Date night is important to keep relationships strong. Our lives are taken over so easily by work, kids and all of our other responsibilities, that we sometimes struggle to find a moment to spend with loved ones. If an expensive dinner makes you think twice, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. I have a list of ten affordable, and still romantic, date night ideas for you to try with your significant other.

I get it! We are all on a budget of some kind and debt doesn’t pay itself off. If you and your partner do struggle with money, it is particularly necessary to spend some quality time with each other. Money problems can ruin relationships very quickly.

Some of my fondest memories of time spent with my boo are activities that hardly cost any money at all. So I can honestly raise my hand in agreement that you don’t need to spend a small fortune to have a good time. Here are my budget-friendly date night ideas.

10 Affordable Date Night Ideas

1. Enjoy Dinner At Home

Whether you surprise your man with a home-cooked meal or you spend time preparing it together. Enjoying dinner at home is one sure-fire way to have a good time for hardly any money. You can use ingredients you already have which has the added bonus of using up food instead of wasting it.

2. Watch A Movie

Sure you can go out to the movies but if you want to save even more, watch one at home. Dim the lights, make your own popcorn and enjoy the show. I guarantee you’ll be more comfortable too because you can stretch out your legs and even lie down. Don’t worry if you need a bathroom break. That’s what the pause button is for!

3. Spa Night

Going to the spa is expensive! Why not treat yourself and your sweetie to a spa treatment at home. Fill up the tub with your favourite bubble bath, light some candles and play some music. Alternatively, create your own massage oils using essential oils and then, you and your significant other can exchange massages.

4. Listen To Music

My boyfriend and I inadvertently did this one very recently. He was playing 90’s music on his cell phone and we both just fell into a groove listening and singing along. Try doing this yourselves. It was quite relaxing.

5. Play Games

Get your competitive face on. Dust those board games off or go a little more high-tech and play a video game. If those options are not appealing to you, head outside and try a sport one-on-one like tennis or even basketball using the hoop in your driveway.

6. TV Shows

If you share a love for the same TV show, why not curl up on the couch together and catch up on the latest episodes? My guy and I do this pretty regularly with Vikings and Game of Thrones since they are series we both enjoy. Not only will you spend time together but you will be able to talk about the show afterward too. You know, like when a star of the show gets killed and you just can’t wrap your head around it.

7. Stroll Down Lover’s Lane

Take a walk with your boo and enjoy the outdoors and each other’s company. Maybe revisit places that have special meaning to you both. This can be fun and you can reminisce about the “old days”.

8. Lunch vs. Dinner

Get dressed up and go out to a nice restaurant for lunch. The first advantage is lunch is usually much cheaper than dinner. There is also the added bonus of the kids being at school so you don’t need to pay for babysitting.

9. Eat Ice Cream

This sweet treat appeals to almost everyone. Head over to your neighbourhood ice cream parlour and indulge in a scoop or two and some good conversation.

10. Free Community Events

You may be surprised by the quality of events that you can find absolutely free. Check for listings online or in the newspaper and take advantage of any number of shows, concerts and even plays.

If you are skeptical, believe me, I have done everything on this list and had a blast while spending very little or best yet, nothing at all. Give them a try and you will accumulate warm memories and strengthen your relationship while keeping your budget intact.