Creating a Retirement Bucket List That Fits Your Budget in Perth

It’s the time to slow down, soak it in, and finally enjoy the things you’ve been putting off, whether that’s taking a coastal road trip, learning something new just for fun, or spending more time with the people who matter most. And while it’s exciting to think about what’s next, it’s also important to make sure your finances can support the lifestyle you’re dreaming of.

That’s where thoughtful retirement planning comes in. With the right guidance from a trusted Perth financial advisor, you can build a plan that’s realistic, flexible, and focused on what matters most to you.

Why a Bucket List Matters More Than You Think

Too often, retirement planning focuses solely on numbers: how much you’ve saved, how long it will last, and what you need to live on. But the emotional side of retirement is just as important.

A well-thought-out bucket list brings direction, purpose, and even joy to your retirement years. It helps you stay active, socially connected, and mentally engaged. And when it’s tied to a clear financial plan, it gives you the confidence to enjoy what you’ve worked so hard for.

In our experience as Perth financial advisors, retirees who map out what they want to experience, not just what they need to afford, often feel more fulfilled and less anxious about money.

Start With What Matters Most

Building your retirement bucket list isn’t about cramming in every dream at once. It’s about identifying what matters most to you.

Ask yourself:

• What have I always wanted to do but never had the time for?
• Are there any places I’ve dreamed of visiting?
• What kind of lifestyle do I want to maintain day to day?
• How do I want to spend my time with family and friends?
• Are there any personal goals or new skills I’d love to explore?

Write everything down: big dreams, little pleasures, once-in-a-lifetime adventures, and quiet moments you want to create. Your list doesn’t have to be extravagant. It just needs to reflect you.

Aligning Your Bucket List With Your Budget

Once you’ve built your dream list, the next step is working out how it fits into your financial reality. This is where retirement planning becomes powerful.

At LIFE Financial Planners, we often help clients map their lifestyle goals against their cash flow and superannuation strategies. Some goals may be easily achievable right away, while others might need more time, planning, or adjustment.

Here are a few things we help you consider:

• What income streams will be available to you in retirement?
• What is a sustainable withdrawal rate for your investments?
• Can you prioritise high-impact, lower-cost experiences?
• Is it worth adjusting the timing of certain goals to make them more affordable?

We also help you break your goals down into short-term, mid-term, and long-term plans—so your bucket list feels realistic, not rushed.

Local Adventures That Won’t Break the Bank

You don’t have to fly to Paris or sail the Mediterranean to tick meaningful things off your list. Some of the best experiences might be right here in Perth.

A few local favourites our clients often include are

• Exploring WA’s Coral Coast or Margaret River on a road trip
• Taking a cooking class or art workshop through community centres
• Volunteering for causes close to your heart
• Weekends spent discovering hidden gems in the Perth Hills
• Joining active seniors’ groups for fitness and social connection

These kinds of experiences bring richness and connection to retirement, and many come at little or no cost.

Protecting the Plan as You Go

Even with the best-laid plans, life happens. Markets shift. Unexpected expenses come up. Health can change. That’s why flexibility is key to a financially sustainable bucket list. Working with an experienced Perth financial advisor allows you to revisit and revise your goals as circumstances change. We’ll help you:

We’ll help you:

• Adjust your spending without sacrificing what matters most
• Keep your income plan aligned with your lifestyle needs
• Maintain a safety net for peace of mind

The goal isn’t just to tick things off a list—it’s to create a lifestyle that continues to feel exciting, rewarding, and financially stable throughout retirement.

Let a Perth Financial Advisor Help You Make It Happen

At LIFE Financial Planners, we’re here to make sure your retirement is not only secure but deeply satisfying. As a Perth financial advisor team specialising in retirement planning, we help you take control of your future with clarity, strategy, and zero guesswork.

Whether retirement is around the corner or already underway, it’s never too early (or too late) to start dreaming and planning. Your retirement should feel like the reward it is. Contact us below.