Ultimate Summer Bucket List

No matter how you’ll be spending your summer, you need to make some time for both fun and productive activities. Creating a bucket list will ensure your break is extra fulfilling. If you’re stuck for ideas, add some of the following to your list — they’re all great for university students.

1. Visit an Old Friend

Catch up with a friend you haven’t seen for a while, perhaps someone from high school. You could stay at your friend’s place for a couple days and then ask your friend to stay with you in return. With this approach, you’ll both get to see where the other has been living.

2. Take a Road Trip

One of the most exciting ways to spend your summer is to take a road trip for a few days. Recruit a few friends to join you — this will not only make it more fun, but you’ll also be able to split expenses to make the trip more affordable. You could have a destination in mind or you could just start driving and see where you end up.

3. Go to a Music Festival

There are always plenty of concerts and music festivals happening over the summer, many of them outdoors. Research if any of your favourite bands will be playing.

4. Go Camping

An inexpensive trip idea is to go camping. All you need is a tent and sleeping bag, although it’s even better if you also bring the things you’ll need to make a campfire.

5. Spend Time by the Water

Swimming and sunbathing have to be two of the top summer activities. Choose a beach, lake, or pool near you to spend a day by the water.

6. Organize the Perfect Staycation

If you lack the funds or time to take a proper trip, you can always have a staycation. Go sightseeing in your own city to see places you’ve neglected to visit before now or come up with some relaxing activities to do at home.

7. Complete an Art Project

Find a new idea to put your artistic skills into action. There’s no need to purchase a large amount of supplies — many crafts involve recycling things you already have. You could make something to decorate your student apartment or some gifts for friends and family members. When adding this to your summer bucket list, specify that you’ll not just start but also finish the project.

8. Learn a Language

Dedicate some time every day to learning a language. You’ll be surprised how much you can pick up in just a couple months when you stay committed.

9. Improve Your Skills

If languages are not your thing, focus on a skill that could be useful after you graduate. This is a great way to keep your mind active — which will make it easier to return to your studies in the fall.

10. Shadow a Professional

Contact a few people who work in the field you’re interested in and ask if there’s a possibility to shadow them. You may find this helpful for figuring out what you’d like to do after you graduate.

11. Read Some Books

Set a goal to finish a few books on your reading list. You could use the chance to read books that will prepare you for the upcoming semester, or you could give your brain a break and read purely for pleasure.

Checking off items on your bucket list is much more enjoyable when you involve friends. It’s easier to do this if you stay in your university town over the summer. For a comfortable home base to return to after your adventures, your best option is to search for off-campus student housing. Ottawa has the student community at 1Eleven — it’s a great place to meet new people and make more friends. Plus, whenever you want to take a chill day, you can use the games room and fitness centre or just relax in your private bedroom. Apply now to secure your unit.