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Actually, clunking over bumps isn't always the suspension, even though that's the first thing you'd suspect.
Most often it's worn-out struts, shock absorbers, or ball joints - those are easiest to check with a mechanic on a lift.
Also, it could be loose fender liner fasteners, power steering components, or even random parts rattling around in the wheel wells, so it makes sense to start the car and listen carefully to figure out where exactly the noise is coming from before you go in for diagnostics.
A clunking noise when driving over bumps can come not just from the suspension, but also from the body - loose plastic trim, cables, even bolts under the seats that have come undone can make a similar sound. So first check the basics: make sure nothing's rattling around inside the cabin, door trim and mirror mounts are tight. If the clunking is clearly coming from underneath, then it's time to look at the suspension.
The previous answer about shock absorbers and mounts is spot on, but I'd add this: when you're checking the shocks, look not just for leaks and dents on the body, but also at the shock towers - if they've cracked, the rubber buffers can wear away and the spring will contact the body during suspension travel. Also definitely check the stabilizer bar mounting and its bracket - they often create clunking when the car's out of alignment on uneven roads, especially if the bushings are worn.
The most reliable way is to lift the car and shake the wheel by the top and bottom edges: any play in the wheel will point to hub bearing or CV joint problems. Then shake the wheel itself by the sidewall - you'll feel play in the ball joints. Clunking and clicking noises when driving are completely different things, so don't mix them up when diagnosing.
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