A couple shares a loving moment during a beach proposal in Antigua at sunset.

11 Ways to Plan an Affordable Proposal

Proposals are an individual experience, but these days, people feel the need to post their proposals on social media for the world to see.

Without counting the cost of the ring itself, many of these extravagant proposals start to do a number on your wallet.

When you add actors, dancers, musicians, photographers , and the cost of renting the perfect location, a proposal can easily cost more than $2,000.

With that said, this guide explores more affordable proposals that your significant other will love.

A couple's engagement on a hilltop at sunset, capturing a romantic moment.

1. Recreation of First Date

Your first date is a memorable day that can be recreated without spending much money.

There was something about that date that made you continue seeing each other, and recreating this date brings your relationship full circle.

You could also recreate a date with a first kiss or another significant event in your relationship.

2. Take a Hike to a Breathtaking Location

If you and your significant other enjoy the outdoors, then finding a location to take an unforgettable hike is promising.

You can take the time to go to an area with a breathtaking backdrop and propose at the destination. The trip will be unforgettable, and most will consider affordable engagement rings with this type of proposal.

3. Plan a Romantic Dinner

A romantic dinner can be an intimate occasion in your home, or you can plan to have dinner at one of your significant other’s favorite places to eat.

It does not need to be a five-star meal, just something that you will both enjoy. Also, candlelight will help add ambiance to the dinner.

4. Stay Cozy at a Bed and Breakfast

Plan a romantic weekend with just the two of you. A bed and breakfast is a cozy place that gives you alone time and allows for the surprise of an engagement in a public or private location.

There are not going to be a lot of guests at most bed and breakfast locations, so you will be able to make sure the proposal is special.

A man proposing to a woman indoors with a red ring box, capturing a moment of surprise and joy.

5. Have a Picnic at Sunset

Pack a special lunch that includes some of your significant other’s favorite foods. Make sure to pack a bottle of wine to make the meal more romantic.

Spread the blanket out at a park that has a special meaning to you and make a romantic evening out of it. When the sun begins to set, it is time to pop the question.

6. Go on a Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger hunts are always fun, especially if they are personalized toward your significant other.

Come up with a creative place to begin your scavenger hunt, and make it have a few steps for them to follow that end in a more significant location.

It doesn’t have to be a difficult scavenger hunt, but it should be something fun and meaningful that you both will enjoy.

7. Plan a Beach Vacation

If you love the beach, proposing at your favorite beach will be a welcome surprise. You can plan the trip as you usually would and aim for a surprise proposal in the middle of the trip.

Afterward, get matching wedding rings that will remind you both of the proposal for the rest of your lives.

8. Propose During a Game

Play a word game with your partner to get them comfortable, and then, you simply ask the question as a clue. They will win the game with a beautiful proposal.

You can also use a game like Scrabble to spell out “Will you marry me,” but if the letters don’t fall right, you will have to try with a second game.

If you don’t get tiles that work, you can simply wait until your significant other goes for a bathroom break or to get a drink before arranging the tiles for the proposal.

9. Plan a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Nothing is more romantic than going 2,000 feet in the air with your significant other — that is, unless you have a proposal planned at that same height.

Plan the trip in the sky as the sun is setting; you will get gorgeous views, and your loved one will never forget the proposal.

10. Use a New Year’s Eve Countdown

New Year’s Eve is becoming a popular time to propose in front of your friends. It will be a perfect start to the new year, and since the holidays are over, you can start looking into different types of rings for marriage.

11. Listen for a Favorite Song at a Concert

Take your loved one to a concert where their favorite artist is performing. During one of the songs that they love, turn to your significant other and pop the question. It will be an unforgettable moment during a fun-filled night.

Time to Propose

No matter what you decide, the best proposal is for you and your significant other’s relationship; it will be special.

It doesn’t have to be something that you spend a fortune on; just make sure it is meaningful and comes from your heart.

Soon, wedding planning will take over your life, but for now, plan a meaningful proposal and celebrate your love together.