63 bucket list ideas for the ultimate backpacker
We asked a bunch of our favourite travel bloggers for some of the off-the-beaten-path highlights of their travels so far, and have formed a list of 63 bucket list ideas for the ultimate backpacker. If you are looking to bulk up your log of 100 things to do before you die, we’ve got you covered! Whether you’ve already done most of them or are just getting started on your adventures, it’s time to put your backpacking skills to the test! Here are 63 bucket list ideas you might like to try:
1. Searching for waterfalls in Laos
We advise you strongly, to ignore the advice offered by 90’s pop sensations TLC, and DO go chasing waterfalls. Especially when in stunning Laos.
Suggestion and image by:@TeeJayHughes
2. Gaze at the natural beauty of Benagil Sea Cave
There are a series of stunning caves around this section of Portuguese coastline but this one probably takes the cake.
Suggestion and image by: @lola.photography
3. Fleishhacker Pool Ruins in San Francisco
Quirky San Francisco never disappoints when it comes to off-the-beaten-path finds. Stunning graffiti in a creepy abandoned pool. Yep!
Image by: Marc Tarlock
4. Scale Mount Massada, Israel
A historical site for people of different faiths, the Dead Sea is a natural phenomenon. And looking down on it from the stunning Mount Massada ain’t half bad either.
Suggestion and image by: @PatchinPixels
5. Sail down the Amazon from Manaus to Roraima
One of the best ways to see such a vast and luscious country, deep in its natural heart. Just make sure to steer clear of any piranha!
Suggestion and image by: Gaía Passarelli
6. Soaking in an outdoor bath in Ohakune, New Zealand
Sometimes you’ve just got to fend for yourselves, but you’ll be glad you did once your cosy fire (that you build yourself) is up and roaring.
Suggestion and image by: Kinging-It
7. Watch the sun set atop Table Mountain, Cape Town
On most “things to do in Cape Town” lists you’ll find Table Mountain. It’s just too good to leave off the list. Just do it, okay?
Suggestion and image by: @PatchinPixels
8. Ride along Thakhek Loop in Laos
If you google Thakhek Loop, almost all of the entries that come up first are wanderlust inducing accounts of people who have taken a scooter or Motorbike along the legendary route. Write it on your list. Right now!
Suggested by: @Garry_Astle image: Jon Gazzignato
9. Treasure hunt at Brooklyn Flea
The Big Apple is full of amazing things to do, but an absolute MUST is Brooklyn Flea. It’s one of the best flea markets in New York City, and operates year round, offering a giant selection of vintage and creative vendors, as well as scrumptious street food.
Image: dumbonyc
12. Feel the rhythm at La Bomba De Tiempo in Buenos Aires
A percussion ensemble that specialises in improvisation, based on the particular signs and cues they are given by their director. Every show is different, so if you’re heading to Argentina, GO SEE ONE!
Ministerio de Cultura de la Nación Argentina
13. Be illuminated at the Waitomo glow worm Caves in New Zealand
The glow worms are only the size of mosquitoes but perform beautiful light shows in the caves. Tours are available, and well worth it.
Suggested by: @advtrsalexis image: 2il org
14. Road tripping through Morocco
When thinking of epic road trips, Morocco might not be the first place to spring to mind but trust our good friend Tee Jay when he assures you, it’s worth it.
Suggested by:@TeeJayHughes image: @boscoppa
15. Volcano trekking across Java, Indonesia
For most people, any volcano would be enough. Now put that volcano in one of the most beautiful island regions on earth? Case closed!
Suggestion and image by: @JohannaWhitaker
16. Relax in a beach hammock in Puerto Rico
Tie those hammocks to some trees and get to relaxin’. You’re welcome.
Image: @boscoppa
17. Contemplate life at a Forest Monastery
Every seasoned traveller will tell you one of the most important things to remember while trotting the globe is to schedule in some time for meditation and reflection.
Suggestion and image by:@TeeJayHughes
18. Brace yourself for a cuteness overload at the Melbourne Penguin Parade
It costs a bit of cash to get in, but seeing masses of little penguins waddle their way from the shore to their natural shelters for the night is a heart-stopping sight.
19. Learn the history of Great Zimbabwe
A ruined city in the hills, Great Zimbabwe is a historic treasure. Believed to once be a royal palace, it’s now a stunning relic dating back as far as the 11th Century!
Suggestion and image by: @RTWBarefoot
20. Cycle from hostel to hostel in the Catalonia Pyrenees
Nothing says freedom quite like a two-wheeled journey, especially when it’s in one of the most stunning mountain ranges in the world. Plus, your accommodation follows your path! Win win win!
Suggested by: @IntrepidEscape Image: Guillén Pérez
21. See Iguaçu Falls under a full moon
We do love a good waterfall, and Iguaçu Falls are Brazil’s kingpin. We have it on good local authority that witnessing the falls by moonlight is something your eyes and heart won’t ever forget.
Suggestion and image by: @PatchinPixels
22. Taste the majesty of Tacos el Gordo in Las Vegas
Most people head for the strip when in Vegas, but we kid you not, Tacos el Gordo might be the greatest kept Mexican food secret in the USA. (Prove us wrong in the comments below, we dare you!)
Image: Michael Saechang
23. Conquer Kings Canyon, Australia
With climbs steep enough to be named “Heart Attack Hill” by locals, Kings Canyon is not for the faint of heart. If you’re lucky you’ll catch a glimpse of some phenomenal wildlife, such as zebra finches and peregrine falcons!
Suggestion and Image by: @agirlwhowanders
24. River punting in Cambridge, UK
A little touristy to those spending more time in the UK, but don’t let that fool you. Many visitors never venture out of London, but it’s definitely worth doing for a peaceful aquatic floating session around one of the all-time historic universities.
Image: Punting Cambridge
25. Diving with sharks in South Africa
Jumping straight in with the mother of all adrenaline challenges. In some parts of South Africa you can swim with these beautiful creatures without a cage! Eeeek!
Suggested by: @JohannaWhitaker Image: @mytravelfever
26. Grabbing a “dirty” soda in Utah, USA
Where in the world can you find a cocktail bar that specialises in weird and wonderful SODA cocktails instead of using alcohol? Why America of course! Utah more specifically.
Image: @clouse_taylor
27. Traversing the Vietnamese countryside on a scooter
Scooters are a way of life is Southeast Asia, so it’s got to be experienced at least once by all who call themselves backpackers. And what a stunning backdrop.
Suggestion and image by: Kinging-It
28. Hike up to see Lagoinha do Leste, Florioanopolis, Brazil
You know that picture everyone who visits Brazil takes that makes your burst with jealous rage? Yeah, it’s worth it, trust us.
Suggestion and image by: @Lovelyforliving
29. Read your way to pure bliss at The Long Room in Dublin
200,000 of Trinity College’s oldest books are housed in the Old Library. It makes for a thrilling and intellectually stimulating experience on the Emerald Isle.
image: jemartin03
30. Try not to scream at Lisbon’s Doll Hospital
Terrifyingly wonderful. Make sure to check out the museum that may or may not be straight out of your nightmares.
Image: R.E. Barber Photography
31. Channel your voodoo vibes at Abomey in Benin
This African settlement is home to voodoo temples and the Royal Palaces of Abomey, which are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Suggestion and image by: @RTWBarefoot
32. Chow down in Phu Quoc
Suggestion and image by: @alannahmcewan
Rent a motorbike and get cruising around the Vietnamese island. You’ll definitely have your fill of yummy seafood and ultimate beach chills.
33. Let the Northern Lights guide you
Yeah we know, it’s on lots of peoples’ lists, but seriously, no amount of Instagram photos and daydreaming can make up for experiencing the real thing.
Suggestion by: Komm wir machen das einfach image: @boscoppa
34. Volunteer with Hands On Manila
Always in need of hard workers there’s plenty to do, including helping to restore schools in small villages with the Tellus Brigada Eskwela project.
Suggestion and image by: @KH_Travels
35. Venture your way to Møns Klint in Denmark
Nature doing incredible nature things. Møns Klint is a 6 kilometre stretch of Danish cliffs, formed from chalk and packing a giant photogenic punch. Peace and tranquillity abound.
image: News Oresund
36. Be inspired by Warsaw’s street art
Poland’s capital has some of the most amazing and inspiring street art in the world. Like most cities, the art is always changing and springing up in different places. The city really is an ever-changing canvas.
image: Paul Sableman
37. Pitch in with the YMCA in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Our friends KH Travels shared their experience: “We were thrust into becoming full time teachers for a school of children with basic to no English skills. Fun but exhausting.”
Suggestion and image by: @KH_Travels
38. Reflect at the Berlin Wall Memorial
A powerful reminder of Berlin’s history, it’s the only place where you get a feel for what the wall was actually like. There are brass plaques to mark where all the tunnels were, and how many people escaped or died through them. Sobering and important.
Suggestion and image by: @emma.v.martell
39. Explore Kazakhstan’s Ship Cemetery
The Aral Sea used to be one of the four largest lakes in the world, but nowadays serves as a collection of grounded ruins of old ships. It’s haunting, beautiful, and frightening all at the same time.
Image: Mr Hicks46
40. Cook authentic sfoglini in Bologna
One of the best things about travelling the world is learning new skills. Give a traveller some pasta, they eat for a day. Teach a traveller to cook authentic Italian food in Italy however…
Suggestion and image by: Debbie Corrano
41. Visit every US National Park
This one is a mammoth but certainly can be done. The USA has some of the most stunning natural beauty in the world, and their vast National Parks are any outdoor adventure-lovers’ dream.
Suggestion and image by: @Karynleigh89
42. Witness the reverence of Jerusalem
No matter what religion you belong to, if any at all, there’s no denying the powerful reverence in the air at perhaps the world’s holiest city. The history and the culture here are powerful.
Suggested by: @PatchinPixels image: SarahTz
43. Test your nerve at the Tokyo Parasite Museum
Oh Japan, we love you so much. There’s nothing quite like learning about the parasites of the world in Japan’s capital. Try not to get grossed out!
image: Guilhem Vellut
44. Stay in Amsterdam’s Lake Hostel
Amsterdam has a hell of a lot to see, but off-the-beaten-path is the quaint Lucky Lake Hostel. They’re all about being a bit different, with their colourful cabins, skinny dip-friendly lake and yellow breakfast bus!
45. The abandoned Dreamland, Japan
Now we’re certainly not condoning and breaking and entering here. All we’re saying is that it’s scary, thrilling, and those who have been there have some incredible photos…
image: Time Travel Turtle
46. Bask in the quirkiness at Chicago’s Oz Park
Chicago is a land of great art, delicious food and sporting triumphs. But did you know there’s a peaceful little park, dedicated to the Wizard of Oz?
Image: aaronHwarren
47. Chill out at Sweden’s Ice Bar
Puns aside, this place is legit. The furniture is made of ice. The glasses are made of ice. The ice is made of ice. It’s a wintery marvel.
Image: Benjamin Horn
48. Snooze on a giant hammock in the Philippines
This one really doesn’t need an explanation. If this isn’t on your bucket list ideas, SORT IT OUT! 😉
Suggested by: @ICEscobar_ image: @aldrinrulics
49. Summon creative vibes at Wilton’s Music Hall, London
Originally opened back in 1859, Wilton’s was built as a music hall, and now serves as a space for all sorts of performing artists and creators to send their art into the world.
image: Tom Page
50. Three words: Erotic Museum, Barcelona
From ancient times to the modern day, enjoy their collection on human sexuality!
Image: Michael M
51. Lend a hand in the Ben Tre province of Vietnam
“We worked with a very small local school in the middle of nowhere, staying and eating with locals, picking fresh coconuts straight from the trees.” Doesn’t get more authentic than that!
Suggestion and image by: @KH_Travels
52. Kayaking trip on the island of El Nido, Philippines
Scenery really doesn’t get much more picturesque than the exquisite El Nido. It’s perfect for any adventure lovers looking to escape the madness of city life.
Suggestion and image by:@TeeJayHughes
53. Discover London’s neon paradise
The British capital is home to God’s Own Junkyard, a café specialising in delicious tea and cake, and illuminated by some of the most creative and inspiring neon artwork and signage you’ll ever see. Truly a London gem.
Suggestion and image by: @emma.v.martell
54. Swim in Coron, Philippines
Sometimes you just need to kick back and have a swim. So why not get away from the chlorine and melt away your stress in Asia’s cleanest lake (Kayanhan), of one of the insane beaches?
Suggestion and image by: @mabuhaymilesss
55. Experience a traditional Finnish sauna in Rovaniemi
Looking after yourself on the road is vital. Why not treat yourself to a little YOU time and give those pores a hell of a good time.
Suggestion and image by: Carla Boechat
56. Complete the Rickshaw Run across India
Seriously, what could be better?! Often the route (which changes a lot) will take participants through Nepal, Rajasthan, Kerala and Meghalaya. Grab a team of fellow adventurers and get going!
Suggested by: @kristinewanders image: Peter Vasard
57. Wander around Trakai Island Castle in Lithuania
Let’s break it down. There’s a jaw dropping 14th Century castle, floating on a beautiful little island, in the middle of a Lithuanian lake. Yeah let’s be doing that.
Suggestion and image by: @travelgeektara
58. Find the Puerto Princesa Underground River
You’ll never forget your experience at Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (Philippines). Gorgeous natural caves, wildlife and rock formations make this gem an exploration dreamland for backpackers.
Suggestion and image by: @mabuhaymilesss
59. Float in the Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is so salty that you naturally float in it! What on earth?! While journeying to the Holy Land, it’s definitely worth swinging by for a dip (and a float).
Suggestion and image by: @PatchinPixels
60. Trek through the mountains of Munnar, India
“Doing it without a tour guide meant we had acres of tea leaf plantations to ourselves. We were invited to join locals for dinner and chai along the way were able to go at our own pace.”
Suggestion and image by: @KH_Travels
61. Fly down the world’s tallest tunnel slide in London
Who wouldn’t want to hurtle towards the Earth from 114.5 metres in the air! The things adrenaline makes us do…
62. Celebrate love in Bangalore
One of the happiest experiences on earth is dressing in traditional clothing and attending an Indian wedding. Trust us.
Suggestion and image by: These 2 Germans
Did we miss anything? Tell us your bucket list items in the comments below!
Massive thanks to all our wonderful travelling friends for suggesting ideas for this article! Check out some similar posts:
- 5 Lesser-Known Tours And Adventures To Get You Off Grid
- 10 Tips For Travelling Alone That Will Transform Your Travels
- 11 Amazing Gap Year Ideas
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