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How to Choose the Right Bucket List Holiday for You
We all know the score: adventure travel is one of the most exciting and rewarding ways to explore the world, push your limits, and create unforgettable memories.
But with so many incredible destinations and activities to choose from… how do you find the right adventure for you? Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or someone looking to step outside their comfort zone, here are our best tips to help you pick the perfect experience.
1. Identify your adventure style
Before you start simply browsing destinations, take a moment to reflect on the kind of adventure that excites you the most. Ask yourself:
- Do you prefer high-energy, adrenaline-pumping activities like skydiving, whitewater rafting, or mountaineering?
- Are you drawn to cultural and historical experiences, such as exploring ancient ruins, trekking through traditional villages, or learning local crafts?
- Do you thrive in nature-based adventures like jungle treks, wildlife safaris, or ocean diving?
- Are you looking for a challenge, such as a multi-day hike or a long-distance cycling trip?
Understanding your adventure style will help narrow down your options and ensure you choose an experience that matches your personality and interests.
Did you know you can filter by activity on our destinations page? Whatever gets you going, you can select that activity and find some incredible adventures that fit the bill, choosing from:
- Mountain climbing (Everest Base Camp & Island Peak anyone? Or Kili perhaps?!)
- Trekking (Hello Annapurna Circuit, or perhaps hiking to find gorillas in Uganda?
- Water sports (White water rafting? Or diving maybe? What about a surf retreat?!)
- Multi adventure (Check out all our “Best of” trips for some inspiration!)
- Wildlife (Always had safari in Tanzania on your Bucket List? Don’t blame you!)
2. Consider your fitness and experience level
Different adventures require different levels of physical fitness and skill. No-one wants to be that person on the trip, holding everyone else up because they didn’t do their training beforehand. Best be honest with yourself about your current abilities and how much you’re willing to train if necessary.
If you’re new to adventure travel, consider starting with beginner-friendly activities like more ‘doable’ guided mountain hiking trips like Mount Toubkal, snorkelling (you’ll do plenty during our island-hopping tour of the Maldives), sight-seeing (Cappadocia, perhaps?) or wildlife tours.
For experienced adventurers, more challenging expeditions like summiting Mera Peak or trekking the Langtang Valley might be appealing.
Of course, some activities, like scuba diving or rock climbing, may require certification or prior training, so factor that into your decision-making process.
3. Choose the right destination
Obviously the location of your adventure plays a huge role in shaping your experience. We all want an adventure – but let’s be real, doing it somewhere safe, beautiful and affordable is probably a winner. Think about:
- Climate and season – Research the best time of year to visit your chosen destination to avoid extreme weather conditions.
- Terrain and environment – Do you prefer the mountains, the jungle, rugged plains, the ocean, or the desert?
- Travel logistics – Consider visa requirements, travel restrictions, and accessibility to ensure a smooth trip. You’ll find plenty of articles in our knowledge centre about visa requirements for each of our destinations – just search “visa” here!
- Safety – Some destinations are safer than others, so what’s your appetite for risk? (Wondering about Jordan in particular? Read this handy blog called “Is Jordan Safe for Travel?”)
Some destinations are better suited for specific adventures. For example, Costa Rica is great for rainforest adventures and surfing, while Nepal is perfect for trekking and mountaineering.
4. Set a realistic budget
Adventure travel can range from budget-friendly backpacking trips to luxury expeditions. Factor in costs for:
- Flights and transportation
- Accommodation and meals
- Gear and equipment (renting vs. buying)
- Guides, permits, and entrance fees
- Travel insurance (especially important for adventure activities!)
Planning ahead and setting a budget will help you find an adventure that offers the best experience within your means.
Take a look around our knowledge centre for plenty of guides to the realistic costs of our adventure destinations – and remember, you’ll ALWAYS maximise your budget (and reduce your logistics headache) by joining a small group travel tour like ours at The Bucket List Company.
Not only do the monthly payment options make paying for your trip so much more manageable, but aspects like twin-share accommodation and our group discounts mean you’ll pay less overall too.
5. Think about the group dynamic
Are you traveling solo, with a partner, friends, or a group? Your adventure choice may depend on the people you’re traveling with.
- Solo travellers might prefer guided group tours to meet like-minded adventurers.
- If you’re travelling with friends, consider an activity that suits everyone’s skill level (fail to do this and things can get VERY awkward very quickly!).
- Family-friendly adventures should be suitable for different age groups and energy levels.
6. Prioritise safety and sustainability
Adventure travel comes with risks, so it’s crucial to choose a reputable provider with trained guides, proper safety measures, and ethical practices. Look for:
- Well-reviewed tour operators with a strong safety record.
- Companies that prioritise sustainable tourism and support local communities.
- Adventures that leave minimal environmental impact, such as eco-friendly treks or responsible wildlife encounters.
At The Bucket List Company, we’ve won renowned awards for our adventures and expert guidance. If you’re looking for that reputable company, hello – it’s us!
7. Trust your instincts
At the end of the day, the right adventure is the one that excites YOU the most. If a particular experience gives you a rush just thinking about it, that’s a good sign! Listen to your gut and go for the adventure that feels like the best fit.
(And if your gut’s not saying much, might we suggest you take a look at our Best of Bhutan itinerary?!)
Ready to tick something amazing off your Bucket List?
Choosing the right adventure is the first step in making incredible travel memories.
Whether you’re climbing mountains, diving into the deep blue sea, or trekking through jungles, make sure your adventure aligns with the things that are most important to you (and your ability – no-one wants to find themselves halfway to the Gokyo Lakes with shin splints).
Hop over to our destinations page, browse through, throw any questions you have in our direction. And then maybe, just maybe, it’s time to book the adventure of a lifetime.
If you don’t do it now… will you ever?
