21 Things You Should Do Before Turning 21

I think we can all agree that our young adult years are some of the BEST years of our lives.  Free from real responsibilities, this is our time to live life to its absolute fullest in every way, shape and form! I’ve been lucky enough to do a lot of travel before turning 21, but there are SO many ways to make the most of these golden years that don’t have to involve leaving the country. Here are twenty one ways you can SEIZE THE DAY and starting living life to the max (no matter your age)!

21 Things to Do Before Turning 21

things to do before turning 21

1. Climb a mountain at sunrise

PPDP_3025

2. Dress up in costume and go to a theme park

PPDP_3044

3. Attend the concert or music festival you’ve always dreamed of

PPDP_3040

4. Take a solo trip somewhere

PPDP_3026

5. Play in the snow

PPDP_3027

6. Bungy Jump or Skydive

PPDP_3028

7. Go on a volunteer/ mission trip

PPDP_3029

8. Go skinny dipping

Santorini (17)

9. Take a spontaneous road trip without a final destination

things to do before turning 21

10. Stay the night somewhere incredibly unique

things to do before turning 21

11. Go snorkelling or scuba diving

PPDP_3030

12. See the stars in all their glory

things to do before turning 21

13. Swim underneath a waterfall

PPDP_3045

14. Eat something super weird and exotic

PPDP_3039

15. Write a list of all the things in your life you are grateful for

PPDP_3049

16. Crowd Surf

PPDP_3034

17. Have a picnic with an extraordinary view

PPDP_3043

18. Stay up and party… All. Night. Long.

things to do before turning 21

19. Live like a local in another community

PPDP_3041

20. Watch the sun set over the ocean

things to do before turning 21

21. Face your fears

things to do before turning 21

Whether it is swimming with sharks, jumping (safely) off a building or singing in front of people… Nothing will feel more liberating than the moment you conquer your fear. I used to strongly fear meeting new people and being alone. I started life as a shy, hide-behind-my-mum sort of child, and grew up in high school avoiding foreign social situations at all costs.

Looking back over the past three years, I am genuinely proud of myself for conquering these fears. After taking the leap at 19 to go on my first solo overseas trip to Europe, I have since moved to two entirely new cities where I have had to start afresh with meeting people and making friends. I’ve found more enjoyment in my own company and peace with not being surrounded by people 24/7. It hasn’t been easy, but I know by facing this fear I have grown SO much, and feel far more equipped to face whatever the future holds. In the end, facing your fears is FAR more important than any experience you can have.

In two days time, I turn the big TWO ONE. Whilst we may received all the benefits of being an adult at eighteen in Australia, twenty-one still seems to be a big fat milestone for adulthood. The reality of adulthood can go two ways- totally terrifying or extraordinarily exciting. But I’m doing away with thoughts of career ladders, white picket fences and drowning in bills. For me, twenty-one signifies the beginning of a new season of adventures, growth and a whole heap of fun!

Now, I better start writing a fresh to-do list…

N x

For more travel inspiration:

Liked this post on things to do before turning 21? Pin it for later!

21 things to do before turning 21!
Nicola Easterby Bio Image

Hey, I'm Nicola!

I am a travel + food blogger on a mission to discover the best destinations & dishes in the world. Thanks for joining the adventure!

READ NEXT:

8 Best Gift Ideas for Adventurous/ Outdoors Women

8 Best Gift Ideas for Adventurous/ Outdoors Women

Skip the jewellery and perfume- these gifts will win the heart of adventurous/ outdoors women! If you're searching for a gift that resonates with an adventurous woman, look no further. Women who love adventure travel or the outdoors tend to value experiences over...

read more
10 Tips for Traveling as a Student

10 Tips for Traveling as a Student

Are you a college student wanting to travel, but don't know where to begin? These 10 tips for traveling as a student are the perfect place to start! Are you a student who loves to travel? Do you want to explore the world while pursuing your education? You are not...

read more
The Ultimate Snowboarding Packing List

The Ultimate Snowboarding Packing List

Planning a snowboard trip? This packing list for snowboarding will take you through all the gear and equipment you need for your time on the slopes! If there is one trip you do NOT want to be unprepared for, it's a snowboard trip. There is nothing worst than getting...

read more

READ NEXT:

5 Ways to Monetize as a Travel Content Creator in 2023

5 Ways to Monetize as a Travel Content Creator in 2023

Want to turn your passion for travel into a profitable business? This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to monetize as a travel content creator in 2023! This post was kindly sponsored by Travelpayouts. However, as always, all opinions expressed are my own....

read more
25 BEST Travel Essentials for Women in 2023

25 BEST Travel Essentials for Women in 2023

Going away on a trip? Don't leave without these 25 game-changing travel essentials for women! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you kindly choose to purchase a product from one of the links, I may earn a small commission from the brand at no cost...

read more
A Guide to Mountain Biking in Rotorua, New Zealand

A Guide to Mountain Biking in Rotorua, New Zealand

Everything you need to know before going mountain biking in Rotorua, New Zealand! Situated in the heart of New Zealand’s Volcanic Plateau, Rotorua is a geothermal wonder known for its hot springs, mud pools, and natural geysers. But there’s more to Rotorua than just...

read more