Dating on a budget sounds like a death sentence for romance, right? Well actually, no. In the words of Nick Cannon.. “Love Don’t Cost A Thing.” Not only is dating on a budget sexy, but it’s also practical. And to anyone that is over 19, fiscal responsibility and maturity are some of the most desirable qualities in a mate. While these are sexy attributes, they aren’t always obvious, so in this fast paced, penny pinching world, how do we save money while spicing up our relationship? These date ideas are low in budget, creative and might need the help of liquid courage to really make them work.

Romantic Oasis at Home: Average Cost of Date $

Dating at home can be… super sexy, fun and cheap. Here are some ways to increase emotional and physical intimacy in the home.

1. Read a book out loud together. This may seem like an awkward and not enjoyable activity, but it definitely creates intimacy. Take turns reading out loud, pick a few different books to see which ones stick. Get lost in the sound of your partner’s voice and melt into another world.  

2. Create signature cocktails for each other: Spice up your love life while putting a fire in your belly. Tom Collins has nothing on your loving creation.

3. At Home Spa Treatment: Essential oils, coconut oil and washcloths warming in a crock pot are all you need to transform your home into an island spa haven.

4. Youtube Tutorials can be quite romantic… Learn to dance together from Youtube. De-stress from the day to day grind and learn salsa, hip hop or the Single Ladies choreography for a gut-busting afternoon.

Fall In Love in the Sea: Average Cost of Date $$

Being around water allows us to put things in perspective. We realize that we are a small part of a bigger picture. Fall in love by the sea with these budget friendly dates.

1. Walking on the beach: Exfoliate your body and get the heart rate up while walking in the sand. The salty air does wonders for your hair and your skin. It’s like an expensive spa treatment… but outside and not expensive!

2. Take a sweet swim with your S.O.: Swimming is great for your body, it helps with joint and muscle pain. It is also an incredibly fun, romantic and sexy activity to do with your partner. Splash around with your beau and laugh at all the money you’re saving.

3. Research Festivals/Events that are on the water : If you’re by the beach or even by a lake, there are usually town festivals that take place near the water. Research an event or festival and take on the adventure with a fanny pack and a smile.

4. Set up a photo contest: Who takes the best picture of the sunset? Head to a picturesque spot and snap Kodak moments. Choose your best picture from the day and have a contest. Whoever wins gets their own signature cocktail. (Get it? Like the date idea above.)

Be a Local Wanderer: Average Cost of Date $$

1. Set up a picnic with that cheap comfort food we all love: mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, fried chicken. All it requires is a quick trip to the grocery store. Take your tasty treats to a local park or any spot where you can fit a blanket, really. Stuff your faces and remember the value of a good meal.

2. Literary Hunting: Like I said before, literature is quite the sexy and intimate device. Do you have a favorite quote? Is there one author that you just gravitate towards? If so, go on a literary hunt. Head to your local book store or library and track down a memorable quote to sum up your day. Peruse the words of countless geniuses and see if one specific quote can encapsulate your day of hunting. You may reach a level of intellectual intimacy and spontaneity you didn’t know existed.

3. Outdoor observances that aren’t star gazing: Nothing wrong with star gazing, but it’s been done, right? We’re looking for new and creative ways to evoke intimacy on a budget. Head to a park, busy street or any somewhat crowded area and watch your surroundings. Feel the energy from the people and animals and just talk. You may even think of some fun backstories to the people you see or create different personas for the dogs walking around.

4. Head to a bar you’ve never been to: All in the name of locally exploring. Dive bars, dance clubs or breweries. A change of scenery is a great way to shake things up and beer is yum.

5. Street Art Scavenger Hunt: Enjoy the free art all around you. Take a walk and explore some of the most unique and underrated pieces in your area. Pop into some local shops, bars and restaurants while you’re at it and make the event an all-day affair.

Have fun exploring, reading and drinking! Dating on a dime doesn’t have to mean fast food and Netflix on the regular.