by Hanna Hussein
Pix Credit: parlorfm.tumblr.com
“Obviously, you’re paying half for this.”
How often do you go out on a date with your girlfriend? Twice a week? Maybe every day?  And how much does it actually cost you for romantic dates – including lunch and dinner at exclusive restaurants, movies, fuel and maybe shopping? Probably RM2000++ a month. Wow! Can you really afford that if you're not some rich-man's son?

Well, you can play the gentleman to impress your girlfriend but pampering her with cash is not the way. It will only burden you with debts, and of course you don't want that, do you? 

With the cost of living rising and the high price tag involved in almost every aspect of going out, it may be difficult to come up with cheap dating ideas. You don't want to look like a cheapskate but at the same time you do want to enjoy your date with your girlfriend. So, how?

Pix Credit: www.123rf.com
“Happy One-month anniversary, sweetheart!”

Before we go on with the suggestions, bear in mind that you need to embrace the date for what it is to make it work. If you do it right with the intention of getting to know each other, any amount of money spent won’t make up for that fact. It may also turn out to be a romantic memorable one that lasts a lifetime!


Idea
How?
Cost
Picnic
Why not drive to the nearest waterfall. There are plenty of beautiful picnic spots you can go to in Malaysia. For example, Ulu yam. Swim as much as you want and don't forget to bring some homemade sandwiches and a big bottle of water.
Fuel: RM 20
Food: RM 10

Total: RM 30
Hiking
Go to Broga Hills for a start. Wonderful view, great weather, romantic sunrise. It may be tiring but your girlfriend will definitely remember this date!
Fuel: RM 20
Water: RM 5
Total: RM25
Flying kites
Never been on a kite date? Well, this is another cheap date you can try. It is fresh and fun! A great spot you can go to fly kites is Taman Metropolitan, Kepong.
Fuel: RM 20
Kites: RM 15 (If you don't have one you should get one. With proper care, they can be used for a lifetime)
Food: RM5
Total: RM25-RM40
Make a homemade meal
This is the most romantic idea. Prepare your other half's favorite meal or cook one of your best dishes. It is the best way to show your loved one that you want to make her something nice. Plus, you have complete privacy!
Below RM50 for a simple dish for two.
Jogging
If your girlfriend loves exercising, ask her on a jogging date or a walk in the park. It is absolutely free and it gives both of you a nice workout! To make it more fun, hang out at the playground when no one else is there. Spend time together on the swing set and merry-go-round!
Free
Camping
Grab a tent and go camping in your own backyard or maybe pull out some cozy blankets (and some bug spray if you must) and curl up together for some stargazing. Sweet!
Free
Hang out at the parent's house
This is the best idea. Know why? Not only do you get to spend time with her, you can make her feel invited and at ease with your parents. You could watch a movie together, play poker or a board game or even challenge each other to a contest. The sillier the better! Plus, you can grab snacks from the fridge for free!
Free


At the end of the day, it’s not how much money you spend, or even how much time. It’s all about how you do it.

Look! Here’s a free, collectible sticker (Right click to save). Collect them all)