Nobody can deny that the world economy right now is struggling. But not even a not-so-great economy like the one we're seeing now can get in the way of the growth of free internet dating. Even on days when the stock market is dropping and people are losing money, internet dating sites get more traffic than ever; by the time the year 2008 came to a close, most major internet dating sites saw a 20% increase in membership and visitors.
But just because internet dating sites are still getting plenty of members doesn't mean those members have the same amount of money to spend on dating as they used to. Dating on a budget is difficult... but it doesn't have to be impossible. Of course, internet dating helps a lot in saving money by cutting much of the costly legwork (drinks or dinner with unsuitable strangers) out of the process. But aside from joining a free internet dating site like Datepad (instead of the costly fee-based sites you might find elsewhere), is there any other way to save money on dating and internet dating?
Actually there is. If your bank account is shrinking and your stress levels are rising, there's no need to add to your misery by remaining lonely and alone. If you follow some of the tips below, you can get out and have fun with dating without having to break the bank.
Ways to Date Cheaper
Stay Online a Little Longer. The truth is, going out with a lot of people --the very thing that gives you the most options to choose from-- can get pretty darned expensive. A great way to pad your dating budget is to, well, skip the dates. Instead of meeting so many people in person, keep your internet relationships going on just a little longer. The more sure you are that the person you're chatting with may be a keeper --and worth the cost of an evening out-- the less money you'll find yourself spending on dud dates.
Get One Great Outfit. Especially for women, it can be so tempting to go out and buy something new for every date we go on, whether it be a new pair of earrings or an entire new outfit. But if you go on lots of single dates (and fewer second dates), there's no need to do this! Splurge on one really good outfit, and wear it on all of your first dates. After all, if you're seeing different people every time, who will know?
Stay Home. For safety's sake, it's a good idea to plan a first meeting with somebody new in a public place. But for further dates, what's wrong with taking things back home? Instead of going out for an expensive film and an even more expensive dinner, rent a DVD and make dinner together. It's cheap, it's fun, and it's a heck of a lot more intimate.
Get Outdoors. Are those "let's meet Friday night for drinks" dates eating away at your bank balance? Take your first meetings out of the bar and into someplace cheaper-- and more interesting. Meet on a coffeehouse terrace, at a little league baseball game, or in the park instead of that noisy, crowded bar. You'll save money and you'll set yourself apart while you're at it.
Benefits of Cheaper Dating
Really, the main benefit of dating or internet dating on the cheap is obvious: you save money! And while that's the main goal, of course, dating on a budget has some other positive side effects as well. For one, it forces you to get creative with the settings and activities you choose for your dates, which is a fun and special way to start off a new relationship. Having to think outside the box gets a dynamic going between you and your date that just wouldn't be there on an ordinary "drinks and dinner" evening. Choosing creative dates also shows a spontaneous, interesting side of you that will look mighty attractive to potential partners. Also, when you've been dating for awhile, creative budget-friendly dates force you to have more one-on-one time together. Being entertained by other people is expensive; if you want to save money, you'll have to entertain each other. And that can be a great way to start a relationship off on just the right foot.
