Bucket List Experiences

Make Dreams Happen: Experience Days for Your Bucket List

A bucket list isn’t just a quirky idea from a film, it’s become a fun, motivating way for people to plan unforgettable moments. Whether you're treating yourself or gifting someone special, experience days are the perfect way to tick off those big life goals. From flying high in a helicopter to getting messy in a sword-making workshop, here’s why bucket list experiences make the ultimate gift.

What Is a Bucket List and Where Did the Idea Come From?

The term “bucket list” shot to fame after the 2007 film The Bucket List, starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, but the idea has been around much longer. It's basically a list of things someone wants to do before they “kick the bucket”, in other words, before they die. Cheerier than it sounds, a bucket list is about living life to the fullest and not letting those “one day” dreams drift away forever.

These days, the bucket list has gone beyond its original meaning. It’s not just about the big stuff before you die, but about setting exciting goals for travel, skills, or personal milestones at any stage of life.

Why Are Bucket Lists So Popular?

Bucket lists have become especially popular in recent years, and it’s not hard to see why. Life moves fast, and people are realising the importance of making meaningful memories, not just ticking off achievements at work or home.

Creating a bucket list is a way of reclaiming joy, putting adventure back in the diary, and having something exciting to aim for. It gives people a sense of purpose and sparks motivation, especially after big life events, like a significant birthday or a brush with burnout.

And let’s be honest, there’s something extremely satisfying about crossing something off a list!

Who Makes a Bucket List?

Anyone and everyone. You don’t need to be turning 50 or planning your retirement to make a bucket list. People in their 20s and 30s are just as likely to have one, especially now that travel, wellness, and unique experiences are seen as more valuable than material things.

Some people make a bucket list to challenge themselves, others to celebrate life’s special moments. It might be a solo adventure, a couple’s goal, or a family dream, the beauty is, it’s entirely personal.

Are There Any Pros and Cons to Having a Bucket List?

Pros:

• Motivation: Having a list of dreams to work towards keeps life exciting.
• Purpose: It gives you something to look forward to and plan for.
• Memories: The things you do stay with you forever, unlike physical gifts.
• Connection: Experience gifts often bring people closer, whether it’s sharing the moment or hearing the story.

Cons:

• Pressure: Some people feel overwhelmed by the idea of ticking everything off.
• Comparison: Social media can make it feel like your list should look like someone else’s.
• Cost: Certain bucket list items can be pricey, though that’s where experience gifts come in handy!

Does Age Play a Role in What’s on a Bucket List?

Definitely. A 25-year-old might want to go skydiving and tick things off their 30 before 30 bucket list, while someone turning 60 may dream of dining on the Orient Express or learning to fly a plane. Age shapes our goals, but it doesn’t limit them.

In fact, many people say they feel braver about chasing their bucket list dreams as they get older. Whether it’s retiring and having more time, or simply feeling more confident, age can be the perfect excuse to finally do “that thing you’ve always wanted to do.”

What Kind of Experiences Do People Put on Their Bucket Lists?

There’s no right or wrong, bucket lists are deeply personal. But there are a few recurring themes:

• Adventure – Think adrenaline-pumping moments like driving a Ferrari or flying in a hot air balloon.
• Creativity – People love experiences that help them learn a skill or make something unique.
• Travel & Exploration – Visiting iconic landmarks or seeing a city in a new way is high on many lists.
• Luxury – From fine dining to indulgent train journeys, these experiences add a touch of glamour.
• Connection – Experiences that are shared with loved ones often mean the most.

If you're after some bucket list inspiration, we've got plenty! Check out our blog post 50 Unique Great British Bucket List Experiences to Tick Off in Your Lifetime.

Bucket List Experience Days You Can Gift

Luckily, you don’t have to spend months planning or thousands of pounds to help someone tick off their dreams. Here are some ready-to-go experience gifts that are bucket list-worthy:

Driving Experiences

Ever wanted to take the wheel of a supercar? Choose a Ferrari driving experience for heart-racing excitement, or go off the beaten track with a monster truck drive – the perfect choice for thrill-seekers. If you've done the supercars already, an off road driving experience should be at the to of your bucket list! 

Flying Experiences

Take to the skies with a hot air balloon ride, plane flying lesson, or a private helicopter ride over London. These are the kind of experiences that turn into epic stories and unforgettable memories.

Creative Experiences

For something totally different, gift a sword-making experience with a blacksmith or let them create their own signature perfume. These experiences offer a unique sense of accomplishment and a keepsake too!

London Experiences

Enjoy the best of the capital with a visit to The Shard followed by a meal at The London Steakhouse Company. Or give the gift of culture with West End theatre tickets – perfect for any musical lover.

Food Experiences

For foodies, treat them to a baking masterclass with Master Pâtissier Eric Lanlard, or go all out with fine dining on the luxury Northern Belle train where you'll feel like you've stepped back in time to a bygone era.

Why Experience Days Make the Perfect Bucket List Gift

Unlike stuff that ends up on a shelf, experience day gifts are memorable, meaningful, and tailored to someone’s dreams. They’re flexible, thoughtful, and often spark joy even before the day arrives.

Plus, our experience vouchers are valid for 12 months and fully exchangeable, making them a great option if you're not sure exactly when the recipient will want to do. 

Bucket lists remind us to live life with a little more adventure and a lot more heart. Experience days are a simple, exciting way to bring those dreams to life, whether for yourself or as a thoughtful gift. So, what’s on your list?

Or better yet – what’s on theirs?

Make it happen. One experience day at a time.