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Today, it can seem like everything costs more, and that’s because it probably does. The inflation that followed the pandemic has left us all reeling and looking for ways to save money.
That goes for dating, as well, but sticking to a budget doesn’t mean we can’t express our love for that special person. Here are 18 ways to be romantic when you’re broke.
Pack a Picnic
This one might seem obvious. If you’re trying to watch your spending, we all know you can make a meal for yourself much cheaper than paying someone else to do it. But it can really be fun. A picnic lets you eat your meal just about anywhere. We recommend accounting for the weather when selecting the food (for example, avoid mayonnaise-based fare in the summer heat).
Gazing at the Stars
Stargazing is one of the most romantic activities, and it doesn’t cost a thing. Look up at the sky on a clear night. If you look at the sky long enough, you might even see a falling star to wish upon. It doesn’t get much more romantic than that. Pro tip: research a few famous constellations to impress your partner before you go.
Make a Playlist
Put together a list of songs that remind you of your partner and songs by their favorite artists. Whether it features Bruno Mars or Morgan Wallen, a playlist is a great way to show your partner that you cherish the little things.
Cook a Meal Together
What’s more romantic than a home-cooked meal served under candlelight? This budget-friendly date night will impress your partner without breaking the bank.
Write Love Letters by Hand
In this day and age of email and texts, it’s easy to skip the long process of handwriting love letters. However, writing a meaningful message from your heart will show your partner how important they are to you.
Movie Night In
You can save money on movie tickets by choosing a movie to watch at home. Instead of spending money on overpriced snacks, allocate that money towards microwavable popcorn and your partner’s favorite candies and snacks. Dollar Tree is a great place to go for cheap name-brand candy.
Take a Nature Hike
With Google at our fingertips, finding local trails and parks around your area is easy. This is a great way to get active with your partner and explore the community you live in.
Have a Spa Night at Home
I spent some of my favorite days with my partner, trying on face and lip masks. I am not worried about spending too much on them because they only cost about $2 each. There are affordable ways to treat your partner to a relaxing day where they feel appreciated.
Visit Memory Lane
Make a date by revisiting famous places in your and your partner’s past. Go back to where you met or where you had your first date. If either of you grew up in your town, drive by the childhood home and other important places from the past. It can be fascinating to see where our loved ones came from.
Attend Free Events
Scan community calendars online for free events that would be fun to attend together. Local libraries, city and county parks departments, and universities are wonderful for this. Auctions can be a blast, even if you don’t have money to bid.
Check the websites of local parks to find free events you can bring your partner to. This fun activity shows your partner you are actively seeking new ways to express how much they mean to you.
Make a Photo Scrapbook
Find your favorite photos of you and your partner and print them out. Find cheap scrapbooking materials and spend the day scrapbooking with your partner.
Volunteer at the Animal Shelter Together
If you believe a person’s true character is revealed by how they treat animals, you might suggest that a new date volunteer with you at an animal shelter. This is a great way to show them your sensitive side and connect with theirs.
Have Paint Night at Home
Who needs official art lessons? At-home paint nights can be a great way to get creative and share some good laughs with your partner.
Get Really High (Not the Way You Think)
Find the tallest point in your city, whether in a building or at the top of a hill or mountain and go there. Enjoy the views with your date. Take photos or videos to capture the views and preserve the memory of when the two of you reached new heights together.
Write a Song or Poem
Nobody ever said writing songs or poems is easy. But sometimes two heads are better than one. It can be fun to try writing with someone. Why not try crafting a song or poem with your romantic partner? It can help you express your feelings for each other in a new, intimate way.
Create Personalized Coupons
Of course, you can always buy chocolates, perfume, or jewelry for your lover. But why not get them something truly personalized and unique? Make each other personalized coupons redeemable for indulgences such as massages, foot rubs, doing the dishes, and other intimate gestures meant just for the two of you.
Visit a Local Beach or Lake
Few things are more romantic than a stroll along the water with your partner. The lights reflect off the rippling water at night, and the sun’s rays flicker beautifully during the day. It’s a perfect backdrop for deepening your feelings for your partner or maybe just quietly enjoying their company. And you can always find a way to walk along a waterway for free.
Create a Time Capsule
For fun, make a time capsule of your relationship. What would you like someone in the future to know about the two of you as a couple? This can be a great way to learn more about how your partner views you and what you mean to them.
Is there a souvenir from your first date? Is there a small object that symbolizes something you love to do together? Is there a picture of an album cover, of an album containing your special song?
All You Need Is Love
We hope we have given you an idea of how to spark romance without spending much money. As The Beatles so aptly put it, all you need is love.
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