30 Bucket List Experiences to Cross Off Before You Turn 30

Is your big 3-0 approaching?

We recommend planning an unforgettable trip if you want to start your milestone with a bang. 

At Skyhook, we've compiled 30 bucket list experiences to complete before you turn 30. These activities challenge you, broaden your horizons, and create lasting memories.

Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, culture enthusiast, or nature lover, there's something here for everyone.

Let's go!

There's something incredibly liberating about tackling a solo journey.

You can make it a weekend getaway to a nearby city or a more ambitious trip across the globe, but travelling alone allows you to embrace freedom like never before.

If you're new to solo travel, start small. A day trip - like a short Inca trail to Machu Picchu - or a short weekend away is a great way to test the waters before embarking on longer journeys.

An African safari is a bucket list staple that offers a front-row seat to the wild wonders of nature.

The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park are some of Africa's premier safari destinations. 

You'll dive into the heart of the bush and experience the thrill of game drives and the serenity of luxury tented camps.

Book our 7-Day Ultimate Tanzania Safari, which covers Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara, Lake Eyasi, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, for an unparalleled wildlife experience.

Want to go backpacking through Europe? You can wander the ancient streets of Rome or soak up the vibrant culture of Barcelona - plus many more exciting European experiences. For the ultimate experience, pack light, stay in hostels, and let spontaneity guide you. 

First-Time Tip: Use budget airlines and train passes to stretch your travel funds and explore as many destinations as possible.

Whether it's the World Cup, the Olympics, or a major music festival, attending a global event is a surefire way to make unforgettable memories.  

You'll feel the electric atmosphere as you cheer for your favourite team or dance to your favourite bands with thousands of fellow fans.

Just book tickets early to secure the best seats and accommodation.

Food is one of the best ways to experience the culture of countries you visit. So, why not learn to cook a traditional dish in a new country? 

For instance, on the Morocco Highlights trip with us, you can join the cooks in dinner prep at a local Berber camp and carry the recipe with you for recreation!

If you visit Japan, you can try to make the delicate taste of a Japanese sushi roll. 

Not only will you impress your friends, but you'll also relive those travel moments with every bite. Take a cooking class while travelling to get authentic recipes and tips from local chefs.

The easiest one? Plan a road trip through stunning landscapes, whether it's the rugged beauty of the American West, the scenic routes of New Zealand, or the charming countryside of France.

Maybe even start with an Iceland road trip?

Another adventure is exploring the vibrant underwater world with a scuba diving certification. We'd recommend the Great Barrier Reef, exploring shipwrecks in the Caribbean, or swimming with manta rays in French Polynesia.

If your last dive was a while ago, invest in good-quality gear and take a refresher course.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are treasures of humanity.

From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the grandness of the Great Wall of China, these sites offer a glimpse into the world's cultural and natural heritage. 

Research the best times to visit your site and consider guided tours to enhance your experience and understanding of the site.

Face your fears head-on with a thrilling adventure that pushes you out of your comfort zone.

Always admired skydiving, bungee jumping, or hiking a treacherous trail? All it takes is confronting your fears, and you're ready to go!

Pro Tip: Start with minor challenges and gradually move to more daring feats.

Have you always wanted to stay in a treehouse or even a yurt?

Your fun experience doesn't have to cost much if you consider an Airbnb. Find a one-of-a-kind accommodation that aligns with your travel style and enjoy a memorable stay.

Do read reviews carefully and book early to secure the most exciting properties.

You can give back to communities around the world by volunteering. Some activities here can include:

These are just a few examples - the list of volunteering opportunities is endless.

Each option will enrich your travel experience and make a positive impact. Choose a cause you're passionate about with a reputable organisation and make the world a better place.

A serene national park or a glamping adventure in the desert makes for an unforgettable experience - the soothing sounds of nature and the breathtaking sunrise create a peaceful escape from everyday life.

Or, go camping under a starlit sky for a refreshing retreat. 

Pack essential gear, including a good-quality sleeping bag and a portable stove, and check the weather before setting out.

Learning a new language can transform your travel experiences.

So, enrol in a language course or practice with locals during your travels. You'll open doors to new friendships and opportunities.

We often overlook the wonders in our own backyards.

Before you turn 30, explore your home country's hidden gems and landmarks - say, scenic drives or local festivals.

There might be something new to discover.

You can even create a list of must-visit places in your country and set aside time to explore them over the year.

Booking a business class flight can give you a luxurious travel experience, turning the journey into a memorable adventure.

The extra comfort, fine dining, and exceptional service will have you soaring to your destination in style and arriving feeling refreshed and pampered.

A multi-day trek through stunning landscapes is a great way to challenge yourself. 

You can book a good trip with us, from Tour du Mont Blanc to Mount Toubkal to Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro, and more destinations. 

If you want to experience luxury, staying at a high-end hotel can be an excellent way to Indulge in a night of luxury.

Most hotels allow you to enjoy top-notch amenities, exceptional service, and stunning views. 

A music festival will let you feel the world's rhythm, and luckily, you can attend plenty of festivals before 30. 

We're talking about Coachella in the US, Glastonbury in the UK, the Fuji Rock Festival in Japan, Sauti za Busara in Zanzibar (Tanzania), Rock in Rio, and more.

These festivals offer a chance to see your favourite artists, discover new music, and dance the night away. 

If you crave serenity, you can escape to a remote tropical paradise for the perfect opportunity to enjoy the sun, sand, and tranquillity. 

Destinations like the Maldives, Bora Bora, or the Seychelles offer pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere.

Pro Tip: Plan your trip during the off-peak season to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful retreat.

Another good travel idea is to set sail on a cruise and explore multiple destinations in one trip.

Whether on a luxury liner or a small expedition ship, cruising offers a unique way to see the world while enjoying onboard amenities and entertainment.

Choose a cruise itinerary that aligns with your interests, whether cultural exploration, adventure, or relaxation.

An excellent camera and photography course can transform travel snapshots into stunning Insat-worthy photos.

Select a short course and use the skills to capture the beauty of landscapes, people, and moments.

You'll end up with a vivid visual diary, telling the story of your adventures in breathtaking detail.

Another activity you can try is hitting the slopes and embracing the winter world with a skiing or snowboarding adventure.

There's just nothing like the thrill of gliding down a snowy mountain.

Pro Tip: If you're new to skiing or snowboarding, take a few lessons and invest in quality gear for a better experience.

Challenge yourself to visit every continent before you turn 30.

You have seven (well, six) continents to explore and learn about unique cultures, landscapes, and experiences.

It's such a contrast to travel from the ice-covered expanses of Antarctica to the bustling cities of Asia and more.

Attending a major local festival might just allow you to enjoy a new culture. Ideas? Try the colours of Holi in India or the energetic Mardi Gras in New Orleans. 

You can soar above the world with a hot-air balloon ride for breathtaking views.

Consider the Maasai Mara in Kenya, the Cappadocian landscapes in Turkey, or the vineyards of Napa Valley in the US. 

Get going in the early morning to experience a truly magical sunrise!

Let's be brief here - exploring an ice cave is surreal! You will be fascinated by the sheer beauty, blue ice, and frozen formations that create a magical movie-like experience. 

Need ideas? Iceland and Switzerland offer some of the most stunning ice caves!

Travel to the world's most iconic landmarks, from the Eiffel Tower to the Great Pyramid of Giza. These landmarks offer a glimpse into human achievement and history; seeing them in person is always a thrilling experience.

Go whale watching to witness the brilliance of whales in their natural habitat. You can spot humpbacks off the coast of Alaska or see orcas in Norway. Wherever you go, whale watching offers a humbling connection with these majestic creatures.

You may also take a culinary tour to experience a city or region. From street food in your capital or Bangkok to wine tasting in Tuscany, culinary tours provide an immersive experience of local gastronomy and culture.

Visit Iceland or Norway to spot the Aurora Borealis in the Arctic skies. They're simply magnificent and picture-worthy. 

You'd want to carry the best camera, but do check the aurora forecast and choose a location with minimal light pollution for the best viewing experience.

It's a game of patience waiting for the Northern Lights, so why not kayak the Glacial Fjords of Iceland, as you wait?

Each of these bucket list experiences offers a unique way to explore the world and enrich your life before hitting the milestone of 30. 

So go, conquer your fears, indulge in luxury, or immerse yourself in new cultures; these adventures will create lasting memories and inspire you to seek new experiences!