Top 5 Inexpensive ‘Gal-entine’s’ Date Ideas

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Cayla Martin

Chocolate and roses isn’t the only way to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Valentine’s Day can be stressful, so instead opt to plan a “Gal-entine’s.” These dates are spent with girlfriends without the worry or stress of relationships. For this “Gal-entine’s,” here are five ideas for inexpensive dates for any group of friends.  

For the aspiring “Barden Bellas:” YouTube Karaoke
Cost estimate: $0 with a bit of your dignity

Purchasing time at a karaoke lounge can be expensive, ranging from $20-$100 depending on the length of the visit. A more practical alternative would be gathering the girls around a laptop, searching for karaoke versions of popular songs, and belting it out in the comfort of home. So whether it is Ed Sheeran’s “Shape of You” or Camila Cabello’s “Havana,” enjoy the melodies without the constraint of time and money. 

For the couch potatoes: Chick Flick Marathon
Cost estimate: $1-$5 for snacks and tissues (for the emotionally unstable)

Nowadays, a movie ticket costs $9-$15. As an affordable alternative, choose the house with the biggest screen and have each individual bring her favorite motion picture or log onto her Netflix account. Thankfully, 2017 left us with “Wonder Woman,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and “Pitch Perfect 3,” so make sure to add those to the agenda. For the best experience, pile all pillows in front of the television, get the popcorn popping, and bring on the tears and laughter.   

For the adventurers: Discover New Trails
Cost estimate: $0 with only your life at stake

This date idea is meant for those who hike on a weekly to monthly basis. Tired of the same old excursion? Here is how to modify it. Choose a well-known location, but change the normal routine. Make the trail a totally new experience by expanding the length or reversing the route. Switching up the standard will make for a new and exciting experience. Just remember to follow all safety precautions and be aware of personal limits as an adventurer. 

For the self-taught baristas: DIY Café
Cost estimate: $10-$20 to ensure that caffeine buzz

Sure, Starbucks is convenient, but using a Keurig is more efficient. One might spend about $10 on a tall drink and pastry. Depending on the size of the group, anywhere from $20 to $50 could be spent. By setting up a coffee bar with reusable K-cups and unlimited access to cream and sugar, the girls can bring their favorite mugs for a unique java experience. For the non-coffee drinkers, buy a tea assortment. Tasty treats such as sugar cookies or banana muffins can be baked to accompany the hot beverages. They will love it a latte.

For the homebodies: Spa Night
Cost estimate: $4 to look like an unrealistic version of your favorite animal

This is the perfect way to get rid of those old, forgotten bottles of nail polish sitting in the back of everyone’s makeup drawer. Make it suspenseful by trusting another gal to choose your color and design. Have each individual pitch in with body and hand cream. For a couple dollars, animal face masks can jazz up normal routines. To complete the experience, heat up some water in a small tub, add bath salts, and take turns soaking feet for 10-15 minutes.