Dating is fun, but it’s also expensive. You could easily drop a few hundred dollars on just one night out between dinner, drinks, and entertainment. Even if it’s just a quick meet n’ greet with someone you want to hook up with, you could still manage to drop a pretty penny on overpriced coffee drinks and transportation.
In today’s economy, it’s more important than ever to get more bang for your buck, so to speak. So, how do you impress your date without breaking the bank? Here are some tried and tested tips from the editors at Adult FriendFinder!
When in Doubt, Plan it Out
Yes, you want your date to have a great time, so the date leads to something. The best way to start planning is to get an idea of what your date likes to do, then come up with some budget-friendly 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’re into. Many people list their favorite music, movies, foods, and activities in the About Me section. If that doesn’t work, just ask them!
Whether you’re looking for a romantic partner or something more casual (fuck buddies *cough cough*), you’re far more likely to get what you want if the first meeting is successful.
Keep it Sexy and Seasonal
One pro-tip many avid daters use to plan a budget-friendly outing is sticking to seasonal activities. For example, spring and summer are perfect for boozy picnics, free outdoor concerts, and lazy, sunkissed 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, anyone?), 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. First, it can help you determine if there are any hidden expenses that you didn’t initially think of. Second, it can allow you to brainstorm ways to do even more with even less. For example, rather than purchasing snacks at the fireworks show, you can plan ahead to bring a cooler or snacks yourself. Likewise, if you’re going to an event that requires tickets, buy them ahead as many venues offer discounts the earlier you make your purchase.
After you have listed the expenses, 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.
Check Out the Competition
Roller-skating can be a relatively inexpensive thing to do on a date, and most places have dates set aside specifically designed for adults. If you have a roller rink near you, you can research the pricing for the business and others in the area. Take travel time and gas costs into consideration and determine which is the most cost-efficient place for you.
Researching the competition can also include seeing whether coupons are available for each. Some places have specials and deals regularly, with online coupons being a prominent way to save money. Also, 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 impact how much money you pay for some things. For example, many higher-end dinner places have a separate lunch menu, with the same high-quality food and slightly smaller portions. As a result, the cost is often less for these smaller portions, allowing you to take someone on a fancy 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. Breakfast foods are often less pricey than dinner foods but just as good. Early in the dating process, you can also ask if the other person is a breakfast for dinner type of person. This is another fantastic way to have evening dinner dates at a lower price.
Avoid the Bars
Bars can be a great place to take a date in some circumstances, but not if you’re on a budget. It starts with a drink; then there are a few more drinks, darts, food, paying for parking, and more. After a while, it really adds up. So if you’re planning on going to a bar, research bars in the area and consider costs.
Being Smart Doesn’t Mean Being Cheap
Just because you’re dating on a budget doesn’t make you cheap; it makes you smart. Especially during these tough times when the cost of living is so high. Of course, don’t make a point of mentioning it on the date, and you’ll be golden.
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