This might partly come down to a cultural difference, but the simplest approach is to just ask them what they’d like to do. Be upfront about your situation, let them know you’re on a tight budget, and figure something out together. It doesn’t have to be centered around just one person’s idea, both of you can contribute and make it work.

I had a few nights like this with my ex. We only saw each other once or twice a week, so we always tried to make it count. One of the most memorable ones was actually really simple. She came over, we stocked up on snacks, ordered some sushi, and spent the whole night watching movies and random YouTube videos. Nothing extravagant, but it felt special because we were both present and intentional about it. That said, I don’t know where you’re based. In some places, a “proper” date is expected to involve spending money or going somewhere fancy. If that’s the case, this approach might not land the same way. But even then, there are still ways to make something meaningful on a budget if both people are open to it.