Written by Chantal McCulligh | The sun is out and there’s no better time for you and your lover to take advantage of the beautiful scenery and scents of the summer season. Are you stuck on a tight budget, with barely any room to spend on romance? The good news is you can have fun without breaking the bank; so savor the season with these affordable summer date ideas!

1. Bring the heat inside

How often do you get to stay home with absolutely nothing on the agenda? If this is rare for you, consider a lazy day in with your date. Prepare a home cooked meal together and finish it off with a good movie and cuddling.

2. Far from boring board games

Board games are a fabulous way to get cozy on the couch with your loved one. But wait! Turn the game into a competition to amp up the excitement.

3. Day drinks and a cookout

Make some fruity summer drinks and fill the cooler with your favorite brews. Kick your feet up and relax on the porch. Play some tunes that set the mood. Barbecue something delicious and enjoy your very own lover cookout.

4. Get active

Who says a date has to be laissez-faire? Get active and go rollerblading along the boardwalk, or grab your bicycles and take to the trails. Take a dip in the lake, hike the terrain,or swing away on the green. It’s okay to sweat… a little bit.

5. Pitch a tent

You don’t have to reserve a campground to enjoy the wilderness. Pitch a tent in the backyard and listen to the sounds of the city. If your city permits bonfires, take advantage of this and roast some marshmallows. Don’t forget to stay close for warmth throughout the night.

6. Carnival craze

Oh, Grease Lightning! Everyone loves a good carnival, so channel your inner child and find out when the Carnies are coming to town. Flirt on some rides, snack on some cotton candy and enjoy innocent laughter with one another. The best love stories always have a carnival scene, so take dating advice from movies like Grease, The Notebook and Dear John.

7. Walk your dog…

Get your mind out of the gutter and take your dog(s) to the park! A walk through a lush park is a fabulous way to enjoy a peaceful day together, while also getting some exercise. You can even spruce it up by taking your party to a dog-friendly beach.

8. Outdoor movies

Going to a movie is boring and way too typical. Think outside of the box (no pun intended) and go to an outdoor screening instead. With late night drive-in movies, you can watch from the privacy of your car or out in the open on a classic picnic blanket. It’s the same thing as a drive in, less the car. Both provide a unique alternative to an ordinary movie date. Bring your favorite person, your favorite snacks, and something snug to sit on.