So, you’ve made a match on Badoo. Great news! You’ve spent some time messaging back and forth, getting to know each other better. Now, you want to meet up IRL. There are some simple ways you can help make sure you stay safe when you go out on a date. Keep these tips in mind, so you focus on staying in the moment and having a good time!
1. Before you meet up, help make sure your Badoo match is who they say they are by suggesting they get verified. You could also do a Selfie Request within the app before meeting IRL, if possible. Feeling confident that your match is the real deal will help get you in the right mindset for a fun, safe date!
2. Pre-meet. For an added layer of comfort, suggest a Video Chat or Voice Call a few days before your date. The feature is within the Badoo app itself, so you don’t have to give your number, email, or social media handles out before you’re ready.
3. Tell a friend. Make sure someone close to you knows where you’re going, when, and who you’ll be meeting. To feel even more secure, use a location-sharing app or drop a smartphone pin so your friend knows your whereabouts in real time. Let your pal know you’ll text them when you get home after the date.
4. Take charge of the location. You’ll feel more relaxed on your date if you’ve chosen a spot you’re comfortable with, so take the initiative and suggest where to meet. Consider meeting in a public place, like for a picnic in the park or a round of mini golf at the local putting green. If your Badoo match suggests their apartment or somewhere secluded for your first date, consider that a possible red flag.
5. Make your own way there. It might seem romantic for a date to suggest they pick you up at home, but it’s safer to avoid giving out your address until you get to know them better. Make sure you have taxi, rideshare, or public transportation options in both directions. Plus, you won’t feel reliant on your date for a ride if you decide you need to leave the date for any reason.
6. Limit your booze intake. If you’re meeting a match for the first time, it can be tempting to suggest a bar—it’s an easy, tried-and-true date spot. Consider a dry first date, like a trip to an art gallery, while you’re still getting to know your Badoo match. That way, you’ll feel in control, and you’ll be less likely to let your guard down. If you do opt for a couple of cocktails, remember not to leave your drink unattended, and take note of your alcohol intake.
7. Watch your belongings. Keep your phone, keys, and wallet in your pocket or within reach. Arrive at the meetup with your phone on and fully charged.
8. Know your boundaries. You met up with your Badoo match to go roller skating, and now they’re insisting you go out for drinks. Remember: you don’t owe them your time—or anything else. An in-person meetup doesn’t guarantee them your affection or intimacy. Your boundaries are valid; if your date doesn’t respect them, consider whether they’re worthy of your time.
9. Remember you can leave. In every social situation, you should strive to be kind and compassionate. But if you don’t feel comfortable, it’s important to put yourself first. You can make an excuse, or just order yourself a rideshare and get out of there. Trust your gut: if you have a weird feeling, prioritise your safety and leave right away.
10. Enlist help. If you feel unsafe, find an advocate nearby. Have a waiter help get you out of the situation by saying you have an urgent call. If you’re in immediate danger and need help, you can always ask someone—whether that’s a bartender, fellow concertgoer, or vendor at a farmers market—to call the police, or use their phone to help you get a taxi or rideshare home.
There are ways to help you stay safe before you decide to meet a match IRL. Learn more about the top safety features within the Badoo app here.
