Bucket lists have become a common trend for older people, especially since the release of the movie in 2007. Put simply, a bucket list is a list of all the goals you wish to achieve or dreams you wish to fulfil in your life before you die.

Common entries include visiting exotic locations around the world, going to sporting events such as a Formula One race, or getting a tattoo or piercing. That being said, it’s quite rare to find any two bucket lists the same.

We feel that having a bucket list can help keep older people active and enthusiastic about life. It gives you a goal to achieve and things to look forward to, which can only be a good thing in the fight against loneliness and boredom.

Your Bucket List

Making a bucket list is a simple undertaking, as it is all about what you want to do. The question is, what are things that you can do to make your own bucket list?

Dreams

The first step is to think about all the things you want to see, do, and accomplish with the rest of your life. Take out a piece of paper or open your computer and choose a nice font. Begin with a single idea and write it down – the first one that pops into your head.

Here are some of the things to consider.

• What were the things you wanted to accomplish when you were younger?
• Do you know what other people are doing?
• What are the things that you want to experience?
• Which places have you always wanted to see?

So many questions to ask, and the answers can all go on that precious list.

Inspiration

Sometimes it’s hard to filter the millions of possibilities onto one list. It’s difficult to even imagine half of those possibilities the rest of the time. Thankfully, we are in a modern age where information is at your fingertips. There are books and webpages on the internet detailing the best places to visit, movies to watch, and you can find thousands of other people’s own bucket lists, articles, or blogs.

Realistic

It’s very easy to add heavenly places on the other side of the planet, accomplishments that anyone would be proud of, and jaw-dropping activities that would make your bucket list glow in a godlike manner. Realistically, are you really going to abseil inside a volcano? Or try to wrestle a lion? Or trek through an uncharted jungle?

Keep in mind a budget, a time frame, and have points on your bucket list that can challenge you, but not so much to the point where you aren’t able to complete or achieve them – an uncompleted bucket list is not your friend!

Our Bucket List Ideas

We have put together our own ideas for a Bucket List, which we hope will inspire some of the entries on your own:

1. Go to Wimbledon
   The epitome of British summer, with strawberries, cream, and a glass of bubbly. Watch the greats battle it out on the idyllic lawn centre court or take in the atmosphere of Henman Hill.
2. Have a Weekend in the Lake District 
   Described as one of Britain’s best places to experience the outdoors with its network of lakes, valleys, and woodland. Where better to take a walk and breathe in some fresh air while enjoying picturesque views? This could also be the ideal destination for bird watchers.
3. Experience Edinburgh Festival
    A culmination of art, culture, and vibrancy. Attending the Edinburgh Festival is a fantastic way to indulge in great music, theatre, and artistic talent in an iconic city.
4. Get Your Affairs in Order 
   Every bucket list may be a list of dreams but don’t leave your family in trouble once you are gone. Make a will, pay off debts, and get a personal alarm – give your family peace of mind.
5. Take a Stroll on the Pembrokeshire Coast 
   Experience true beauty as you take in blue skies, the turquoise coloured ocean, and the flourish of flowers.
6. See Hadrian’s Wall 
   Not as ‘visible’ as the Great Wall of China, but this Roman wall, built in 122AD to separate the ‘civilised’ from the ‘barbarians’, is a marvel to see with ruins still visible of life from another era.
7. Wonder at the Stone Formations of Stonehenge
   A British cultural icon and one of the most famous landmarks in the world, this mysterious site is a must-see.
8. Have a Family Reunion 
   Family is the most important thing in life and as we get older families can drift apart. Getting everyone together is important so we can spend time and create lasting memories with each other.
9. Save a Life 
   Give blood – many people would not be alive today if it wasn’t for the generosity of donors.
10. Have Afternoon Tea at the Ritz
    Indulge in one of Britain’s finest traditions within the glitz and the glam of a charming world-famous hotel.
11. Do a Road Trip Across the US
    The famous Route 66 is a popular road trip, taking in sights of Las Vegas, California, and San Francisco. Definitely one for the bucket list, whatever your age.
12. Go Christmas Shopping in New York
    The big apple is a beautiful and famous destination to do a spot of Christmas shopping during the months of November and December. With loads of festivities and sights to see it’s the perfect bucket list idea.
13. See the Northern Lights
    The Northern Lights are one of nature’s great displays. A free, multicoloured light show that is most commonly seen in the Arctic regions.
14. Do Some Charity Work 
    Not only will it make you feel great but you’re giving to a great cause and making a difference in some aspect to someone else’s life and work. Volunteering is also a great way to keep yourself busy in later life.
15. Learn Another Language
    There are many advantages to learning a new language. Whether you are going on holiday or not, it’s never too late to learn.
16. Have a Makeover
    We’re often so busy in life that we can forget to take the time to pamper ourselves. Why not make it a bucket list item to have a complete transformation? You never know, you might discover a new you.
17. Visit Lapland
    Lapland is Finland’s northernmost region, and famously the home to Father Christmas and his elves. A visit to this magical landscape could be an unforgettable experience, especially if you take the grandkids with you.
18. Join the Gym
    Heading to the gym more often is not only great for your health but it can be fun too. Improving your strength is sure to provide extra peace of mind. Many find once they’ve joined that it can be quite addictive.
19. Take up a Sport
    It might be football, squash, swimming or golf. There are loads of clubs and societies all over to get involved with. Not only is it a great form of exercise, but it’s also good for socialising and meeting new people.
20. Look Into Your Family Tree 
    It’s fascinating what you might find out. You’ve only got one opportunity to do it, so give it go!
21. Re-locate 
    Never loved where you’ve lived? Make it a task to move somewhere you love one day, whether it’s temporary or permanent, abroad or at home.
22. Travel on the Orient Express
    The famous Orient Express is something made of dreams. Not cheap, but a once in a lifetime experience.
23. Visit one of the Modern Wonders of the World
    Only one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world remains standing: the Great Pyramid of Giza. Fortunately, there are a seven new wonders you can visit. Consider a trip to Machu Picchu, Chichén Itzá, the Colosseum, Christ the Redeemer, the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, or the City of Petra.
24. Take Flying Lessons
    Not something for the faint-hearted but one to tick off the list. Who hasn’t wanted to take control of an airplane or helicopter? With plenty of schools around it’s not hard to find somewhere to take up lessons.
25. Get in the Guinness Book of Records
    If you’ve ever read the Guinness Book of Records you will have seen some of the weird and wonderful records people have smashed. Why not attempt one of your own?
26. Build Something Amazing
    A treehouse? A new home? Maybe a shelf or some pottery? Big or small, have a go at building something from scratch. The result will be something to be proud of. And you can look back on all the skills you used to make it.
27. Go Scuba Diving
    This popular bucket list idea is something truly amazing and, depending on where you do it, you can see everything from amazing corals to tropical fish and even sharks.
28. See the Great Barrier Reef
    Closely tied into the above, if you want to go scuba diving then kill two birds with one stone and do it at the best scuba diving destination in the world.
29. Sleep Under the Stars
    On a warm summer’s night with a clear sky, you’ll be amazed at what you’ll see. If you’re really into stargazing, take a telescope and see even more.
30. Go in a Hot Air Balloon
    Not necessarily a cheap goal, but you’ll experience the sky and views over the landscape on a different level. With some packages offering champagne and food, it’s an attractive bucket list idea to tick off.
31. Go on a Safari
    Head out to Africa and see some of the world’s most exotic animals. Safaris give the opportunity to see Africa’s big five – lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, and elephants – as well as so many others. You’ll also reap the benefits of constant sunshine – just think about all of the Vitamin D you’ll be getting.
32. Apply to be an Extra in a Movie or Television Show
    Ever fancied yourself as a TV star? Directors are always on the lookout for extras to help make their latest projects become a reality. Being on TV is bound to go down well with the grandchildren.
33. Go Skinny Dipping
    A little bit on the risqué side but skinny dipping is commonly found on bucket lists around the globe. We advise doing this activity in a warm climate, at night-time when it’s a little quieter.
34. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in a Major City
    The excitement of New Year’s Eve heightens in the major cities. Places like Edinburgh and London put on spectacular firework displays, with live concerts and food stalls.
35. Go to a Masked Ball
    An excuse to get all dressed up and dance the night away? Why not?
36. Take Dance Classes
    Before you hit the dance floor, however, it may be a good idea to take some lessons. Not only is dancing great fun, it’s also a great form of exercise for your entire body.
37. Treat Someone to Something Amazing
    Show your loved ones just how much they mean to you by treating them to something amazing. Perhaps your grandson is a huge football fan – we’re sure that he would love tickets to go see his favourite team. Or perhaps your daughter has always wanted to visit London – a trip to The Shard will do nicely.
38. Take a Skydive
    One for the daredevils out there. Experience adrenaline like never before as you jump out of a plane and parachute back down to earth.
39. Make your Own Wine
    Everybody likes a nice glass of wine, but it will taste even better knowing that you’ve made it yourself.
40. Dine in a Michelin Star Restaurant
    Treat yourself, and your loved one, to a fancy meal in a Michelin Star restaurant. You’re guaranteed to taste some of the best food and drinks from around the world.
41. Conquer your Greatest Fear
    We all have a fear of something and although it’s easier said than done, wouldn’t it be nice to beat it?
42. Write a Book
    If you have a talent for writing or a story that you’d love to share, grab a pen and paper and make it a reality. Moreover, writing can help to boost your brainpower.
43. Take a Ride in a Limousine 
    Being in a limousine is just a brilliant experience, turning heads as you’re chauffeured to your destination.
44. Go Sailing
    Head out into the water and learn how to sail. Not only is this fun and unique, but it also provides a great workout for your muscles.
45. Start a New Hobby
    There are plenty of hobbies to choose from, whether it’s picking up a new sport, learning how to cook, or getting out into the garden. Try something new today.
46. Climb a Mountain
    If the ocean isn’t your thing then the mountains may be for you. Again, this activity provides your body with a workout and will get the heart pumping.
47. Do a Track Day
    If you’ve dreamed about owning a Ferrari but just couldn’t afford it, a track day is the perfect solution. Head out onto the track and put your driving skills to the test, behind the wheel of a 200mph supercar.
48. Adopt a Pet
    Pets are a great way of beating loneliness in old age. Not only that, but you’re also giving your new pet a second chance at a happy life.
49. Give to Charity
    There are so many different charities out there which need our help. Pick one that has a special place in your life and donate. You could end up saving someone’s life.
50. Do a Marathon
    A perfect way to stay motivated and healthy is by running a marathon. It’s no easy feat, and you’ll require months of training, but that feeling of achievement afterwards is worth it.

Start your Bucket List Journey

A bucket list is the perfect way to ensure that you get to do all those things that you have always wanted to do. It is a good distraction from the business of human society that we easily get lost in and controlled by.

Don’t forget that if you’re simply looking for a new hobby, you can take a look at our Top 10 list for some hints and tips.

Personal Alarms from LifeConnect24

Your wellbeing is always important. If you are worried about your safety at home, or just want some extra peace of mind while you make your dreams come true, consider a personal alarm from LifeConnect24. You can find more information about our alarm service by reading our guide or visiting the pricing page. Alternatively, call our Customer Service Team on 0800 999 0400 today.

Editor’s Note: This article was updated on 12th May 2023 to reflect current information.

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