Non-destructive methods to estimate the actual buckling load in particularly for imperfection sensitive thin-walled structures, are of severe interest among many fields. Particular techniques for validation of structural limit state and numerical model predictions for large scale structures are getting momentum. The vibration correlation technique (VCT) allows to correlate the ultimate load our instability point with rapid decrement of self-frequency response. Nevertheless this technique is still under development for thin-walled shells and plates. The current research discusses an experimental verification of extended approach, using vibration correlation technique, for the prediction of actual buckling loads on unstiffened cylindrical shells loaded in axial compression. Validation study include two laminated composite cylinders which were manufactured and repeatedly loaded up to instability point. In order to characterize a correlation with the applied load, several initial natural frequencies and mode shapes were measured during tests by 3D laser scanner. Results demonstrate that proposed vibration correlation technique allows one to predict the experimental buckling load with high reliability, without actually reaching the instability point. Additional experimental tests and numerical models are currently under development to further validate the proposed approach to extended composite and metallic structures.