So I've been wanting to do this for a while now since I missed out on fun experiences and I've really been considering that next year I pull the trigger on this dream and backpack around the world for 6 months (maybe a year). I have enough saved up to do something like this and even come back and live off savings for quite a while.

The downside is I lose a fairly well paying job and potentially have to restart my career (which is still fairly in the early stages). Another downside is that I don't really know how this'll end up, it might be a freaking amazing life experience or end up being just some over-hyped dream for me and I'll waste a good chunk of money.

Was wondering if anyone else on TRP has done something like this. I'm 27, have the money, and it'll only be harder later down the line to do this... I can even come live with my parents after coming back until I find a job again and I have enough savings to last me 2 years after I come back even if I don't. Only downside is really just my career... but the upsides are potentially endless... Would love to hear from someone who's tried something like this before.