Many people do and there are good reasons for at least considering it.
This article looks at the pros and cons of a year out and some suggested ways of making a year out productive if you decide it is for you. It may be your best opportunity to do something you really want to do. After higher education you will have a student loan and career to consider. The year out is likely to make you a more mature and independent person. This is particularly true if you spend some of the year out away from home.