They say that the first date is the most expensive date you’ll ever go to. And with the way these dates work, that statement is technically true. You are, after all, trying to leave a great first impression on your date.
But sadly, not everyone has gold in their pockets. Some can’t afford fancy dinners or expensive concerts, especially on their first date. While taking your date out for an extravagant steak and wine dinner is an excellent choice of activity, it’ll leave you with more holes in your pocket and an empty bank account.
Do first dates need to be expensive? Of course not.
Not every first date should be a wallet drainer. That’s why we’re here to help you decide how to have an enjoyable first date, even on a limited budget.
Kinds of Date Ideas Within Your Budget
You don’t need a million dollars to impress your date. While money can help achieve that, it isn’t a necessity. People are coming up with more creative date ideas on a small budget. As it turns out, it’s okay to be broke on the first date.
But remember, it’s a good idea to have some emergency cash handy. A hundred bucks should be good enough, just in case. Better safe than sorry, right?
“But what can I do on a first date if I only have $20?”
A lot of things! Here are some date ideas you can try if you’re on a budget.
Sporty Dates
Doing something sporty on a first date may seem unorthodox, but people nowadays will do anything just so they can see each other—even if it involves running a few laps around an oval.
Using your local city sports complex or gym for a day is an affordable option, and it offers a variety of activities for you and your date to enjoy while being active. All you need is your water bottle for hydration.
People enjoy going on active dates because they are able to hit two birds with one stone: Stay fit, and spend time with their special someone.
If neither of you is a fan of running, you can try a day pass at your local gym. The majority of consumer-grade gyms, or “Big Box Gyms,” will allow you a one-day pass for free to check out their facilities and equipment.
Coffee Dates
Is coffee a good first date idea? Yes!
Coffee nowadays is a shared interest for all—it’s now a way of socializing with one another. Coffee dates are a popular and cheap way of going out with someone.
As much as possible, avoid giant coffee shop chains like Starbucks. If you can, check out your local cafes and see what they offer. You’ll be able to support a local business by doing so, and you’ll also discover places you’ve never known before. If your date is not into coffee, maybe she’d like matcha or tea.
According to HeSpokeStyle, not only are coffee dates cheap, but they’re also a great setup for a follow-up date. Being in a coffee shop is more relaxing than being in an expensive restaurant. Having dinner somewhere fancy sets a lot of high expectations, while being in a coffee shop allows you to be more grounded and intimate.
Street Food Hopping Dates
Who doesn’t like street food? They’re delicious, cheap, and accessible for everyone. Street food is a great conversation topic, allowing you to bond with each other. If your date has never tried a certain street food, this is your chance to try it together.
A first date doesn’t have to be fancy or sophisticated. Sometimes, the simple joys of eating delicious and greasy street food are enough to create core memories. What’s better than experiencing your first corn on the cob fresh off the grill with your date?
Street food won’t put a dent in your wallet, and on top of that, you’ll be supporting your local vendors.
Natural Scenery and Park Dates
Why not go out to the mountains or the rivers on your first date? If you’re both outdoor enthusiasts, then this is the perfect budget date idea for you. The picturesque scenery is romantic enough to make you fall in love with each other.
If you’re not a fan of the creepy crawlies that lurk around the woods, you can always go for a stroll in the park. Once again, the place is free for everyone—you can set up a picnic, walk around, go bird watching, or just lie down together on the Bermuda grass.
City parks are some of the most underrated locations, yet they can be one of the most romantic places to go out on a first date.
Carnival or City Fair Dates
If you’re broke on a first date, go check your city’s local carnival or fun fair; cheap rides, street food, photobooths—they’ve got all the fun stuff right there. You don’t even need to ride the rides when you can walk around with some cotton candy and popcorn. Let your inner child out. Who knows, you might have the same childhood interests.
Fair games are always fun and competitive—challenge your date on who can fare better in the games. Some games will reward you with toys, and just like that, you’ve got yourself a gift for your date without having to spend much.
Cheap Dates Reveal A Date’s Character
Understandably, everyone wants to be treated with luxury. Who doesn’t? But who are they without such luxurious treatment? That’s why going on a cheap date is a good way to measure if the person you’re dating is worth it.
You can have fun without spending much. There are tons of activities you can do with your date, even with a limited budget. If your partner finds the whole cheap dating thing a problem, then chances are they’re not the one for you.
Remember, the main goal of a first date is to get to know each other while leaving a good first impression. With this guide, you can achieve all these without needing to spend thousands of dollars.
External References
Stuthridge, John-Paul. n.d. “Etiquette Guide: How To Have The Perfect Coffee Date.” https://hespokestyle.com/coffee-date-etiquette-guys/?srsltid=AfmBOoqGbOytANYyPB4f1SxtpU1FIl7SueyW57BHFT_gQpuobu4j6OHl.