How to Date When You're Broke
Just because you have no money doesn't mean you can't show someone a great time.
Up next in Dating Survival Guide (90 videos)
Improve your love life with the dating tips in these videos.
You Will Need
- Time to investigate events
- And Creativity
Steps
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Step 1
Figure out budget
Figure out what your budget is. Five dollars? Ten dollars? Nothing?
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Step 2
Check the paper
Check local papers for free or low-cost events like community theater and dance productions, art openings, and festivals.
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In some communities, you can volunteer to work as an usher at the local theater in exchange for free passes.
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Step 3
Check bookstores
See which bookstores in your area offer readings, lectures, and/or live bands that you can enjoy while having a coffee and pastry.
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Look online for dozens of event listings in your hometown.
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Step 4
Call museums
Call local museums for current and upcoming exhibits.
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Many museums offer a reduced-price or free day during the week.
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Step 5
Make it charitable
Make it a charitable date: Take part in a fundraising walk/run or bike ride; join a local park clean-up effort; or help out at an animal shelter.
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Step 6
Make dinner
Make a romantic dinner at home using ingredients that are on sale at your supermarket.
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Make dinner preparation part of the date by going apple or berry picking, or by picking up a bottle of wine during a winery tour or tasting.
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Step 7
Think nature
Think nature. Prepare a picnic, go to a park or lake, plan a hike or bike ride, or visit a zoo or aquarium.
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Step 8
Check for BYOB
Check local listings for bring-your-own-bottle restaurants.
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Step 9
Crash a wedding
When all else fails, take a cue from Wedding Crashers--put on formal clothes, go to one of those reception places than run a half dozen large weddings at a time, and hit all the cocktail hours.
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Singles on the West Coast are the most likely to spend $100 or more on a date while those in the southern and eastern regions of the country spend only $25 to $50.
