Dating can be expensive, especially in times of inflation and economic uncertainty. According to a survey by Match.com, the average cost of a date in the US is $102.32. That’s a lot of money to spend on someone you may or may not see again.

But don’t let that discourage you from dating. There are plenty of ways to have fun and romantic dates without breaking the bank. Here are some creative and affordable ideas that you can try with your potential matches.

Picnics

Picnics are a classic and cheap date idea that never goes out of style. All you need is a blanket, some food, and a nice spot to enjoy the scenery. You can make your own sandwiches, salads, or snacks, or buy them from a nearby grocery store or deli. You can also bring some drinks, such as water, juice, soda, or wine, depending on your preference and the occasion.

Picnics are great for getting to know each other in a relaxed and casual setting. You can chat, play games, read books, or listen to music. You can also choose a location that suits your interests, such as a park, a beach, a lake, or a garden. Just make sure to check the weather forecast and the rules of the place before you go.

Mini golf

Mini golf is another fun and inexpensive date idea that can bring out your playful and competitive sides. You can find mini golf courses in many places, such as malls, amusement parks, or sports centers. The average cost of a round of mini golf is $8 per person, which is much cheaper than a movie ticket or a dinner at a restaurant.

Mini golf is also a great way to show off your skills and personality. You can tease, flirt, compliment, or challenge each other as you play. You can also make it more interesting by adding some stakes, such as the loser has to buy ice cream or do a dare.

Drive-ins

Drive-ins are a nostalgic and cozy date idea that can make you feel like you’re in a movie. You can watch a film on a big screen from the comfort of your car, while snacking on popcorn, candy, or soda. You can also cuddle, kiss, or talk without worrying about disturbing other people.

Drive-ins are becoming more popular again as an alternative to traditional cinemas during the pandemic. According to Boxoffice Pro, drive-in theaters accounted for 66% of the domestic box office revenue in July 2020. You can find drive-in theaters near you by using websites like Driveinmovie.com or apps like DriveIn. The average cost of admission is $10 per car, which is cheaper than two movie tickets at a regular theater.

Dating doesn’t have to be expensive to be enjoyable. You can have fun and romantic dates on a budget by being creative and resourceful. Picnics, mini golf, and drive-ins are some of the examples that you can try with your potential matches. These date ideas can help you save money while still having a great time.

Remember, it’s not how much you spend on a date that matters, but how much you connect with the person you’re with. So don’t let inflation and economic uncertainty stop you from dating. Go ahead and infla-date!