Here’s how to stick to your date night budget—and see eye-to-eye with your partner.
Getting on the same page about date night is sometimes easier said than done. For couples on a limited budget, planning a night out can bring up bigger issues about financial values and expectations. Add inflation and cost of living increases, and dates can become fraught rather than fun.
The fact is, date night is about so much more than simply going to dinner or a movie, says Erika Wasserman, a certified financial therapist and the CEO of Your Financial Therapist. “The idea of a date night sounds lovely, but the reality is the babysitter has to be paid, you’re paying for a restaurant, maybe there’s a new outfit and makeup,” says Wasserman. “Whatever it is, all these expenses can come out as stress or an awkward conversation.”
Stretching your dollar on date night requires creativity and communication, she adds. For starters, talk about the value of date night with your partner. Once you understand what matters to each other, come up with an agreed-upon dollar amount to spend on dates. That way, you’re not worried about blowing your budget in the moment and killing the vibe on your night out. Then it’s time to get creative and find ways to live it up while paring down expenses.
Not sure where to start? Wasserman offered a few ideas for free and inexpensive dates that will help you keep the romance alive without the hefty price tag.
Host an at-home movie night
One way to stretch your date night budget is to recreate the ambiance of your favorite outings at home. For example, if you love the big screen, create the magic of the movies at home after the kids go to bed. “Make popcorn, get your favorite candy, even make pretend tickets to create that environment and really make it special,” says Wasserman. If you’re renting a movie, make sure it’s something you’re excited about so the night feels as authentic as possible.
Make walks and talks romantic
Part of successfully dating on a budget is communicating about your values. Is date night meaningful because you’re at a fancy restaurant or because you’re spending quality time with your partner? If it’s the latter, why not take your date on a romantic walk or hike? Check out the free trails in your area, return to a special spot that has meaning to you as a couple or use a walk as an excuse to visit a new area or escape the city, suggests Wasserman. (And if your jaunt ends at a cute coffee or juice spot, we wouldn’t blame you for splurging on a drink.)
Take advantage of dynamic pricing
Many restaurants and venues offer dynamic pricing, or price fluctuations based on market demand. If your schedule allows, go indoor golfing on a discounted weeknight, try the Tuesday dinner special at your favorite restaurant instead of paying full price on a Friday night or get reduced tickets to a matinee instead of the full-price movie later. Flexibility can equal significant savings—and it’ll force you to get creative.
DIY wine tasting
Do you love a good malbec or merlot but want to avoid a hefty price tag? “If you want to elevate your taste buds and try new wines, go find a wine shop that has a tasting,” suggests Wasserman. Trying different options can feel luxurious, and your dollar will go further if you buy a reasonably priced bottle to share at home instead of drinks at the bar. Another option is to get together with friends and have everyone bring a bottle of wine to sample. “It’s about getting creative, and creating some experiences along the way,” she adds.
Make it a date morning
The conventional date night isn’t your only option. If going out to a nice restaurant is important to you, then opt for breakfast or brunch, which tends to be cheaper than dinner. If you’re set on an evening outing, perhaps get drinks and an appetizer instead of a full dinner, says Wasserman. It’s about what you value, not how much you spend.
Commune with nature
From romantic comedies to dating reality shows, date night is often presented as luxurious and impressive. But the reality is far different than the image for many couples—especially those with children, for whom the biggest luxury might be a few hours of peace and quiet. “You might want to sit at the park or the beach and have a picnic, and all the money you’ve set aside for the date goes to the babysitter. Then maybe next time the kids go to their grandparents, and you spend that $200 at a new restaurant you’ve been dying to try,” says Wasserman.
The important things to remember are that you stay within your predetermined budget, and you’re doing what’s rejuvenating or meaningful to you. Besides, spending both your time and your money in alignment with your values is priceless. “It’s not just the dollar amount, it’s the value of how you spend your money.”
Start today
- Read more: 10 best ways to save money.
- Learn more: Take our Budgeting & Saving course.
- Take action: Watch this video about creating a budget that works for your family.
