Dating can be enjoyable, but it can also be expensive. You could easily spend a few hundred dollars on just one night out between dinner, drinks, and entertainment. Even if it’s just a quick meet and greet with someone you want to hook up with, you could still end up spending a lot on expensive coffee drinks and transportation.
In today’s economy, it’s more important than ever to get more value for your money. So, how can you impress your date without breaking the bank? Here are some tried and tested ideas from the editors at Adult FriendFinder!
When in doubt, plan it out
Yes, you want your date to have a good time, so it’s important to plan ahead. The best way to start is to get an idea of what your date likes to do, and then create some affordable options based on that information. Be sure to read their Adult FriendFinder profile in full to see if there are any clues about what they enjoy. Many people list their favorite music, movies, foods, and activities in the “About Me” section. If that doesn’t work, just ask!
Whether you’re looking for a romantic partner or something more casual, you’re more likely to get what you want if the first meeting is successful.
Keep it hot and seasonal
One pro-tip many passionate daters use to plan an affordable getaway is to stick with seasonal activities. Spring and summer are perfect for boozy picnics, free outdoor shows, and lazy afternoons on the beach. Come fall, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, scenic walks, haunted houses, and even Oktoberfest celebrations can be a fun way to get to know each other.
Winter is prime time for indoor activities (Netflix and chill, anybody?), but it’s also perfect for playing in the snow, ice skating, and free holiday activities around your local area.
Know what to expect
Avoiding surprises serves two purposes. It can help you identify any hidden costs that you didn’t initially think of, and it can allow you to brainstorm ways to do more with less. Rather than buying snacks at the fireworks show, for example, you can plan ahead to bring a cooler or snacks yourself. If you’re going to an event that requires tickets, purchase them ahead of time as many venues offer discounts the earlier you make your purchase.
After you’ve listed the costs, some of which may include tickets to shows or events, spend a little time researching coupons and other ways to save money on the more expensive portions of the date.
Take a look at the competition
Roller-skating can be a relatively inexpensive thing to do on a date, and many places have special dates set aside specifically for adults. If you have a roller rink near you, you can compare the prices for different businesses in the area. Take travel time and gas costs into consideration and determine which is the most cost-effective place for you.
Researching the competition can also include seeing whether coupons are available for each. Some places have specials and deals frequently, with online coupons being a popular way to save money. If you have any equipment you can bring with you, such as roller skates, you’ll save money by not paying for the skate rental.
Consider the time of day
The time of day can significantly affect how much money you spend on certain things. Many higher-end dinner locations have a separate lunch menu, with the same quality food and slightly smaller portions. As a result, the cost is often less for these smaller portions, allowing you to take someone on an elegant date with excellent food for a fraction of the cost.
There are also coupons for places where specific dates or times are blocked out. Many people choose, for example, to go on breakfast dates rather than dinner dates.