Living off the grid is hardly a new concept, but more people are beginning to see the importance, choosing it over city life. Many people are choosing to forgo the modern way of life, the comforts and amenities for a more serene, closer to nature atmosphere- and they are happy with it. Off-grid living provides the people who dare to try it the freedom and quality of life that cannot be obtained in sub-urban cities. Therefore, living off the grid is mostly worth it, although transitioning could be difficult. Here are a few things to consider if you plan on this new adventure.
What does it mean to live off-grid?
Living off the grid can mean several things to different people. It can be about sustainable living and renewable energy. For some other people, it means primitive living and choosing not to use technology. Other people view living off the grid as necessary for survival and preparedness purposes.it has become an avenue to learn how to live and survive in emergencies. -Emergencies can include a simple electrical blackout, a complete financial collapse, war, natural disaster, etc.
Why do people go off the grid?
Some people go off the grid to become self-sufficient and more reliant on themselves. They want to get in touch with nature and have more control over how they spend their time.
Some other people go off the grid because it’s a financially viable option for them.
For some others, going off the grid might be motivated by purely religious reasons.
Others do it for the sake of looking for privacy and having away time.
Going off the grid could also be some people’s way of seeking independence and finding escape from suburban life and society.
They might also go off the grid to eat healthier by eating what they grow with family and close-knitted communities.
Types of off-grid living
In the present day, many options are available for people who might want to go off-grid. But, at the end of the day, it depends on the individual’s taste and needs- the type of amenities essential to their survival (I.e., non-negotiable amenities), the number of family members, and also, most importantly, the location of the person would like to pick.
The most authentic way to live off the grid is to live without amenities, including electricity, heat, internet, communication, and running water. This type of settlement which is called a dry cabin involves building a minimalist cabin that protects from harsh weather conditions. You make use of candles and firewood for light and heat. Electricity would not be in use, and the only means of water will be a natural source. Your eating habits will focus on avoiding junk and eating only garden-sourced food and livestock.
Partial off-grid living is also a method some people adopt. This means electricity will still be used either by being dependent on the grid or by solar, wind, or water. These options will depend on your financial capability. This model of off-grid living is the more viable option for a whole lot of people because it is realistic and objectively affordable. Although not reminiscent of true off-grid living, this method still allows you to enjoy the freedom and opportunity of creating your independence, especially in home owning.
Supplies for off-grid living
Some people might decide to move to rural areas for this purpose. This could include moving to a remote island or inlet, the mountains, etc. No matter the location, supplies are needed to support survival. If you want to choose the dry cabin method where electricity is not needed, you have to find ways to preserve and store food. This could pose to be a challenge. Also, obtaining food may be a little difficult. It would involve hunting, gathering on the land, and taking trips to other times.
You also need a home. Using handheld tools and gas-operated tools like a chainsaw, you could build your house by hand. However, this could take some time and energy, and research. The quality of the shelter would also depend on the craftsmanship of the builder.
For shelters that are already in place, it’s imperative to check out if every amenity needed is in place and in good condition.
Reasons why living off the grid is worth it.
People have different reasons for going off the grid. Some people might want to get new experiences by withdrawing from the world. Others might want to go on vacation for a couple of days to recharge.
Living off the grid can be worth it, especially if you want to reduce your cost of living and become self-reliant. Most people who are off the grid do it for financial benefit. Depending on how much you earn initially, you could save between $10,000-and $25,000 per year. Although the upfront cost and investment for living on the grid might be expensive, it is worth it in the long run.
Gardening
Gardening is a common feature of living off the grid. It serves as a source of your food, but it can also genuinely feel like a hobby. You get a feeling of fulfillment from seeing the work of your hands- how well cared for the garden is, watching it grow every day.
It encourages frugal living.
Off-grid living can force you to live as frugally as possible. You have to manage your resources- water, food, firewood, etc. you can’t afford to waste anything because resources are harder to get. A lot of people consider this the ultimate goal of off-grid living. It encourages and forces you to be frugal. You find out how many resources you’ve been wasting all along.
Living off-grid is cheap.
Living off the grid is cheap. Once you set up your shelter, generate your power, and start growing your crops, you will not need much money to live comfortably. It can take some time (at least 2 yrs.) to set yourself up comfortably and figure things out. After that, you will be able to save money and even make money from the locals if you are so inclined. Although money isn’t that important to live off the grid, it is important to have emergency funds in case something goes wrong.
It develops personal responsibility.
If you love being in control of your life, living off the grid is for you. However, if you avoid responsibilities, things might get difficult for you as living off-grid requires you to be hands-on, do many things by yourself, and take charge. So, you must be responsible for everything, especially if you have a family.
It can get lonely.
If you love doing things by yourself, living off the grid is perfect. You might have periods of staying alone for long if you don’t find the need to hang out with people, then you will be fine. If you do, you might find other people to hang out with. Either way, you should be prepared for the feeling of loneliness.
Independence.
Living off the grid brings you the feeling of independence. Being able to achieve your goals no matter what it is and managing your life the way you see it brings happiness. In addition, living off the grid teaches you to be self-sufficient.
As an outdoor person, it is for you.
For people who love staying outside, staying off the grid is easy and perfect for them. Most days, your activities will include outdoor events, gardening, looking for food, even cooking, etc. So, for outdoorsy people, this could be a great time for them to live to their fullest.
The weather.
Once you decide to live off the grid, you should take cognizance of the weather at your location. This is important so that you make adequate preparation beforehand.
In some locations, the weather could get extreme, and it could rain and snow a lot and make moving around dangerous. At Other times and in other locations, the weather could be excellent, warm, and Cozy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, is it worth it to go off the grid? The investment you put in at first is worth it in the long run. If you are new to this, you could learn from people who have done it before. Most people that went off the grid are better off and happy that they did. The crucial life skills it teaches you cannot be underestimated. It forces you to adjust and cope with stressful situations and makes you more responsible. To top it all, it saves you money! You don’t need to start by going all in, and you could start by going for a vacation off the grid for two weeks to get the feel of it and see if you are up for it. Then you could start preparing by making little lifestyle changes. I encourage you to give off-grid living a try, and you will be happy.
