Save money and have fun

Watching old Seinfeld reruns for dates because you’re broke? Do you need help with saving money without being a cheap date? If you answered “yes” to either or both of these questions, consider this dating advice: Spice things up a bit with these 7 money-saving and fun dating ideas while you wait for your personal loan to get funded on Lending Club.

1. The Amazing Race Date

Come up with a list of 10 or so interesting events to capture (here are some good ideas). Each couple will need a video camera (this is a good double date). Set out at a specific time and plan to be back within 2 or 3 hours at the most. You can set a certain number of points for capturing each item.

If you find some fun locations, and your date is even semi-interesting, you’ll have a blast on this video scavenger hunt. If you take a car, your only expense is gas. The best part is coming back and watching all the goofy stuff you just did.

Total Cost: $7 for videotape and some gas money

2. Gamer Dating

Grab some popcorn and stay in for the evening. If your date is down with video games, grab a controller, put on some party music, and go to town. If you have a Nintendo Wii or can borrow one…so much the better. Nothing eases any nerves better than making a fool of yourself in Wii Sports Boxing.

Don’t just stick to video games, though. Mix it up with some 2-person card games. Here are some of the classics:

Cribbage - You’ll need a cribbage deck and board
Speed – Also known as spit…
War - Simple…classic, ruthless

This date could also be done with other couples as well. Have each couple bring their favorite games, and let the good times roll. (Yahtzee anyone?)

Total Cost: $5 for snacks

3. Book Nerd Dating

My nerdy high school girlfriend and I did this countless times back in the day and it’s a great date activity, especially for those who love to read. After perusing the store a bit, find a table or some chairs where you and your date can set up camp.

Split up for 25 minutes and each go find 5 books from different genres that you would each like to read. Reconvene after your search and share your 5 books with each other. It’s a great way to learn more about your date in a relaxed environment. Share why you choose each book and make sure to ask lots of questions. This is a great 2nd or 3rd date.

Total Cost: $0

4. The Mother Teresa

Nothing is a more romantic date idea than doing something to help others with a significant other. Not only will your date think highly of you for just suggesting the idea, you’ll also get to see your date in a very non-traditional dating setting.

Find a 3-5 hour one-time volunteer event to help out for the first time. If you and your date have a great time together serving others, it’s likely you could make it a weekly thing.

Volunteers are always in high demand during the holiday season, so check out volunteer match for opportunities and ideas in your area. Many times nursing and senior homes have volunteer openings that are perfect for a one-time date.

Total Cost: $0

5. YouTube Dating

Nerd Alert!

Have you and your date each search on YouTube (or any video sharing website) for short video clips that you absolutely love (I’d pick some Colbert clips for sure). Each of you should then pick your top 5 best ones and create a playlist.

Reconvene after searching for 20 minutes, and hook up your computers to a TV if possible. Sit on the couch, pop some popcorn and laugh the night away at hilarious, and free, entertainment courtesy of the creativity of your date. And YouTube.

Total Cost: $5 for snacks

6. Central Park Dating

Even during winter, with a little preparation, a picnic can be a blast. A thermos with hot chocolate is a must have for any winter picnic meal. Make some sandwiches and be sure to throw in a few cheap hand warmers in case your date’s hands get cold.

Total Cost: $7 for food

7. The Spielberg

This one takes two open minded and non-camera shy people. At the end of this date you’ll have a short movie to share for life.

Here’s how it works:

Come up with a list of 5 or so favorite scenes from movies or TV shows you both enjoy. You might need to recruit a friend to help you record. You’ll also need a video camera and computer to edit once you’re done filming.

Once you’ve decided on a scene to recreate, write out a script and gather any props or costumes you might need.

Once you’re done shooting, spend an hour editing together and then invite some friends over to watch your creation! Don’t take the film too seriously. The goal is to have fun with your date, not shoot the next Academy award winning short film.

Total Cost: A long afternoon and a videotape. $4

By the time you’ve exhausted these dating ideas, you’ll know whether or not to pursue other activities that may carry a larger price tag. Then, just get a personal loan on LendingClub.com and you’ll have the fast money you need for a quick ski get-away, skydiving or some other fun diversion.

Debtkid