Lucas Brancatisano has travelled to 60 countries and believes there are five unforgettable experiences every person should have before they die.
The 29-year-old Melburnian used his life savings to fund a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, visiting famous tourist destinations as well as remote places far from the usual travel trail.
He began with 10 months of solo travel through Latin America, then spent almost a further year exploring Europe, Asia and Africa alongside his brother and housemates.
After years of discovering new countries and cultures, the backpacker has identified several bucket-list experiences he believes travellers should enjoy at least once.
‘Here are five travel experiences to try before you die,’ he suggested in his video.
His first recommendation is to take a solo journey through Latin America.
“This is the experience that will change your life the most,” Lucas said.
He encouraged travellers to spend time in both Central and South America, saying the region’s vibrant atmosphere explains why so many visitors are eager to return.
“If you can travel alone, absolutely do it and immerse yourself in the experience. If that isn’t possible, go with a friend. You’ll have an incredible time. It’s one of the best places on Earth.”
Melbourne traveller Lucas Brancatisano has visited 60 countries around the world
Lucas, who runs the travel community Aussies In, also encouraged people to take a once-in-a-lifetime trip with their siblings.
“You only have a limited amount of time when you can travel with your brothers or sisters,” he said.
“If you have two weeks or a month, go somewhere far away. Take plenty of photos, navigate the challenges together and create memories that will strengthen your bond for years to come.”
Lucas travelled with his brother for nine months last year and described it as one of the best experiences of his life, urging others to share a similar adventure with a sibling.
He also recommended exploring your own country, where hidden destinations and overlooked landscapes can be closer than many people realise.
“People often ignore their own country because they think, ‘I’m from there.’ But taking the time to explore the beautiful place you call home can be incredibly rewarding,” he said.
Lucas spent time driving around Australia several years ago and still considers it one of his most memorable adventures. He visited the Outback, the Northern Territory, Queensland and New South Wales, describing the journey as a chance to see his own backyard in a completely different way.
“Whether you’re from Europe, Asia or anywhere else, I strongly recommend exploring your country through domestic travel and discovering how beautiful it really is.”
The 29-year-old Melburnian spent his life savings on a once-in-a-lifetime journey, visiting famous destinations and travelling far off the beaten track
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Lucas believes everyone should take a once-in-a-lifetime trip with their siblings. Last year, he spent nine months travelling across Europe, Asia and Africa with his brother
Another life-changing experience Lucas recommends is moving away from the place where you grew up and trying life somewhere new, even if that means relocating to another part of the same country.
‘Live outside your hometown, this one is so important for your growth and development,’ Lucas said.
‘As soon as you leave your hometown, you will find out what is possible for the life that you can have, and just seeing the opportunities that will unfold as you go and explore.
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‘Your hometown grows you in one way, you will find out how much you can grow in another way when you leave.’
If possible, he suggested moving abroad.
‘Go overseas if you can, otherwise live interstate, just go and see what’s possible in your own life,’ he added.
He said travellers should spend time exploring their own country, as well as the places where their parents grew up, to discover places they never knew existed
Lucas said one of the best travel experiences he’s had was taking a solo trip
Finally, Lucas said you should consider visiting 30 countries before you turn 30.
‘Travel gets a lot harder when you get older because there’s responsibilities and things to pay for and life gets busy,’ he said.
‘Make sure you factor in going to these places and going to see as many countries as you can.
‘Spending money on stuff that will give you dividends on experience and memories rather than material possessions.’
His video has been viewed more than 9,000 times, with some travellers agreeing with his list of experiences.
‘Did this at 21 – favourite countries: Argentina and Colombia. I grew up in New Zealand doing camping trips and road trips with my parents. Moved to another city at 18, to London at 24, to Australia at 28, back to London at 29. I just turned 30 and have done around 45 countries,’ one said, adding that she’s an only child.
‘I’ve been travelling Latin America this year and I’m not sure I like it as much as Southeast Asia. I’m having a great time when I’m here but for me, travelling is about how a place makes you feel and I feel most at peace during my time in SE Asia. I still need to see Central America so maybe I’ll find it there,’ another shared.