How To Make A Travel Bucket List In 8 Easy Steps! (2024)

Creating a travel bucket list can be one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences of your life. After all, who doesn’t love the idea of planning out trips around the world to some of the world’s most iconic destinations?

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you start to plan, but it doesn’t have to be that way. I know because I’ve been there! Growing up, I created tons of bucket lists for every season of life and grand adventures. As an adult, I continued on by creating my own personal travel bucket list which I created in just one night—and it was so incredibly fulfilling that I couldn’t wait to show my family what I had come up with.

That one night changed my life and since then I’ve been traveling every two months and ticking items off my list consistently. If you want to create your own travel bucket list but are feeling overwhelmed by where to start, this post is for you!

In this blog post, we will explore how to make a travel bucket list that works for you. Including finding your unique travel style, researching ideas, choosing destinations and activities, creating your ultimate list, and documenting your travels afterward.

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How To Make Your Bucket List Step By Step!

Step 1. Find Your Travel Style

When it comes to figuring out how to make a travel bucket list, it’s important to start by identifying your travel style. Your travel style refers to the types of experiences you enjoy most while exploring new places. Are you an adventure junkie seeking thrilling escapades, or do you prefer serene nature getaways?

Maybe you’re a history enthusiast with a fascination for ancient ruins and museums or a foodie who delights in discovering new cuisines and local delicacies. Understanding your travel style will help you choose destinations and activities that truly resonate with you, making your travels more fulfilling and memorable.

To determine your travel style, consider your past travel experiences. Reflect on the parts that transformed you the most and consider the elements you could have done without. Think about your interests and how they can translate into travel experiences. For example, if you love art, cities with renowned art galleries may be high on your list.

Also, take into account your preferences for accommodations and transportation. Do you prefer luxurious resorts or cozy homestays? Are you someone who enjoys a packed itinerary or prefers a more relaxed pace? Reflecting on these aspects will provide you with a clearer understanding of your travel style, which will be incredibly valuable and is tailored specifically to you.

I’ve learned that I like a little bit of each style on my trips and not too much of one style. While I am someone who wants a packed itinerary I want a nap to be on the schedule at least for one day.

Find Your Perfect Travel Style Here!

Step 2. Research Ideas

Researching ideas is the next crucial step. To create a bucket list that captures your heart and imagination, you need a pool of list ideas to draw from. You can start by reading travel blogs, magazines, and books, watching travel vlogs and documentaries, or scrolling through travel pages on social media.

These sources can provide a wealth of information about various destinations, their unique features, and the experiences they offer. Consider your desired experiences as much as locations while researching. For instance, if you’ve always wanted to witness the Northern Lights, that should figure into your travel bucket list.

Similarly, if you’re fascinated by ancient architecture, countries rich in historical sites should be on your list. Remember, your travel bucket list should not just be about places, but also about the experiences that those places can offer. Don’t forget to look at names for your bucket list to make it truly yours!

Revisit your travel style while researching. Make sure the ideas you’re exploring align with your travel style. The more tailored your research, the more personalized and fulfilling your travel bucket list will become. And don’t rush the process. Take your time, let your ideas marinate, and allow your travel bucket list to evolve naturally. Remember, it’s your journey. Make it count!

Step 3. Choose Your Destinations

This next step involves an exciting process of selecting destinations. Begin by reflecting on the places that have always sparked your curiosity and excitement. These can be spots you’ve encountered in movies, books, or through recommendations. Additionally, consider locations that align with your preferred travel style.

Do you long to experience the Mayan ruins of Mexico or seek the serenity of the Swiss Alps? Does the rich history of Italy captivate you, or are you drawn to the exotic wildlife of Kenya? Remember, your desired destinations don’t always have to be far-flung, there may be incredible places to explore within your own country or state. Adding the location of where your heritage comes from is also a great idea.

Stay open to inspiration from various sources, such as travel blogs, social media, documentaries, and films, as they can ignite a desire to discover new places. Here’s a list of 119 epic destinations around the world to get you started! And don’t forget to consider practical aspects like cost, visa requirements, and the best time to visit.

Crafting a travel bucket list is more than just pinpointing places on a map, it’s about selecting experiences that will enrich your life. I would like to visit every country or at least a good amount of them so my list reflects that, with a little bit of everything all around the world.

But I know people who have a goal of visiting all 50 United States, or all national parks, and their bucket list reflects that. So, carefully contemplate each potential destination and, most importantly, listen to your heart. After all, this is your travel bucket list, and it should include places that truly make your spirit soar.

Here Are 119 Destination Ideas To Add To Your Bucket List!

Step 4. Choose Your Activities

The next step is selecting activities that resonate with your personal interests this will make the list uniquely yours. Consider exploring majestic landscapes, indulging in local cuisines, and immersing yourself in diverse cultures.

Are you an adrenaline junkie seeking thrilling adventures? Think bungee jumping in New Zealand or white-water rafting in Colorado. History enthusiasts can explore ancient ruins in Greece or Egypt, while food lovers can add culinary tours in France or Thailand.

My list caters to what the destination is known for, like going on a safari in Kenya or visiting the souks in Morocco. These activities offer more than just passing time, they present opportunities to learn, grow, and create unforgettable memories.

Reflect on what truly excites you and what you’ve always dreamt of doing. As you finalize your list, strike a balance between fulfilling your adventurous spirit and respecting your limits. This way, the process of crafting a travel bucket list becomes a beautiful reflection of your individuality and aspirations.

Here Are 109 Activity Ideas You Can Add To Your List!

Step 5. How You Will Create Your List

This step can be as creative and personalized as the adventures it contains. There are numerous ways to breathe life into your list and these are just a few listed below.

Writing it Down

Old school but effective, grab a journal dedicated to your bucket list and let your thoughts flow freely onto the paper. This tactile experience can help cement your intentions.

Using a Spreadsheet

If you’re a fan of structure and easy access, consider using a spreadsheet. Tools like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets allow you to create categories, track progress, and even budget for your trips.

Making a Mood Board

For the visually inclined, a mood board can make your travel goals seem more tangible. You could use a corkboard with pictures or even a digital platform like Pinterest to collect and display your dream destinations and activities.

Utilizing Travel Apps

In this digital age, there are plenty of travel apps that offer bucket list features. These can be a handy way to keep your list always at your fingertips, with added benefits like reminders, suggestions, and progress tracking. Here are a few that I think are pretty cool, iBucket List, Buckist, and 100 Bucket List.

I made mine as an organized digital mood board using Canva and replace the photos with ones I took once completed! Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to create your list. I’ve also created my own hardcover travel planner that has a section where you can write your bucket list goals.

Step 6. How You Will Document Your Travels

Documenting your travels is an awesome part of keeping up with your bucket list journey as it enables you to relive your experiences and share them with others. There are many ways to capture your adventures, and what you choose should suit your style and preferences. Here is a list of just a few I came up with.

Photography

A classic way to document travels, photos allow you to capture moments and places visually. They can be stored digitally, printed out for photo albums, or shared on social media.

Blogging

If you have a knack for writing, consider starting a travel blog. This can be a fulfilling way to narrate your experiences, share tips, and engage with other travel enthusiasts. This is the one I chose obviously, and have loved it for me since starting!

Video Diary

Making videos of your travels can be a dynamic and immersive way to document your trips. Platforms like YouTube can be used to share your videos, or you can keep them for personal viewing.

Social Media

Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are effective tools for sharing your travel stories. You can post photos, stories, and live updates about your experiences.

Journaling

Keeping a travel journal allows you to pen down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a raw and personal manner. You can also attach tickets, maps, or postcards for a more tactile memory.

There are tons of other ways to document your travels that can be really creative and less invasive. When documenting your travels, keep in mind that the goal is to preserve your experiences in a manner that is meaningful to you. This will add another layer of enjoyment to the process of making and completing your travel bucket list.

Here Is A List of 25 Ways You Can Document Your Travels!

Step 7. Research Logistics

Once you’ve identified the destinations and activities for your travel bucket list, it’s crucial to delve into the logistics. This step helps ensure that your dream trips are feasible and align with your lifestyle and budget. It also helps you to take action in fulfilling your bucket list goals because you already have a rough plan set. Here are 3 items you should research for each bucket list items to help you grasp the overall scope of what you’re getting into.

Budget

Your travel budget will influence many aspects of your trip, from your destination to your accommodation and activities. Consider factors such as transportation costs, meals, accommodations, activity fees, and unexpected expenses. It’s always wise to overestimate your budget slightly to account for any unexpected costs.

Look up the average cost people are paying to visit these places. You know ahead of time that you will need to save money but now you know how much you’ll need and what it will be for.

Itineraries

Start sketching out an itinerary for each trip on your list. This includes determining the duration of your trip, the order of activities, and travel times between destinations. Flexibility is key in itinerary planning so be open to changes and ensure some downtime.

When planning bucket list trips, Booking.com is the best. It grants access to thousands of hotels worldwide and offers great value for any budget. With a user-friendly mobile app and 24/7 customer service, they’re the 1st place I look!

Use Viator for bucket list trips! I love them because they offer exclusive tours, activities, and experiences in sought-after destinations. You can get insider tips from locals who know the area best. Plus, its user-friendly website and secure payment system make booking easy.

Another great resource is CheapOair for bucket list trips. They have unbeatable flight and hotel deals worldwide. Its advanced search finds the lowest airfare prices, helping me visit dream destinations on a budget.

Packing

Packing effectively can make your trip much smoother. Research the climate and culture of your destination to inform your packing list. Consider packing versatile clothing items, essential toiletries, and travel documents. Additionally, always pack some emergency supplies and medicine.

By researching these logistics, you are taking important steps towards achieving your bucket list goals. While it may feel tedious at times, each step brings you closer to living your travel dreams. I love to pack light because it makes me feel like I am streamlining my way around the world and nothing is holding me back.

By taking these steps to prepare for your travels, you will be able to experience the world without feeling overwhelmed by details. Make the most out of your time away by preparing ahead of time with confidence!

Check Out My Resources Page For All My Recommended Travel Tools!

Step 8. Going After Your Bucket List!

With your travel bucket list created and logistics meticulously planned out, it’s high time to make your dreams a reality, it’s time to go after your travel bucket list! Undertaking this journey requires as much planning as it does courage. Bring your travel dreams to life by creating a concrete plan to travel more. Allocate a specific time each year to tick off destinations from your bucket list.

This could be during vacation periods, long weekends, or even part of your sabbatical plan. Learning how to plan your dream vacation is another critical aspect. Begin with setting clear and achievable goals for each trip. Research thoroughly on your destination, plan your itinerary and book your accommodations and activities well in advance.

I am ecstatic that I took the initiative to start pursuing my bucket list goals because it has brought so much joy and fulfillment into my life. In just the first 1.5 years, I was able to check off 7/110 of my goals, and now everyone knows me as the travel girl who is always seeking new adventures. I highly encourage everyone to make a list of their own and start working towards them – trust me, it will be worth it!

FAQs

I love my Travel Planner because it has everything I need to make a great trip!

Final Thoughts-

Creating a travel bucket list is an exciting process. Researching ideas, finding your travel style, choosing destinations and activities, and creating your list are all important steps that will help you create the perfect bucket list.

With my expertise in bucket list travel blogging, having created tons of bucket lists, making my own travel bucket list in 1 day, and checking off my list consistently for the last few years, I can attest to the importance of making your own travel bucket list. I hope that all of these tips have inspired you to create your own unique and fulfilling travel bucket list!

Happy exploring!

Read More About Fulfilling Your Bucket List Dream!