Although the rate of inflation is less in 2023 than the previous year, the cost of living is still increasing quicker than wages in most North American cities. Experts advise consumers reassess spending habits, cutting back, shopping sales and strategically saving.
So it’s no surprise this cost-cutting mentality is also extending to dating practices.
What is infla-dating?
In October 2022, dating website Plenty of Fish predicted that one of the top trends in 2023 would be “infla-dating,” a term coined to describe going on budget-conscious dates due to inflation and the economic realities.
Nearly half (48%) of single Millennials and Gen-Z have suggested going on a less expensive, budget-friendly date.
US singles identify 2023’s top dating trends
On the surface, infla-dating could seem boring, or lacking the romance of spontanaeity and a carefree time out. However, even carefully-planned outings can be creative and meaningful. Here are three budget-conscious date ideas to consider.
3 low-cost date ideas
Even in the midst of rising inflation, you can still find budget-friendly ways to spend quality time with another person. You may be surprised just how much fun you can have!
Have a games night
Playing games together is an easy way to get to know someone in a low-pressure way. Whether you go to a local board game café or host an evening in, gather with friends or keep it more intimate, playing games allows you to enjoy time together while also getting to know each other’s personalities and interests.
Games nights are generally casual and laid-back. There’s no need to worry about dressing up or spending money on fancy food or drinks (a few snacks and flavoured waters should be just fine). All you need is a positive attitude and the patience to learn a new game or two.
Explore a local park or nature trail
Going for a walk in nature is always a good idea—and you don’t have to be particularly outdoorsy to benefit from the combination of fresh air, movement and good conversation.
Choose a local trail or park that seems interesting and explore and meets your comfort level. Most cities offer everything from flat, paved trails with lots of people, dogs and strollers to more challenging inclines off the beaten path.
To take things up a level, you could also pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at a viewpoint or picturesque setting. Anything from homemade sandwiches to a charcuterie board will do! Along with being innexpensive (and often more fun), this casual date can help you feel more relaxed than if you were on a stuffy interview-style dinner date.
Volunteer together
Have you ever considered a date where you give back to the community? There are plenty of non-profit organizations accepting one-off volunteers. Reach out to a few places and see where you can give a hand. Whatever you end up doing, you will likely find it to be a fun, rewarding and fulfilling experience.
Volunteering is a fantastic way to help people and get involved in your community, plus it can be a bonding experience as well. You’ll have the chance to see your date in a new light as you work alongside one another and gain insight into their values, passions and beliefs.
Focus on quality over quantity
It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that we need to spend a lot of money in order to impress your date and have a good time. This is simply not true!
Whether you are newly dating or have been together for some time, spending quality time together is what will propel your relationship forward and help you figure out if this is someone you want to be with long-term. If this is the person for you, the quantity of money you spend on each other should not be a comparison point.
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