7 Cheap Date Ideas to Avoid Debt

Dating can be a fun and enjoyable way to spend time with a partner, but it can also be expensive. The average American spends about $146 on a first date. This cost can add up quickly; especially if you are going on multiple dates per week. In fact, according to a September Lendingtree survey, 22% of millennials (ages 26 to 41) and 19% of Gen Zers (ages 18 to 25) have gone into debt from what they’ve spent on dating.

This can be a concern for students, who may already be struggling with debt from tuition and other expenses. However, it is possible to have a great time on a date without breaking the bank. Here are some cheap date ideas that can help you save money while still having a memorable and enjoyable time with your partner.

Go for a hike or walk

Enjoy the great outdoors and get some exercise by going for a hike or walk together. This is a free activity that allows you to spend time together and take in the beauty of your surroundings. If you live in an urban area, you can also take a leisurely stroll through a local park or neighborhood. The scenery is always enjoyable. You can even make it a competition and see who can spot the most interesting or unusual things along the way.

Have a picnic

Pack a lunch or dinner and head to a local park or beach for a picnic. This is a budget-friendly way to enjoy a meal together and spend time in a beautiful setting. You can bring sandwiches, fruit, and other simple items from home, or stop by a grocery store or deli to pick up some pre-made items. Don’t forget to bring blankets, pillows, and other comfortable items to make your picnic more enjoyable.

Go stargazing

Head to a dark, open area and spend the evening stargazing. This is a romantic and free activity that allows you to enjoy each other’s company and the beauty of the night sky. You can bring blankets, pillows, and snacks to make your stargazing session more comfortable. If you are interested in learning more about the stars and planets, you can bring a star chart or download a stargazing app to help you identify different celestial objects.

Have a game night

Stay in and have a game night together. This can be as simple as playing cards or board games that you already have at home, or you can rent a game from a local library for free. Playing video games or online games together is a fun and inexpensive way to spend an evening at home. You will sure have a good time together!

Go to a free event

Many cities and towns offer free events, such as concerts, festivals, and cultural events. Check out local event listings to find something that interests both of you. You can spend a fun evening together without spending any money. Also, look for free museum days or discounted admission days at local attractions. This is a great way to learn something new and have a memorable experience together without spending a lot of money.

Have a movie night

Stay in and have a movie night together. You can rent a movie from a streaming service or borrow one from a library for free. You can also make it a theme night and watch movies from a particular genre or decade. Plus, don’t forget the popcorn and other snacks to make your movie night even more enjoyable.

Go for a bike ride

Rent a couple of bikes or bring your own and go for a bike ride together. This is a fun and active way to spend time together and explore your local area. You can take a leisurely ride through a local park or go on a more challenging ride through trails or hilly terrain.

Conclusion

Dating doesn’t have to be expensive to be enjoyable. There are plenty of cheap date ideas that can allow you to spend quality time with your partner without breaking the bank. Whether you go for a hike, have a picnic, go stargazing, have a game night, attend a free event, have a movie night, or go for a bike ride, there are many ways to have a memorable and budget-friendly date. With a little creativity and planning, you can find fun and affordable ways to spend time with your partner and avoid going into debt.