When you sit back and think about how much you have spent on dates over the years, you may be shocked. The average cost of a date in the U.S. stands at $102.57. That is just one date. Depending on how many times you go out in a month, you probably spend around $1,200 a year for dates. That’s a lot of money that could go a long way in helping you get rid of that debt that has been plaguing you or boost your emergency funds.
To save money, you can do other things that cost less money and ensure you and your date still have fun.
1. Invite your date over to your home
No rule says you must go out on a date, is there? Think about staying in and asking your date to come to your home. This is where any renovations you have done to your home may come in handy. That one-lane home bowling alley you have in your basement is a good dating place. You can have some fun with your date as you get to know each other better. Go up to your dining room when it’s time to eat and continue the fun date over a home-cooked dinner.
2. Go on a bike ride
If you are a bike enthusiast, you can choose to go on a bike ride as a form of a date. If you and your date live close to each other and have bikes, then you don’t have to pay anything at all. You can also rent bikes from your local bike rental store.
Research shows the average cost of a bike share rental is $19.86 for one day. And if you rent two bikes, that will be around $40. Even if you throw a homemade meal or takeout, the entire date will still likely cost less than $100.
You can bike to some of your favorite spots, be it near your local river or that hidden cave you have always wanted to check out. There is always the option of carrying what you are going to eat in your bike carrier bags, so you can end your day in style and with a full stomach.
3. Have a picnic at your local park
Sometimes, simplicity is the best way to go about doing things. When is the last time you had some fun at your local park? It’s time to have fun at the park.
Find one of those beautiful hidden spots in your park and lay out a picnic feast for your date. It’s a good way of learning about the person you are interested in. And the place you choose will still be public enough to make you or your date feel safe if that is a concern. Your pets can come along, too.
Dating can be hectic. But that doesn’t mean you should spend a lot of money to make each date smoother and more convenient. If you are open-minded, you can use the resources at your disposal to have affordable yet fun, memorable dates.
