Casual dating can be awesome, but it can also be a complete mess. It all depends on how you approach it. If you’re looking for a relaxed hangout, fun energy, and zero drama, you need to know what to do (and what to avoid) to keep things running smoothly.
The idea is simple—seeing people without pressure. But in practice? Well, that’s where it can get complicated, especially if the parties involved aren’t honest or don’t know how to respect boundaries. So, whether you’re new to the dating world or a dating app veteran, here are some tips to help you stay cool, respectable, and have fun.
Where Is the Line Between Casual and Serious Relationships?
Sometimes the line between casual dating and a serious relationship can be blurry. Here’s how to recognize it and not get confused.
Casual Relationship: Freedom, but With Respect
This is a relationship without high expectations. There is no planning for the future, no questions about marriage or vacations together. The focus is on the present moment, having a good time, and respecting personal boundaries. As long as there is honesty and mutual consent, casual dating can be great.
A Serious Relationship: Stability and Shared Goals
A serious relationship implies greater connection, emotional closeness, and plans for the future. This is where exclusivity is discussed, friends and family are met, and much more is invested in time and emotions. If you find yourself wondering “where this is going”, you may already be getting out of the casual zone.
Regardless of which side of this line you are on, the most important thing is knowing what you want and honestly sharing it with the other person. You deserve to have your wants and needs met, whatever they may be.
And now let’s get down to the specifics: what to do and what not to do when you venture into the world of casual dating.
Do: Be Honest From the Start
Now is not the time to pretend you enjoy hiking if your only cardio is walking to the fridge. Say what you’re looking for. If you want something relaxed, with no strings attached, say so clearly. Save yourself and others time.
If you want to make it even easier to meet people who want the same thing, use platforms that make it easier for you. For example, the Locanto app is a great place to meet people who aren’t looking for marriage or won’t ask, “And where is this going?” after the third message, but don’t mind a little flirting and good stories.
Do: Set and Respect Boundaries
What does that actually mean?
It means you need to talk about what you want and listen to what the other person wants. Are you okay with daily correspondence, or do you prefer less frequent contact? Is it okay to see other people too? You won’t know until you ask.
Dating casually doesn’t mean you can act carelessly. If someone says, “I’m not ready for something serious,” don’t see it as a challenge. Respect goes both ways.
Boundaries are there to keep things clear and to make everyone feel safe.
Do: Keep Everything Light and Fun
Casual dating should be fun. That means lots of laughing, fooling around, spontaneous dates, and watching the worst reality show with popcorn. It doesn’t have to be deep to be beautiful.
Not every date has to be coffee or drinks. Try quiz nights together, karaoke, flea markets, or even making dinner at home. The more unusual, the more fun. Casual dates are far from boring.
Do: Take Care of Yourself
Casual dating requires responsibility. This means protection in intimate situations, smart sharing of information, and meetings in safe places.
Even relaxed relationships can affect your mood. If a situation causes you stress, discomfort, or confusion, stop and think. Do you like it? Do you need a break? It’s perfectly okay to take a step back when something isn’t right for you.
Set the rules and stick to them. If this bothers someone, that’s already a red flag.
Do: Sometimes Just Smile and Enjoy Yourself
Not everything has to have a “goal”.
In a society where everything is measured by “does it lead somewhere”, sometimes it’s refreshing to have a relationship that exists only because it feels good. No planning for the future, no big words, just because you like to laugh together and are comfortable.
This does not mean that the relationship is worthless—on the contrary. Some of the most beautiful moments come from spontaneous, unplanned connections.
But knowing what to do is not enough. It’s just as important to know what not to do so that nothing goes wrong.
Don’t: Disappear Like a Ghost
At least once, we’ve all wished we could just disappear after a date that didn’t quite work out. But really, be better than that. Send a message. “Hey, you seem like a nice person, but I don’t think we have that chemistry.” End of story. It’s even better if you do it in person.
This literally takes you ten seconds to be an okay person. And karma loves it.
Don’t: Play Games
Nobody has time for ambiguous messages, being ignored for several hours/days, or passive-aggressive stories.
If you like someone, show it. If you feel like it’s not working out, say so. The “playing hard to get” game is so outdated. It’s much healthier – for both of you – to communicate honestly and act genuinely.
Don’t: Pretend You Don’t Care When You Do
We get it – showing your true self is scary sometimes. But pretending that your feelings don’t exist doesn’t help anyone. If something bothers you, say so. If you start to feel more, admit it.
Yes, maybe that will change the dynamic. But it’s better to be honest than to suffer in silence. If the other person runs off headfirst, at least you know where you stand.
Don’t: Make a “Backup” List
Don’t make plans with someone just to pass the time until someone better comes along. That’s not fair. Even in casual relationships, there should be some basic level of respect and humanity.
If you don’t want to have contact anymore, it’s okay to say so, but it’s not okay to keep someone in the “waiting room” for no reason.
Be Cool, Be Honest, Be Fair
Casual dating is not an excuse to mistreat people. It’s just a different type of relationship. Be kind and be clear. Know when it’s time to walk away or admit that you need something more serious. You’re bound to change what you want and need at various points – that’s okay. Just be honest about it.
When it’s good, it’s really good—easy, exciting, and uncomplicated.
And if you’re looking for a place where you can chat, flirt, and maybe find someone who likes a similar casual approach to dating, check out Locanto. No pressure. Only possibilities.
