I want to upvote this a 100 times. A lot of what you have said in this post resonates with me in abnormal degrees.
"I am ridiculously privileged and instead of feeling guilty about it, I should take advantage of it! I need to be honest with myself and what I want." - so many people - including travelers - don't realize this for example.
Two years ago I returned from traveling for a year. Before that I would go on as many small solo-trips as I could! Now, perhaps unfortunately, I'm at a certain point in life where I need, and perhaps also want, to work some towards a sustainable future. Which means, brushing up on skills I want to learn, but had a hard time focusing on when on the road, get some money saved up, etc. etc.
I hope that within another 2 years, I'll also be able to say: "You know what, it's time to get out there again, god damn it!"
Wish you and your boyfriend the best of luck on your trip!
Thank you @martibis, you are definitely a kindred spirit! And I think you've got your priorities straight - sustainability is crucial, and before you'll know it you'll be out there again with a bunch of new skills under your belt.