Over 100 Ideas on How to Build the Bucket List of Your Dreams!

Whether you’re an avid planner or a spontaneous adventurer, you’ve more than likely heard the term "bucket list." In recent years, the buzz around bucket lists has grown even further to include 30 before 30 lists, 40 before 40 lists, and even seasonal or travel-specific variations.

Love it or hate it, bucket lists are a fantastic way of committing your hopes and dreams to paper (or your trusty notes app), inspiring you to dream big and motivating you to work towards ticking them off, one by one. Whether it's seeing the Northern Lights, mastering a new skill, or exploring hidden gems closer to home, a bucket list is a great way to help turn your aspirations into actionable goals, no matter how big or small.

So if you’re new to the whole bucket list notion and would like to create your own list, we’ve done the legwork for you, coming up with endless possibilities to help you grab life by the horns, step out of your comfort zone and start ticking off some incredible bucket list experiences! From adrenaline-filled adventures to soul-soothing escapes, there’s something here to turn every dreamer into a doer!

A bucket list is a collection of goals, experiences, or achievements a person wants to complete within a certain timeframe, often before a major milestone or life event. It can include personal ambitions, travel destinations, or even everyday activities that bring joy or fulfilment.

Where Did the Bucket List Come From?

The term "bucket list" gained popularity after the 2007 film The Bucket List, where two terminally ill characters create a list of things they want to do before they "kick the bucket." However, the concept of listing life goals has been around much longer, even if it wasn’t called a bucket list.

What is Usually on a Bucket List?

Common items on bucket lists include:

• Travel: Visiting iconic destinations like the Eiffel Tower or Machu Picchu.
• Adventure: Skydiving, bungee jumping, or scuba diving.
• Personal Growth: Learning a new language, mastering a skill, or writing a book.
• Experiences: Attending a concert, seeing the Northern Lights, or hosting a dinner party.

What is Number One on Most People's Bucket List?

Travel goals tend to dominate bucket lists, with seeing the Northern Lights often ranking as the most popular item. Visiting iconic destinations or experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, such as a safari or hot air balloon ride, also frequently tops the list.

How Many Things Are Usually on a Bucket List?

There’s no set number for a bucket list, but most people include anywhere from 10 to 50 items, depending on the scope and timeframe. 

Do Most People Have a Bucket List?

While not everyone writes a formal bucket list, many people have a mental list of things they’d like to achieve or experience in their lifetime. The concept is popular, with many embracing it as a way to stay motivated and intentional about their goals.

What is a Reverse Bucket List?

A reverse bucket list is a reflection on what you’ve already accomplished rather than what you hope to achieve. It’s a way to celebrate past successes, experiences, and milestones, reminding yourself of how much you’ve already done in life.

Bucket lists are a great way to keep you focused on achieving your goals. Not only do they encourage you to live life to the fullest, but they also inspire you to pursue activities and experiences that truly bring you joy.

By putting your dreams into a tangible list, you’re more likely to stay motivated and take actionable steps toward achieving them. Whether it’s exploring new destinations, learning a skill, or conquering a personal challenge, bucket lists provide clarity and purpose, helping you prioritise what matters most.

They’re also a powerful reminder to step out of your comfort zone. A well-crafted bucket list pushes you to try new things, meet new people, and create unforgettable memories. It’s not just about ticking boxes—it’s about personal growth and discovering what the amazing things that make life exciting and fulfilling.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, connection, or self-discovery, a bucket list can be the spark that ignites your journey.

While bucket lists are extremely popular and can be an exciting way to organise your dreams, they’re not without their downsides. For some, the concept of a bucket list can become mentally draining, especially when expectations feel unattainable or overly ambitious.

The pressure to tick off every item can lead to feelings of failure or inadequacy if certain goals aren’t met within a self-imposed timeframe. For example, someone aiming to travel the world by 40 might find themselves overwhelmed by financial constraints or life responsibilities, turning what should be an inspiring challenge into a source of stress.

Another concern is that bucket lists can shift the focus away from the present. People may become so consumed by chasing future milestones that they forget to appreciate the joys of everyday life. Instead of living in the moment, they’re stuck in a cycle of “what’s next?”

Additionally, bucket lists can sometimes perpetuate a “quantity over quality” mindset, where the goal is to check off as many activities as possible rather than savouring the depth and meaning of each experience. 

So with that in mind, here are some do’s and don’ts when creating a bucket list of your own. 

Bucket List Do’s

• Do keep your goals achievable: Aim for a balance between challenging yourself and setting realistic goals you can accomplish.
• Do include a variety of small and big goals: Mix life-changing adventures, like travelling to a dream destination, with simpler joys, like reading a book series or learning to cook a new dish.
• Do focus on what excites you: Your list should reflect your passions and interests, not what’s trendy or popular.
• Do revisit and update your list: Life changes, and so should your bucket list. Review it regularly to keep it relevant and inspiring.
• Do celebrate progress: Acknowledge and savour each achievement, no matter how small.

Bucket List Don’ts

• Don’t add something just because someone else has: Your bucket list should be uniquely yours, not a copy of someone else’s ambitions.
• Don’t overload your list: Keep it manageable by focusing on what truly matters to you, rather than cramming in every idea that comes to mind.
• Don’t set rigid timeframes for every goal: Deadlines can add unnecessary pressure. Allow some flexibility to enjoy the journey.
• Don’t make it all about travel: While seeing the world is amazing, remember to include personal growth, skills, and hobbies.
• Don’t view it as a to-do list: Bucket lists should inspire you, not become a source of stress or obligation.

In recent years, milestone-themed bucket lists have taken the world by storm, and honestly, it’s not hard to see why. From the classic 30 before 30 to the ambitious 50 before 50, there’s now a list for practically every decade of your life. Whether you’re in your twenties and dreaming of backpacking through Europe or hitting your forties with a newfound love for spa weekends and wine-tasting tours, these lists are the perfect way to turn life goals into exciting challenges.

Let’s face it—life’s too short to not have a little fun while chasing your dreams, right? These decade-themed bucket lists add a sense of urgency (the good kind!) to make sure you’re ticking off experiences that bring you joy, adventure, and maybe even a little bit of bragging rights.

While the theme often involves completing a number of goals that match your age (like 30 things before you’re 30), this can get a bit daunting. So, don’t feel pressured to hit the exact number—choose a figure that feels comfortable or make the goals smaller and more achievable. 

After all, no one needs a 60 before 60 list with suggestions like “learn to fly a plane, master four languages, and climb Mount Everest” all in one decade. Let’s be real—unless you’re secretly a superhero, no one’s ticking off that list! Keep it fun, keep it doable, and most importantly, make it yours.

Things to Do Before 30

Your twenties are your time to be selfish, to conquer fears, explore the world, and figure out who you really are. It’s the decade to say yes to opportunities, take risks, and embrace adventures—whether that’s solo travelling through Europe, trying something daring like skydiving, or simply learning a new skill that’s always intrigued you.

So before you hit the big 30 milestone, here are some of our top suggestions for your 30 before 30 list. For the full list see our blog post on 30 things to do before 30.

1. Skydiving - A skydiving experience is the ultimate adrenaline rush and a perfect way to embrace the fearless energy of your twenties. It’s a bold and unforgettable experience that’s perfect for a 30 before 30 list, proving to yourself that you can conquer anything.
    
2. Learn a New Language - Your twenties are a time for growth, and learning a new language is a great way to challenge yourself while opening doors to new cultures. It’s a skill that enriches travel and makes you feel accomplished before hitting the big 3-0.
    
3. Experience a Sound Bath - A sound bath is a unique and calming way to explore mindfulness and self-care. It’s a chance to disconnect, relax, and recharge—a perfect addition to your list as you balance life’s adventures with moments of reflection.
    
4. Solo Road Trip - A solo road trip is the ultimate adventure for discovering independence and spontaneity. It’s a must for a 30 before 30 list, offering the freedom to explore on your own terms and create lasting memories.
    
5. Ride the Fastest Zipwire in the World - Riding the world’s fastest zip line in Wales combines adrenaline and fun, making it a perfect thrill for your twenties. It’s a bucket list item that’s daring, exciting, and perfect for embracing life head-on.
    
6. Digital Detox - A digital detox helps you reconnect with the world around you and step away from constant distractions. Adding it to your 30 before 30 list reminds you to prioritise real experiences and cherish the moment.
    
7. See the Northern Lights - The Northern Lights are one of nature’s most stunning phenomena, making them a must-see before 30. Witnessing this magical display will leave you awestruck and remind you of the beauty the world has to offer.
    
8. Cocktail Making Class - A cocktail masterclass is a fun and social way to learn a new skill. It’s ideal for a 30 before 30 list because it’s creative, entertaining, and leaves you with a party trick to impress friends.
    
9. Complete a Triathlon - Completing a triathlon is the ultimate test of physical and mental strength. It’s a great way to prove to yourself what you’re capable of and tick off an incredible accomplishment before turning 30.
    
10. Attend a Music Festival - Experience the magic of live music at a festival, where the energy of the crowd and the performances create unforgettable memories. It’s a must for your 30 before 30 list, offering the perfect mix of adventure, fun, and connection with fellow music lovers.

Things to Do Before 40

With a (slightly) more refined taste and a newfound appreciation for life’s little luxuries, your thirties are the perfect time to embrace new experiences and focus on self-development. It’s a decade to indulge in the finer things, challenge yourself with meaningful goals, and strike a balance between adventure and personal growth. 

Whether it’s mastering a new skill, exploring wellness, or ticking off those big bucket list dreams, your thirties are all about becoming the best version of yourself while making the most of every moment. For even more ideas, check out our blog on 40 things to do before 40.

1. Go on a Wellness Retreat - Your thirties are the perfect time to prioritise well-being, making a wellness retreat an ideal addition to your list. It’s a chance to step away from the hustle and focus on recharging your mind and body.
    
2. Go Glamping - If camping isn’t your style, glamping pods are the perfect compromise to enjoy the countryside while enjoying a little luxury. It combines adventure with creature comforts, offering a unique way to explore the great outdoors.
    
3. Donate Blood - Making a positive impact is something worth striving for at any age, and donating blood is a simple yet powerful way to give back. It’s a meaningful achievement to include on your journey to forty.
    
4. Learn to Cook Like a Professional - Your thirties are the perfect time to refine your skills, and learning to cook like a professional can elevate both your everyday meals and special occasions. It’s a goal that’s as rewarding as it is practical.
    
5. Attend a Masquerade Ball - A masquerade ball is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, blending elegance and mystery. It’s an unforgettable event that’s perfect for your thirties bucket list, offering a touch of glamour and fun.
    
6. Learn the Art of Wine - Discovering the nuances of wine through wine tasting experience is a sophisticated goal that’s perfect for this stage of life. Whether it’s for travel, entertaining, or personal enjoyment, refining your palate is a skill that keeps on giving as you approach forty.
    
7. Host a Dinner Party - By the time you’re in your thirties, hosting a dinner party feels like a rite of passage. It’s the perfect way to gather friends, showcase your skills, and create cherished memories along the way.
    
8. Take a Pottery Masterclass - A pottery masterclass is a chance to get creative and try something new. Whether you discover a new hobby or simply enjoy the experience, it’s a fulfilling milestone to aim for in your thirties.
    
9. Start Your Own Company - Your thirties are a time for bold moves, and starting your own company is the ultimate way to channel your passion into something tangible. It’s a big goal that reflects ambition and drive as you build toward forty.
    
10. Go on a Helicopter Ride - Taking a helicopter ride offers a breathtaking perspective and is the perfect thrill to tick off in your thirties. It’s an adventurous way to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Things to Do Before 50

Embrace your new decade with adventure and excitement! Your forties are the perfect time to strike a balance between ticking off bold ambitions and indulging in life’s little luxuries. With newfound confidence and wisdom, this is the decade to push boundaries, explore new horizons, and enjoy experiences that make life truly unforgettable. 

Whether it’s discovering new passions, conquering fears, or simply creating meaningful memories, a 50 before 50 list is your guide to living fully and joyfully. For even more ideas for your birthday bucket list, check out our blog post on 50 Things to Do Before 50.

1. Hot Air Balloon Ride - Experience the thrill and serenity of floating above the world on a hot air balloon ride—a perfect addition to your 50 before 50 list for creating a truly magical memory.
    
2. Learn a Musical Instrument - Challenge yourself to pick up a new skill by learning a musical instrument. It’s a rewarding and creative goal to achieve before the big 5-0.
    
3. Complete the 3 Peaks Challenge - Take on the iconic 3 Peaks Challenge to test your endurance and embrace adventure. It’s a bucket-list-worthy achievement that combines fitness and breathtaking scenery.
    
4. Go White Water Rafting - Feel the rush of adrenaline as you navigate roaring rapids on a white water rafting trip. This exhilarating activity is a must for embracing adventure in your forties.
    
5. Explore the Scottish Highlands - Discover the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, where stunning landscapes and rich history make it a must-see destination before 50.
    
6. Run a Marathon or a Half Marathon - Push your limits and achieve a fitness milestone by completing a marathon or half marathon. It’s a goal that celebrates your strength and determination.
    
7. See a West End Theatre Show - Experience the magic of live performance by seeing one of the best theatre shows in London. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of culture and world-class entertainment to your bucket list.
    
8. Go Scuba Diving - Dive into an underwater world and explore vibrant marine life with a scuba diving adventure. It’s a thrilling and unforgettable experience to check off before 50.
    
9. Take an Online Course - Expand your knowledge or learn something entirely new with an online course. It’s a practical and fulfilling goal to accomplish in this decade.
    
10. Drive a Supercar - Feel the power and speed of a luxury vehicle with an exhilarating supercar driving experience. This high-octane thrill is unforgettable and the perfect chance to live out your childhood dreams in style.

Things to Do Before 60 

For all those things that you promise yourself you’ll get round to eventually, make eventually now and start ticking off those bucket list dreams. Your fifties are the perfect time to focus on those long-held ambitions and exciting new challenges. With a blend of wisdom, experience, and energy, this is your chance to embrace life fully and achieve those unforgettable goals before your sixties roll around.

For even more inspiration, check out our blog on 60 things to do before 60.

1. Visit Stonehenge - Explore one of the world’s most iconic landmarks and marvel at its ancient mystery—an unforgettable goal to tick off your 60 before 60 list.
    
2. Volunteer for a Cause You’re Passionate About - Dedicate your time to a cause close to your heart, creating a meaningful legacy while making a positive impact before your sixties.
    
3. Go on a Cruise - Experience the ultimate blend of relaxation and adventure by going on a cruise, visiting multiple destinations in comfort and style.
    
4. Write a Book - Turn your ideas or life experiences into words by writing a book. It’s a fulfilling achievement and a chance to leave something lasting behind.
    
5. Go Cold Water Swimming - Challenge yourself to the invigorating experience of cold water swimming, a refreshing way to step out of your comfort zone in your fifties.
    
6. Investigate Your Family Tree - Delve into your heritage by researching your family tree, uncovering fascinating stories and connections to pass down to future generations.
    
7. Learn to Fly a Helicopter - Take to the skies and learn to fly a helicopter—an exhilarating skill that adds a thrilling adventure to your 60 before 60 goals.
    
8. Watch the Sunrise and Sunset on the Summer Solstice - Celebrate the longest day of the year by witnessing the sunrise and sunset on the summer solstice—a magical way to embrace nature’s beauty.
    
9. Learn Astrology - Explore the fascinating world of astrology and learn how the night sky can offer insight into personality, relationships, and life’s rhythms.
    
10. Have a Traditional Balinese Massage - Indulge in a traditional Balinese massage, a deeply relaxing experience that’s perfect for prioritising self-care as you approach your sixties.

Seasonal bucket lists are the perfect opportunity to make the most of the seasons and enjoy the little moments that each one brings. 

Spring Bucket List Ideas

As the days get longer, the trees get greener and the sound of birdsong fills the air, it’s clear that spring is finally here, bringing with it a sense of renewal and the promise of brighter days ahead. 

For those of you looking to make the most of this beautiful season, check out our Spring Bucket List for countless ways to immerse yourself in the magic of spring, because it’s time to emerge from our winter slumber and step back into the great outdoors. 

• Go Berry Picking
• Easter Egg Hunt
• Visit a Farmer's Market
• Alpaca Experience
• Buy Yourself Flowers
• Spring Clean
• Make a Spring Wreath
• Seasonal Baking
• River Cruise
• Visit a Botanical Garden

Summer Bucket List Ideas

Living in the UK, we all know the importance of seizing those rare sunny days—because who knows when the next one will come around? To help you make the most of the warmer months, we’ve curated a selection of summer bucket list adventures, to make sure you’ve got plenty of inspiration tucked up your sleeve for the next sunny day, weekend escape, or spontaneous summer outing.

• Kayaking Experience
• Host a BBQ
• Outdoor Yoga
• Go for a picnic
• Make Your Own Ice Cream
• Go Strawberry Picking 
• Have a Go at Beekeeping 
• Enjoy a Beach Day
• Outdoor Rock Climbing 
• Go Fishing 

Autumn Bucket List Ideas

As the leaves start to fall, a slight chill fills the air, and a palette of fiery colours paints the landscape, it’s clear that autumn has arrived in all its glory.

If you live for cosy season, autumn is the perfect time to enjoy a combination of crisp outdoor adventures and snug indoor comforts. Whether it’s wandering through golden woodlands, sipping on a pumpkin spice latte, or curling up by the fire with a good book, autumn offers endless opportunities to embrace the beauty and magic of the season.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our autumn bucket list, for all the inspiration you need to make the most of the season. 

• Go Pumpkin Picking 
• Bake Cinnamon Buns
• Grab Coffee With a Friend
• Murder Mystery Dining Experience
• Enjoy Afternoon Tea For 2
• Go Foraging 
• Go for an Autumn Hike
• Ride the Jacobite Steam Train 
• Take Part in Oktoberfest Celebrations
• Take a City Break

Winter Bucket List Ideas

From wandering through enchanting Christmas markets to getting creative with festive baking, winter is the perfect time to embrace the magic of the season. Whether it’s sipping mulled wine under twinkling lights, building a snowman on a frosty morning, or enjoying cosy evenings by the fire, winter invites us to slow down, indulge, and enjoy the little joys that make this time of year so special.

• Visit a Christmas Market
• Go Ice Skating 
• Go for a Winter Hike
• Make a Gingerbread House
• See a West End Show
• Try Pottery Painting
• Book a Spa Break
• Go For a Round of Crazy Golf
• Watch a Firework Display
• Go For a Sunday Roast

When people think of bucket lists, travel is almost always the first thing that comes to mind. Whether you’ve always dreamt of railroading across Europe, diving in the Great Barrier Reef, or wandering through the ancient streets of Kyoto, travel bucket lists open up a world of possibilities to explore, experience, and connect with different cultures far and wide.

Here are some bucket list destinations to inspire you for your next adventure.

A bucket list for couples is a great way to try new things, challenge each other, and create plenty of “Remember when” moments along the way. Whether it’s tackling an adventure, exploring a new city, or just doing something completely out of the ordinary, it’s a fun way to mix things up and create experiences you’ll be talking about for years. 

Here’s some inspiration to add to your own bucket list. 

1. Travel to a Dream Destination - Tick off a destination you’ve always talked about visiting together, whether it’s Paris, Bali, or a road trip through the Scottish Highlands.
    
2. Buy a House Together - Make one of life’s biggest milestones even more special by turning a house into your shared home.
    
3. Take a Cooking Class - Learn how to whip up a delicious dish together by taking cooking lessons, whether it’s mastering the art of pasta making, rolling sushi, or perfecting a flavourful curry.
    
4. Camp Under the Stars - Go camping or glamping in a remote location and spend the evening stargazing with just the two of you.
    
5. Conquer a Fear Together - Support each other as you tackle a shared fear, like skydiving, public speaking, or even braving a haunted house.
    
6. Start a Joint Hobby - Pick a hobby you can enjoy as a couple, like dancing, pottery, or even gardening, and make it a regular part of your time together.
    
7. Watch the Sunrise and Sunset in the Same Day - Dedicate a day to seeing both the sunrise and sunset together, whether from a mountain, a beach, or your own back garden.
    
8. Go on a Couples Spa Day - Relax and unwind with a day of indulgence at a luxury spa, complete with massages and maybe a dip in a hot tub.
    
9. Create a Scrapbook or Memory Box - Collect mementos from your favourite dates, holidays, or experiences, and put them together in a scrapbook or keepsake box.
    
10. Host a Dinner Party Together - Plan, cook, and host a dinner party for friends or family as a team—because nothing says partnership like surviving the chaos of entertaining!

Creating a family bucket list is a wonderful way to give your kids new experiences while spending quality time together. It’s about building memories, sharing adventures, and strengthening bonds as you explore the world together.

Having a list of things to work through adds an extra layer of excitement to family life, giving you something to look forward to and breaking up the everyday routine. Whether it’s tackling big adventures or simply enjoying small, meaningful moments, a family bucket list brings direction and joy to your special time together.

To help make this easy for you, we’ve compiled a list of exciting things to do, from embracing the little moments to chasing big adventures.

1. Build a Blanket Fort - Transform your living room into a magical hideaway by building a blanket fort together. It’s a simple yet creative activity that brings a sense of wonder to family time and creates a cosy spot for stories or a movie night.
    
2. Cow Cuddling Experience - Connect with nature in a unique way by trying a cow cuddling experience. This therapeutic activity is a great addition to bucket list holidays focused on relaxation and offers a fun way for families to bond with these gentle animals.
    
3. Have a Family Ski Trip - Hit the slopes for a family ski trip and enjoy a mix of adventure, fun, and quality time. From skiing and snowboarding to warming up with hot chocolate, it’s a memory everyone will cherish.
    
4. Scavenger Hunt Around the House - Turn your home into an adventure with a scavenger hunt around the house. This fun activity lets the whole family explore, solve puzzles, and create lasting memories together.
    
5. Make a Family Time Capsule - Create a snapshot of your family’s life by making a time capsule filled with keepsakes, letters, and photos. Seal it up and plan to open it years later, reliving the joy of those memories.
    
6. Visit Phantom Peak - Step into a world of wonder at Phantom Peak, an immersive steampunk-themed town filled with puzzles and adventure. It’s an unforgettable family outing where everyone can explore and solve mysteries together.
    
7. Have a Games Night - Bring the family together for a games night filled with laughter and friendly competition. Choose board games, card games, or video games to ensure everyone has a great time.
    
8. Go to Lapland - Make Christmas magical with a trip to Lapland, the ultimate bucket list holiday destination. Meet Santa, ride in a sleigh pulled by reindeer, and take in the enchanting winter wonderland atmosphere.
    
9. Homemade Pizza Night - Turn your kitchen into a pizzeria with a homemade pizza night. Let everyone customise their own creations, making it a deliciously fun and interactive family activity.
    
10. Family Go-Karting - Fuel up for excitement with a family go karting session. It’s a high-speed adventure that’s perfect for creating thrilling memories and a bit of friendly competition.

So whether you’re a solo adventurer ready to take on the world, new to family life and figuring out how to make the most of it, or just looking for fun ways to enjoy the little moments (without scrolling your life away), we hope this gives you some inspiration for a bucket list of your own.

Life’s too short to keep saying “we’ll do that someday.” So grab the list, embrace the chaos, and start making those “Remember when” moments—because let’s face it, they’re way more exciting than laundry and Netflix marathons.