Save cash with cheap or even completely FREE nights out, whether just as a way to cure boredom or if you're looking for super cheap date ideas.
Maybe just don't tell the person you're taking.
Cheap or Free Cinema deals
Most people know about this: Cinemas and various companies offer cheap midweek deals. Orange Wednesdays are no more, but free cinema tickets are now offered by Compare The Market if you've used them.
Other phone companies still offer similar deals from time to time, such as O2's Priorities programme.
Independent and less well known cinema chains - such as Reel Cinemas - may offer their own discount days or cheap student tickets too.
In addition, you can also score completely free cinema tickets to previews, see this guide to free cinema tickets.
Last Minute Tickets
If you're one of those people who doesn't mind getting up and going at short notice, then make use of last minute websites.
Several places offer cheap tickets to theatre shows, musicals, concerts, events and more at hugely discounted prices to shift leftover seats. You can see big and popular shows such on the West End including Wicked, Les Miserables and Mamma Mia.
While it's often quite London-centric, you may be able to find some cheap places to go out near you too.
Websites to check out include LastMinute.com and Time Out (London only).
Free TV show recordings
A totally fun and free day or night out can be had by going off to a TV recording. Tickets to watch shows - both live and recorded - are usually completely free, with the catch that it's first come, first serve so you may have to get there early and wait around to guarantee entry.
Panel shows like Have I Got News For You and QI, reality shows like Simon Cowell's Britain's Got Talent, The Voice UK, The X Factor and Strictly Come Dancing, and even radio shows such as The Unbelievable Truth are all free to attend.
> Free nights out: Guide to getting free tickets to TV shows
Go out early or get your name on the guest list
Save money on the door of you favourite night clubs by getting there early or on more quieter nights. Most places will allow free entry on certain days and at certain times, and often the drinks will be cheaper too.
If you don't fancy an early night, make sure to see if you can add your name to the guest list for free or reduced entry, every saving can mean an extra drink!
And when it comes to drink, look out for offers and try pre-drinking at home with booze from the local shop rather than a bar if you're extra strapped for cash.
Have a night out... in!
Of course the night in is the easiest option ahead of all the above, and needn't be boring.
One good thing to try is a 'Student Come Dine With Me': Each day or once a week, take it in turns to host a dinner party, cooking food and preparing some fun entertainment!
Or you can just resort to Netflix and a cheap midweek deal offered by Take Out chains, such as Domino's Tuesday special (available at time of writing).
Comedy nights out
In many cities and towns you can find free comedy nights and sometimes you can enjoy some big names trying out new material, such as Dara O'Brien, Tim Vine, Russell Howard and Holly Walsh.
Angel Comedy in London hosts regular free evenings.
Free concerts
On special occasions you can enjoy totally free music concerts in the local area, check the 'What's On' listings in the local newspaper or council website.
You can also find free music events at open mic nights held in pubs, theatres or bars.