Dating in college can be fun! You have a lot more freedom in dating (with a lot more options) than you did in high school. However, when you’re trying to balance paying for college and your significant other, date expenses can add up. Here are a list of eight date ideas that will not be too hard on your wallet!
Date Idea #1: Have a picnic
What screams romance like a picnic outdoors? Pack a picnic basket, grab a blanket, and you’re set to go! It is super cheap and really easy. You don’t even need to leave campus, making the date super convenient to squeeze in between classes. Sitting on the campus lawn enjoying lunch and each other’s company can be the perfect setting.
Date Idea # 2: Create your own at-home movie theater
Movie dates are always a classic and cute date idea. Plus, with online streaming, movie dates are even less expensive. All you gotta pay for is some popcorn. Another idea would be to transform your room into a pillow fort – will definitely encourage cuddling!
Date Idea #3: Get lost in a bookstore
This is one of my personal favorite cheap dates to go on. For booklovers, it’s an ideal choice. It is easy to get lost in books – I often find myself spending hours in bookstores. Learning what your partner is interested in is another way to find out more about them.
Date Idea #4: Go on a hike
Another one of my favorite dates that is completely FREE! All that is required is some walking shoes, energy, and nice weather. A scenic hike in the woods makes for a romantic and adventurous date for outdoorsy couples.
Date Idea #5: Make a romantic dinner at home
Instead of paying for an expensive meal at a luxurious restaurant, bring the restaurant to you! Perhaps not as fancy as a five star restaurant, it does make for a romantic date. It may be a risky endeavor – especially if neither of you can cook – but it does make a fun challenge!
Date Idea #6: Go rollerblading or ice skating (depending on season)
Ice skating or rollerblading is a fun date that can cost less than ten dollars. Even if you do not own a pair of skates or rollerblades, renting a pair is usually inexpensive (depending on the rink). It is also another date that does not require you to leave campus – a lot of college campuses have a rink for free skating!
Date Idea #7: Go produce picking (apple picking, berry picking, etc.)
If you live on a rural campus, produce picking may seem like an obvious date idea. There are a lot of farms that host apple picking in the fall, or berry picking in the spring. Enjoy the outdoors while also getting some organic, delicious produce!
Date Idea #8: Go stargazing
Yet another date idea that is completely FREE! You do not even need a telescope to enjoy the beauty of the stars. Simply get a few blankets and sit outside under the stars. Another idea that does not require you to set foot off campus!