So much has changed over the past few years, and dating is no exception. The COVID-19 pandemic brought restrictions and shifting priorities, and daters had to figure out what worked for them, which meant video calls, virtual dating, and having open conversations about COVID safety.

Now, as we head into 2022, daters are still growing, changing, and adapting to a post-vaccine world. To help prepare you for a new year of matching, swiping, and chatting, we surveyed Bumble daters all around the world to help us predict which trends will help define dating for the next twelve months. And as you’re about to read, the future of dating holds many new and welcomed shifts:

Daters will be open to new experiences and people 

Daters are testing out not only the kinds of people who they want to spend time with, but also the kinds of relationships that they’re interested in. The pandemic has made 48% of people on Bumble question what their type is, and 43% of respondents say that they’d describe their approach to dating as “exploratory” as we head into 2022. 

People will be fine with being single 

No new relationship in the new year? No problem. After the social isolation of COVID, 53% of respondents say that they’re okay with being alone for a while. Folks are consciously making the decision to go solo, with 54% of single people being more mindful about how and when they date. 

Drinking won’t play as big a role in dating 

Throughout the pandemic, many have changed their relationship with alcohol and adopted new drinking habits. For example, 25% of people in the U.S. confirm that they’re drinking a lot less than before the pandemic. This shift has affected dating, with 34% of folks using the Bumble app saying that they’re more likely to go on a ‘dry date’ now than pre-COVID. 

There will be more PDA

With vaccination rates increasing, it looks like many are ready to kick it up a notch with their partners in public. Worldwide, more than 68% of Bumblers say that they’re more open to PDA (public displays of affection) post-pandemic. 

Daters will look for a fresh start

The pandemic challenged daters to find new ways to meet and connect with others. But now, 46% of Bumble daters say that they’re ready to hit the reset button on their dating journey in 2022. After all, there’s no better time than the new year to enjoy a fresh start.

To enhance the dating experience ahead of 2022, Bumble recently unveiled a new look for our dating profiles. You’re now able to see a potential match’s bio and interests right from the start, including someone’s pronouns. With these updates, we hope that it’s easier than ever for you to make the first move.

Hopefully knowing what you might encounter next year will help you begin 2022 excited and ready to make new, empowering connections.