TIPS: Romantic first date ideas that don't break the bank (or the tank!)

With fuel prices on the rise, even simple plans like going on a date can feel a bit more expensive.

But hey, the dating scene doesn't stop just because of that! Meeting someone new is still the goal, it just means being a bit smarter about how we spend our time and our money.

Go on a virtual date

Dani Buenavida, a content creator behind the Landian with Dani podcast, said to go on a "date zero" first, like going on a call while watching the same movie, to gauge someone you're seeing.

"While you're watching it, you give commentary or your thoughts. So kung same naman kayo ng movie genre na gusto, it’s nice to watch a classic tapos you can talk during the movie, not after. So parang dito, matetest yung chemistry niyo," she told PhilSTAR L!fe.

Dani, who was part of the dating show Love On Clock, also brought it back to dating, pandemic-style. She said to try a virtual hangout, where you can stay on call while doing each other's usual activities.

"It’s giving very soft, intimate, without being too out there," she said, adding that these virtual hangouts let you get an idea of whether you will click or not.

"Parang, you’re already together because you’re already showing each other mundane activities. So before you even meet in real life, there’s already comfort and familiarity," Dani said.

"My tip is virtual date muna, then if the vibe is good—if feeling niyo naman matching personality—then mag-date in real life. Kasi, you know, oil prices are increasing," she added.

Go on a 'walking museum' date

Museum dates can help couples get to know more about each other, as artwork or artifacts can spark conversation. But to make this fun, dating and relationship expert Mezhal Ulao suggests exploring the artifacts at the National Museum complex, and then heading over to Binondo for a food crawl instead of just dining at just one restaurant. 

“You aren't just eating; you're exploring the oldest Chinatown in the world. The effort to navigate the streets together is the ‘date,’” he added. You can also explore other historic streets in Escolta and Intramuros.

Play 20 questions

Another way of getting to know each other is through a game called 20 Questions, where you will take turns answering questions about yourself or anything about life. You can even ask them what they think about today's dating scene, what they consider a red or green flag, and their worst dating experience, among others.

For the relationship to work, Dani advises: "To be interesting, be interested."

"Not a lot of people realize that people would deem you as an interesting person if they’re able to open up to you. Sa first dates kasi, people would initially think, 'magpapasikat ako.' But really, if you can—or if you have the ability to let the person feel seen, feel known in a sense—na sila, mapapa-open up mo sila, that’s actually a plus point. So just keep on asking them questions instead of you sharing a lot of information about yourself," she explained.

Spend a chill afternoon around nature or cityscapes

For content creators Gabby Salvador and @bradleytries_, consider a simple walk through lush, open spaces like UP Diliman or the urban greenery of Makati’s parks.

"Take a slow walk and just go with the conversation. It’s relaxed and way less awkward than sitting face-to-face somewhere fancy," Gabby said, adding that you may also opt for a light jog, and then cool down with a walk.

Kevin Ty, also a content creator, said you can rely on spontaneity.

"We would start it by having ice cream near a mall or a cute street. If the vibes are great we could "accidentally" extend it into a walk + window shopping kind of day. That way, it's low pressure, it feels spontaneous, and it's not too expensive considering our gas prices today," he shared.

If you’re not a fan of walking, you can invite them on a picnic date. Ulao suggests going at 4:30 p.m., grabbing snacks along the way, and setting up at the Sunken Garden or any spot to enjoy the sunset.

If you prefer a more urban setting, you can head to Track 30th or Terra 28th Park and set up a picnic there.

3-course meal date at a convenience store

For a little twist, Ulao suggests turning a trip to a convenience store into a “three-course meal.” Set a budget, then take turns picking: one person chooses the appetizer, the other the main dish, and you both agree on a dessert. It’s simple and a great way to break the ice and get to know each other’s interests if you’re feeling a bit nervous.

Go on a photowalk

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Wherever you decide to go, Dani suggests going on a photowalk. Pick a theme—like things or views that remind you of each other—and snap pictures of it along the way. Think of it like a mini scavenger hunt and a perfect way to immortalize the day. 

"After the walk, find a spot and show each other the photos. It’s a creative way to connect," she said. She added that instead of booking a cab to the date location, you can try biking or walking to explore nearby areas.

"I feel like in this economic climate, people should treat dating again as a wholesome activity—getting to know each other rather than just spending," she said.

Other tips

You can also keep tabs on what’s new around the metro, including guided tours, film screenings, like at FDCP’s Cinematheque Centre Manila, where they show classic films for free, including those from Lino Brocka. Bradley also suggests watching stand-up comedies.

To make it even more special, Ulao suggests adding an “effort” factor. “Since you aren't spending on the venue, spend on the experience,” he said.

For example, you can pick them up or meet at a certain terminal or train station so you can go to the venue together. Make sure to also bring a “survival kit” with necessities like a portable fan, power bank, wet wipes, and more.

Of course, dates always depend on your personal preferences and shared interests, but grab this chance to have a unique and meaningful time with your special someone. “The important thing, really, in the end is the thought and intention behind the choices one makes,” Ulao stressed.