Budgeting and going on dates are often a fearful combination of words. Many people think that it’s a “pick one or the other” type of scenario. However, “budgeting” and “dating” can live harmoniously together. And no, it doesn’t have to consist of cleaning up after the kids or getting work done around the house. If you are looking for fun date ideas that will not hurt your budget, why not try some of these creative ideas?

1. Host Your Own Drive-In Movie

Head out to the backyard with some blankets, pillows, movie snacks and your laptop to enjoy a movie night outside, Ashley from Hello Nature suggests. Or, borrow a projector and screen to really embrace the idea! Remember, a bed sheet or wall make for easy “screens” and are more cost effective. Outdoor movie nights are perfect for warm nights. If you find it’s too chilly, why night bring the fun inside for an indoor drive-in movie.

2. Visit an Art Gallery

Looking to do something different? Online publication Guff suggests checking out an art gallery. Galleries that are just opening are the best bet, as there’s usually free wine and hors d’oeuvres. If you’re looking to visit galleries often, consider getting a membership. This could help you save a lot of money in the long-run and pay for itself in no time.

3. Go Bowling

Sporting events can be quite expensive but that doesn’t mean you can’t get your sporting fix. For the sports lovers, Wise Bread suggests a night out bowling. It’s an affordable activity that will get you up and moving around while providing a bit of friendly competition.

4. Go to a Comedy Club

Up for a good laugh? Money Crashers suggests checking out a comedy club. You could also go see an improv group, which can be incredibly fun as well. This is a great way to get out of the house for a night out with a minimal cost. Comedy shows with new talent often have the most affordable shows, which is sure to help save money. Who knows, maybe you will be at the show where some undiscovered comedian makes it big. Now that would make a great date night story to talk about years later.

5. Have a Picnic

For an old school date night idea that will not hurt your budget, Savings Guide suggests having a picnic. This will save money, by making your own food, instead of dining out. Invest in some reasonable bubbly, set aside some time to make some nice picnic food (homemade hummus for instance- huge brownie points, great taste and embarrassingly easy) and choose a venue based on weather and scenery. If you are in Sydney or Canberra the Botanic Gardens is an obvious choice, but there are heaps of other amazing options. The point at Balmain East for one, or the park in Kirribilli or even lap up the luxury of Lavendar Bay. Sunset works too. Take a comfy rug, a basket of goodies and go somewhere picturesque. Simple.

6. Make Homemade Ice Cream Together

For a simple night in, Intentional By Grace suggests making homemade ice cream. This will give you a chance to try something new, work together as a team and make a killer ice cream that you will both enjoy. Intention By Grace has a simple recipe for a homemade vanilla banana coconut ice cream here. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, don’t worry – a blender will work just fine. Don’t forget to add this to your meal plan and grocery shopping list worksheet that you can download from our resources page.

7. Have a Board Game Marathon

For another night in, Laughing Lemon Pie suggests playing board games. We think you should up the ante and make it a full marathon! Loser has to do the dishes for a week! The great thing about board games is that there is such a variety and range. You can pick something that is quick and simple or one that is more time consuming and strategic.

8. Go for Breakfast Instead of Dinner

If you want to break away from typical date ideas, Frugal and Thriving suggest going for breakfast instead of dinner. This is a nice way to switch things up and is sure to help you save money. If you’re really feeling up to it, you could also grab a blanket and find to watch the sunrise. Who says dates can only be an evening thing? You also probabaly have a better chance of finding a babysitter at this time of day too.

9. Cycle Around Your Town or City

Get some fresh air and grab a city cycle bike Brisbane Kids suggests. You can cycle along the river, around your town or on some trails. You can also try checking out a town that is close by that you don’t typically spend time exploring. Who knows what you will discover.

10. Make Bucket Lists

Grab some paper and create your bucket lists together, suggests Anna from And Then We Saved. It’s a great way to get to know each other better, even if you’ve been married for years. Compare your lists and try to find ways to make things happen in the coming year. 

See – who says you can’t have fun on a budget? Now that you have all these great ideas on how to save money for your next date night out, go ahead and given them a try!

Do you have your own favourite budget-friendly fun date ideas? Let us know in the comments below.