Discover Australia's Bucket List Destinations: A Guide to Unforgettable Adventures!

What destinations should you have on your travel bucket list, and why is a bucket list important?

Many of us have grand ideas of traveling, but it’s often further down on the priority list - below the daily grind, for something to enjoy ‘later’. Often it takes a change in circumstances, such as work, finances, family, or health, that can lead us to rethink and re-prioritise. A bucket list is a list of things you want to do before there’s no time left to get it done. 

A bucket list is really important because it helps you prioritize what's important, within the timeframe you have to achieve those things. That might sound morbid, but it's actually really helpful! In everyday life, our time and energy tend to go toward general obligations rather than adventure, so a list is a great way to focus on what you feel are important accomplishments to achieve within your lifetime. In this blog, we’ll highlight some great destinations around Australia that you should add to your bucket list!

What is a Bucket List?

For those of us who aren’t familiar with the term ‘bucket list’, this is the important list of experiences to try during your lifetime. Things that you don’t want to miss out on, if you haven't been keeping a bucket list, it's time to start!

It's a way to prioritise your life and figure out what matters most to you. A great way to create your bucket list is to think of the bucket list experiences, destinations, and things you’d regret not trying in your lifetime. Why should you create a bucket list? Because there's never been a better time in history to live—and that means you should be taking full advantage of every moment and experience. What is it going to take for you to really make your life amazing?

Why is Creating a Bucket List Important?

You should create one because you can use it as a reminder to live your life fully. When you make a bucket list, you're saying to yourself, "I want to do this before I die." That helps you focus on living in the moment and doing what makes you happy, because you don't have much time left.

You'll also want to make sure that your bucket list includes things that are fun and exciting for you and your family, not just things that other people think are important or interesting. If there's something on your bucket list that no one else cares about, but YOU really want to do it, then go for it! That's what makes it special for YOU.

The possibilities are endless to narrow it down. We’ll help you by creating a bucket list for Australia. Let’s break it down geographically and work our way around Australia by state, listing some great destinations and experiences that you may want to add to your family's travel bucket list.

No matter where you go in Australia, you'll find a range of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. From the iconic landmarks of the East Coast to the rugged wilderness of the Outback, Australia is a destination that has something for everyone. So, these are some top Australian travel destinations that you should consider adding to your ultimate bucket list.

Destinations to consider for your bucket list planner

SA- South Australia is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world. If you're looking for a place where you can see the stars and experience nature at its best, South Australia is a great place to start. The city of Adelaide and its surrounding areas have the glitz and glamour of city life, but there are also so many natural wonders to explore. Adelaide is known for its annual Fringe Festival as well as being home to some truly unique architectural landmarks, beautiful beaches, parks, the Botanic Garden, and the Art Gallery.

Kangaroo Island is home to one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. The island is home to over 250 different bird species and more than 80 mammal species. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling, as well as swimming with dolphins or seals. 

Consider venturing through the outback to visit Coober Pedy, the town where opal mining began back in 1915 when opal was first discovered there! It's also known for its underground housing structures that are made from mud bricks.

Don’t forget the beautiful wine regions surrounding Adelaide, be it North in the Barossa Valley, South in McLaren Vale, or in the Adelaide Hills, there’s plenty to see, do, and taste!

VIC - Melbourne is known for its vibrant arts scene, coffee culture, and sporting events such as Australian Open tennis tournament, the Grand Prix, and the Melbourne Cup, as well as beautiful parks and gardens. Visit the National Gallery of Victoria to see works by Australian and international artists or take a stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens and enjoy the lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere. Head along the Great Ocean Road for a nice, long scenic drive, visiting coastal towns and the 12 Apostles. Or for some good food and wine try the Yarra Valley wine region.

TAS - Tasmania is home to stunning landscapes, including rugged coastlines, mountain ranges such as Cradle Mountain. Known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, with a range of hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing, rock climbing, and white-water rafting. The island is also home to several charming small towns and villages, as well as a number of distilleries and wineries. For adventurers, there’s a range of hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing, rock climbing, and white-water rafting. For something a little different, try Coles Bay or Cockle Creek for a chance to view the Southern Lights.

NSW - Sydney is home to iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, as well as world-class beaches, restaurants, and shopping. Take a walk along the Sydney Opera House's iconic sails, visit the Sydney Harbor Bridge and climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city, or spend the day relaxing on one of Sydney's many beautiful beaches. If you wish to enjoy nature, the Blue Mountains have plenty to see and do, the Three Sisters are well worth the trip.

If wine is your thing, head to the Hunter Valley and enjoy the scenery while enjoying a local drop. From there, head up the coast to the popular tourist destination of Byron Bay for beautiful coastal views, walking tracks and maybe even spot a whale or two.

ACT – The nation’s capital has plenty to see and do, whether traveling with family or individually. Visit Parliament House, National Library, National Art Gallery to immerse yourself in culture and history. For the kids, visit Questacon for fun, entertainment, and science, or try hot air ballooning over Lake Burley Griffin. For something a little different, stay at Jamala Wildlife Lodge and wake up with the animals. 

QLD - The Gold Coast is home to beautiful beaches, theme parks, and a range of outdoor activities. The Gold Coast is known for its sunny weather and laid-back atmosphere and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can spend the day at one of the area's many theme parks, like Dreamworld or Movie World, or go surfing or stand-up paddleboarding on the waves. The Gold Coast is also home to a number of shopping centers and restaurants, as well as a number of beautiful parks and gardens. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world's most beautiful natural wonders, and it's also one of the most visited tourist attractions in Australia. With thousands of different species of fish, many people come to see this reef every year to snorkel and dive. The Daintree Rainforest is one of the oldest living things on Earth, It contains plants that have been growing since dinosaurs walked the Earth! It has over 300 species of birds, including rare ones like the cassowary and kingfishers. Or if you wish to relax and enjoy the sun, why not go Island hopping in the Whitsunday Islands.

NT - Located in the heart of the Australian Outback, Alice Springs is a gateway to some of the country's most breathtaking landscapes, including Uluru and the West MacDonnell Ranges. There are a number of budget accommodation options in Alice Springs, as well as a range of free or low-cost activities, like visiting the Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum or exploring the Alice Springs Desert Park. See where it all began at Uluru, a rock formation that is sacred to indigenous people and has been used as a spiritual site for thousands of years. Kakadu National Park has everything from crocodiles and dingoes to waterfalls. The scenery is absolutely stunning, and there are tons of activities for families, including hiking trails, canoeing, fishing, and more!

Darwin is a town steeped in history from the bombings during the air raids in WW2, there are tours of wreckages and oil tunnels, or enjoy the relaxed atmosphere around town, thrill seekers should check out a crocodile experience at Crocosuarus Cove and Crocodylus Park.

WA - Perth is known for its beautiful beaches, laid-back lifestyle, and nearby wine regions. Perth is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of beaches, parks, and nature reserves to explore. The city is also home to a number of cultural attractions, like the Art Gallery of Western Australia and the Western Australian Museum. Just a short drive from Perth, visitors can also find a number of wineries and breweries in the Swan Valley and Margaret River regions. Catch the ferry across to Rottnest Island to see the quokkas and enjoy a big ride around the island, or head up towards the top of WA to Ningaloo Reef and swim with whale sharks.

For more great travel destinations in Australia, check out Tourism Australia

There’s flexibility in travel around our great nation; you can pack up the family in a caravan and hit the road. If caravanning isn’t your thing but you still enjoy time in the driver's seat, driving and stopping at motels and resorts along the way may suit you better. Or let someone else do the work with an all-included chartered bus adventure, or even fly and hire a car in the chosen location.

Travel Tips if you’re planning to Van it!

If you're planning on towing a trailer or caravan during your travels around Australia, it's important to prioritise safety. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Make sure your vehicle is equipped to handle the load. Before you set out, check that your vehicle is rated to tow the weight of your trailer or caravan. Overloading your vehicle can cause problems with handling and braking can be dangerous.
   
2. Check your hitch and towing equipment - Make sure that your hitch and towing equipment are in good condition and properly installed. This includes your hitch, ball mount, chains, and safety cables.
   
3. Follow the speed limit - When towing, it's important to stay within the posted speed limit, as it can be more difficult to stop or manoeuvre a trailer or caravan.
   
4. Keep a safe distance - When towing, it's important to keep a safe distance from other vehicles on the road. This will give you more time to react in the event of an emergency.
   
5. Use your signals - Always use your signals when changing lanes or turning, and make sure that your trailer or caravan is properly marked with reflective tape.
   
6. Inspect your trailer or caravan regularly - Before setting out on a long journey, make sure to inspect your trailer or caravan for any damage or wear and tear. This includes checking the tires, brakes, and lights.
   By following these tips, you can help ensure that your towing experience is safe and enjoyable.

Preparation and Planning for Rooftop Campers

Rooftop camping has become rather popular, with more people kitting out their Utes and 4WDs for sleeping (and storing items), but many forget the load limits when preparing for travel. If you’re planning to travel this way, consider the following:

• How much can your rooftop or canopy safely carry?
  Rola Roof Racks have a nice article to explain Roof Load Ratings
  
• What are you planning on storing/carrying, and how much does it weigh?
  
• Do you need canopy support system? If so, consider something like the universal canopy support system LoadMax.