Fancy dinners are out, low-pressure dates are in. According to Hinge’s newest LGBTQ+ report, the dating app found that singles are choosing to ditch expensive first-date ideas for low-pressure dates instead. “An LPD (low-pressure date) allows for a safer and more laid-back environment where daters can gauge potential chemistry IRL before exploring things further,” the report states.
Similarly to how “slow burn” relationships may begin, low-pressure dates put the focus on the connection instead of the date idea. In other words, they help singles find genuine connections and gauge compatibility before exploring things further.
“The point is to create a relaxed setting where you both feel comfy,” dating expert Chris Pleines says. “It’s just about hanging out and seeing where things go naturally.”
Below, Pleines shares more on low-pressure dates and why they may be the move in the beginning stages of dating.
Experts Featured in This Article
Chris Pleines is a dating expert for DatingScout.
What Is a Low-Pressure Date?
According to the Hinge report, a low-pressure date is a “relaxed environment with a focus on getting to know one another.” It’s a great way to find out if you’re actually compatible with someone before investing more time with them.
Ideally, low-pressure dates should last no more than an hour, which will give you enough time to get to know each other. “It’s enough to have a good conversation and enjoy an activity together, but short enough to leave you both wanting more if things are going well,” Pleines says.
Of course, all dates should be treated with effort and care, but low-pressure dates can be a refreshing alternative to what you may be used to. There’s no need to stress about who will pay the bill, what you should wear, or the dreaded awkward small talk. “Low-pressure dates are all about keeping things easy and fun,” Pleines says.
Low-Pressure Date Ideas
If you’re looking for chill vibes in your dating life, here are some of the best low-pressure date ideas, according to Pleines.
Meet at the dog park. If you or your date has a dog, meeting at the dog park is a great way to hang out with each other. “Dogs are natural ice-breakers, giving you something to talk about right from the start,” Pleines says.
Get coffee. Meeting for coffee is a great low-pressure date idea. Not only do your drinks give you something to talk about, but coffee dates are usually very casual and relaxing. “Coffee dates often lead to better chats because no one’s trying too hard to impress,” Pleines says.
Cook a meal together. Staying in is a great way to avoid the stuffiness that comes from eating inside an expensive restaurant. However, only opt for a stay-at-home date if you have already met your date in person.
Check out a farmer’s market. “Sample food and browse together,” Pleines says. Walking around the farmer’s market is a great people-watching spot, too.
Go on a walk. Whether the beach is in your backyard or not, strolling around together is a great way to talk and get to know each other.
Spend an afternoon browsing a bookstore. “Share your favorite genres, recommend books to each other, and maybe grab a coffee and chat about your finds,” Pleines recommends.
Find an outdoor movie screening. Because it’s not a private theater, you can talk as much as you want. And in the case that things aren’t going well, you’ll have the movie to distract you from holding a conversation.
Volunteer together. “It’s a meaningful way to spend time together and see each other in a compassionate light,” Pleines says.
Go on a run. If you are both active, invite your date on your daily walk or run outside. This is a great way to indulge in a hobby together.
Taylor Andrews is a Balance editor at PS who specializes in topics relating to sex, relationships, dating, sexual health, mental health, and more.
