Couples who have been together for some time often forget to continue dating their significant other. We get caught up in our day to day lives and before we know it—we are happy together, but we aren’t dating each other. Dating your significant other is important but it can be pretty expensive. To get that much needed quality time, here are some cheap ideas on how to reconnect.

COOK TOGETHER AT HOME

Set the table, light some candles, and have music playing in the background to set the mood. It’s probably the easiest and oldest trick in the book. There is something that is fun and romantic about cooking together in your home. Laughing, dancing, and cooking together in the kitchen, is always a special way to bond with your loved one.   

GAMES NIGHT

A little friendly competition never hurt anyone. Plan an evening where you can breakout your favourite board games like Chess, Uno Flip or Nine Men’s Morris. The winner could get a reward of their choosing to make things more interesting.

GO FOR A HIKE

Breathing fresh air while being surrounded by breathtaking views as you walk and hold hands with your loved one (without getting lost in the woods) is one of my favourites. You can discuss your hopes and dreams for the future, or you can simply say nothing and just enjoy being present. Either way, you won’t be disappointed.   

PICNIC IN THE PARK

Put together a picnic basket of all your favourite foods—maybe even add some wine in there—and go to a park that you feel relaxed in. You could even take a cosy blanket and enjoy each other’s company while you eat and cuddle as you watch the sun go down.

MOVIE NIGHT

If you don’t want to go anywhere and just keep it lowkey, turn the lights off, pick a movie, and snuggle up on the lounge together while you get lost in each other and the movie. It doesn’t need to be this big grand gesture for your date night to be perfect.

CAMP OUT

If you are the outdoorsy type, you can reconnect by unplugging and heading out of town for the night. A night under the stars is always good for the soul—and for your relationship. Having the company of your loved one and an outdoor fire, while you have a beer and eat marshmallows, is a perfect way to cosy up to your partner.

All of the above ideas are simple, cost effective, and very romantic. Being present and connecting with your partner is important to any relationship but it’s also a wholesome feeling to look back and have amazing memories to look back on. To be in love and be loved in return, is a lucky way to be. If you have any other suggestions for cheap but romantic date nights, comment below!