Money worries putting a dampener on your dating life? 10 ways to enjoy a great date on a budget

Have you ever cancelled a date, rearranged plans or turned someone down because you were worried about money? If so, you’re certainly not alone.

Research by Barclays found that money worries are affecting the dating lives of younger adults particularly, with more people looking for ways to meet potential partners without putting pressure on their finances.

Research conducted by Opinium among 2,000 people across the UK found:

• More than a quarter (27%) of Gen Z adults had cancelled, rearranged or turned down a date due to money worries.
• 45% of 18 to 29-year-olds said the rising cost of living had affected their ability to date.
• Across all age groups, 14% said they had cancelled, rearranged or declined meeting a romantic interest because of the cost.

But there is a growing appetite for keeping things simple.

• More than half (54%) of Gen Z respondents said they would choose a cheaper way to meet someone, such as going for a coffee or a run, compared with just 16% of people aged 46 and over.

The findings mark the launch of Barclays’ social media series, Statement Dating, which explores whether having more open conversations about money could help people feel more financially confident in their relationships.

Why dating doesn’t have to cost a fortune

Getting to know someone shouldn’t leave you worrying about your bank balance. After all, the aim of a date is to find out whether you connect with another person, not to see who can spend the most money.

In fact, keeping things low-cost can take some of the pressure off and give you more opportunities to enjoy each other’s company.

If you’re looking to get back into dating without stretching your budget, here are ten ways to enjoy a great date for less.

1. Go for a walk in a local park

A stroll through a nearby park, nature reserve or nature trail is a simple way to spend time together without spending a penny. It also gives you plenty of opportunities to chat, discover shared interests and see whether the conversation flows naturally.

2. Pack a picnic

Instead of paying restaurant prices, bring your own sandwiches, snacks and drinks. Choose a scenic spot, take a blanket and enjoy a relaxed picnic. You could even make it a little more special by preparing a few of each other’s favourite treats.

3. Swap dinner for coffee

If you’d prefer to meet somewhere indoors, suggest a coffee date rather than a full meal. You’ll still have time to get to know each other, but you won’t have to worry about the cost of a main course, drinks and dessert.

4. Explore somewhere new

You don’t have to travel far to make a date feel like an adventure. Visit a nearby town, wander around a local market or explore a neighbourhood neither of you knows particularly well. Just remember to factor in transport costs if you’re travelling further afield.

5. Try a free event

Check local listings for free museum exhibitions, gallery visits, community festivals, outdoor performances or events at your local library. You’ll have something to talk about, and you might discover a shared interest along the way.

6. Get creative together

Look out for affordable craft workshops, pottery painting sessions or other creative activities. If organised events are outside your budget, you could buy a few inexpensive art supplies and try painting or making something together at home.

7. Plan a scenic bike ride or run

If you both enjoy being active, a bike ride, run or walk along a local trail can be a fun alternative to the usual dinner date. You’ll get some fresh air, enjoy each other’s company and keep costs to a minimum.

8. Have a film night at home

Once you’re comfortable meeting at home, a film night can be an inexpensive option. Pick a film you’ll both enjoy, make some popcorn and settle in. Or, choose a film screening at a local community venue if you’d rather meet somewhere public.

9. Cook a meal together

Cooking together can be more affordable than eating out, and it gives you a chance to work as a team. Choose a simple recipe, split the cost of the ingredients and make an evening of it. You could even challenge each other to create a meal using ingredients you already have.

10. Look for local deals and discounts

If you fancy something a little different, search for off-peak cinema tickets, discounted activities, happy-hour offers or special deals at local attractions. Booking ahead and checking prices can help you enjoy an experience you might otherwise consider too expensive.

Be upfront about money when dating

Of course, saving money isn’t just about choosing cheaper activities. It’s also about feeling comfortable enough to be honest about what you can afford.

Money can be an awkward subject, particularly when you’re trying to impress someone new. You might worry that suggesting a cheaper date will make you seem uninterested, or feel uncomfortable admitting that an expensive restaurant isn’t within your budget.

But being honest can help set healthy expectations from the start.