How Gen Z Is Choosing ‘Holidates’ Over Date Nights To Save Money

Rediscovering Fun Beyond Romantic Pressure

Damjan

• Published in Interesting
• April 6, 2025

Some people don’t recognize a favor, they just keep asking for “one more” until it costs them. That’s basically what Gen Z is doing with dating, except the bill is time, money, and emotional energy. So instead of date nights that require a whole performance, they’re picking something else: holidates, where the plan is fun first and the pressure stays at home.

Here’s the messy part, it’s not like they stopped going out. It’s that a couple of friends, the kind who already know how to split a cab and still find the best couscous, started treating each other like the safe option. When they headed to Marrakech, they weren’t trying to impress anyone. They were shopping through the souks, getting lost on purpose, and eating like the “not that hungry” script never existed.

And once they realized how good it felt with zero awkward silences, the whole dating setup started to look unnecessary.

Why date someone you're unsure about when you can have fun with a trusted friend?

Exploring Marrakech's souks is a must, especially with a friend who loves shopping.

Exploring the city’s famous souks turned into a highlight of the trip. Wandering through a maze of stalls selling spices, handmade textiles, and jewelry, the pair lost track of time and direction but embraced the experience with laughter.

There was no pressure to impress, no awkward silences, or forced conversation. Without the social dynamics of a date, the experience became more immersive and carefree.

"Couldn't leave without eating all the couscous available"

Food also played a major role. The friends indulged in traditional tagines, fresh bread, and couscous, free from the unspoken rules of dining on a first date.

There was no pretending to be “not that hungry” or sticking to small portions. One memorable dinner on a rooftop overlooking the medina became a standout moment—an experience that, back in London, might have cost over £100 each.

In Marrakech, it was not only affordable but also far more memorable.

While they were plotting a “cheap escape” from London, they kept choosing the friend who would actually say yes to getting lost in Marrakech’s souks.

The Shift in Social Dynamics

As he notes on his website, this approach also reduces the anxiety often associated with the dating scene, allowing young people to focus on building deeper friendships that can be equally fulfilling.

Between tagines, fresh bread, and the rooftop couscous dinner that would have cost over £100 back home, the holidate started to feel like a cheat code.

Mental Health Benefits of Holidates

It’s the same awkward vibe as an office worker swapping snacks to healthy options, only to disappoint junk-food-loving colleagues.

"The sun in February was definitely a factor in our decisions."

Even their downtime had a refreshing tone. Wrapped in hotel robes, full from dinner, and watching Gossip Girl in bed, the atmosphere was more relaxed than any romantic weekend could provide.

"Clearly a master of my craft"

The trip also included a pottery-making class, which tested their skills and patience. While their creations weren’t exactly gallery-worthy, the experience added to the trip’s charm.

Trying something new, failing at it, and laughing through the mess underscored the beauty of doing something just for fun, without trying to impress anyone.

"Our hotel was not too shabby."

What started as an escape from the pressures of dating turned into something much more meaningful. The trip reaffirmed the strength of friendship and highlighted why many Gen Z and millennial women are beginning to redefine what a “date” looks like.

Even the downtime in hotel robes, watching Gossip Girl in bed, had less tension than any romantic weekend they’d ever tried.

Then the pottery-making class happened, their lopsided creations turned into laughter, and suddenly “impressing someone” stopped being the point.

By reallocating funds, individuals can explore new experiences without the financial burden that often accompanies dating. This encourages creativity in planning and prioritizing experiences over expensive dinners, ultimately leading to more enjoyable and less stressful social interactions.

Recent research supports the shift. But as this woman’s experience shows, maybe it’s time to plan those trips with best friends instead of potential partners.

In an age of ghosting, dating fatigue, and the constant pressure to pair up, platonic getaways offer a refreshing alternative. No awkward conversations. No expectations. Just connection, adventure, and the kind of love that doesn’t need a swipe to start.

The emergence of 'holidates' reflects a significant change in how young people view their social lives. This trend allows Gen Z to focus on platonic relationships, which not only eases financial strain but also promotes emotional wellness. By prioritizing friendships and shared experiences over traditional dating, Gen Z is reshaping social norms. This shift fosters deeper connections while minimizing the typical pressures of dating. Embracing 'holidates' could lead to more fulfilling social interactions, enriching their lives beyond the confines of conventional romantic pursuits.

Now they’re wondering why they ever paid for date energy when they could just buy plane tickets and eat their way through Morocco.

Want another money and boundaries fight? See why AITA for keeping pregnancy cravings like pickles from sisters.

Damjan