In your Infla-Dating era

Finding your person is getting pricy—we’re here to help

Every year we identify the top 2023 dating trends in the US to find out what’s really on singles’ minds. Along with Eco-Dumping and James-Webbing, Infla-Dating is trending and changing the way you’re thinking about dating.

So, what’s infla-dating?

Infla-Dating (in-fla-dayt-ing): Going on less expensive dates due to inflation and the current economic environment.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably noticed that life is getting expensive AF. It’s not just gas and groceries that are hitting your wallet, it’s dates too. Our recent study showed that nearly half of Millennials & GenZs have suggested going on a less expensive, more budget-friendly date to help keep our bank accounts in check.

Here’s how this shakes out in real life:

“I stocked up on groceries this week, mind if we infla-date and go for a walk instead of getting drinks?”

“You down to infla-date? I don’t get paid until next week”

Inflation stress is real, but we don’t want it to get in the way of you finding your person. So we’ve put together some of our favorite budget-friendly infla-dates that are romantic, fun and best of all, won’t make you cry yourself to sleep. Some of these will feel more natural for a first date, while others might have more of a second (or tenth) date vibe. Pick what feels right and let the sparks fly:

Go for a walk and try out a food truck
Browse a bookstore
Pack a picnic and skip the hefty restaurant bill
Visit a museum—lots have free or discounted admission days
Go thrifting or antiquing
Catch a sunset or take in a beautiful view together—make sure to pack a bottle of wine and a blanket if you really want to set the mood
Go bowling
Get ice cream
Have a wine ‘n cheese night
Hit a dive bar for cheap drinks and a game of pool or darts
Find a local trail and go for a hike
Stay in and try a new recipe together
Go for a bike ride
See an outdoor concert
Go to a drive-in movie

Looking for some festive date ideas? We got you:

Grab a coffee and go for a walk/drive to check out Christmas light displays
Visit a local Christmas tree farm
Have a holiday baking day
Get cozy and have some bevies by the fire
Go snowshoeing or ice skating

Dating in the season of gift giving can also be a huge financial stress. Talking budgets with someone you’re dating can be awkward and oftentimes people end up overspending. A POF study showed that in light of the recent impacts of inflation, 69% of singles are planning on spending less this holiday season and 38% of singles actually prefer the gift of quality time over an expensive material gift. So why not do yourself a favor and take the pressure off yourself (and your wallet) and give one of these thoughtful, low-cost gift ideas this year: