Although I suspect in a different field than you,
I have been doing contract work for the last four years. No family, no kids etc. definitely makes it easier.
In my experience, a good network is essential. I have got 99.9% of my work from known contacts in the industry, often a phone call out of the blue.
At this stage, I don't worry where the next job comes from and hence can enjoy the time in between jobs.
It all depends on your circumstances, you have to allow for lean periods while you build up a network.