I’m a millennial, and I’ve heard people talk about seeing the world before starting a job or applying to graduate school. The social media version can make long-term travel sound like a step everyone should take. I’d rather start by asking what I want the time away to make possible.
Get specific about why you want to go
A long trip could give you time with family, a chance to study a language or room to rest after a demanding period. Name the purpose in a sentence. That makes it easier to compare the trip with other ways to meet the same need, including a shorter visit or a change in your routine at home.
Put the trade-offs on paper
List what you would spend on transportation, housing and everyday expenses. Then write down what you would pause, such as work, a course or regular time with family. Check which commitments you could resume and which would need a new plan.
Decide what you want to keep building
If you want to keep working on a project, name one piece you could do while away and what it would require. If you want a real break, plan the time off around that purpose. Some goals depend on a routine or access to people and equipment. Others can go with you.
Choose a time to reassess
Set a date to look at the costs, energy and responsibilities again. You might start with a short trip before committing to several months. If you decide to stay, schedule something you were hoping travel would give you, such as time with a friend, a day outdoors or a chance to learn something unfamiliar.