Hectic back-to-school time is upon us, so I felt like it was a good time to share 10 FREE (or at least CHEAP) date night ideas that mom and dad can use to get a break from all the hustle and bustle of this time of year. BONUS! I’ve included a great printable for you to use for the babysitter! Write down emergency info and information about your kiddos to make babysitter time a breeze… for you and the sitter!
1. Hiking. What a better way to spend time with you spouse than getting you both out for a little exercise and to get to see nature. Find some local hiking trails and go for a walk with your hubby… this one is totally free!
2. Cook his favorite meal. This one may not totally be free depending on what groceries you have on hand, but I find that even going and buying ingredients to cook a meal is less expensive than eating out somewhere. Plus, what is more special than taking the effort to cook his favorite… bonus points if you pull off a surprise!
3. Go looking for open houses. My husband and I love to daydream. We are not homeowners yet, but even if you are, this could still be a super fun idea. Go out on a Saturday and browse some of the for-sale homes in your area! Oh, if you are a homeowner- you could get some inspiration for upgrades and remodeling projects you’d like to do for your own home!
4. Have a move marathon. Do you and your hubby have a movie series you both love? Have a movie marathon! Try to find the movies for cheap or free on Netflix, Amazon Prime Instant, or Redbox! Don’t like the same movies? Pick 2- one for him and one for her, and watch both!
5. Dessert only, please! Go to a nice restaurant and just get dessert- or appetizers and a drink or two. It’s cheaper than a whole meal, and a fun way to take time to reconnect with your hubby.
6. Seasonal dates! Once the holidays get closer, there are lots of free/cheap ideas- go to a pumpkin patch or a corn maze together, visit a haunted house, go on a Christmas lights tour… you get the idea! Lots of stuff to do in the fall and for the holidays.
7. Grill out. This goes along with “cooking in instead of eating out”, but my hubby loves to grill and this could be another fun at home idea for cheap… assuming you have a grill, of course! We LOVE grilled corn on the cob and asparagus!
8. “Dollar Tree” Date. Go to the dollar tree and set a budget- $5-10 and pick out a gift or gifts for each other! Then, go for ice cream or fro-yo!
9. Window shopping. My hubby and I love to window shop, even when we don’t have a ton of money to spend. It’s a great way to get some ideas going for Christmas gifts, too! Go to the mall and walk and browse the stores, then get a treat from the food court! (We prefer pretzels and fresh squeezed lemonade!)
10. Go for a drive. This is great for daytime or nighttime! During the day- go explore your city and surrounding areas and see what there is to see- we love checking out smaller shops and cafes! At night, take a nighttime drive and enjoy some peace and quiet with your hubby!
Okay, so what are you waiting for??? Plan one of these dates this week! Make sure you snag this handy printable for your babysitter!
Click here to download the printable from Google Docs!
What are YOUR favorite free or cheap date night ideas?? Please share them in the comments!
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