Romance doesn’t have to be expensive. In this article, we discover cheap dates that won’t break any budgets OR hearts.
So, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, but you don’t quite have the dough for a bottle of chardonnay, an extravagant bouquet, or breakfast in a hot-air balloon.
That’s OK!
There are plenty of ways to treat your special someone to a magical date night (or day) without cracking open your piggy bank or maxing out your credit card.
These 7 cheap date ideas prove the best things in life really are free – or at least affordable. We’ve categorised them into 3 categories to help you find the right fit for you and your significant other:
- Cheap date night ideas
- Cute cheap date ideas
- Fun cheap date ideas.
Cheap Date Night Ideas
1. Boardgames by Candlelight
Do you and your partner have some interests of the nerdy variety? Treat yourselves to a pleasant date night at home with a boardgame you both love, or try one of these titles that work well for couples:
- Fog of Love
- Onitama
- Codenames Duet
- Monogamy
- Our Moments.
Co-op videogames are also a solid option if that’s more your thing. Either way, turn off the lights and set up some candles to establish the mood – this isn’t any old games night, after all.
2. Moonlit Road Trip
Find a scenic route or a panoramic lookout nearby and go for a quiet night-time drive. Put your favourite tunes on during the trip, take some cute selfies with the landscape or cityscape behind you, and embrace the chance to catch up and spend some quality time together. Cheap date night ideas aren’t always about the destination – sometimes the journey is more important.
Keep your romantic road trip cheap with these fuel-efficiency tips.
3. Movie Marathon in Bed
Is there a franchise you both love? Or a series you’ve been meaning to catch up on together? Build a pillow fortress on your mattress and get comfy with some popcorn and/or ice cream.
This is one of the most inexpensive date ideas around, and it requires minimal preparation. Plus, nobody can judge you for binge-watching the Harry Potter films (again) if you’re doing it with your SO on Valentine’s Day.
Cute Cheap Date Ideas
4. Picnic in the Park
- Sandwiches with your partner’s favourite spreads.
- A bottle of cheap wine and some fresh fruit.
- And a picnic blanket laid out in your local park.
What more do you need for a cute cheap date idea? Bonus points if there’s a lake with ducks or even swans to watch.
5. Getting Artsy, Crafty or Hands-On
Are you and your partner creative types? There’s no better time than Valentine’s Day to embrace your artistic sides together.
Depending on your passions, you might like to try:
- Drawing portraits of each other
- Creating a meaningful mosaic together
- Upcycling an old piece of furniture
- Writing poetry for each other
- Taking on that DIY renovation project you’ve had on your to-do list for ages.
Fun Cheap Date Ideas
6. Museum Crawl
Pub crawls are fun, but they’re not cheap – and the aftermath of all those beers isn’t always romantic.
Instead, why not explore some of the museums, art galleries and other cultural venues that you’ve neglected to check out? Most museums and galleries have free areas to discover, or you may stumble upon a limited exhibit that’s worth spending a little to see.
Acting like a tourist in your home city can also make you feel like you’re on a mini holiday, which is always a nice feeling.
7. Op Shop Extravaganza
So, you’re a couple on a budget. Op shopping combines a fun cheap date idea with a chance to get some serious bargains – it’s a win-win.
Enhance the romance by including some antique stores. There’s something undeniably charming about browsing vintage items as a couple.
Need a proper holiday with your significant other rather than a date night? We’ve got you covered with these 5 cheap holiday ideas.
And if you’re really due for a fancy Valentine’s Day that requires a little extra money, a short-term loan from Cigno could help. Because love may be priceless, but chardonnay sure isn’t.
Disclaimer: Please be aware that Cigno Loans’ articles do not replace advice from an accountant or financial advisor. All information provided is intended to be used as a guide only, as it does not take into account your personal financial situation or needs. If you require assistance, it is recommended that you consult a licensed financial or tax advisor.