Ways to Date on the Cheap

Everyone is feeling the pinch of the economy today, and it affects every area of our lives (including dating.) Daters want to provide a good first impression for the new person in their life without breaking the bank. It can be done! (I promise.) Sometimes dating frugally is simply just paying attention to the small expenses you routinely dole out. Remember, it isn’t how much money you spend, it’s how attentive you are to your date. Great dates are often made under the simplest of circumstances.

If you’re scratching your head for ideas, here are a few to help you out.

Dinner to Go
Drinks typically add several dollars to your bill, so save the money spent on them by ordering in instead. Pick a favorite restaurant and order takeout instead of dine in. You can mix drinks cheaper at home and still get the feel that you’re eating “out” without spending as much.

Picnic Lunches
Remember the charm of picnic lunches? They’re cheaper than eating out and add a little something extra in the romance department. Even if the weather is getting cold, you can still have a “carpet” picnic.

Make Being Frugal a Game
If you and your date are both feeling the pinch, why not put your heads together to come up with the most fun yet frugal date ideas you can think of. Make it a game. Rather than being a chore, being frugal can be something that actually bonds you together.

Choose Daytime Activities
Anything done in the daytime (movies, meals, etc.) is usually cheaper during the day. Choose the latest time during the day before the rates go up and you’ll save.

Image: sxc.hu.