Living Off The Grid: Getting Started

Living off the grid can be a challenge, but it’s entirely possible to do so, both legally and safely. As you let go of the excesses of the mainstream, here are a few helpful tips for living off the grid so that you can flourish while living simply.

Start Homesteading

Before you make the leap to living fully off-grid, it’s definitely a good idea to get your feet wet first and learn and hone a few useful skills. Start vegetable and herb gardens, learn to sew, and set up barrels to start harvesting rainwater, etc etc. Have a tool kit at the ready, and learn how to fix household basics on your own. One of the most useful things to do that often gets overlooked is to get in touch with other homesteaders to form a community; mutual aid is absolutely essential when trying to go grid-less.

Know Your Local Laws

As you prepare to go completely off-grid, familiarize yourself with any laws that may apply to you. Look up sanitation requirements, environmental regulations, community nuisance laws, and municipal and building codes. Doing the prep and research early will make all the difference to your experience.

Harness Solar Power

Like we said before, you will need to know the relevant laws and regulations around installing solar panels, but these panels are an effective source of power. Solar panels grant you independence that “on-grid” electricity will not.

Hunt and Gather

What wild edible plants grow in your area? Start foraging now, and learn to make sumptuous goodies like violet jelly and dandelion wine. If you eat meat, going off the grid means you’ll have to source it yourself; learn how to fish effectively, and familiarize yourself with traps. Or starting working on cutting back on meat now! If you’re not the hunting type, consider building a coop in your yard and raising chickens or quail.

Take Up Odd Jobs

How will you make money while off-the-grid? The truth is that the barter system is a pastoral fantasy; in the real world and even off-grid, actual currency is still necessary. If you’ve learned a trade or a craft, monetize it. Sell handcrafted items, like knitted goods, beaded jewelry, or even jellies and preserves. Offer services like cooking or fixer-upper work for a reasonable price.

Making the leap to off-grid living is a process that takes time, research, and a variety of skills. If you start learning now, the transition will be significantly smoother — and maybe even fun!