Just to clarify, when I say security, I don't mean in the sense that upsets can't happen - of course they can. People lose their jobs, get divorced, and can simply get screwed over one way or another. But in order to survive and make ends meet people have to find a way to earn money, so in a way (whether they enjoy it or not) this provides the stability and security that people find comfort in. At the same time, this security (or commitment) is what can hold people back.

I don't anticipate things being easy when I get back. I may even go out for a while, decide that travelling isn't for me and find myself in need of a routine and structure when I return. It's amazing you went out and travelled so young, a shame it didn't work out exactly how you planned but good you can reflect on it as a positive experience. I wouldn't have had that courage at 17. Also had you not done it, you probably would have wondered 'what if', and who knows, maybe the other road you would have taken may have been that much worse. You never know.

I definitely agree that just because you can do x doesn't mean you should - everyone is different and has their own goals/ambitions in life. I can only say that from the travelling I have done, its probably one of the best things I can remember spending money on, whereas getting that new watch/laptop/phone etc quickly fades away once they break down or the next trend emerges (not to sound ungrateful). I remember reading a few posts here on Reddit from older people offering advice to their 25 year old self, and the thing I saw most frequently and most upvoted was to travel more, and I don't want to live with regrets when I'm older.

I don't plan on going gung-ho and burning down all my bridges before leaving. I'll update my CV, fire off a few applications in the meantime so I know where I stand, and leave a good chunk of money in savings that I won't touch till I come back - that way if I spend everything I don't need to worry about coming back to nothing, so to speak. It seems you're on the same page though, but I do take onboard your words of caution and won't take anything for granted.