For college students, dealing with finances can be quite a touchy and anxiety-producing subject. Textbooks, clothing and even food can add up and quickly drain our bank accounts. On top of all of the added stress of schoolwork and extracurricular activities, the underlying burden to date and progress towards finding someone to spend the rest of our lives with slowly creeps up on us when we aren’t expecting it. Although this may not be at the forefront of everyone’s mind, dating is a pertinent college experience and can take its toll both emotionally and financially.
Fortunately, dating doesn’t have to be expensive! Yes, it is fun to get dolled up and go to the movies with a special someone. Going to get dinner downtown is also a popular social experience. However, these date nights can be pricey and can start to add up if the relationship starts to get serious.
Here are a few ideas for cheap/free date nights that can be just as fun as going out on the town!
1. Have a board game night.
This could even be a fun group date where each couple brings a board game to share. Apples to Apples and Pictionary are always classic crowd favorites and can help you get to know new people quick (and their senses of humor).
2. Rent a movie.
Let’s be honest—Netflix is one of our best friends. Why not introduce it to a potential suitor and see if he or she approves of your queue? (Excluding all of the Gossip Girl episodes that have been binge watched, of course.) This also allows for cuddling on the couch instead of trying to awkwardly hold hands over the arm rests in a movie theatre.
3. Cook dinner together.
Eating together is so romantic; why not prepare the food together too? Try a new recipe and get cozy in the kitchen creating something you both can enjoy. If you prefer a group setting, throw dinner party or pot luck where everyone brings a dish to share!
4. Play video games.
This will be a true test to both of your competitive sides. Place wagers on who will win and create a fun reward for the winner!
5. Craft something together.
This could be anything from building a DIY furniture project or planting flowers to painting masterpieces! Get creative and show off your artsy side.              Â
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If all else fails, sitting around and chatting makes for a great date night as well. Inviting a date over to your home creates more of a personal and relaxed atmosphere, so embrace the opportunity to get to know them on a more intimate level.
Hopefully some of these ideas will help alleviate the stress of dating as a poor college student. Dating should add positive memories to the college experience, and these dates at home can be just as fun as going out. Next time your cash is running low and you’re looking to try something new, check out your own home for hours of romantic entertainment!