As much as you’d love to fly your lady off to Rome for a true Italian dinner, you can barely afford to take her to the Olive Garden down the street. These 10 suggestions should help you find your way into her heart while still keeping your credit card balance low.

Numbers 10-6

10. The coffee date

This one only works for the first date – any more than that and you’re going to risk looking like a caffeine junkie.  With that said, though, a quick chat over a latte or espresso is surprisingly effective at figuring out if you want to try for a second (perhaps less cheap) date.  Use this to get to know someone you just met, but don’t plan on it going much farther than that.

Total cost: $10.

9. Darts

Challenge her to a couple of games of darts.  Getting into the competitive spirit can help you two bond while keeping things sufficiently light and playful.  Most local bars in your area should have a couple of dart boards set up.  If you’re in the Washington, D.C. area, you can visit a local Carpool bar and play darts for really cheap.

Total cost: $5.

8. Indoor Movie Marathon

Grab some snacks, a couple of drinks, order some food, and cuddle up on the couch for a day-long movie marathon.  Try not to leave your place the whole day.

Total cost: $20-30 depending on food and movies.

7. Home Spa

Watch some YouTube videos on how to give a full body massage and try practicing on each other.  Don’t forget the massage oil – heat it up in a pan or by pouring it into your hands and rubbing them together to bring it up to body temperature.  You’ll quickly become each others’ favorite “massage therapists.”

Total cost: $10 for the oil

6. Indie Film Screening

If there are any indie theaters in your area, or if any other locations play cultural or indie films, head out there for a new type of film-going experience.  A lot of times, you may be surprised, and even enlightened, after watching the movie.

Total cost: $20

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