5 fun dates under $10

With the worldwide economy in a slump, a lot of singles are forgoing dates due to lack of money. However, with a little creativity you can still have a date without spending a lot of money. These are 5 fun dates that can be accomplished in under $10 USD.

1. Picnic.
Sandwich materials (bread- $2, peanut butter/deli meat- $3, cheese/jelly- $3): $8
2 large water bottles: $2 (or free if you use tap water chilled overnight in the fridge)

First, take a look at the weather station to make sure you have the best chance of a pleasant day (but bring an umbrella big enough for 2 just in case). Pack the aforementioned picnic lunch, a comfy blanket, and head out to a local park. It's a good way to not only enjoy each other's company but traditionally quite romantic. The lunch doesn't need to be anything fancy either- the focus should be on time spent together and not the meal.

2. Luau-At-Home
Luau Party Decorations: $4 at a discount store
Ice: $1.50 (or free if you make your own)
Pineapple chunks: $1
Coconut milk: $1.50

Put up some luau decorations and bring the beach to your livingroom. While it may sound a bit silly, a little fake palm fronds and mini umbrellas can go a long way. ;) Mix up some homemade pina coladas (or another beverage if you so wish), put on some Hawaiian music (Pandora.com has free streaming music), and use your imagination. Your date will find the decorations to be charming and silly, and it's a good way to change things up from the ordinary.

3. Game night
Snacks: $3
Frozen pizzas: $6

Have your date bring over his/her favorite game and have yours ready as well. Some couples also will invite another couple over to play games. Lots of fun is had, and many times your guests will also bring over snacks, additional drinks, etc.

4. Sunset stroll
Camera: $3 (if you buy a disposable, free if you have your own)
Bottle of sparkling juice: $3

Whether it's a stroll downtown or just to a neighborhood park, watching the sunset is one of the more beautiful and romantic things you can do. After the sun has gone down and twilight sets in around you, surprise your date with a bottle of sparkling juice (or wine, but I'm giving the less expensive option) and a toast. With the summer months moving the sunset later and later, this is one that can be easily fit into most schedules and can provide couples with some good time to chat. The camera can be used for the two of you to take turns taking pictures of each other or various things seen.

5. Home movie night
Popcorn: $3
Drinks: $3
Finger foods: $3

Dust off your DVD collection or brush up your Netflix queue for movie night. Invite your date over for a double-feature of movies you both can enjoy. In between the movies, chat and enjoy the time spent together. This is a particularly good date for people who have just started dating (as the movies can trigger conversation) but at the same time don't put pressure on either party to keep the other entertained. If you've recently met someone on Yumbunny and things have gone well, this would be a great third or fourth date.

As you can see, the whole theme here is spending time with one another. While expensive dates can be nice, most people appreciate the thought behind the gesture. A well-prepared, home-cooked dinner will impress your date much more than a $100 dinner at an expensive restaurant.