Hold A Competitive Game Night

Competition makes the heart grow fonder. Each of you could choose a favorite game and wager a bet - loser plans the next date!  This will also help you identify whether your latest date is a sore loser or takes winning a bit too seriously.

Go Thrifting Together

While a little nontraditional and may require you to spend some money, it'll be minimal at best. Thrifting together will bring up different memories for each of you to share as you dive through old treasures.  It will even give you a sense as to what your date values and if your aesthetics match.

Hit Karaoke Night

Maybe you're too shy to jump up on that stage, but the two of you can still enjoy those brave enough to do so.  At most, this will cost you a drink or two while guaranteeing some laughs.

Stargazing

This is easy and can be done anywhere! Pack a thermos in the chillier months or some snacks in the summer and you have a romantic evening set for two. Don't forget a blanket for you to sit on!

Go Bike Riding

If you're athletic and being in the outdoors is a priority to you, there's no better way to allow someone to get to know you like bike riding.  Just about everyone can ride a bike and in larger cities bikes are available to rent at a lower cost.  You can slowly coast down streets, dissecting the lawn choices of homeowners in your neighborhood and chat while you take a quick tour.

Go to Trivia Night

Trivia Night holds a lot of chances for conversation while still being a team sport.  It allows you to be in a public setting if you're not quite ready to bring them home.  Or, if you're in a long term relationship, it gets you out of the house without straining your credit card.

Do you have any cheap date ideas?  Leave them below in the comments! :)