Whether you’ve been with your partner for a few months or a few years, it’s always a good idea to have regular “date nights”. Setting aside that special time for your relationship can boost intimacy and communication.
But, your date nights don’t have to follow a stereotypical pattern. You don’t always have to go to dinner and a movie or spend a lot of money in order to have a good time.
In fact, sometimes it’s the unique outings that don’t cost a lot that will end up meaning the most. You just have to think outside the box and get creative!
Not sure where to get started? Let’s go over a few fun and refreshing date ideas that won’t break the bank.
Step Outside
If you both love to be active and spending time outdoors, there are countless date options – some of which are completely free!
Set up a picnic in your favorite park and spend the day playing frisbee, reading, or just enjoying the nice weather. If you want to get a bit more active, plan a long day of hiking together on some local trails or in and area you’ve never been before. It’s a great way to let out your adventurous side and build trust with each other.
Depending on the season, you might also be able to take advantage of community events and attractions. For example, many communities have free or inexpensive ice skating rinks in the winter. It’s the perfect opportunity to feel like a kid again (and hold onto your partner’s hand while doing it!).
Have a Unique Shopping Day
Going shopping doesn’t necessarily mean you have to spend a lot of money. Instead of checking out your area malls or superstores, go to a local farmer’s market and try everything from fresh produce to homemade goods. Most farmer’s markets are eager to let people sample things and offer great deals.
You can also have a lot of fun going to expensive stores and window shopping or creating your dream fantasy of what you would do and buy if you had unlimited funds. Not only is it fun, but it can give you a peek into each other’s dreams and priorities. (And take note for possible future gift ideas that are within your budget).
Spend a Night In
Date night doesn’t necessarily mean you have to go out anywhere. Whether money is tight or you just don’t want to spend a lot, having a date night in can be even more romantic and intimate than you might realize.
But, don’t be afraid to get creative with it.
Plan a movie marathon, or have a “theme” night where you cook a specific dinner together and watch a movie or play a game. For example, if you wanted an Italian theme night, you could make pasta together, watch something like The Godfather or Moonstruck, and listen to romantic Italian music while imagining your on a gondola in Venice.
You might be surprised at how much fun doing things around your house can be, too. Why not pick a day to decorate or completely remodel a room together? It’s a great way to bond and improve your communication with each other. By the end of it, you’ll feel closer as you see what you’ve accomplished.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. You can easily build from them or come up with something completely different.
There are endless ways to go on dates and spend quality time with your partner that don’t require a lot of money. You know your loved one better than anyone. So, get creative, think about the things they might like to do, and enjoy your dates without worrying about your wallet.
