How should I approach paying for dates as a woman?

[4Elements]

I'm 24 and have only been on a handful of dates ever. I usually pay for my portion or for the entire date. The one time a guy paid for everything things escalated a bit too fast for my liking and I ended the date. I don't like the idea of dinner = sex, and I'm more than happy to pay if it means we're all on the same page.

My questions are:

How should a girl go about getting a relationship in the modern era?

Is it okay to hold off sex until after 4+ dates if the woman (ie, me) pays for her portion of food/drinks/etc?

How do I know if a guy is serious about finding a relationship? I've been fooled before and I don't want to repeat that experience. For the record, I would say I'm a five on a good day, and I don't punch too far up above my weight class.

Are guys okay waiting for sex if they aren't obligated to pay?

[TroyDT]

1. How should a girl go about getting a relationship in the modern era?
Carefully.

2. Is it okay to hold off sex until after 4+ dates if the woman (ie, me) pays for her portion of food/drinks/etc?
It is okay to hold off for as long as you want, even if he pays for the dates.

3. How do I know if a guy is serious about finding a relationship?
Do what I said in the answer to #2. If the guy only wants sex he will leave after four ofr five dates, probably sooner, without it.

4, Are guys okay waiting for sex if they aren't obligated to pay?
Should be even if they do pay.

[Guy13]

Do NOT pay for your date. If the cheap bastard wants your company and favor then there are known Costs.

Dont sleep with a guy until you have at least 4 months in to better know the freak you are dating. I’ve gone year plus and once never did in year plus time together 🤷🏻‍♂️

IF HE doesn’t respect you enough to entertain you in a proper manner then having sex with a 🤡 like that is not going to work out well ‼️

[dustybiker]

You could be blunt and say you’re paying your way until you get to know each other better. Basic ground rule laid down.

[Berethor]

Yea if you pay for yourself then you don't own sex to the man, it's very feminist of you. :)

[Hardworkingguy]

I would say that on the first date the guy pays and after that you can help with half of the expenses

[zozole]

Don’t even mention it, if the guy invites you out NEVER pay. Girl you should know better than that