12 of 14

Write now Article Tools

Most of us would prefer to keep the cost of a first date manageable. Students may not have that much cash to start with. If you're actively internet dating at any age, you can end up having a lot of first dates in a fairly short time, and the cost can mount up if you're not careful. And let's face it, however optimistic we may be, there's a good chance that most of these first dates won't lead to a second one, so why would you invest a fortune?

Sometimes, simplest is best. Arrange to meet for a coffee or a drink. You can still make it special by choosing a smart venue - sure, it might cost twice as much as your local bar, but if all you're going to buy is a couple of drinks, does that really matter? The other benefit of a coffee/drink date is that it's easy to cut short if you decide it's not going to work out.

If you've met through the internet, you have an advantage - you already know something sbout the person's hobbies and interests. Choose something you have in common and arrange an outing around that (if you can't find anything in common, maybe you should ask yourself why you want to date this person anyway?). For instance, if you both like dancing, arrange to meet at a dance party or a lesson. Art lovers could visit an art gallery (one with a nice coffee shop would be a bonus), music fans could go to a concert in the park or a gig at a local hotel. Movie buffs could go to the cinema. The list goes on - you get the idea.
Although it's a cheap option, I never recommend inviting someone to your home on a first date, or even letting them pick you up - even if you are still living with family or in a house-share. It's much better to keep your address a secret at first, to avoid the possibility of attracting a stalker. If you live alone, it's especially important to be careful about revealing your personal details until you know more about the person.

Guys shouldn't think they need to impress on the first date by throwing money around. Let's face it, if a woman is going to turn you down on a first date just because you didn't spend a packet on her, you're better off without her anyway - she's going to go on costing you a fortune! Dress well and pay confidently for the small expenses on your low-cost date, and the average girl will give you the benefit of the doubt.

The most important thing on a first date is to choose a venue and an activity that gives you plenty of opportunity to talk, because the whole point is to get to know each other. If you are genuinely interested in each other, you'll be so busy talking you'll forget about everything else!

Learn more about this author, Dancing Queen.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about First date ideas on a budget?
We want to hear your view. Write now!