Things to Consider for Off-Grid Living

After a year like 2020, it's no surprise that many people considered taking the phrase "going off the grid" to new levels. In fact, there have been several reports of mass movements of people leaving their city lives and looking for ways to live more self-reliance and off-the-grid living. While this lifestyle certainly isn't new, it has become an appealing idea for many who may have never considered it pre-pandemic. Whether you're looking to go off-grid completely or you're curious about how you could craft a more self-sustaining lifestyle, there is plenty to learn. Here are the basics in getting started.

Going off the grid isn't that simple

It doesn't matter if you're from a small town in the Midwest or you grew up in Brooklyn; moving to an off-the-grid lifestyle will take serious preparation and will require a lot of learning. This lifestyle can be very rewarding, but it isn't for everyone. Remember that living off the land means you will literally only survive with the resources that come from the land you own. Things like food, water, and shelter are your main priorities now.

• Your water source can come from harvesting rainwater, using wind or solar power, or digging a well. Stocking up on clean water will be essential.

• Having refuge from the elements is just as important as having food and water. You need more than a roof over your head. You'll need security from wild animals and intruders in addition to reliable housing that can withstand extreme heat, snow, rain, wind, and cold.

• Cue the Bear Grylls re-runs – going off the grid means you'll be going back to the hunter-gatherer life. Food sourcing will require skills in hunting, farming, gardening, fishing, and even composting. You'll need food plots to attract animals and good land for growing.

Where should I begin?

Going off the grid safely is not something that can be done overnight. Instead, you will need to take time to really learn and prepare so that you can have a safe and healthy life. Here are some ways that you can ease the transition and ensure you're safe:

• Learn about power sources while still living on the grid

• Start a small garden if you don't already have experience.

• Downsize your current lifestyle by removing junk and items that aren't necessary

• Budget, budget, budget! Many people think off-grid=free, but this is not the case. There are certainly plenty of costs that you will have while living off the grid.

• Begin training because living off-grid is a highly physical lifestyle

These changes are small steps that can make a real difference over time. As you learn more about the off-grid lifestyle, you may be curious about starting to look for land. Some of the most popular places for this lifestyle include states like Texas, Alaska, Washington, Ohio, Missouri, Wyoming, Idaho, Tennessee, Montana, and Nevada. However, keep in mind that each state has its own unique challenges, whether it be high property taxes or extreme weather. Take the time to learn and consider what it is you're looking for from going off the grid before making any major decisions.

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