Maintaining a long distance relationship has never been easy, but it’s clear that technology has improved the odds for couples trying to make it work. There are now more ways to simulate the experience of a “proximal relationship” thanks to smartphones, apps, and constant connectivity. Fun things to do over Facetime can keep your connection strong across time zones and overseas, with plenty of room for creativity.. Let’s list some of our favorite long distance date night ideas to try and bring you closer to your significant other, even when apart.
Old-School Convo
It’s easy to get caught up in new, advanced technologies and forget that a classic phone call is often the perfect way to connect. It might not fit the description of a full date night, but it can be done almost anywhere, anytime, with low pressure and fewer time constraints. A phone call might not have a visual component, but this can also be intimate when speaking directly with someone you care about. Sometimes, this is all you need to create an evening to remember.
Drinks Over Video
Video conference apps have become increasingly popular in the workplace and in our personal lives, and long-distance daters know how it’s done. Whether it’s on a phone, laptop, or desktop setup, you can facilitate an intimate setting despite being miles away. If you’ve got a date night scheduled, extra effort goes a long way in terms of setup. Light some candles, pour some wine, and position the camera just right so that you can express yourself in the best light. It might not match the in-person date experience, but it’s a huge improvement over a standard phone call.
Movies or TV
For better or worse, watching movies and TV shows is the number one way couples spend time in real life. Bonding over characters and plotlines is key to modern relationships, so you can keep the trend going by watching the same programs online together. Get comfy on the couch or crawl into bed with your phone to keep the conversation going into the evening. It can be fun, even if you don’t always agree on what to watch.
Game Night
The wide world of mobile gaming offers plenty of ways to engage in some playful virtual competition. Pick a genre like RPG, action, or sports, then connect in the lobby before jumping into the gameplay. The funnest games are those that you start together, so pick something new and you can both climb the learning curve over time.
Active Workout
We all know that working out releases feel-good chemicals like endorphins, so why not tap into that natural high with your partner over a long distance? From chilled-out yoga to high-octane martial arts and calisthenics, there’s a free workout online ready to try out. Besides, working out is just a good habit to incorporate, and any bit of motivation helps. As an added bonus, you’ll both be in better shape for when you finally reconnect in real life.
House Hunting
Even if you aren’t planning on marriage or moving in together, hunting for houses online is a fun way to spend some time for long-distance romantics. Browse the offerings in your area to see realistic options, or indulge in fantasies of your multi-million dollar dreamhouse anywhere in the world. You can learn a lot about someone from how they envision their house, so pay attention!
Plan a Trip
What does your partner’s ideal trip look like, and what’s on the itinerary? Discussing travel plans is a blast, even if it’s in the hypothetical realm. Maybe you can map out a Mediterranean getaway with southern Italy and Greece, or explore the mysteries of southeast Asia. You will discover much about your partner’s interests, ambitions, and views on the world by browsing Google Maps and travel sites, so try it out.
Quizzes and Trivia
Is your long-distance partner that person who watches Jeopardy reruns and spends hours blasting through quizzes on Sporcle? These activities get the brain working and can teach you a lot in the process. Quiz sites can be found across the web and in mobile app form, as well. These can double as a date night activity or ongoing engagement.
A Digital Date to Remember
Nobody loves doing the long-distance thing, but these digital substitutes can make the experience more bearable for all. Try them out and discover your favorites, or remix our favorites for something totally new and original.