Getting to know someone in a romantic way can be a process. In the digital age, many people are used to dating based on initial attraction with a person’s online persona. While meeting someone new is easier than ever before, the actual act of dating can be both awkward and expensive. No matter how well you’ve clicked with someone online or in casual group hangouts, you never know how a solo, in-person interaction will go. Thankfully, dating is still possible to do on a budget while getting a feel for a potential partner’s personality.

The Basics

Some date ideas might seem cliché, but that is no reason to turn your nose up at them. There’s a good reason why “getting a cup of coffee” with someone is a go-to option for so many. Whether you love caffeinated beverages or not, meeting a new person for a conversation in a public place is an ideal choice. Both parties can feel safe, and there’s no involved activity in this date option to distract you from having a meaningful exchange. This is great for first interactions and long-term relationships alike. Catching up over coffee solidifies a close bond.

A Creative Task

People date for many reasons. For the vast majority, however, the main goal is to find a person to share a future with. To get to know someone in a helpful way during your dating period, consider centering a hangout around a creative task. Whether you make pottery together at a local studio or cook a meal at home, you’ll learn a lot about this person’s ability to solve problems, laugh at mistakes, think on their feet, and work as a team on a shared goal. 

The Group Hang

As you get to know someone in a more intimate way and your relationship develops, you’re going to spend more time with this person’s social circle. From family members to old friends, the number of new names and faces you’ll have to remember can be overwhelming. A casual hang with a mix of both of your friend groups can be a perfect way to ease into these new relationships. You’ll feel comfortable having your own friends around, and it will help to bridge your worlds together in a healthy way.

A Mundane Activity

It is easy to feel like you are having a good time with someone when you only engage in fun and uplifting activities. The real trick to knowing what makes a person tick is how he or she behaves during mundane or slightly trying situations. Take a trip to the store for some simple shopping together. It might seem dull, but it is a good way to see how this person treats sales representatives, handles waiting in lines, and spends his or her money. Obviously, this budget option is best for people who have been dating for a while already.

Do Nothing

Having a budget while you’re dating doesn’t mean you have to limit your dates. As your relationship progresses to a more comfortable place, one of the most fulfilling ways to spend a day with a romantic partner is by doing absolutely nothing. Hanging around in bed all day and talking, eating, and watching Netflix can be incredibly satisfying. Someone’s willingness to spend the occasional day in this way can tell you a lot about how flexible he or she is. Plus, nothing is cozier on a cold or rainy day than deciding to forego plans and lay around all day. 

While there are plenty of date ideas that cost a good amount of cash, the less expensive options usually tell you the most about a romantic prospect. Mix the fun and insightful tasks together in a balanced way to experience a delightful assortment of adventures with a person you may spend the rest of your life with.