Luxury resort stays, world wonders, and cruises top the list Aussie activity wish-list, with preferences varying according to age.
Around 36 percent of Australians put staying at a luxury resort as the number one wish in their bucket list, according to the latest research from iSelect.
This was followed by visiting world wonders including Manchu Picchu, the Great Wall of China, and the Taj Majal (nearly 33 percent), a cruise holiday (32 percent), a cross-country road-trip (almost 27 percent), and a safari adventure (nearly 20 percent).
iSelect comparison expert Sophie Ryan said there was a clear preference for more laid-back or indulgent activities, particularly among Gen X Australians aged 43-58.
“Mid-late career people with families just want to relax on their holidays, so we see a move away from thrill-seeking and risk-taking in that group,” Ms Ryan said.
“Millennials and Gen Z were much more likely to have activities like scuba diving, hiking, and safari adventures on the agenda.
“Meanwhile cruises were the top experience for Baby Boomers with as many as 41 percent of people in that demographic adding a nautical getaway to their wish list.”
The iSelect results were based on a survey of 1,017 Australians in January 2026.
Top 15 bucket list activities
- Luxury resort stay (36.4%)
- Visiting the world wonders (32.6%)
- Cruise holiday (32.3%)
- Cross-country road trip (26.6%)
- Safari adventure (19.6%)
- Hiking a famous trail (15.7%)
- Scuba diving or snorkelling on a reef (14.2%)
- Cultural immersion such as cooking classes or local festivals (13%)
- Hot air balloon ride (11.3%)
- Skiing (11.3%)
- Snowboarding (10.9%)
- Surfing (8.6%)
- Bungee jumping (6.2%)
- Working holiday (6%)
- Sky diving (5.9%)
